Irving's 48, Doncic's double-double powers Mavs over Rockets
The Dallas Mavericks outlasted the Houston Rockets, 147-136, at American Airlines Center on Sunday afternoon. With the win, the Mavericks captured the 2023-24 season series 3-1.
With their chances at the NBA Play-In tournament getting slimmer by the day, the Rockets (38-40) played like the more desperate team to start the game, winning the first frame by 15 points and leading by as much as 22. The Mavericks (48-30) were able to bounce back in the second quarter to slim the deficit to five points heading into halftime. It was a close contest in the second half, with each team trading leads down the stretch. Houston were up by three with seconds to play, but Luka Doncic found Dante Exum in the closing moments, and the Australian guard hit a clutch three-point shot to force overtime. It was all Dallas in OT, as the Mavericks outscored the Rockets by 11 points to improve to 25-15 at home. The Rockets dropped to 12-26 on the road, and they have been officially knocked out of playoff contention.
Dillon Brooks led Houston with 29 points, two rebounds, two assists and three steals. Fred VanVleet finished with 24 points and 12 assists for his 20th double-double of the season. Jalen Green tallied 21 points, six rebounds, eight assists and two steals. Jock Landale led the Rockets’ bench with 13 points and two assists. Jabari Smith tallied 12 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with a season-high 48 points along with seven rebounds and two assists. Doncic registered his 48th double-double of the season with 37 points, nine rebounds, 12 assists and two blocks. Exum led the bench with 14 points, nine rebounds and two assists. P.J. Washington contributed 14 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Derrick Jones supplied 10 points and two rebounds.
Both teams will play their next respective games on April 9. The Rockets head home to host the Orlando Magic, while the Mavericks travel to Charlotte to take on the Hornets.
With their chances at the NBA Play-In tournament getting slimmer by the day, the Rockets (38-40) played like the more desperate team to start the game, winning the first frame by 15 points and leading by as much as 22. The Mavericks (48-30) were able to bounce back in the second quarter to slim the deficit to five points heading into halftime. It was a close contest in the second half, with each team trading leads down the stretch. Houston were up by three with seconds to play, but Luka Doncic found Dante Exum in the closing moments, and the Australian guard hit a clutch three-point shot to force overtime. It was all Dallas in OT, as the Mavericks outscored the Rockets by 11 points to improve to 25-15 at home. The Rockets dropped to 12-26 on the road, and they have been officially knocked out of playoff contention.
Dillon Brooks led Houston with 29 points, two rebounds, two assists and three steals. Fred VanVleet finished with 24 points and 12 assists for his 20th double-double of the season. Jalen Green tallied 21 points, six rebounds, eight assists and two steals. Jock Landale led the Rockets’ bench with 13 points and two assists. Jabari Smith tallied 12 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with a season-high 48 points along with seven rebounds and two assists. Doncic registered his 48th double-double of the season with 37 points, nine rebounds, 12 assists and two blocks. Exum led the bench with 14 points, nine rebounds and two assists. P.J. Washington contributed 14 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Derrick Jones supplied 10 points and two rebounds.
Both teams will play their next respective games on April 9. The Rockets head home to host the Orlando Magic, while the Mavericks travel to Charlotte to take on the Hornets.
Clippers Complete Comeback To Defeat Cavaliers
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers, 120-118, at crypto.com Arena on Sunday.
The Clippers (50-28) had to work harder than expected to get past the Cavaliers (46-33) in front of 19,370 fans. The Cavaliers turned heads with their play in the first quarter and raced to a 40-33 score in the opening 12 minutes. The Cavaliers kept the momentum going and bolstered their lead even further, posting a 40-26 score in the second quarter to hold a 21-point lead entering the second half. However, the Clippers responded in the third quarter and showed signs of a comeback following a 27-18 score. The Cavaliers were still on top heading into the final quarter, but the Clippers saved their best stretch of basketball for the final 12 minutes. A 34-20 score in the fourth quarter gave the Clippers not only a complete comeback but a massive win at home, too. With the victory, the Clippers moved to 25-13 at home, while the Cavaliers fell to 22-19 on the road.
Paul George came through down the stretch for the Clippers and led the team with 39 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists. James Harden delivered 22 points, five rebounds and five assists. Tre Mann and Ivica Zubac each had 14 points. Mann had four rebounds and three dimes, while Zubac pulled down 11 boards. Norman Powell added 14 points off the bench.
