Quickley, Porter Jr. and Towns Deliver Key Storylines for Raptors, Nets and Knicks
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TORONTO — Two former Knicks are molding into core contributors for the Raptors, head coach Darko Rajaković said. Guard Immanuel Quickley has “dramatically” boosted his on-ball defense, while forward RJ Barrett is attacking the rim more often and relying on catch-and-shoot threes and cuts for offense.
Barrett remains day-to-day with a knee sprain and has not resumed on-court activity, though the team reports steady progress. Toronto edged Portland on Tuesday night.
Porter Jr. shines in return for Nets
BROOKLYN — After missing two games with back tightness, Michael Porter Jr. erupted for 35 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals in a victory over Charlotte. The forward praised first-year coach Jordi Fernández for designing plays that free him from face-guarding defenses.
Porter is posting career-high numbers during his inaugural season in Brooklyn, shouldering a heavy workload the Nets consider essential.
Towns reiterates desire to stay with Knicks
NEW YORK — Karl-Anthony Towns said he “absolutely” wants to remain a Knick, stressing that playing close to family and New York fans outweighs financial considerations. The sides did not finalize an extension before the season, but two additional windows remain before his 2027 player option.
Towns described his rapport with Knicks executives Leon Rose and Gersson Rosas as “great,” adding he would “have lunch with them right now.” New York fell in a tight road game at Boston on Tuesday.
Source: Hoops Wire
