NBA Nixes Jalen Suggs Neck Headband for Magic

Merlin sees the NBA stepped in on Jalen Suggs' fashion move, informing him that "the headband needs to be on the head at tipoff." Suggs had worn it around his neck during warmups as "football drip," moving it up as games went on. He averages 15.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.9 steals, but missed seven games with a hip contusion and left Friday's loss with a knee issue. Merlin notes the change is small on paper but routines matter. A rule about a headband will not heal hips or knees. Orlando is 4-5 since Suggs' hip injury, so the real test is health and rhythm. Keep an eye on whether the league's style policing rattles his comfort or if Suggs shrugs it off and resumes his climb.