Darius Garland was the leading scorer for the Cavaliers with 28 points, eight assists, five steals and five rebounds. Max Strus and Evan Mobley each had 20 points. Mobley also grabbed six rebounds and dished out four assists, while Strus handed out nine dimes. Caris LeVert had 18 points and five boards. Jarrett Allen posted 17 points and 10 rebounds. Isaac Okoro added 11 points coming off the bench.
The Clippers (50-28) had to work harder than expected to get past the Cavaliers (46-33) in front of 19,370 fans. The Cavaliers turned heads with their play in the first quarter and raced to a 40-33 score in the opening 12 minutes. The Cavaliers kept the momentum going and bolstered their lead even further, posting a 40-26 score in the second quarter to hold a 21-point lead entering the second half. However, the Clippers responded in the third quarter and showed signs of a comeback following a 27-18 score. The Cavaliers were still on top heading into the final quarter, but the Clippers saved their best stretch of basketball for the final 12 minutes. A 34-20 score in the fourth quarter gave the Clippers not only a complete comeback but a massive win at home, too. With the victory, the Clippers moved to 25-13 at home, while the Cavaliers fell to 22-19 on the road.
Paul George came through down the stretch for the Clippers and led the team with 39 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists. James Harden delivered 22 points, five rebounds and five assists. Tre Mann and Ivica Zubac each had 14 points. Mann had four rebounds and three dimes, while Zubac pulled down 11 boards. Norman Powell added 14 points off the bench.
Darius Garland was the leading scorer for the Cavaliers with 28 points, eight assists, five steals and five rebounds. Max Strus and Evan Mobley each had 20 points. Mobley also grabbed six rebounds and dished out four assists, while Strus handed out nine dimes. Caris LeVert had 18 points and five boards. Jarrett Allen posted 17 points and 10 rebounds. Isaac Okoro added 11 points coming off the bench.
Pacers Win Pivotal Matchup Against Heat
The Indiana Pacers defeated the Miami Heat, 117-115, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Sunday.
The Pacers (45-34) and the Heat (43-35) faced each other in a huge matchup with playoff implications. That was noticeable, as the game went down to the wire, but in the end, the Pacers ended up getting the victory. The Pacers enjoyed an excellent start and raced to a 38-24 score in the first quarter, and Indiana bolstered their lead even further following a 25-22 score in the second quarter. Holding a 17-point advantage in the second half, it seemed the Pacers were going to cruise their way until the end, but the Heat had other plans, and a 32-28 score in the third quarter showed some signs of life. Miami also won the fourth quarter by a 37-26 score, but that was not enough to complete the comeback. With the win, the Heat fell to 23-17 on the road, while the Pacers moved to 25-15 at home.
Myles Turner had 22 points, 13 rebounds and two blocks to lead the Pacers. Pascal Siakam had 18 points and eight rebounds, while Aaron Nesmith finished with 16 points, five rebounds and three assists. Tyrese Haliburton posted 12 points, eight assists and four rebounds. Andrew Nembhard had 10 points, two rebounds, two assists and three steals. T.J. McConnell had 22 points coming off the bench.
Jimmy Butler recorded 27 points, eight assists and seven rebounds for the Heat. Bam Adebayo recorded 20 points, 12 rebounds and three assists. Nikola Jovic was the only other starter who posted double-digit points after notching 18 points. Terry Rozier recorded four points and four assists. Tyler Herro posted 21 points and five rebounds off the bench. Caleb Martin had 20 points.
The Pacers (45-34) and the Heat (43-35) faced each other in a huge matchup with playoff implications. That was noticeable, as the game went down to the wire, but in the end, the Pacers ended up getting the victory. The Pacers enjoyed an excellent start and raced to a 38-24 score in the first quarter, and Indiana bolstered their lead even further following a 25-22 score in the second quarter. Holding a 17-point advantage in the second half, it seemed the Pacers were going to cruise their way until the end, but the Heat had other plans, and a 32-28 score in the third quarter showed some signs of life. Miami also won the fourth quarter by a 37-26 score, but that was not enough to complete the comeback. With the win, the Heat fell to 23-17 on the road, while the Pacers moved to 25-15 at home.
Myles Turner had 22 points, 13 rebounds and two blocks to lead the Pacers. Pascal Siakam had 18 points and eight rebounds, while Aaron Nesmith finished with 16 points, five rebounds and three assists. Tyrese Haliburton posted 12 points, eight assists and four rebounds. Andrew Nembhard had 10 points, two rebounds, two assists and three steals. T.J. McConnell had 22 points coming off the bench.
