Golden State Warriors
Forward Draymond Green is eyeing a 10th career All-Defensive Team selection, a benchmark reached only by Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, Scottie Pippen and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Speaking with Sam Amick of The Athletic, the 35-year-old said the pursuit has become a major motivator this season, calling the opportunity “captivating” and something that “consumes” him.
Green added that he views the accolade as the ideal capstone for his career. He also noted that improved physical health has pushed any thoughts of retirement further down the road, explaining that he will let “the game” determine when it is time to step away.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Guard Anthony Edwards was cleared for contact on Monday, the team announced, a step that The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski described as a strong indicator the All-Star is close to returning. Edwards has missed four consecutive games with a right hamstring strain.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 123-115 on Monday despite the absence of LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton led the way, but two-way rookie guard Nick Smith Jr. provided the surprise spark, scoring 25 points.
According to Spectrum SportsNet’s Mike Trudell, Smith played through illness and vomited at halftime. Afterward, the first-year guard said the performance was “probably the most fun I have had in a long time.”
Source: Hoops Wire
