The push for the NBA playoffs is starting to heat up for several former Michigan Wolverines. Here’s how things are looking for Tim Hardaway Jr., Franz Wagner and more:
The NBA playoff field is nearly set. While there is still seeding to be played for, the field of 10 in the Eastern Conference is completely set, while the Western Conference just needs one more team to be eliminated to match (likely the Phoenix Suns ).
Six former Michigan Wolverines are set to suit up in playoff games, with another two on playoff teams but out for the season with injuries (Kobe Bufkin with Atlanta, Moritz Wagner with Orlando).
Wagner gets Orlando prepared for the playoffs
Franz Wagner has been the model of consistency this season. Last week, we highlighted the streak of 20+ point performances he’s currently on. That streak continued, as Wagner poured in 21, 24, and 27 points respectively this week. While he hasn’t been shooting the three-ball very well lately, Wagner is still a hyper-efficient 46.3 percent from the field and 86.8 percent from the charity stripe this season.
Orlando is close to locking up the No. 7 seed, where it would be the top seed in the Play-In Tournament.
Hardaway stays hot despite the Pistons limping to the finish line
The injury bug has bitten the Detroit Pistons lately, as they’ve lost four of their last five games. Cade Cunningham, Tobias Harris and others have missed time, but Tim Hardaway Jr. has stayed healthy and been one of the most effective players.
On Wednesday and Friday of last week, Hardaway scored 23 points in each game with a remarkably identical 5-of-9 line from the three. Hardaway has started all 74 contests he’s played in this season, second only to Jalen Duren.
LeVert continues to step up for the Hawks
Caris LeVert’s squad has clinched a spot in the Play-In Tournament, though their seeding is still in the air. LeVert’s resurgence since his trade from Cleveland to Atlanta has continued, as he tallied 21 points, six assists and five rebounds on Sunday in a win over Utah. Since the trade, his scoring has increased from 10.2 points per game to 14.8.
Mike Sainristil gets his credentials
Last week, former Michigan football star Mike Sainristil took his photography and videography skills to the hardwood, as he was granted credentials to a Washington Wizards game. He even met up with Jordan Poole after the game for a quick photo.