Jimmy Butler recorded 27 points, eight assists and seven rebounds for the Heat. Bam Adebayo recorded 20 points, 12 rebounds and three assists. Nikola Jovic was the only other starter who posted double-digit points after notching 18 points. Terry Rozier recorded four points and four assists. Tyler Herro posted 21 points and five rebounds off the bench. Caleb Martin had 20 points.
Celtics Pull Away Late, Top Trail Blazers
The Boston Celtics defeated the Portland Trail Blazers, 124-107, at TD Garden on Sunday.
The Celtics (61-16) moved to a league-best 34-3 at home with a solid performance over a rebuilding Trail Blazers (21-56) team. With the loss, the Blazers are now 10-29 when playing on the road this season. It was an easy win for the Celtics, as they raced to a 30-24 lead in the first quarter and never looked back. Even though the Trail Blazers showed a fighting spirit in both the second and third quarters, the Celtics won both frames by one point each, holding an eight-point advantage with 12 minutes left. The Celtics wouldn’t give the Blazers a chance to mount a comeback in the fourth period. Boston won the final quarter by a 31-22 score to close things out.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 26 points and four rebounds. Kristaps Porzingis recorded 12 points, 10 rebounds, five blocks and three steals. Jrue Holiday posted 12 points. Derrick White finished with 15 points and nine assists. Payton Pritchard impressed off the bench and finished with 20 points, eight assists and three rebounds across 25 minutes. The Celtics shot 56.3 percent from the field and 42.1 percent from deep.
Dalano Banton led the way for the Blazers with 28 points off the bench, but he also added nine assists and three rebounds. Deandre Ayton notched 22 points, 14 rebounds and two assists. Scoot Henderson recorded 15 points, eight assists and two steals. Jabari Walker recorded 14 points and 18 rebounds. Kris Murray had 10 points and seven rebounds. Portland shot 39.2 percent from the field and 36.8 percent from beyond the arc.
The Celtics (61-16) moved to a league-best 34-3 at home with a solid performance over a rebuilding Trail Blazers (21-56) team. With the loss, the Blazers are now 10-29 when playing on the road this season. It was an easy win for the Celtics, as they raced to a 30-24 lead in the first quarter and never looked back. Even though the Trail Blazers showed a fighting spirit in both the second and third quarters, the Celtics won both frames by one point each, holding an eight-point advantage with 12 minutes left. The Celtics wouldn’t give the Blazers a chance to mount a comeback in the fourth period. Boston won the final quarter by a 31-22 score to close things out.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 26 points and four rebounds. Kristaps Porzingis recorded 12 points, 10 rebounds, five blocks and three steals. Jrue Holiday posted 12 points. Derrick White finished with 15 points and nine assists. Payton Pritchard impressed off the bench and finished with 20 points, eight assists and three rebounds across 25 minutes. The Celtics shot 56.3 percent from the field and 42.1 percent from deep.
Dalano Banton led the way for the Blazers with 28 points off the bench, but he also added nine assists and three rebounds. Deandre Ayton notched 22 points, 14 rebounds and two assists. Scoot Henderson recorded 15 points, eight assists and two steals. Jabari Walker recorded 14 points and 18 rebounds. Kris Murray had 10 points and seven rebounds. Portland shot 39.2 percent from the field and 36.8 percent from beyond the arc.
Magic Handles Bulls, 113-98
The Orlando Magic defeated the Chicago Bulls, 113-98, at Amway Center on Sunday evening.
The Magic (46-32) came in looking to bounce back from a surprising loss to the Charlotte Hornets, and they got off to an excellent start in that regard by forging a 31-14 lead through one. The Bulls (37-41) then played what may have been their best quarter in the second but still shaved only five points from their deficit, and after Orlando tacked five points back on to its edge in the third, the final period was a mere formality.
DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 30 points, complementing them with five assists and three rebounds. Javonte Green supplied 15 points, eight boards, one assist, three blocks and one steal. Andre Drummond generated a 14-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two steals. Ayo Dosunmu matched Drummond's scoring and added five rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. Coby White delivered 11 points, six assists and two rebounds.
Paolo Banchero paced the Magic with 24 points, supplementing them with six rebounds and five assists. Jalen Suggs registered 19 points, five assists, three rebounds, two steals and one block. Markelle Fultz posted 17 points, six rebounds, two assists and one block. Franz Wagner finished with 16 points, four rebounds, three assists and one steal. Wendell Carter turned in 11 points, eight boards, three assists, two steals and one block.
