Indiana forward Obi Toppin continues to gain rhythm after missing most of the season following foot surgery. The 26-year-old has reached double figures in seven of his last nine appearances and said he no longer thinks about the injury once play starts. “When I’m out there, adrenaline is pumping,” Toppin told the Indianapolis Star. “I don’t think about my foot in those situations; it’s just, get the ball in the rim.”
Toppin has been limited to a maximum of 23 minutes per game since returning and supports the restriction. “We’re doing it for a reason,” he said, noting he still does not feel “100 percent back.” The former lottery pick has two years remaining on his contract.
Giddey asks for clarity in Chicago
Josh Giddey, who has three seasons left on a $100 million deal with the Bulls, wants to know the franchise’s long-term direction. “Everyone wants to know what’s going on,” the point guard told the Chicago Tribune. “I don’t know if we’re built to win a championship this year or whether we’re going into a rebuild.” Chicago is 6-24 over its last 30 games.
Alex Antetokounmpo unsure of Giannis’s plans
Asked whether his brother Giannis Antetokounmpo will remain with Milwaukee or request a trade this summer, two-way forward Alex Antetokounmpo said he has no inside information. “I don’t know. I hope he stays,” Alex told Mundo Deportivo. “Whatever he decides, it’s going to be what’s best for him, his kids and his wife.”
Haliburton dealt with shingles
On top of his recovery from an Achilles tear, Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton revealed on NBA on Prime that he recently battled shingles, calling the experience “so awful.”
Pacers list four players out vs. Bulls
Indiana will be without forwards Aaron Nesmith (cervical strain) and Jarace Walker (low back bruise) for Wednesday’s matchup with Chicago, head coach Rick Carlisle said. Guards Andrew Nembhard (low back) and T.J. McConnell (right hamstring) are also sidelined, according to Tuesday’s injury report.
Source: HoopsRumors
