Embiid's near triple-double propels 76ers past Pistons on Tuesday
The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Detroit Pistons, 120-102, at Wells Fargo Center on Tuesday night.
It was a dominant performance by the 76ers (45-35), who led for most of the game and pushed their cushion to as much as 24 points. The visiting Pistons (13-66) saw their only lead in the opening minutes of the first quarter, but Philadelphia dominated the rest of the first half to go into the break leading by 12. Detroit managed to cut it to a one-score game in the third quarter, but the 76ers took control in the fourth quarter with a 12-2 run to capture the victory. With the win, Philadelphia improved to 23-16 at home, while the Pistons dropped to 6-34 on the road despite going 14-for-30 from three-point range.
With Cade Cunningham (knee) ruled out ahead of Tuesday’s contest, Jaden Ivey led the Pistons with 25 points, five rebounds and four assists. Evan Fournier led the bench with 21 points, three rebounds and two blocks. Jalen Duren registered his 43rd double-double of the season with 15 points, 11 rebounds and two assists. Malachai Flynn tallied 12 points and four assists in reserve, while Marcus Sasser finished with 10 points, three rebounds and five assists.
Joel Embiid filled the stat sheet for the 76ers with 37 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists, two blocks and three steals for his 29th double-double of the season. Buddy Hield led the bench with 18 points and six rebounds. Kelly Oubre chipped in 17 points, three rebounds and three blocks, while Tobias Harris added 15 points, 12 rebounds and four assists for his ninth double-double of the season. Cameron Payne got the start for Tyrese Maxey (hip) and finished with five points, five rebounds, six assists and three steals.
Next up, the Pistons head back to Detroit to host the Chicago Bulls on Thursday, while the 76ers welcome in the Orlando Magic on Friday.
It was a dominant performance by the 76ers (45-35), who led for most of the game and pushed their cushion to as much as 24 points. The visiting Pistons (13-66) saw their only lead in the opening minutes of the first quarter, but Philadelphia dominated the rest of the first half to go into the break leading by 12. Detroit managed to cut it to a one-score game in the third quarter, but the 76ers took control in the fourth quarter with a 12-2 run to capture the victory. With the win, Philadelphia improved to 23-16 at home, while the Pistons dropped to 6-34 on the road despite going 14-for-30 from three-point range.
With Cade Cunningham (knee) ruled out ahead of Tuesday’s contest, Jaden Ivey led the Pistons with 25 points, five rebounds and four assists. Evan Fournier led the bench with 21 points, three rebounds and two blocks. Jalen Duren registered his 43rd double-double of the season with 15 points, 11 rebounds and two assists. Malachai Flynn tallied 12 points and four assists in reserve, while Marcus Sasser finished with 10 points, three rebounds and five assists.
Joel Embiid filled the stat sheet for the 76ers with 37 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists, two blocks and three steals for his 29th double-double of the season. Buddy Hield led the bench with 18 points and six rebounds. Kelly Oubre chipped in 17 points, three rebounds and three blocks, while Tobias Harris added 15 points, 12 rebounds and four assists for his ninth double-double of the season. Cameron Payne got the start for Tyrese Maxey (hip) and finished with five points, five rebounds, six assists and three steals.
Next up, the Pistons head back to Detroit to host the Chicago Bulls on Thursday, while the 76ers welcome in the Orlando Magic on Friday.
Pacers defeat Raptors, 140-123, behind 30 points from Haliburton
The Indiana Pacers took down the Toronto Raptors, 140-123, at Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday night.
It was the home team Raptors (25-54) who got off to a hot start Tuesday, winning the first quarter by 10 points. The Pacers (46-34) took control in the second quarter and continued that momentum into the third, as they outscored Toronto 81-56 over the two middle frames. Indiana was able to match buckets with the Raptors in the fourth quarter, and both teams opted to empty their benches down the stretch. The Pacers improved to 21-19 on the road, while the Raptors dropped to 14-27 at home.
Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 30 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Obi Toppin led the bench with 23 points, six rebounds and two assists, while T.J. McConnell posted 17 points, two rebounds and seven assists in reserve. Pascal Siakam returned to the city he started his career with and finished with 16 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Myles Turner added 16 points and four rebounds.
RJ Barrett led the Raptors with 23 points, four rebounds and four assists. Kelly Olynyk contributed 22 points, five rebounds and four assists, while Javon Freeman-Liberty added 20 points and eight rebounds. Bruce Brown led the bench with 16 points, three rebounds and five assists. Gary Trent totaled 16 points, three rebounds, four assists and four steals.