The Bulls return home to host the New York Knicks on Tuesday night, while the Magic visits the Houston Rockets on Tuesday night as well.
The Magic (46-32) came in looking to bounce back from a surprising loss to the Charlotte Hornets, and they got off to an excellent start in that regard by forging a 31-14 lead through one. The Bulls (37-41) then played what may have been their best quarter in the second but still shaved only five points from their deficit, and after Orlando tacked five points back on to its edge in the third, the final period was a mere formality.
DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 30 points, complementing them with five assists and three rebounds. Javonte Green supplied 15 points, eight boards, one assist, three blocks and one steal. Andre Drummond generated a 14-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two steals. Ayo Dosunmu matched Drummond's scoring and added five rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. Coby White delivered 11 points, six assists and two rebounds.
Paolo Banchero paced the Magic with 24 points, supplementing them with six rebounds and five assists. Jalen Suggs registered 19 points, five assists, three rebounds, two steals and one block. Markelle Fultz posted 17 points, six rebounds, two assists and one block. Franz Wagner finished with 16 points, four rebounds, three assists and one steal. Wendell Carter turned in 11 points, eight boards, three assists, two steals and one block.
The Bulls return home to host the New York Knicks on Tuesday night, while the Magic visits the Houston Rockets on Tuesday night as well.
Pelicans Top Suns, 113-105
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Phoenix Suns, 113-105, at Footprint Center on Sunday evening.
The Suns (46-32) checked in as one of the hotter teams in the league with an 8-2 record in the previous 10 games, and they opened the contest in similarly dominant fashion by forging a 26-19 lead through one. However, that would turn out to be Phoenix's best all-around quarter, as the Pelicans (46-32) roared back in the second to erase their deficit and take a six-point advantage into halftime. New Orleans added another point to its edge in the third, and despite allowing the hosts to claw back and tie the contest at 93 at point in the final period, they finished on an 18-9 run over the final 7:19 to seal the victory.
CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 31 points, complementing them with five assists and four rebounds. Zion Williamson supplied a 29-point, 10-rebound double-double that included seven assists, five blocks and one steal. Jose Alvarado tallied 15 points, three rebounds and one steal. Trey Murphy registered 13 points, four boards, two assists and one steal. Dyson Daniels managed 10 points, six rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block.
Bradley Beal paced the Suns with 33 points, adding five assists, three rebounds and two blocks. Devin Booker recorded 25 points, seven assists, three rebounds and one steal. Kevin Durant finished with 23 points, six assists and four rebounds. Grayson Allen offered 11 points, five rebounds, one assist, two steals and two blocks.
The Pelicans remain on the road and visit the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night, while the Suns remain home to host the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night as well.
The Suns (46-32) checked in as one of the hotter teams in the league with an 8-2 record in the previous 10 games, and they opened the contest in similarly dominant fashion by forging a 26-19 lead through one. However, that would turn out to be Phoenix's best all-around quarter, as the Pelicans (46-32) roared back in the second to erase their deficit and take a six-point advantage into halftime. New Orleans added another point to its edge in the third, and despite allowing the hosts to claw back and tie the contest at 93 at point in the final period, they finished on an 18-9 run over the final 7:19 to seal the victory.
CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 31 points, complementing them with five assists and four rebounds. Zion Williamson supplied a 29-point, 10-rebound double-double that included seven assists, five blocks and one steal. Jose Alvarado tallied 15 points, three rebounds and one steal. Trey Murphy registered 13 points, four boards, two assists and one steal. Dyson Daniels managed 10 points, six rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block.
Bradley Beal paced the Suns with 33 points, adding five assists, three rebounds and two blocks. Devin Booker recorded 25 points, seven assists, three rebounds and one steal. Kevin Durant finished with 23 points, six assists and four rebounds. Grayson Allen offered 11 points, five rebounds, one assist, two steals and two blocks.
The Pelicans remain on the road and visit the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night, while the Suns remain home to host the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night as well.
Raptors Outlast Wizards, 130-122
The Toronto Raptors defeated the Washington Wizards, 130-122, at Scotiabank Arena on Sunday evening.
The Raptors (25-53) came out of the locker room clearly the more motivated of the two non-contending teams, as they built a dominating 42-17 lead through one. The early walloping did wake up the Wizards (15-64) to an extent, as they surged back to record 33 second-quarter points and knock 12 points from their deficit in the process. However, intermission slowed their defensive momentum, as even though Washington scored 37 third-quarter points, they also gave up 36. The same story essentially played out in the final period, when the visitors ultimately were able to knock just four additional points from Toronto's advantage.
