Here are the top performers on May 2 and the stats to highlight their impact.
BEST PLAYER OF THE DAY:
Scottie Barnes TOR PF 25 PTS | 14 AST | 3 BLK | 69.4 FPS (vs. CLE)
The franchise player was impressive in almost every way today. As usual, he led the charge on offense, finishing with a team-high in points. Defensively, he was just as impactful, tallying six stocks—the most in the series. Still, he was most impressive as a playmaker. Through six games, he’s been by far the best in that department, averaging 9.0 assists which includes three double-double performances.
BREAKOUT:
Rui Hachimura LAL PF 21 PTS | 6 REB | 1 BLK | 34.2 FPS (vs. HOU)
Throughout the first round, the forward has been a consistent presence on offense, scoring in double figures in six straight games. However, in two of his last four outings, he was much more effective, scoring 20 points on solid percentages. Including the regular season, he has reached the 20-point mark just nine times this year. That level of production will surely make a big difference for the team if he can keep it up against the defending champions.
SLEEPER:
Tobias Harris DET PF 22 PTS | 10 REB | 34.0 FPS (vs. ORL)
It wasn’t the most efficient performance, but Harris still got the job done—finishing as the team’s second-leading scorer and stretching his run to four consecutive 20-point games. The team will certainly need this level of production again in Game 7 for them to have a chance of advancing to the next round.
ELITE ASSET:
LeBron James LAL SF 28 PTS | 7 REB | 8 AST | 45.4 FPS (vs. HOU)
Efficiency has been a major issue for James in the series, as he’s shot just 30% from deep and 73.9% from the line while committing 4.3 turnovers per game. Regardless, he still came through for the Lakers, leading them into the semifinals. Outside of one game, he has consistently delivered at a high level, nearing the 30-point mark several times while also making an impact in other areas. However, he will surely face a much tougher challenge against one of the league’s top defensive teams in the next round.
CATEGORY SPECIALIST:
RJ Barrett TOR SF 24 PTS | 9 REB | 3 AST | 37.3 FPS (vs. CLE)
This was another productive game for Barrett, though his struggles were undeniable. He had a tough time finding his rhythm offensively, shooting poorly from the floor while also committing five turnovers. Still, he delivered when it mattered most, hitting the game-winning three-pointer. Overall, Barrett has been excellent in the series, but he’s been less effective lately compared to his first three games.
PLAYER TO WATCH:
Collin Murray-Boyles TOR PF 17 PTS | 7 REB | 3 BLK | 39.4 FPS (vs. CLE)
The rookie forward has been a revelation in the series, averaging 15.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 1.2 blocks. Regardless of what happens in the series, CMB has already proved his place in the team’s core and he should be able to perform at a high level again next season.
STREAMER:
De’Andre Ayton LAL C 7 PTS | 16 REB | 1 BLK | 30.7 FPS (vs. HOU)
Over the last three games, the former first overall pick has really proven his worth, averaging 14.7 points on 62.5% shooting along with 14.3 rebounds. While his consistency has been an issue all year, this performance is still a major step in the right direction.
FLOPPER:
Jalen Duren DET C 8 PTS | 9 REB | 1 AST | 18.3 FPS (vs. ORL)
Overall, Duren has been productive in the series, averaging 9.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks. However, this is still clearly below expectations for him. If he shows up in Game 7, there’s no doubt the Pistons will have a strong chance of advancing to the next round.
