Eastern Conference Roundup: Kennard’s Self-Assessment, Pacers Tensions, G League Move for Martin, Hall’s Charlotte Opportunity
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ATLANTA — Hawks guard Luke Kennard logged 15 points, six rebounds and five assists in 27 bench minutes during Wednesday’s win over Minnesota, but the seventh-year veteran conceded afterward that his season has fallen short of his own expectations. “I’ve had some good moments, good games, but nowhere near what I can be and what I expect of myself,” Kennard told reporters. The 29-year-old signed a one-year, $11 million contract last summer and is on track to reach unrestricted free agency again in 2026.
Pacers grappling with on-court friction
Following Indiana’s loss to Orlando on Wednesday, head coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged “petty nonsense” during games as the Pacers slid to 6-28. “In the second half, we played like a together team that was supporting each other and not like strangers,” Carlisle said, declining to specify the incidents. Forward Aaron Nesmith agreed disagreements have occurred but framed them as competitive spillover, saying, “There may have been some petty nonsense, but I think it comes from a good place.”
Martin’s rights land with Noblesville Boom
Indiana’s G League affiliate, the Noblesville Boom, acquired the returning-player rights to veteran wing Cody Martin from the Capital City Go-Go. Martin, 30, had a brief 10-day hardship stint with Indiana earlier this season.
Hall embraces hometown connection in Charlotte
South Carolina native PJ Hall, 23, recently inked a two-way deal with the Hornets covering the next two seasons and called joining the franchise a “full circle moment.” With Mason Plumlee and Ryan Kalkbrenner sidelined, the 6-10 forward has broken into the rotation and could make his first career start Friday in Milwaukee. Forward/center Moussa Diabaté is listed as questionable for that game because of a right wrist sprain.
Source: Hoops Rumors