The Raptors wrap up the 2023-24 season with a three-game road trip Wednesday against the Brooklyn Nets. The Pacers have a two-day rest before visiting the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday.
It was the home team Raptors (25-54) who got off to a hot start Tuesday, winning the first quarter by 10 points. The Pacers (46-34) took control in the second quarter and continued that momentum into the third, as they outscored Toronto 81-56 over the two middle frames. Indiana was able to match buckets with the Raptors in the fourth quarter, and both teams opted to empty their benches down the stretch. The Pacers improved to 21-19 on the road, while the Raptors dropped to 14-27 at home.
Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 30 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Obi Toppin led the bench with 23 points, six rebounds and two assists, while T.J. McConnell posted 17 points, two rebounds and seven assists in reserve. Pascal Siakam returned to the city he started his career with and finished with 16 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Myles Turner added 16 points and four rebounds.
RJ Barrett led the Raptors with 23 points, four rebounds and four assists. Kelly Olynyk contributed 22 points, five rebounds and four assists, while Javon Freeman-Liberty added 20 points and eight rebounds. Bruce Brown led the bench with 16 points, three rebounds and five assists. Gary Trent totaled 16 points, three rebounds, four assists and four steals.
The Raptors wrap up the 2023-24 season with a three-game road trip Wednesday against the Brooklyn Nets. The Pacers have a two-day rest before visiting the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday.
Mavericks Cruise To Win Over Hornets
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Charlotte Hornets, 130-104, at Spectrum Center on Tuesday.
The Mavericks (49-30) didn’t have problems securing a massive win over the Hornets (19-60) in front of 17,425 fans at Spectrum Center on a night when Luka Doncic broke Dallas’ record for most points in a regular season. The Mavericks didn’t have problems early on and raced to a 36-18 advantage in the first quarter, and they never looked back after that. A 33-29 in the second quarter boosted Dallas’ lead to 22 points at halftime, meaning the game was practically over before the second half started. Even though Charlotte responded with a 36-28 score in the third quarter, it was not enough for them to mount a comeback. Dallas would end the game with a 33-21 score in the final 12 minutes. With the win, the Mavericks moved to 24-15 on the road, while the Hornets fell to 11-30 at home.
Luka Doncic finished with a triple-double after recording 39 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Kyrie Irving filled the stat sheet and delivered 18 points, nine assists, eight rebounds, three blocks and two steals. Daniel Gafford notched 26 points and seven rebounds. Tim Hardaway Jr. ended with 15 points and four rebounds coming off the bench. The Mavericks shot 53.8 percent from the field and 34 percent from three-point range.
Miles Bridges led the way for the Hornets with 22 points, five rebounds and three assists. Brandon Miller had 21 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals. Grant Williams recorded 12 points, four assists and three rebounds. Tre Mann had 11 points, six assists and five boards. Davis Bertans posted 13 points off the bench. The Hornets shot 43.8 percent from the field and 31.3 percent from deep.
The Mavericks (49-30) didn’t have problems securing a massive win over the Hornets (19-60) in front of 17,425 fans at Spectrum Center on a night when Luka Doncic broke Dallas’ record for most points in a regular season. The Mavericks didn’t have problems early on and raced to a 36-18 advantage in the first quarter, and they never looked back after that. A 33-29 in the second quarter boosted Dallas’ lead to 22 points at halftime, meaning the game was practically over before the second half started. Even though Charlotte responded with a 36-28 score in the third quarter, it was not enough for them to mount a comeback. Dallas would end the game with a 33-21 score in the final 12 minutes. With the win, the Mavericks moved to 24-15 on the road, while the Hornets fell to 11-30 at home.
Luka Doncic finished with a triple-double after recording 39 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Kyrie Irving filled the stat sheet and delivered 18 points, nine assists, eight rebounds, three blocks and two steals. Daniel Gafford notched 26 points and seven rebounds. Tim Hardaway Jr. ended with 15 points and four rebounds coming off the bench. The Mavericks shot 53.8 percent from the field and 34 percent from three-point range.
Miles Bridges led the way for the Hornets with 22 points, five rebounds and three assists. Brandon Miller had 21 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals. Grant Williams recorded 12 points, four assists and three rebounds. Tre Mann had 11 points, six assists and five boards. Davis Bertans posted 13 points off the bench. The Hornets shot 43.8 percent from the field and 31.3 percent from deep.
Heat Surive Hawks After Double Overtime
The Miami Heat defeated the Atlanta Hawks, 117-101, following a double overtime at State Farm Arena on Tuesday.
