The NBA Preseason tipped off on Friday and players seemed excited to be back. The first day consisted of some impressive outings by players who worked hard in the off-season.
Dwayne Bacon: After playing his first few years in Charlotte without a defined role, Bacon was able to start last night for the Magic. He shot lights out and definitely helped himself earn minutes for the season. 14 points, 2 steals
Chuma Okeke: Okeke was a 1st round pick in 2019, but missed the entire season due to injury. His potential is high, as he’s hoping to get some quality minutes for Orlando. 9 points, 2 3’s
Cam Reddish: Reddish learned a lot last season on both ends as a rookie. Getting a year under his belt will help his improvement for 2021. 13 pts, 8 rebounds
Bruno Fernando: The big man also went through his rookie struggles as well, but was able to start in 13 games. He looks in better shape and can give the Hawks good minutes when needed. 8 points, 9 rebounds
Nerlens Noel: Noel started at center last night and looked great. Still very young at 26, his rim protection is like few in the NBA. 10 points, 8 rebounds
Obi Toppin: The rookie proved quite a bit last night. Had some bully ball moves that are going to be hard to stop. 11 points, 7 rebounds
Bruno Caboclo: Caboclo hasn’t been given a real chance since Memphis where he played well. His length and shooting can help the Rockets if he can find solid minutes. 17 points, 5 3’s
Gerald Green: Green missed all of 2019-2020, but you wouldn’t have thought that last night. He showed great signs that his bounce and shooting are clearly back. 16 points, 3 3’s
Patrick Williams: The 19-year-old had some nice moments last night on both ends. The shooting and defense are certainly there. 12 points, 3 rebounds
Noah Vonleh: Vonleh is a guy you can always depend on to play as hard as possible. He only played 11 minutes last night, but almost had a double-double. 12 points, 8 rebounds
Talen Horton-Tucker: Horton-Tucker’s dribbling skills and pace of play are very impressive for a young player. It’s no wonder guys like Lebron rave about the kid. 19 points, 9 rebounds
Devontae Cacok: Cacok reminds me of former Laker Thomas Bryant. The big man provides non-stop energy and rebounding. 8 points, 6 rebounds
Terance Mann: Mann was one assist shy of a triple-double for LA in their last regular season game in August. His versatility is something the Clippers are lacking, he can really make plays. 6 points, 6 rebounds
Mifondu Kabengele: The Clippers selected Kabengele as their 1st round pick last year. The former Florida State Seminole can shoot the three and hold his own down low. 7 points, 5 rebounds
Harry Giles: Giles seemed very motivated to play his former team. His showing against the Kings proved they made a mistake not keeping him for the future. 18 points, 14 rebounds
Derrick Jones Jr: Jones started for Portland and didn’t miss a shot. Expect Blazer guards to throw him many lobs for electrifying dunks this season. 15 points, 5 rebounds
Gary Trent Jr: A spot opened in the bubble for Trent and he took full advantage. He shot the ball extremely well in Orlando and is only getting better. 18 points, 3 3’s
Glenn Robinson III: After a nice run with Golden State, Robinson was traded to Philly. He now has a better opportunity to play quality minutes with the Kings this season. 9 points, 4 rebounds
Jahmi’us Ramsey: The 2nd round pick only played 5 minutes on Friday, but showed his potential in small pieces. He’s only 19-years-old and already has 3&D skills. 5 points, 1 assist
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