Deni Avdija led the Wizards with 32 points, complementing them with 10 rebounds, five assists, three blocks and two steals. Jordan Poole generated a 29-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and two steals. Corey Kispert recorded 21 points, three rebounds and three assists. Patrick Baldwin Jr. posted a 16-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and two blocks. Tristan Vukcevic finished with 11 points, nine rebounds, four assists and three blocks.
Immanuel Quickley paced the Raptors with a 31-point, 13-assist double-double that included seven rebounds and one steal. RJ Barrett supplied 22 points, eight boards, seven assists and one block. Kelly Olynyk furnished 21 points, nine rebounds, five assists, three steals and one block. Gary Trent Jr. delivered 20 points, seven boards, five assists and three steals. Gradey Dick registered 13 points and four rebounds.
The Wizards next visit the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night, while the Raptors remain home and host the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night as well.
The Raptors (25-53) came out of the locker room clearly the more motivated of the two non-contending teams, as they built a dominating 42-17 lead through one. The early walloping did wake up the Wizards (15-64) to an extent, as they surged back to record 33 second-quarter points and knock 12 points from their deficit in the process. However, intermission slowed their defensive momentum, as even though Washington scored 37 third-quarter points, they also gave up 36. The same story essentially played out in the final period, when the visitors ultimately were able to knock just four additional points from Toronto's advantage.
Deni Avdija led the Wizards with 32 points, complementing them with 10 rebounds, five assists, three blocks and two steals. Jordan Poole generated a 29-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and two steals. Corey Kispert recorded 21 points, three rebounds and three assists. Patrick Baldwin Jr. posted a 16-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and two blocks. Tristan Vukcevic finished with 11 points, nine rebounds, four assists and three blocks.
Immanuel Quickley paced the Raptors with a 31-point, 13-assist double-double that included seven rebounds and one steal. RJ Barrett supplied 22 points, eight boards, seven assists and one block. Kelly Olynyk furnished 21 points, nine rebounds, five assists, three steals and one block. Gary Trent Jr. delivered 20 points, seven boards, five assists and three steals. Gradey Dick registered 13 points and four rebounds.
The Wizards next visit the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night, while the Raptors remain home and host the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night as well.
Shorthanded Thunder Edge Hornets
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the host Charlotte Hornets, 121-118, at Spectrum Center on Sunday evening.
Despite missing both Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (quadriceps), and Jaylen Williams (ankle) for a fourth straight game, the Thunder jumped out to an early nine-point lead and held on to a two-point advantage heading into the second. They kept the pressure on and rallied to a 10-point lead by halftime, but the Hornets came out much better in the third and cut it to a one-point game entering the final quarter. The visitors regained momentum early in the fourth but the score was tied at 115, with one minute left on the clock. The Thunder quickly took a four-point edge and stayed on top to end a three-game losing streak.
Aaron Wiggins led the Thunder with 26 points, two rebounds, five assists and six steals, in 36 minutes of action. Josh Giddey came up large with 20 points, 13 rebounds, 13 assists and a steal, while Chet Holmgren accounted for 20 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, two steals and three blocks.
Meanwhile, all eight players to hit the floor scored in double digits for the Hornets, led by Grant Williams, with 19 points, three rebounds, five assists, two steals and a block, in 38 minutes of action. Tre Mann followed up with 18 points, five rebounds, six assists, four steals and two blocks, while Vasilije Micic tallied 17 points, 10 assists and a steal.
The Hornets (19-59) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Mavericks on Tuesday. The Thunder (53-25) play host to the Kings Tuesday.
Despite missing both Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (quadriceps), and Jaylen Williams (ankle) for a fourth straight game, the Thunder jumped out to an early nine-point lead and held on to a two-point advantage heading into the second. They kept the pressure on and rallied to a 10-point lead by halftime, but the Hornets came out much better in the third and cut it to a one-point game entering the final quarter. The visitors regained momentum early in the fourth but the score was tied at 115, with one minute left on the clock. The Thunder quickly took a four-point edge and stayed on top to end a three-game losing streak.
Aaron Wiggins led the Thunder with 26 points, two rebounds, five assists and six steals, in 36 minutes of action. Josh Giddey came up large with 20 points, 13 rebounds, 13 assists and a steal, while Chet Holmgren accounted for 20 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, two steals and three blocks.
