Daniels, who has quickly ascended to become one of the NBA’s greatest defenders, had another impressive game today as his Atlanta side beat the Detroit Pistons 130-132.
Daniels led the way for the Hawks with his ability to impact on both sides of the court as he recorded 19 points, seven assists, six rebounds, four steals, and three blocks.
With 45 seconds to go in the game, Atlanta was aiming to defend a narrow 1-point lead over the Pistons, as their star Cade Cunningham had the ball with a chance to take the lead.
Cunningham then drove to the ring and was stripped by Daniels in one of the biggest plays of the game.
Atlanta then had possession of the ball, and in stunning fashion, Trae Young came up with a signature game-winning shot from the three-time NBA All-Star.
After the match, Atlanta head coach Quinn Snyder spoke about Daniels and his talents on the defensive end.
“He’s got a knack in certain situations late to make defensive plays, and they usually turn into baskets on the other end, if it’s a steal,” Snyder said post-game.
“One of the things we’ve talked to him about is just his aggressiveness attacking the basket, and that’s another thing that I think, as the season’s progressed, he’s been more aggressive.”
This was a timely win for the Hawks as they had lost their last eight straight matches.
Due to Daniels prolific skills on the defensive end, his Atlanta teammates have nicknamed the 21-year-old Aussie as the "Great Barrier Thief’.
Daniels and his Atlanta side currently sit ninth in the Eastern Conference, battling for the final playoff spots with 32 games left in their NBA season.
Comments