The Hawks (36-43) fought hard against the Heat (44-35) but ended suffering a tight loss after running out of energy in the second overtime period. The Heat were the better team in the early stages of regulation and built an impressive 12-point lead in the first half. However, the Hawks showed signs of life and responded with a 33-21 score in the third quarter. The Heat found a way to storm back and forced overtime with a 21-21 tie in the fourth period. This game needed not one, but two overtime periods to find a winner. In the end, the Heat were more precise in the second overtime, and that was enough to outscore Atlanta. The Heat moved to 24-17 on the road with the win, while the Hawks fell to 21-19 at home.
Tyler Herro led the way for the Heat with 33 points, five rebounds and four assists. Jimmy Butler had 25 points, eight rebounds, nine assists and three steals. Nikola Jovic posted 23 points and eight rebounds. Bam Adebayo notched 10 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and three steals. Haywood Highsmith posted 13 points off the bench.
De’Andre Hunter delivered 23 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Jalen Johnson recorded 13 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Dejounte Murray had 29 points, 13 rebounds and 13 assists for another triple-double. Bogdan Bogdanovic had 11 points. Bruno Fernando had 12 points coming off the bench.
The Hawks (36-43) fought hard against the Heat (44-35) but ended suffering a tight loss after running out of energy in the second overtime period. The Heat were the better team in the early stages of regulation and built an impressive 12-point lead in the first half. However, the Hawks showed signs of life and responded with a 33-21 score in the third quarter. The Heat found a way to storm back and forced overtime with a 21-21 tie in the fourth period. This game needed not one, but two overtime periods to find a winner. In the end, the Heat were more precise in the second overtime, and that was enough to outscore Atlanta. The Heat moved to 24-17 on the road with the win, while the Hawks fell to 21-19 at home.
Tyler Herro led the way for the Heat with 33 points, five rebounds and four assists. Jimmy Butler had 25 points, eight rebounds, nine assists and three steals. Nikola Jovic posted 23 points and eight rebounds. Bam Adebayo notched 10 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and three steals. Haywood Highsmith posted 13 points off the bench.
De’Andre Hunter delivered 23 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Jalen Johnson recorded 13 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Dejounte Murray had 29 points, 13 rebounds and 13 assists for another triple-double. Bogdan Bogdanovic had 11 points. Bruno Fernando had 12 points coming off the bench.
Bucks Top Celtics To Snap Losing Streak
The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Boston Celtics, 104-91, at Fiserv Forum on Tuesday.
The Bucks (48-31) snapped a four-game losing streak with a huge home win over the Celtics (62-17) in front of 17,493 fans. However, the game ended sourly for the Bucks since Giannis Antetokounmpo had to leave due to a calf injury in the second half. The Bucks started the game on a solid note and raced to a 37-21 lead in the first quarter. Milwaukee never looked back the rest of the way, and the Bucks bolstered their lead even further following a 26-22 score in the second quarter. Even though Boston showed signs of fight in the third quarter and outscored Milwaukee by a 24-15 score, though it was not enough to mount a comeback. The Bucks would close things out following a 26-24 score in the final 12 minutes. With the win, the Bucks moved to 30-11 at home, while the Celtics fell to 27-14 on the road.
Patrick Beverley notched 20 points, 10 rebounds and three assists to lead the Bucks. Khris Middleton had 12 points, nine assists and six rebounds. Brook Lopez posted 15 points and six rebounds. Giannis Antetokounmpo recorded 15 points, eight rebounds and seven assists before departing the contest in the second half. Bobby Portis posted 15 points off the bench. The Bucks shot 53.1 percent from the field and 47.2 percent from deep.
Jayson Tatum led the way for the Celtics with 22 points, six assists and five rebounds. Jaylen Brown finished with 14 points and 10 rebounds while adding four steals and three assists. Jrue Holiday had 12 points, seven rebounds and five assists. No other Boston player scored in double digits in this one. The Celtics shot 39.8 percent from the field and 32.7 percent from three-point range.
The Bucks (48-31) snapped a four-game losing streak with a huge home win over the Celtics (62-17) in front of 17,493 fans. However, the game ended sourly for the Bucks since Giannis Antetokounmpo had to leave due to a calf injury in the second half. The Bucks started the game on a solid note and raced to a 37-21 lead in the first quarter. Milwaukee never looked back the rest of the way, and the Bucks bolstered their lead even further following a 26-22 score in the second quarter. Even though Boston showed signs of fight in the third quarter and outscored Milwaukee by a 24-15 score, though it was not enough to mount a comeback. The Bucks would close things out following a 26-24 score in the final 12 minutes. With the win, the Bucks moved to 30-11 at home, while the Celtics fell to 27-14 on the road.
