Here are the top performers on March 25 and the stats to highlight their impact.
BEST PLAYER OF THE DAY:
Nikola Jokic DEN C 23 PTS | 17 REB | 17 AST | 66.9 FPS (vs. PHX)
Though he had a fairly limited overall performance today, Jokic still turned in monster numbers across the triple-double categories. This was his fourth consecutive game scoring at least 20 points, his eighth with double-digit assists, and his tenth with double-digit rebounds this month alone. He’s been a consistent threat for these kinds of performances all year, with no one coming close to his level.
BREAKOUT:
Donovan Mitchell CLE SG 42 PTS | 3 3PM | 3 AST | 46.9 FPS (vs. ORL)
Even though his overall output has declined in recent games, the superstar guard continues to excel offensively. He has scored at least 23 points eight times since the break and took it up a notch today, converting 11-of-11 from the line for his sixth 40-point game of the year, which is the fourth most in the league.
SLEEPER:
Royce O’Neale PHX SF 17 PTS | 5 REB | 3 BLK | 39.5 FPS (vs. DEN)
The wing had missed their previous games with a knee problem, but he came up big in his return, knocking down five triples to go along with a game-high four stocks. Though he has struggled to maintain consistency in scoring, he has remained solid throughout the year with his two-way productions. With several players unavailable, he should continue to be more productive for the time being.
ELITE ASSET:
Paolo Banchero ORL PF 36 PTS | 6 REB | 5 AST | 51.7 FPS (vs. CLE)
Overall, this has mostly been a down year for the star forward, as he has struggled to find consistency. Since the break, however, he’s started to lean into the right direction. He also showcased his offensive caliber today, shooting 50% from the field and going 13-of-15 from the line to secure consecutive 35-point performances and his 12th 30-point outing of the season.
CATEGORY SPECIALIST:
Sam Merrill CLE SG 19 PTS | 4 REB | 2 STL | 31.3 FPS (vs. ORL)
It’s been a solid five-game stretch for Merrill, averaging 15.4 points, 2.6 three-pointers, and 5.0 rebounds while maintaining strong shooting percentages. He’s emerged as one of the team’s most reliable scorers this year and should continue to have the opportunities to keep this momentum going.
PLAYER TO WATCH:
Coby White CHA SG 27 PTS | 5 REB | 1 AST | 34.5 FPS (vs. SAC)
The former Bulls guard is starting to find his offensive rhythm, scoring at least 24 points for the third time in his last four games. In those games, he also averaged 4.7 threes while also going 16-for-17 at the line. He can certainly keep producing at this level as long as the minutes are there.
STREAMER:
Wendell Carter Jr ORL C 15 PTS | 5 REB | 1 BLK | 30.0 FPS (vs. CLE)
The big man has been productive all year, consistently providing rebounding value while also delivering occasional strong offensive and defensive performances. He has also been a steady presence this month and has delivered a few standout outings. With the team missing several key players, he should continue to take on a larger role for the team.
FLOPPER:
Miles Bridges CHA SF 9 PTS | 8 REB | 4 AST | 22.6 FPS (vs. SAC)
Bridges got off to a solid start early in the season, averaging nearly 24 points per game back in November. However, he hasn’t been as effective since. He has particularly struggled after the break, posting subpar scoring performances in 12 of his last 14 games.
