The Philadelphia 76ers are happy about a successful comeback of Markelle Fultz, who is mistaken for a quarterback. The Timberwolves leave a big chance and embarrass themselves against the Grizzlies. There are also victories for the Hornets, Pistons and Celtics.
The Hornet season was a messed up one, but they don’t have to be accused of giving anything away towards the end. Especially Kemba Walker unpacks his whole package again – so also against the kicks in the overtime.
But it wouldn’t have been necessary, because the hosts were already leading with 17 points in the second half. But led by Trey Burke, who was out of control with a career high of 42 points, the New Yorkers came back and forced the extra time.
But there was Walker-Time for good. He scored 11 points in those 5 minutes and 3 Assist, plus a big play in the defense. He didn’t miss any more, not even from downtown (3/3) “Kemba just did Kemba things. I don’t think anyone is surprised about that anymore,” said team-mate Marvin Williams.
Walker had collected 31 points and 7 assists in the end, Dwight Howard supported with 23 points and 13 rebounds. In the Knicks, Michael Beasley (27 points, 8 rebounds) was in a good mood alongside the outstanding Burke.
Since Reggie Jackson’s return, the Pistons have shown what they are theoretically capable of – but the chase to catch up is probably too late. Despite their fourth win in the fifth game, they are still five games behind the Heat.
The hosts took the lead in the early stages, but were initially unable to maintain it permanently. On the other hand, Kyle Kuzma was particularly motivated: his hometown is only an hour away from Detroit and so he had a whole entourage of personal fans in his luggage. With 20 points and 11 rookie rebounds she was not disappointed either.
But the Pistons had the longer breath, although Blake Griffin had to fight foul problems. Anthony Tolliver jumped into the breach with 15 points in the important phases for him. The Dagger was used by Blake personally: 3’32” before the end he scored 102’93” in three minutes.
Griffin scored a total of 15 points, just like Andre Drummond (18 rebounds). Jackson was allowed to stand on the field again 28 minutes and scored 20 points, on the other side Julius Randle (23 points, 11 rebounds) and Lonzo Ball (15 points, 7/8 FG, 11 assists, 8 rebounds) convinced once more.
It’s hailing good news for the Sixers! Against the nuggets, the seventh victory in a row faded into the background – because the suffering of No.1 pick Markelle Fultz finally came to an end after his protracted shoulder problems. He made his comeback against Denver and also had a share in the success with 10 points and 8 assists. And yes, his throwing movement looked good!
The fans in the city of brotherly love were correspondingly euphoric – often “Fultz! Fultz! Fultz! calls through the arena. But the praised man didn’t even know that he was meant: “I thought they were celebrating Nick Foles”, the Point Guard admitted afterwards.
Coach Brett Brown was also satisfied with the rookie: “He looked confident. Philly, however, made the win against Denver clear in the second half, as the guests were still in the game before.
Top scorers of the winners were Dario Saric and Joel Embiid (13 rebounds) with 20 points each, J.J. Redick came up with 19. On the other hand, Will Barton (25) and Jamal Murray (17) scored the most points.
Page 1: Fultz celebrates comeback at Sixers victory, Kemba finishes Knicks
Page 2: Wolves embarrass themselves against Memphis, Celtics continue to win