Siakam Urges Short-Handed Pacers to Compete; Chicago Quiet on Davis Rumors; Pistons Eye Return of Key Starters
siakam-pacers-davis-bulls-pistons-injury-update
The Indiana Pacers’ 1-12 start has not tempered Pascal Siakam’s expectations. Despite a roster thinned by injuries, the forward told the Indianapolis Star the club “has to fight” and “there’s no excuse” while competing in “the best league in the world.” Indiana’s hardship roster window closed Saturday, ending Cody Martin’s 10-day contract after four appearances and leaving the team without eligibility for a second hardship exception.
Pacers
• Record: 1-12 through Sunday
• Siakam on standards: “It has to matter. We have to fight.”
• Hardship update: Martin’s deal expired; no additional hardship slot available.
Bulls
Speculation that the Bulls might pursue Chicago native Anthony Davis has gained little traction. Chicago Sun-Times reporter Joe Cowley cited executive Artūras Karnišovas’ preseason pledge to avoid “shortcuts” as reason for skepticism. Davis has two seasons left on his three-year, $175 million contract, the last a player option.
On the court, guard Coby White debuted after missing a month with a calf strain, scoring 27 points with eight assists in a double-overtime loss to Utah. White said coaches urged him to return “aggressive, not tiptoeing.” He is headed for unrestricted free agency next summer.
Pistons
Detroit could regain three starters tonight in Indiana. Cade Cunningham (left hip contusion) and Ausar Thompson (right ankle sprain) are listed as questionable after sitting two and three games, respectively. Center Jalen Duren, out the last two contests with a right ankle sprain, is probable.
Source: Hoops Wire
