NBA Roundup: Nuggets Trim Jokic’s Shot Count, Pacers Anticipate Nembhard’s Return, Celtics Wrestle With Whistles
Slug: nba-roundup-nuggets-jokic-pacers-nembhard-celtics
DENVER — Nikola Jokic’s nightly workload is dropping, and the defending champion Nuggets say that is exactly how they drew it up. The two-time MVP is averaging 24.4 points on 15.1 field-goal attempts, well below last season’s 29.6 points and almost 20 shots per game.
Lead assistant David Adelman explained that the staff wants broader offensive balance. “If we can get through games without having to post him up 25 times, I think that’s beneficial for us and his body,” Adelman said, according to the Denver Post. “But if the game demands it, he will.”
Denver is also preaching patience with forward Cameron Johnson, who has opened the schedule at 7.5 points on 36.2 percent shooting. “Everybody knows Cam can shoot,” guard Jamal Murray said. “He didn’t just lose his arm.”
Sixth-man Tim Hardaway Jr. has hit double figures in five of the Nuggets’ first eight contests, earning praise from Adelman for a rapid release that stretches defenses. Veteran Bruce Brown, part of last season’s title run, said his goal is to reassert his trademark physical defense when the postseason arrives.
Pacers
Indiana guard Andrew Nembhard, sidelined for seven straight games, is trending toward a return Saturday in Denver, reporter Scott Agness noted. The Pacers have been hit hard by injuries and recently signed point guard Monte Morris to bolster depth.
Morris, who began his career with the Nuggets, said the Pacers’ up-tempo style fits him. “This is maybe the first team I’ve been on in the league with pace that I’m used to,” he said. Both guards are expected to be available against Denver.
Celtics
After Boston’s loss at Orlando, Jaylen Brown suggested referees are sending him a message. “In the fourth quarter, I think the officials made their point,” Brown told reporters. The All-Star scored 32 points but attempted only two free throws.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla continues to tinker with lineups. Rookie Jordan Walsh is beginning to earn trust, and guard Anfernee Simons provided a late spark Friday. Meanwhile, MassLive’s Brian Robb revisited an off-season debate: was retaining Derrick White a wiser salary move than acquiring Jrue Holiday?
Boston’s early-season success has muted most questions, but Friday’s defeat briefly put them back on the surface.
Source: Hoops Wire
