NBA Roundup: Redick Encouraged by Bronny’s Growth; Daniels Refines Offense; Gonzalez Navigates Celtics Terminology
nba-roundup-redick-bronny-daniels-gonzalez
Los Angeles — Lakers rookie guard Bronny James converted just one of 12 shots in Friday’s preseason opener, yet head coach JJ Redick said the 19-year-old’s overall development remains on track.
“He is so much more comfortable and confident as a player,” Redick told reporters. “Skill-wise, read-wise, all of those things have improved, but there’s a big difference between doing it in workouts and doing it 5-on-5.” Redick added that James’ time in the G League last season significantly boosted the guard’s readiness for NBA competition.
Forward Jarred Vanderbilt made a defensive impact in the same game, validating internal praise for his training-camp showing. Injuries limited Vanderbilt to 29 and 36 games over the past two seasons, but team officials believe improved outside shooting could help him challenge Rui Hachimura for the starting power-forward role.
Hawks: Daniels Targets Mid-Range Efficiency
Atlanta guard Dyson Daniels, last season’s Most Improved Player, spent the summer honing his offensive repertoire. “I worked a lot on my midrange game—being able to get to spots, different pickups, different footwork, getting good shots,” Daniels told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “That’s been the main focus for me this summer.”
Celtics: Gonzalez Learns the Lingo
Boston first-round pick Hugo Gonzalez is juggling English lessons with an introduction to the Celtics’ system. The former Real Madrid guard said coaches have shown patience as he absorbs new terminology. “We’re going really, really deep now in these practices,” Gonzalez explained. “We’re going into detail on every single situation so that when we’re in the game, we can handle it in the best way possible and succeed on defense.”
Source: Hoops Wire
