James Harden returns without surgery
Cleveland guard James Harden said surgery was never an option for the fractured left thumb he suffered against the Knicks last week. After testing his handle during an individual workout at the National Basketball Players Association facility on Saturday, the 36-year-old suited up for Sunday’s matinee against the Nets and posted 22 points on 9-for-9 shooting, eight assists and nine rebounds. He also committed five turnovers, which head coach Kenny Atkinson attributed to the injury. “He played handicapped, but he still played well,” Atkinson said.
Ausar Thompson lifts Detroit on defense
Rookie swingman Ausar Thompson has emerged as Detroit’s defensive catalyst. Entering Sunday’s contest, the 22-year-old had logged a team-best 144 combined steals and blocks, and the Pistons owned a 21-4 record when he logged at least 27 minutes. “People have offensive modes where they feel like they’re on fire. I have defensive modes like that,” Thompson said. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised his pick-and-roll coverage, noting that Thompson’s ability to fight through screens allows Detroit to stay in standard five-on-five sets.
Jalen Duren’s fourth-quarter takeover
First-time All-Star center Jalen Duren added another highlight to his breakout season Friday against the Cavaliers. With Cade Cunningham sidelined by fouls, Duren scored 15 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter and overtime, helping Detroit erase a nine-point deficit in less than three minutes and secure a three-point win. He finished with 16 rebounds and three blocks. Over the four games preceding Sunday’s matchup with Orlando, the 22-year-old averaged 28.3 points and 14.5 rebounds while shooting 65.2% from the field.
Bulls halt 11-game slide
Chicago earned its first victory since Jan. 31 by defeating Milwaukee 120-97 on Sunday, ending an 11-game losing streak. Head coach Billy Donovan credited the young roster for staying committed during the month-long slump. “I appreciate the way they’ve stayed together and continued to come back each day to work to get better,” Donovan said.
The Central Division teams resume action later this week as the regular season enters its final stretch.
Source: Hoops Rumors
