Aussies in NBA: Ingles dominates on the boards, but Baynes wins Australia Day
Joe Ingles is not usually known for his rebounding capabilities, but going up against Aron Baynes and the Detroit Pistons, Jingles had his eye on grabbing boards.
In a tight game, with Utah storming home, Detroit managed to hold on for the 95-92 win.
Ingles pulled down an equal career-high 9 rebounds. His 9 boards were second most in the game, behind teammate Rudy Gobert. Yes, Joe Ingles out-rebounded Andre Drummond, and had as many offensive rebounds as Drummond and Baynes combined.
It is clear that Ingles has solidified his place in the Jazz rotation after a slow start to the season. Ingles played a season-high 27:30 minutes, including the last 6 minutes when the Jazz forced their way back in the contest.
Ingles finished with 5 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and a game high +/- rating of +13.
He provided plenty of movement and spacing for the Jazz, along with some nice passes. Highlighted by this set-up to Derrick Favors, who drew the foul.
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Aron Baynes was a key contributor to the Pistons in his 18 minutes of game time. With Drummond struggling on the night, Baynes was relied upon to shoulder more load.
Much like Ingles, Baynes also played some crunch time minutes. Down the stretch, Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy went with Baynes in favour of Drummond and he repaid the faith with some good defence and a crucial defensive rebound.
Baynes finished with 8 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 block.