Knicks forward RJ Barrett broke out of a shooting slump in Monday’s home victory over Milwaukee, writes Zach Braziller of The New York Post. Barrett, who had converted just 36.7% of his field goal attempts over the past six games leading into Monday, set the tone early with 14 points in the first quarter, ultimately finishing with 21 on 8-of-14 shooting in 28 minutes. “I got … [Read more...] about Knicks Notes: Barrett, Bucks, Brunson, D. Murray
Stein’s Latest: Olynyk, LaVine, Tucker, Murray, McClung
The Celtics view Jazz big man Kelly Olynyk as a possible trade target, Marc Stein writes in his latest Substack column. With a $12.2MM expiring contract, Olynyk is one of several Utah veterans who might be on the move prior to the trade deadline. Boston drafted him in 2013 and he spent his first four NBA seasons with the Celtics, so he’s familiar with the organization. After … [Read more...] about Stein’s Latest: Olynyk, LaVine, Tucker, Murray, McClung
Bucks Notes: Middleton, Season Start, Lillard
Bucks star small forward Khris Middleton has had to adjust to his new role in Milwaukee’s offensive hierarchy, writes Jamal Collier of ESPN. With the arrival of All-Star point guard Damian Lillard, Middleton is now a distant third when it comes to receiving touches, behind the ex-Trail Blazer and two-time MVP forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. Middleton is also still dealing with … [Read more...] about Bucks Notes: Middleton, Season Start, Lillard
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