Pistons
Detroit’s turnaround has been swift enough to surprise even head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. Speaking with Andscape’s Marc J. Spears, Bickerstaff noted that the franchise jumped from the bottom of the Eastern Conference to first place in roughly two seasons, crediting a revamped organizational structure for the climb.
“When you were with the group every day, you knew there was a ton of potential there,” Bickerstaff said, adding that while he could not have predicted coaching in the All-Star Game this soon, steady growth always felt attainable.
Bickerstaff, hired shortly after parting ways with the Cavaliers, praised president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon for establishing and maintaining a clear blueprint. “I trust Trajan totally,” he said. “The small, subtle moves he made helped elevate this team.”
The coach emphasized that championship projections are not on the agenda: “We talk about today every single day. That helps control the emotional ups and downs.”
Trail Blazers
Damian Lillard continues to rehab the Achilles tendon he tore last spring, leaning on advice from players who endured similar injuries. According to Joel Freeman of The Oregonian, Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, and Rudy Gay offered guidance that Lillard found motivating—support he said contributed to his recent Three-Point Contest victory.
“I do think I represent strength,” Lillard said. “People go through way worse and keep moving forward.”
76ers
Guard Cameron Payne is officially heading back to Philadelphia, but the move comes with a sizable bill. Serbian club KK Partizan confirmed his departure along with a $1.75 million buyout, Marc Stein of The Stein Line reported. Under NBA rules, the 76ers can cover only $875,000; the remainder is Payne’s responsibility. The team must also secure a FIBA Letter of Clearance before he can be activated.
In 10 appearances for Partizan, Payne averaged 12.4 points and nearly four assists. With Philadelphia thinned at guard following the Jared McCain trade, the 29-year-old should have an immediate path to minutes once paperwork is finalized.
Source: Hoops Wire
