Central Division Roundup: Bucks Lose A.J. Green to Shoulder Injury, Robinson Sparks Pistons, Bulls Skid Hits Six, Collins Returns, Thompson Debuts
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Milwaukee, WI — Milwaukee’s backcourt absorbed another blow after guard A.J. Green injured his right shoulder during Friday’s loss to Philadelphia. The 24-year-old will undergo an MRI on Saturday, the club’s first game without him comes that night in Detroit. “Losing A.J. Green hurts you,” head coach Doc Rivers said. “We can’t sustain much more, especially with guys that make shots.” The Bucks are already without Giannis Antetokounmpo, sidelined by a calf strain.
Detroit, MI — Pistons wing Duncan Robinson returned from a two-game absence caused by an ankle sprain and delivered 14 points — eight in the fourth quarter — to power Friday’s six-point win over Portland. Acquired in a summer sign-and-trade with Miami, the veteran quickly reclaimed a late-game role. “He’s not afraid of the moment,” head coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “He is one of our best catch-and-shoot guys off the move, and he’s got nerves of steel.”
Chicago, IL — The Bulls dropped their sixth straight contest, a 120-105 defeat to Indiana on Friday. “It’s still a very long season,” guard Coby White said. “The most important thing is we stick together through this.”
Indianapolis, IN — Chicago center Zach Collins logged his first minutes of the year after fracturing his wrist in the preseason finale. Indiana attacked the 7-footer early; he finished with eight points and six rebounds in 21 minutes.
Indiana also showcased guard Ethan Thompson, who signed a two-way contract last weekend and made his NBA debut Monday. The 24-year-old logged 34 minutes Friday, posting 11 points, two rebounds, three assists and two blocks. “The heart was racing fast,” Thompson said of finally reaching the league. “Once the ball went in, I was able to calm myself down and then it just became basketball.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