Meanwhile, all eight players to hit the floor scored in double digits for the Hornets, led by Grant Williams, with 19 points, three rebounds, five assists, two steals and a block, in 38 minutes of action. Tre Mann followed up with 18 points, five rebounds, six assists, four steals and two blocks, while Vasilije Micic tallied 17 points, 10 assists and a steal.
The Hornets (19-59) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Mavericks on Tuesday. The Thunder (53-25) play host to the Kings Tuesday.
Brunson Powers Knicks In Milwaukee
By Dan Bruno
The New York Knicks defeated the host Milwaukee Bucks, 122-109, at Fiserv Forum on Sunday evening.
The Bucks got out to a strong start and led by six points after one quarter. The Knicks continued to lag behind in the second, while the hosts pushed it to an 11-point game at the break. The visitors turned up their play in the third and outscored the Bucks, 39-24, in the quarter to claim a four-point advantage entering the final frame. The Knicks would not let up and powered through the fourth behind a dominant performance by Jalen Brunson, securing their second win in the last three games and handing the Bucks their fourth consecutive loss.
Brunson led the Knicks with 43 points, six rebounds and eight assists, in 39 minutes. Donte DiVincenzo followed up with 26 points, four rebounds, three assists, a block and a steal, while Isaiah Hartenstein logged 18 points, 10 rebounds and a steal.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 28 points, 15 rebounds, eight assists, a steal and two blocks, in 39 minutes. Bobby Portis followed up with 24 points, five rebounds and two assists, while Damian Lillard tallied 23 points, four rebounds, six assists, a steal and two blocks.
The Bucks (47-31) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Celtics on Tuesday. The Knicks (46-32) clash with the Bulls in Chicago on Tuesday.
The Bucks got out to a strong start and led by six points after one quarter. The Knicks continued to lag behind in the second, while the hosts pushed it to an 11-point game at the break. The visitors turned up their play in the third and outscored the Bucks, 39-24, in the quarter to claim a four-point advantage entering the final frame. The Knicks would not let up and powered through the fourth behind a dominant performance by Jalen Brunson, securing their second win in the last three games and handing the Bucks their fourth consecutive loss.
Brunson led the Knicks with 43 points, six rebounds and eight assists, in 39 minutes. Donte DiVincenzo followed up with 26 points, four rebounds, three assists, a block and a steal, while Isaiah Hartenstein logged 18 points, 10 rebounds and a steal.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 28 points, 15 rebounds, eight assists, a steal and two blocks, in 39 minutes. Bobby Portis followed up with 24 points, five rebounds and two assists, while Damian Lillard tallied 23 points, four rebounds, six assists, a steal and two blocks.
The Bucks (47-31) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Celtics on Tuesday. The Knicks (46-32) clash with the Bulls in Chicago on Tuesday.
76ers Outlast Spurs In Double OT
By Dan Bruno
The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the host San Antonio Spurs, 133-126, in double overtime at Frost Bank Center on Sunday evening.
Tyrese Maxey dropped 52 points to lead the shorthanded 76ers to a fifth straight win. The 76ers jumped out to a strong start and led by six points after one quarter. The Spurs turned it up in the second and outscored the hosts, 40-23, in the quarter to claim a 10-point lead at the break. Both sides came up quiet in the third, while the visitors managed to trim it back to a seven-point game entering the final quarter. The Spurs stayed in control for most of the fourth, but the Sixers rallied late and tied it up at 111, to force overtime. Both sides traded buckets in the first overtime period, but the 76ers outscored the hosts, 12-5, in the second overtime period to close out the road win. This also marks the third loss in four games for the Spurs.
Maxey also tallied five rebounds, seven assists and two steals, in his 54 minutes. Kelly Oubre followed up with 26 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two blocks, while Paul Reed logged 11 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block. The 76ers shot 45.6 percent from the field, including 12-for-39 from deep.
Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 33 points, 18 rebounds, six assists and seven blocks, in 43 minutes. Malaki Branham followed up with 22 points, three rebounds and a block, while Tre Jones and Julian Champagnie added 17 points each.
The Spurs (19-59) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Grizzlies in Memphis on Tuesday. The 76ers (44-35) play host to the Pistons on Tuesday.
