Cam Thomas Delivers for Bucks; Rivers Absent, Harden Fits in Cleveland, Cavs Modify Court, Tolu Smith Sees Action
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Cam Thomas followed a quiet Milwaukee debut with two explosive outings, totaling 46 points in 45 minutes during the Bucks’ road victories at Orlando on Wednesday and Oklahoma City on Thursday. The fifth-year guard shot 17-for-33 in the back-to-back, highlighted by 34 points against the Magic.
Head coach Doc Rivers, who oversaw former Sixth Man of the Year winners Jamal Crawford and Lou Williams with the Clippers, drew a direct comparison after Wednesday’s game. “I’ve had Jamal Crawford. I had Lou Williams. And now, I have Cam Thomas,” Rivers said, noting the club intends to showcase the 24-year-old beyond scoring.
Rivers missed Thursday’s contest in Oklahoma City to attend a funeral. Assistant Darvin Ham guided Milwaukee to an upset of the defending champions, a matchup that both Giannis Antetokounmpo and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sat out because of injuries.
Cavaliers: Harden’s Low-Shot Debut, Arena Adjustments
James Harden attempted only four shots in his first home game with Cleveland on Wednesday but dished 11 assists as the Cavaliers moved to 3-0 since acquiring him. “I shoot four shots, but we win by 25 points. That’s the most important thing. I’m just here to win,” Harden told reporters.
In response to renewed safety concerns after Luka Dončić’s recent scare, the Cavaliers installed temporary extensions along Rocket Arena’s raised sidelines and baselines. A team spokesperson said a permanent fix will be in place before the 2026-27 season.
Pistons: Opportunity for Tolu Smith
With Isaiah Stewart and Jalen Duren serving suspensions, two-way center Tolu Smith logged his first minutes since Jan. 10 in Detroit’s win over Toronto on Wednesday. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff called Smith “an elite defensive rebounder, paint protector, pick-and-roll guy.” The second-year big finished with three points, three rebounds and two assists in 15 minutes off the bench.
Source: Hoops Rumors
