NBA Roundup: Ellis Energizes Cavaliers, Knueppel Collects Fourth Rookie Award, Pacers Add Jackson
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Cleveland, OH – The Cleveland Cavaliers may have grabbed deadline headlines with James Harden and Dennis Schröder, but newly acquired guard Keon Ellis is stealing attention with his defense. In Sunday’s win over the Brooklyn Nets, the 23-year-old logged five blocks and three steals, prompting head coach Kenny Atkinson to praise his relentless effort.
“He never gives up on a play,” Atkinson said. “I’ve never quite seen a player like him defensively. He’s not a massive guy, but he plays way bigger than he looks. Length counts. Activity counts. He makes up for the strength deficit with his activity.”
Ellis, currently eligible for an extension, can become an unrestricted free agent in 2026.
Hornets
Charlotte, NC – Rookie forward Kon Knueppel collected his fourth consecutive Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month award, sweeping the honor for every month this season. In February, the 19-year-old averaged 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists while shooting 50.3% from the floor and 48.5% beyond the arc. The Hornets went 8-3 in games he played during the stretch.
Pacers
Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Pacers have signed guard Quenton Jackson to a three-year contract. Jackson will earn the league minimum of $601,553 for the remainder of 2023-24. The deal carries a partial guarantee of $275,000 on his $2.58 million salary for 2026-27; the third year is fully non-guaranteed. Indiana used a portion of its mid-level exception to finalize the agreement.
Source: Hoops Wire