Tyrese Maxey dropped 52 points to lead the shorthanded 76ers to a fifth straight win. The 76ers jumped out to a strong start and led by six points after one quarter. The Spurs turned it up in the second and outscored the hosts, 40-23, in the quarter to claim a 10-point lead at the break. Both sides came up quiet in the third, while the visitors managed to trim it back to a seven-point game entering the final quarter. The Spurs stayed in control for most of the fourth, but the Sixers rallied late and tied it up at 111, to force overtime. Both sides traded buckets in the first overtime period, but the 76ers outscored the hosts, 12-5, in the second overtime period to close out the road win. This also marks the third loss in four games for the Spurs.
Maxey also tallied five rebounds, seven assists and two steals, in his 54 minutes. Kelly Oubre followed up with 26 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two blocks, while Paul Reed logged 11 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block. The 76ers shot 45.6 percent from the field, including 12-for-39 from deep.
Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 33 points, 18 rebounds, six assists and seven blocks, in 43 minutes. Malaki Branham followed up with 22 points, three rebounds and a block, while Tre Jones and Julian Champagnie added 17 points each.
The Spurs (19-59) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Grizzlies in Memphis on Tuesday. The 76ers (44-35) play host to the Pistons on Tuesday.
Kings Clobber Nets, 107-77
The Sacramento Kings defeated the host Brooklyn Nets, 107-77, at Barclay's Center on Sunday.
Sacramento never relinquished the lead after a 29-19 first quarter, putting the game to bed behind a 36-21 second quarter. They held a double-digit lead for the final 30 minutes, getting their lead up to 33 points at times. The Kings shot 43 percent from the field and 31 percent from three-point range while holding the Nets to 35 percent from the field and 23 percent from long range. Sacramento also recorded 31 assists to nine turnovers, while Brooklyn had 17 assists to 16 turnovers.
The Kings (45-33) were led by De'Aaron Fox, finishing with 20 points, five rebounds and three assists. Keegan Murray amassed 19 points, six rebounds, four assists and four blocks. Domantas Sabonis finished with 18 points, 20 rebounds, nine assists and two blocks, while Trey Lyles led the bench with 14 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
The Nets (31-48) were led by Cam Thomas, tallying 21 points and four rebounds. Trendon Watford led the bench with 16 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Jalen Wilson had 11 points, six rebounds and three assists, while Noah Clowney had seven points and 10 rebounds. Dennis Schroder missed 11 of his 12 shots to accrue four points, seven rebounds and six assists.
On deck for Sacramento is a road matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday. As for Brooklyn, they return to action on Wednesday in a home matchup with the Toronto Raptors.
Sacramento never relinquished the lead after a 29-19 first quarter, putting the game to bed behind a 36-21 second quarter. They held a double-digit lead for the final 30 minutes, getting their lead up to 33 points at times. The Kings shot 43 percent from the field and 31 percent from three-point range while holding the Nets to 35 percent from the field and 23 percent from long range. Sacramento also recorded 31 assists to nine turnovers, while Brooklyn had 17 assists to 16 turnovers.
The Kings (45-33) were led by De'Aaron Fox, finishing with 20 points, five rebounds and three assists. Keegan Murray amassed 19 points, six rebounds, four assists and four blocks. Domantas Sabonis finished with 18 points, 20 rebounds, nine assists and two blocks, while Trey Lyles led the bench with 14 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
The Nets (31-48) were led by Cam Thomas, tallying 21 points and four rebounds. Trendon Watford led the bench with 16 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Jalen Wilson had 11 points, six rebounds and three assists, while Noah Clowney had seven points and 10 rebounds. Dennis Schroder missed 11 of his 12 shots to accrue four points, seven rebounds and six assists.
On deck for Sacramento is a road matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday. As for Brooklyn, they return to action on Wednesday in a home matchup with the Toronto Raptors.
Warriors Defeat Jazz, 118-110
The Golden State Warriors defeated the visiting Utah Jazz, 118-110, at Chase Center on Sunday.
A 41-26 first quarter set the foundation for Golden State in this victory, leading by at least eight points for the final three quarters. They got their lead up to 23 points at times, with the final margin being the closest spread since midway through the first quarter. The Warriors shot 53 percent from the field and 100 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Jazz to 47 percent from the field and 81 percent from the charity stripe. Golden State also out-assisted Utah, 32-21, while out-rebounding them, 54-37.
The Jazz (29-49) were led by Johnny Juzang, generating 27 points and two rebounds. Keyonte George led the starters with 22 points and two rebounds. Collin Sexton compiled 15 points, two rebounds and seven assists, while Trey Hendricks had 10 points, three rebounds and two assists. Brice Sensabaugh totaled nine points, three rebounds and three assists.
