The Pacers lack size on the wings, which is a major reason for their .500 record and inability to get stops, Scott Agness of Fieldhouse Files notes. That has made it difficult for Indiana to slow down the opponents’ best player, since that is normally the job of an athletic 6’7″ or 6’8″ wing. … [Read more...] about Lack Of Wing Size Hampering Defense
Central Notes: Merrill, Craig, LaVine, Nembhard, Pistons
In the midst of his best stretch of the season, Cavaliers wing Sam Merrill woke up on Thursday morning with a sore right wrist after falling on it on Wednesday, writes Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com (subscription required). Not wanting to miss out on the opportunity to continue playing an increased role for the banged-up Cavs, Merrill attempted to fight through the pain, but was … [Read more...] about Central Notes: Merrill, Craig, LaVine, Nembhard, Pistons
Scotto’s Latest: Raptors, Pacers, Hawks, Markkanen, Hornets, More
Rival executives believe Pascal Siakam is more likely to be traded than OG Anunoby if the Raptors decide to shake up their roster, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. In fact, teams looking for help on the wing think Toronto “will do whatever it takes” to retain Anunoby as a free agent in 2024 — he’s widely expected to decline his $19.9MM player option for next … [Read more...] about Scotto’s Latest: Raptors, Pacers, Hawks, Markkanen, Hornets, More
And-Ones: MVP Poll, All-Stars, Basketball Day, Bazley
After finishing runner-up to Nikola Jokic in 2020/21 and ’21/22, Sixers center Joel Embiid won his first MVP award last season. And he’s arguably been even better through the first third of the ’23/24 season, averaging career highs in multiple categories, including points (35.1), assists (5.9) and free throw percentage (89.3%). In the first MVP straw poll conducted by Tim … [Read more...] about And-Ones: MVP Poll, All-Stars, Basketball Day, Bazley
Central Notes: Merrill, Walker, Pacers, Middleton
Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill led Cleveland to a victory over the Jazz on Wednesday behind a franchise record-tying eight three-pointers off the bench. After beginning the year on the outside looking in to the Cavs’ rotation, Merrill is establishing himself as a key depth piece over the past week, which was highlighted by his career-high 27 points against Utah. In his past five … [Read more...] about Central Notes: Merrill, Walker, Pacers, Middleton