UPDATE: In a thrilling NBA Cup showdown, Josh Giddey delivered a career-high 32 points while Dyson Daniels rediscovered his scoring touch, leading their teams to significant victories. Just hours ago, the Chicago Bulls surged to a stunning 135-125 win over the New York Knicks, improving their record to 5-0 for the first time since the 1996-97 season.
With star backcourt partner Trae Young sidelined due to a knee injury, Daniels stepped up in a major way. He dominated the court with 18 points, nine rebounds, six steals, and three assists in the Atlanta Hawks’ 128-108 victory over the winless Indiana Pacers. This performance is a crucial turnaround for Daniels, who faced criticism for previous low-scoring games.
Giddey’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. He showcased his scoring prowess with four three-pointers out of eight attempts, also adding 10 rebounds and nine assists without a single turnover. His three-point shooting percentage has now surged to 45.5% this season, turning skeptics into believers. Giddey’s recent form, averaging 21.1 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 8.9 assists over the last 20 games, has sparked early All-Star discussions.
The Bulls’ victory was marked by a strong supporting cast, with Ayo Dosunmu contributing 22 points and Nikola Vucevic adding 26 points and seven rebounds. The Knicks initially led by nine points in the first quarter, but Chicago’s resilience turned the tide.
Meanwhile, in Cleveland, Australian players Luke Travers and Tyrese Proctor combined for minimal contributions in the Cavaliers’ 112-101 defeat to the Toronto Raptors, each logging 14 minutes on the court.
In unfortunate news for Australian basketball, Matisse Thybulle has undergone thumb surgery and is expected to miss at least one month of the NBA season while playing for the Portland Trail Blazers.
Fans are buzzing as Giddey and Daniels continue to elevate their games, making crucial impacts in their teams’ successes. Stay tuned for more updates as the NBA season progresses and these players aim to maintain their explosive performances.
