Southeast Roundup: McCollum Starts for Atlanta, Herro Eases Back, Carter’s Impact in Orlando, Penda’s Rapid Rise
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Atlanta — The Hawks inserted veteran guard CJ McCollum into the starting five against Brooklyn on Sunday, sending former No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher to the bench for the first time in his career. Risacher had opened 117 of his first 119 NBA games. Head coach Quin Snyder recently noted that the club’s best plus-minus lineup features McCollum and hinted at the possibility of starting him.
League observers told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution they believe the adjustment could ease external pressure on Risacher. Atlanta trailed early but rallied for a 115–104 victory. McCollum finished with 16 points, eight rebounds and four assists; Risacher supplied seven points in a reserve role.
Herro Returns as Heat Sixth Man
After missing more than a month with a rim injury, Tyler Herro has come off Miami’s bench in two straight wins. The former Sixth Man of the Year poured in 24 points in 23 minutes against Atlanta and added 14 points on 15 shots versus Memphis.
“It doesn’t really feel like I’m out of place,” Herro said. Head coach Erik Spoelstra indicated Herro’s minutes will be monitored as the Heat enter the final 25 games of the season with a fully healthy roster.
Carter’s Two-Way Spark for Magic
In just his third appearance with Orlando, Jevon Carter drilled a key three-pointer in double overtime against Phoenix before Jalen Green’s buzzer-beater decided the contest. “He’s about all the right things … toughness and winning,” head coach Jamahl Mosley said, praising Carter’s full-court defense and leadership. Forward Paolo Banchero added that the veteran has “taken advantage of his opportunity” on both ends.
Penda Emerges as Crucial Rookie
No. 32 overall pick Noah Penda has become indispensable amid Orlando’s injury troubles. According to RG, the Magic’s offensive rebounding rate drops nine percent when the 6’7″ forward sits. Penda credited the entire locker room—especially former teammate Tyus Jones—for helping him stay ready whether he plays four minutes off the bench or closes games as a starter.
Source: Hoops Rumors
