Here are the top performers on April 8 and the stats to highlight their impact.
BEST PLAYER OF THE DAY:
Jeremiah Fears NOP PG 40 PTS | 5 REB | 6 AST| 62.0 FPS (vs. UTA)
The rookie had been less productive on the scoring end in recent weeks, but he’s starting to turn things around, averaging nearly 23 points in his first three games of the month. He elevated his game even further today, shooting nearly 60% from the field and setting a personal best, while also breaking the franchise rookie record for most points in a game. It has been another disappointing year for the Pelicans, but Fears has emerged as one of the few bright spots.
BREAKOUT:
Jordan Poole NOP SG 34 PTS | 7 3PM | 4 AST | 46.4 FPS (vs. UTA)
Many key players were sidelined in today’s game, which allowed Poole to move into the starting lineup. He made the most of his opportunity, providing positive value across the board while also reaching the 30-point mark for the first time in five months. While Poole has really struggled to maintain consistency this year, he is still capable of putting up strong performances from time to time.
SLEEPER:
Miles Bridges CHA SF 13 PTS | 12 REB | 4 AST | 32.4 FPS (vs. BOS)
Bridges had been really impactful over the past few weeks, but he’s hit a new gear this month, averaging 20.5 points, 3.0 threes, and 7.5 rebounds in his first four games. While he couldn’t match his previous level on the offensive end, he still managed to score in double figures in eight consecutive games while also recording his ninth double-double of the season.
ELITE ASSET:
Jaylen Brown BOS SF 35 PTS | 9 REB | 1 BLK | 51.3 FPS (vs. CHA)
The star forward continues to play at an MVP level, scoring at least 26 points for the tenth consecutive game and reaching the 30-point mark 35 times this year. With his performance today, he became one of only three players in the league this season to reach the 2,000-point mark. The only negative is his turnovers, as he currently ranks second in the league.
CATEGORY SPECIALIST:
De’Anthony Melton GSW SG 21 PTS | 4 REB | 5 AST | 35.3 FPS (vs. SAC)
The veteran guard had been dealing with a few injuries lately, resulting in a drop in his overall production, but he found his rhythm again today, hitting 4-of-6 from three to lead all players in scoring while recording his 11th 20-point game of the year.
PLAYER TO WATCH:
Derik Queen NOP C 17 PTS | 12 REB | 7 AST | 49.9 FPS (vs. UTA)
The rookie big man excelled on all fronts today, delivering his best scoring game in a month while recording his 12th double-double of the season and making a huge impact defensively. Outside of one game, Queen has been in solid form lately and should be able to keep it going in their remaining games.
STREAMER:
John Konchar UTA SG 12 PTS | 10 REB | 10 AST | 47.0 FPS (vs. NOP)
Though he’s not much of an offensive threat, Konchar remains very productive with contributions across the board. In his last four games, he has averaged 9.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 2.8 steals and 0.8 blocks.
FLOPPER:
De’Andre Ayton LAL C 3 PTS | 3 REB | 1 BLK | 8.6 FPS (vs. OKC)
Lately, Ayton has really struggled to make a significant impact on the boards. He has been equally disappointing on the scoring end, turning in his lowest scoring output in a month today. However, with most of their key players out, the Lakers will have to keep relying on Ayton for the time being.
