Signing Donovan Mitchell to an extension was crucial to the Cavaliers’ stability, center Jarrett Allen told Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype. Mitchell inked a three-year, maximum-salary extension in July. Cleveland owns the league’s best record, having improved to 17-1 with a win over Toronto on Sunday. “Donovan is a star. He’s a top-10 player in the league, some would say, and I … [Read more...] about Central Notes: Mitchell, Allen, Giannis, Lillard, Sheppard
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Harrison Barnes Named Players Of The Week
Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo has been named the Player of the Week for the Eastern Conference, while Spurs forward Harrison Barnes has won the award in the West, the NBA announced today (via Twitter). Antetokounmpo led the Bucks to a perfect 4-0 week from November 18-24, helping the team climb out of the hole it dug itself early in the season. After dropping eight of … [Read more...] about Giannis Antetokounmpo, Harrison Barnes Named Players Of The Week
Central Notes: Green, Cunningham, P. Williams, Okafor
Always a strong outside shooter, Bucks wing A.J. Green got inconsistent playing time in his first two NBA seasons due in part to questions about his defense. However, he has taken major strides on that end of the court so far this fall, earning an increased role and praise from a superstar teammate, writes Eric Nehm of The Athletic. “His defense is incredible,” Giannis … [Read more...] about Central Notes: Green, Cunningham, P. Williams, Okafor
Warriors Become First Team To Clinch NBA Cup Quarterfinal Berth
The Warriors are now 3-0 in NBA Cup games, making them the first team to clinch a spot in the knockout round of the in-season tournament. As the NBA announced late on Friday night after Golden State beat New Orleans and Dallas beat Denver (Twitter link), the Warriors have won West Group C, officially securing a quarterfinal berth for December. The 3-0 Warriors are one game … [Read more...] about Warriors Become First Team To Clinch NBA Cup Quarterfinal Berth
Western Notes: Durant, Beal, Rockets, Giannis, Marshall, Pelicans
There’s optimism that Kevin Durant will be able to return from his left calf strain at some point next week, according to Shams Charania of ESPN (Twitter video link), who suggests the Suns star could be back on the court as soon as Tuesday for an NBA Cup matchup with the Lakers. There’s also optimism that Bradley Beal, who is dealing with a left calf strain of his own, will be … [Read more...] about Western Notes: Durant, Beal, Rockets, Giannis, Marshall, Pelicans