Shead’s Rise, Nets’ Resilience and Shamet’s Return Shape Atlantic Division Headlines
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Toronto reserve guard Jamal Shead continued his breakout season Friday, recording 15 points and a career-best 13 assists in the Raptors’ 120-112 loss to the Clippers. Teammate Gradey Dick praised Shead’s unselfish approach, calling him “super motivational” for consistently encouraging teammates after missed shots. Toronto holds a $2,296,271 team option on Shead for 2026-27 and is expected to exercise it.
In Brooklyn, the Nets halted a five-game skid Friday but nearly squandered a 20-point fourth-quarter cushion before a late basket by Michael Porter Jr. secured a 108-106 victory over the Bulls. “There’s no safe lead in the NBA,” head coach Jordi Fernández said. “Responding when things go against you is important, and the guys kept their composure.”
Fernández opted for rookie Nolan Traore at point guard down the stretch, leaving lottery pick Egor Demin on the bench. Traore finished with seven assists. The coach said he remains pleased with both guards’ progress, adding that Demin’s shooting and versatility remain “superpowers” the team will continue to tap.
At Madison Square Garden, Landry Shamet returned for the Knicks after missing 25 games with a shoulder injury. The veteran guard scored six points in 16 minutes during Thursday night’s 114-102 loss to the Warriors. “He worked his tail off,” head coach Mike Brown said. “It’s going to take some time for him to get back, but we’ll be patient while he fights to regain his rhythm.”
Source: HoopsRumors
