East Roundup: Atlanta Holds Off on Major Extensions, Orlando Wrestles With Tempo, Charlotte Awaits Miller’s Shoulder Verdict
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ATLANTA — The Hawks are pressing pause on long-term contract talks for guard Trae Young and forward Kristaps Porziņģis while team leaders evaluate roster chemistry, according to ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk. Young, who hoped for an agreement before opening night, said he is shelving contract concerns to concentrate on wins.
“I can only control the present,” the All-Star guard told reporters. “If we win, everybody eats.”
Atlanta slipped to 1-3 after Monday’s 128-123 loss to Chicago, despite the returns of Jalen Johnson (ankle), Porziņģis (flu-like symptoms) and rookie Zaccharie Risacher (ankle). Young remains optimistic, noting Porziņģis’ ability to stretch defenses: “I haven’t had a guy like him in the NBA … hopefully this year I get a lot more catch-and-shoot shots.”
Magic Trying to Speed Up Without Slipping on Defense
ORLANDO — The Magic dropped their third straight game Monday, sparking debate over whether the club can accelerate its offense without sacrificing its defensive identity. “I think you can do both,” guard Jalen Suggs said, pointing to an emphasis on fast breaks, quality looks and crashing the offensive glass. “It just takes being very detailed and a concerted effort to then get back on defense … and get stops.”
Hornets Await Second Opinion on Brandon Miller’s Shoulder
CHARLOTTE — Rookie forward Brandon Miller is seeking an additional medical opinion after a subluxation of his left shoulder, NBA TV’s Chris Haynes reported. Surgery is on the table, and no recovery timeline will be set until Miller and the Hornets review all options. The No. 2 pick in June’s draft has yet to appear in a regular-season game.
Source: Hoops Wire
