Mitchell, Antetokounmpo React to Team Struggles; Pistons Promote Stewart’s Defensive Case
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Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers were booed at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Saturday after falling to a short-handed Golden State squad, their fifth loss in seven outings. Guard Donovan Mitchell said the club cannot “keep getting in this position,” stressing that the pattern of falling behind early and fighting back late “shouldn’t come down to it.” Head coach Kenny Atkinson called for “a reset” to rest bodies and reinforce team principles.
Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo told NBA on Prime’s Chris Haynes he intends to remain in Milwaukee and “run through the wall” rather than look for an exit. Haynes reported the forward’s attention is on regaining full health and helping the Bucks, while NBC Sports’ Kurt Helin noted any significant trade discussions involving the two-time MVP likely would wait until the offseason.
Detroit Pistons
The Pistons are amplifying the Defensive Player of the Year candidacy of center Isaiah Stewart, who is averaging 2.0 blocks in 22.5 minutes and has logged five games with at least four rejections. Coach JB Bickerstaff called him “the best defensive center in the league,” and guard Cade Cunningham labeled him “the best defensive player in the league.” Stewart has already appeared in six games under 20 minutes; 11 more such outings would leave him short of the 65-game, 20-minute minimum required for postseason awards.
Source: Hoops Wire