The Warriors (43-35) were led by Klay Thompson, tallying 32 points, five rebounds and four assists. Trayce Jackson-Davis amassed 16 points, seven rebounds and four blocks. Brandin Podziemski tallied 16 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Chris Paul provided 12 points, nine assists and three steals. Jonathan Kuminga led the bench with 21 points, 10 rebounds and four assists.
Both teams return to action on Tuesday against Western Conference foes, with Utah returning home to play the Denver Nuggets and Golden State traveling to face the Los Angeles Lakers.
A 41-26 first quarter set the foundation for Golden State in this victory, leading by at least eight points for the final three quarters. They got their lead up to 23 points at times, with the final margin being the closest spread since midway through the first quarter. The Warriors shot 53 percent from the field and 100 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Jazz to 47 percent from the field and 81 percent from the charity stripe. Golden State also out-assisted Utah, 32-21, while out-rebounding them, 54-37.
The Jazz (29-49) were led by Johnny Juzang, generating 27 points and two rebounds. Keyonte George led the starters with 22 points and two rebounds. Collin Sexton compiled 15 points, two rebounds and seven assists, while Trey Hendricks had 10 points, three rebounds and two assists. Brice Sensabaugh totaled nine points, three rebounds and three assists.
The Warriors (43-35) were led by Klay Thompson, tallying 32 points, five rebounds and four assists. Trayce Jackson-Davis amassed 16 points, seven rebounds and four blocks. Brandin Podziemski tallied 16 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Chris Paul provided 12 points, nine assists and three steals. Jonathan Kuminga led the bench with 21 points, 10 rebounds and four assists.
Both teams return to action on Tuesday against Western Conference foes, with Utah returning home to play the Denver Nuggets and Golden State traveling to face the Los Angeles Lakers.
T'Wolves Defeat Lakers, 127-117
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the host Los Angeles Lakers, 127-117, at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday.
Minnesota never gave up the lead after the opening 15 minutes, riding a 46-27 second quarter to their victory. They got their lead up to 20 points at times, with LA never attempting a game-tying shot after that lopsided second quarter. The Timberwolves shot 52 percent from the field and 39 percent from three-point range while holding the Lakers to 46 percent from the field and 36 percent from long range. Minnesota also outscored Los Angeles in the paint, 62-52.
The Timberwolves (56-24) were led by Naz Reid, finishing with 31 points, 11 rebounds and two steals. Anthony Edwards had 26 points and eight assists. Rudy Gobert generated 18 points, 16 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Nickeil Alexander-Walker led the bench with 15 points, two rebounds and four assists.
The Lakers (45-34) were led by Rui Hachimura, totaling 30 points and six rebounds. Spencer Dinwiddie tallied 18 points, five rebounds and seven assists. D'Angelo Russell accumulated 15 points, seven rebounds and 11 assists, while Austin Reaves accrued 14 points, three rebounds and two assists. Jaxson Hayes led the bench with 19 points, 10 rebounds and five steals. Anthony Davis (face) never returned after the first quarter.
Both teams return to action on Tuesday, with Minnesota playing host to the Washington Wizards and Los Angeles remaining home to face the Golden State Warriors.
Minnesota never gave up the lead after the opening 15 minutes, riding a 46-27 second quarter to their victory. They got their lead up to 20 points at times, with LA never attempting a game-tying shot after that lopsided second quarter. The Timberwolves shot 52 percent from the field and 39 percent from three-point range while holding the Lakers to 46 percent from the field and 36 percent from long range. Minnesota also outscored Los Angeles in the paint, 62-52.
The Timberwolves (56-24) were led by Naz Reid, finishing with 31 points, 11 rebounds and two steals. Anthony Edwards had 26 points and eight assists. Rudy Gobert generated 18 points, 16 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Nickeil Alexander-Walker led the bench with 15 points, two rebounds and four assists.
The Lakers (45-34) were led by Rui Hachimura, totaling 30 points and six rebounds. Spencer Dinwiddie tallied 18 points, five rebounds and seven assists. D'Angelo Russell accumulated 15 points, seven rebounds and 11 assists, while Austin Reaves accrued 14 points, three rebounds and two assists. Jaxson Hayes led the bench with 19 points, 10 rebounds and five steals. Anthony Davis (face) never returned after the first quarter.
Both teams return to action on Tuesday, with Minnesota playing host to the Washington Wizards and Los Angeles remaining home to face the Golden State Warriors.