TITLE: Atlantic Division Roundup: Simons’ Scoring Surge, Clowney’s Progress, McCain’s Return, Raptors’ Early Pace
SLUG: atlantic-division-roundup-simons-clowney-mccain-raptors
CONTENT:
Anfernee Simons is giving the Boston Celtics another offensive option—and perhaps increasing his appeal on the trade market. The 25-year-old guard has recorded 23 points in each of the past two games, with his court time ranging from 12 to 33 minutes. “I don’t have that much time to ease into games, so I’m just taking the opportunities as they come—being aggressive and making the right plays,” Simons said. He is playing on a $27.7 million expiring contract, positioning him as a possible trade chip before the deadline.
Brooklyn Nets forward Noah Clowney also appears to have turned a corner. After a sluggish opening to the season, the second-year pro posted a career-best 22 points in Sunday’s loss to the Toronto Raptors and is averaging 15.1 points since joining the starting lineup. Clowney, who will be eligible for a rookie-scale extension next offseason, drew criticism for a late three-pointer against Toronto but has otherwise provided steady production.
Rookie guard Jared McCain offered encouraging signs for the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday, scoring 15 points in 26 minutes during a defeat to the Miami Heat. The 2024 first-round pick missed time in training camp with a thumb injury and is still working back from the knee issue that shortened his initial NBA campaign. “Each game I’m getting more reps on the knee and more movement,” McCain said. “It felt really good.”
Meanwhile, the Toronto Raptors hold the Eastern Conference’s second-best record. According to The Athletic, questions remain about whether the strong start will last; Toronto has faced only two of the league’s six current top teams—Detroit, Oklahoma City, Denver, the Lakers, San Antonio and Houston—and lost both meetings decisively.
Source: HoopsRumors
