The global website outage (is that correct term?) that hit so many had me scrambling on Tuesday too. That’s why there were no notes yesterday. I have a few commitments today too, but I didn’t want to leave you without any notes from the beginning of the week. So, here we go quick-hit style without any clips.
Here’s what I saw on Monday and Tuesday!
LA Clippers - 108 at Philadelphia 76ers - 110
It’s going to take Paul George a little while to find the rhythm with his jumper, but he gave Philly some good minutes. His defense was pretty good and the extra playmaking and passing was a welcomed addition for the Sixers.
Andre Drummond once called himself “the best rebounder of all-time”. He’s not, but he’s a pretty good one. The Sixers had to lean on him a lot with both Joel Embiid and Adem Bona out, and Drummond delivered.
Curious to see if certified “My Guy” Johni Broome can get some run on the nights when Philadelphia is thin up front.
Another strong game for Kobe Sanders, this time in a start. Sanders can really play.
It wasn’t an efficient game from James Harden, but he continues to carry the Clippers on offense.
I’d like to see John Collins get more involved. He could help the LA offense get moving a bit more.
New York Knicks - 113 at Miami Heat - 115
Seven players hit for double-digits in points for the Heat. Their depth continues to keep them moving, even as their stars continue to miss time.
Pelle Larsson has been starting for Miami, and he’s been pretty solid. Good all-around player. He’s done a nice job defending bigger wings and forwards too.
Dru Smith’s comeback from multiple injuries over the last couple of years is nothing short of remarkable. He’s been one of the better backup guards in the league this season.
There were a lot of times when Miles McBride and Jordan Clarkson were the only Knicks who could create their own offense in this one.
Related to the above: New York needs more from Mikal Bridges in these spots. He scored 23 points, but it felt like he could have done more to help others get going.
Charlotte Hornets - 108 at Toronto Raptors - 110
This should be the Raptors court all the time!
Scottie Barnes is turning in an All-Star season (if things don’t get too wonky with the new format) at least. Barnes could push for All-NBA. He’s been awesome on both ends of the floor, including a game-winning block in this one.
Brandon Ingram has been exactly what Toronto needed. Someone who can create a shot when there isn’t much else there.
The Raptors defense has started improving over the last week or so. Some of it is the players playing better, but some is scheme too. Toronto is doing a really nice job of running guys off the perimeter with their length and quickness, then funneling those guys to Jakob Poeltl at the rim.
Charlotte continues to be the “fun bad team”. They compete pretty hard. Their rookies are a blast to watch. LaMelo Ball is playing more serious basketball.
It’s probably going to go unnoticed, but Collin Sexton has been really good for the Hornets so far. He’s scoring with really good efficiency, including hitting better than ever from deep. Sexton has also been an improved playmaker too.
After a lot of handwringing about how Charlotte would handle the center spot, they’ve been just fine. Ryan Kalkbrenner has been terrific to open his career, and Moussa Diabate is productive every night too.
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