Here are the top performers on March 2 and the stats to highlight their impact.
BEST PLAYER OF THE DAY:
Nikola Jokic DEN C 35 PTS | 13 REB | 9 AST | 68.1 FPS (vs. MIN)
This was the fourth time in his last five games that Jokic has scored at least 30 points, and the fifth time in six games he has grabbed at least 12 rebounds. The only downside is his recent struggles at the line. Even so, he remains the most dominant player in the league this year, ranking sixth in scoring while leading the NBA in both rebounds and assists.
BREAKOUT:
Danny Wolf BKN PF 23 PTS | 9 REB | 5 AST | 46.3 FPS (vs. CLE)
The rookie has been a steady part of the rotation for the last three months and should keep his spot with the Nets effectively eliminated from the postseason. While his offensive game needs work, his potential as a versatile contributor is clear. He finished with his career-high in scoring today while also leading the team in rebounds and assists.
SLEEPER:
Andre Drummond PHI C 10 PTS | 12 REB | 4 STL | 40.4 FPS (vs. BOS)
This marked his 14th double-double and his 21st game of the season with double-digit rebounds. He’s definitely capable of producing at this level, as long as the minutes are there.
ELITE ASSET:
VJ Edgecombe PHI SG 23 PTS | 5 3PM | 5 REB | 40.5 FPS (vs. BOS)
Since the break, the rookie has elevated his game, scoring at least 19 points in five of his last six outings while maintaining a solid presence on the defensive end. He’s been a significant part of the Sixers’ campaign this year and should continue to have the opportunity to keep this going.
CATEGORY SPECIALIST:
Keon Ellis CLE SG 4 PTS | 3 STL | 5 BLK | 34.6 FPS (vs. BKN)
Ellis has made a big mark over his last two games, knocking down 4 threes and reaching double figures in scoring against the Bucks while bringing strong defense today. He should be able to maintain this level of production while some key players are sidelined.
PLAYER TO WATCH:
Ausar Thompson DET SF 9 PTS | 11 REB | 3 BLK | 41.7 FPS (vs. ORL)
Thompson has shifted into another gear over his last three games, averaging 12.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 2.3 steals and 2.0 blocks. This is a big step in the right direction after a few underwhelming performances earlier in the season.
STREAMER:
Taylor Hendricks MEM PF 19 PTS | 5 3PM | 5 REB | 27.0 FPS (vs. IND)
Hendricks continues to excel, scoring 10+ points in each of his last three games while also contributing in rebounding and defense. He took it up a notch today, hitting 5 threes and reaching the 19-point mark for the third time this season. With the Grizzlies short at his position, he should have no trouble maintaining both his role and production for the rest of the season.
FLOPPER:
Kevin Porter Jr. MIL SG 10 PTS | 6 REB | 4 AST | 25.2 FPS (vs. CHI)
KPJ has struggled to find his offensive rhythm lately, going 8-for-28 from the field and failing to score more than 11 points in his last two games. While he stayed impactful with contributions in other areas, he remains at his best when his offensive game is clicking.
