Atlantic Notes: George Shines, Knicks Strategize, Poeltl Impresses, Queta Advances, Stevens Innovates
Filmogaz.com delivers a compact update from the Atlantic Division. The report summarizes roster, contract and award conversations around several teams.
Paul George’s return and trade outlook
Paul George returned after a 25-game suspension for a drug-policy violation. In his last seven appearances, he averaged 24.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.0 assists.
Adam Aaronson of PhillyVoice argues this run is unlikely to raise George’s trade value. George will soon turn 36 and is owed more than $54.1 million next season. He also holds a player option above $56.5 million for the following season. His injury history further discourages potential suitors.
George Shines has become a shorthand for his recent scoring burst, but front offices remain cautious.
Knicks lineup plans
Mike Brown does not expect to change his starting five for the postseason. Stefan Bondy of the New York Post reports Brown prefers the current rotation for now.
The coach discussed inserting Landry Shamet into the lineup at times. Earlier this season, Brown reduced his starting unit and replaced Mitchell Robinson with Josh Hart.
Knicks Strategize around continuity as they head toward playoff matchups.
Jakob Poeltl and Toronto’s fit
Jakob Poeltl signed a three-year extension last offseason to stay in Toronto. Eric Koreen of The Athletic says Poeltl has become an awkward fit for the Raptors’ rotation and cap sheet.
Poeltl missed time with a back ailment and played only 42 games this season. Koreen notes he is not a perimeter scoring threat and lacks the defensive dominance in the paint to offset that limitation. His contract is guaranteed through 2028-29, which complicates any potential trade.
Poeltl Impresses appears in some coverage, but evaluation remains mixed within league circles.
Neemias Queta for Most Improved
Jaylen Brown publicly pushed for Neemias Queta as a Most Improved Player candidate. Brown praised Queta’s rim protection, finishing and rebounding, per The Athletic’s Jay King.
Queta has started 72 of 73 games this season. He is posting career highs with 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game.
Queta Advances has become a common phrase among Celtics supporters discussing his development.
Brad Stevens on college coaching
Brad Stevens, now a Celtics executive, guided Butler to two NCAA Tournament championship games during his coaching tenure. Brian Robb of MassLive reports Stevens has no intention of returning to college coaching.
Stevens said he is focused on his current role and not motivated to pursue a college return. He continues shaping the Celtics’ front office strategy.
Stevens Innovates in his executive capacity while declining a coaching comeback.
