This preseason game meant a lot to him. Last Monday against the Lakers, Harry Giles turned away an NBA floor, in an official setting, for the first time since May 2021 and a tiny part of the playoffs disputed with the Blazers. Since then, the career of the new Nets player (25 years old) had been put on hold due to several knee operations.
So replaying 11 minutes, for 4 points and 4 rebounds, even in a game without any stakes, is happiness for him. “ It’s incredible. It’s a dream come true. During the whole match, I was in another world. I was in there fighting and having fun. I was smiling. It’s great to be back “, he enthuses.
The 20th pick of the 2017 Draft has not been spared since the start of his career. After his rookie season played with the Kings (58 games), he continued with seasons of 46, then 38 games played.
So Jacque Vaughn is delighted to see him “ recover minutes and play physical. I think there’s a general awareness that in a situation like Harry’s, you’re always playing and getting ready to play again. It sends a message to our other guys: ‘Don’t take this for granted.’ »
A career weighed down by injuries
Holder of a non-guaranteed contract worth $2.1 million, Harry Giles was picked up with the aim of adding density to the interior sector, behind Nic Claxton. His coach highlights his playing qualities in the post, in defense and in attack. “ A player like Harry, in this situation, uses as many minutes as possible and tries to have a positive influence », Describes Jacque Vaughn.
He already has influence over Nic Claxton. “ Knowing his history, knowing where he came from, seeing a guy like Harry stick around and keep working » is a factor « very motivating » judges the team’s starting pivot. “ He’s physical and he clearly knows how to play. He’s been in or around the league for a while. I think we could really use it this year », Claims the holder.
Still getting into shape physically, the former Blazers player wants to be competitive. whatever emotions one feels during and before the match “. Including his positive emotions linked to his return.
