Cavaliers rookie guard Meleek Thomas dropped 16 points on 6‑of‑10 shooting in 19 minutes off the bench during Monday’s overtime win over Minnesota, marking a dream debut.
The 34th overall pick dazzled in Las Vegas Summer League, averaging 27.2 points over four games, and kept the momentum in preseason with 10.3 points and 2.0 steals in 18.1 minutes across three outings.
Initially slotted behind Craig Porter Jr. and Tyrese Proctor, Thomas may have vaulted past them after the Timberwolves win, coach Atkinson suggested, noting neither veteran saw minutes on Monday. The rookie exudes confidence in his continued production.
“It was on my mind that I was going to be my best version, and that wasn’t even my best version. There’s a lot more I haven’t shown,” the rookie said after his debut. “Every time I lace my kicks up, I’m thinking I’ll deliver my best and stand out.”
“I always tell myself when I hoop, I want people who don’t know my name to leave the gym knowing it. I just want them to feel that kid made an impact. So before the game, the night before, I know the next suit‑up will be special from number 15.”
Here’s more from around the Central:
- After his 2020 NBA stint ended, Mario Hezonja contemplated retirement, wrote Ethan Sands for Cleveland.com. The former fifth overall pick revived his career in Europe and attracted Cleveland interest, signing for the 2026/27 season. “They were just high on me all the way along,” Hezonja said, adding the coaching staff and teammates made his transition seamless. So far he’s contributing 7.3 points and 3.7 rebounds in 17.7 minutes per game.
- The Pistons slipped after three straight wins, missing center Jalen Duren with a hamstring strain, notes Omari Sankofa II of The Detroit Free Press. Though Paul Reed posted 22 points and nine boards versus New York, both he and reserve Tolu Smith fell into foul trouble against Knicks big man Karl‑Anthony Towns, who exploded for 27 points and 20 rebounds.
- Meanwhile, the Pacers list a slew of injuries ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Philadelphia. T.J. McConnell (right hamstring strain) remains unavailable, and Ivica Zubac (left ankle sprain) sits out his second game. Guards Tyrese Haliburton (left hamstring tightness) and Andrew Nembhard (neck soreness) are both listed as questionable.
- Once considered a throw‑in in last season’s Ayo Dosunmu trade, Leonard Miller has become a reliable piece in the Bulls rotation, prompting Julia Poe of The Chicago Tribune to wonder about his future. For my money, Miller could evolve into a cornerstone for Chicago. Will the Bulls lock him down before free agency?