Western Conference Notes: VanVleet’s Recovery, Nembhard’s Shooting Focus, McLaughlin’s Steady Contribution
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Rockets
Optimism about Fred VanVleet’s return is fading in Houston. According to the Houston Chronicle, the veteran guard remains limited to non-contact work while rehabbing the torn ACL he suffered in September. Head coach Ime Udoka said VanVleet is shooting, cutting and moving but still avoiding contact drills, signaling that a late-season comeback is increasingly doubtful.
Mavericks
Dallas rookie Ryan Nembhard is refining his perimeter game. The guard told the Dallas Hoops Journal he is concentrating on increasing catch-and-shoot opportunities to stretch defenses. “I’ve been trying to get more catch-and-shoot threes off — that’s a big thing for me,” Nembhard said. “Just trying to space the floor, make guys close out, and respect my jump shot has been important.”
Spurs
San Antonio’s surge to second place in the West has featured an understated boost from Jordan McLaughlin. Following a recent victory over the Clippers, interim coach Mitch Johnson praised the veteran guard’s “steady and professional” minutes. Johnson noted the Spurs specifically requested McLaughlin in the trade with Sacramento that also brought in De’Aaron Fox, valuing his experience from previous stops with the Timberwolves and Kings.
Source: Hoops Wire
