Aussies Abroad: Daniels continues to steal the show

Dyson Daniels had a rare quiet game in Atlanta’s win over Utah but still claimed a slice of NBA history when he snatched another steal to extend a remarkable streak.

Dubbed the “Great Barrier Thief” for his swiping ability, Bendigo product Daniels has now gone 65 consecutive games registering at least one steal.

The 22-year-old had just the one swipe against the Jazz, as well as two points, three assists and two rebounds, in a 132-122 victory on Friday (AEDT).

But it means Daniels’ active stealing streak is now ranked outright fourth in NBA history, behind only Chris Paul (108), Alvin Robertson (105) and Michael Jordan (77).

While Daniels was subdued against Utah, Jalen Johnson exploded with 31 points, 18 rebounds, 14 assists and seven steals for Atlanta, reaching career highs in all four categories in his third career triple-double.

Despite being without injured guard Trae Young, the Hawks (8-5) have now won four straight and they made 24 three-pointers, the most by any NBA team this season. It included a franchise-record 15 triples in the first half.

Onyeka Okongwu was 8-for-14 from long range after never previously making more than four triples in a game, on his way to a career-high 32 points.

Utah’s Lauri Markkannen had 40 points and rookie Ace Bailey notched another career-best with 21, but the Jazz (4-8) are yet to post consecutive wins this season.

Elsewhere, Phoenix were led by Devin Booker (33 points) and Dillon Brooks (32) in a 133-98 rout of Indiana as the Suns extended their winning streak to five. The injury-plagued Pacers lost another starter when Aaron Nesmith exited with left knee soreness.

Indiana were already without Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles), Bennedict Mathurin (toe), Obi Toppin (foot) and Australian guard Johnny Furphy (ankle).

Australian duo Tyrese Proctor (seven points) and Luke Travers (one steal) had quiet nights as their Cleveland Cavaliers suffered a 126-113 home loss to Toronto. Scottie Barnes finished with 28 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists and five blocks for the Raptors.