Patrick Beverley notched 20 points, 10 rebounds and three assists to lead the Bucks. Khris Middleton had 12 points, nine assists and six rebounds. Brook Lopez posted 15 points and six rebounds. Giannis Antetokounmpo recorded 15 points, eight rebounds and seven assists before departing the contest in the second half. Bobby Portis posted 15 points off the bench. The Bucks shot 53.1 percent from the field and 47.2 percent from deep.
Jayson Tatum led the way for the Celtics with 22 points, six assists and five rebounds. Jaylen Brown finished with 14 points and 10 rebounds while adding four steals and three assists. Jrue Holiday had 12 points, seven rebounds and five assists. No other Boston player scored in double digits in this one. The Celtics shot 39.8 percent from the field and 32.7 percent from three-point range.
Knicks Top Bulls, 128-117
The New York Knicks defeated the Chicago Bulls, 128-117, at United Center on Tuesday night.
The Knicks (47-32) got off to a fast start that would later prove key to their success, scoring 36 points in the first quarter to build a nine-point lead. The Bulls (37-42) managed to shave three points from their deficit before halftime, but they couldn't make up any ground during a third quarter in which New York matched Chicago point for point. The visitors didn't rest on their laurels in the final period, either, ultimately growing their advantage by another five points by game's end.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 45 points, adding eight assists, three rebounds and one steal. OG Anunoby furnished 24 points, three rebounds, one assist and one block. Donte DiVincenzo delivered 21 points, six assists, four rebounds and one steal. Josh Hart generated a 17-point, 13-rebound double-double that included seven assists and one steal. Isaiah Hartenstein posted 11 points, six assists, four rebounds, three blocks and one steal.
DeMar DeRozan paced the Bulls with 34 points, complementing them with six assists and five rebounds. Nikola Vucevic supplied 26 points, five rebounds, one assist and one block. Coby White registered 24 points, six assists, three rebounds and one steal.
The Knicks remain on the road and visit the Boston Celtics on Thursday night, while the Bulls visit the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night.
The Knicks (47-32) got off to a fast start that would later prove key to their success, scoring 36 points in the first quarter to build a nine-point lead. The Bulls (37-42) managed to shave three points from their deficit before halftime, but they couldn't make up any ground during a third quarter in which New York matched Chicago point for point. The visitors didn't rest on their laurels in the final period, either, ultimately growing their advantage by another five points by game's end.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 45 points, adding eight assists, three rebounds and one steal. OG Anunoby furnished 24 points, three rebounds, one assist and one block. Donte DiVincenzo delivered 21 points, six assists, four rebounds and one steal. Josh Hart generated a 17-point, 13-rebound double-double that included seven assists and one steal. Isaiah Hartenstein posted 11 points, six assists, four rebounds, three blocks and one steal.
DeMar DeRozan paced the Bulls with 34 points, complementing them with six assists and five rebounds. Nikola Vucevic supplied 26 points, five rebounds, one assist and one block. Coby White registered 24 points, six assists, three rebounds and one steal.
The Knicks remain on the road and visit the Boston Celtics on Thursday night, while the Bulls visit the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night.
Rockets Top Magic, 118-106
The Houston Rockets defeated the Orlando Magic, 118-106, at Toyota Center on Tuesday night.
The Rockets (39-40) had seen their playoff hopes dashed by the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, but they came out with of the gate with plenty of motivation while building a 36-25 lead through one. Houston then went on to add another four points to its advantage over the Magic (46-33) over the next two quarters, and the double-digit edge held up well in the final period.
Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs co-led the Magic with 21 points, adding seven rebounds and four assists, respectively. Banchero added six dimes, while Suggs also recorded two steals and two blocks. Markelle Fultz delivered 18 points, four boards, two assists and one block. Moritz Wagner supplied 12 points, five rebounds, one assist and one steal. Jonathan Isaac tallied 10 points, eight rebounds, one assist, two steals and one block.
Fred VanVleet paced the Rockets with 37 points, supplementing them with eight rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block. Jabari Smith Jr. registered 23 points, seven rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Dillon Brooks registered 15 points, five boards and three assists. Jalen Green finished with 14 points, five rebounds, five assists and one steal. Amen Thompson managed 13 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block.
The Magic visits the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday night, while the Rockets visit the Utah Jazz on Thursday night.
The Rockets (39-40) had seen their playoff hopes dashed by the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, but they came out with of the gate with plenty of motivation while building a 36-25 lead through one. Houston then went on to add another four points to its advantage over the Magic (46-33) over the next two quarters, and the double-digit edge held up well in the final period.
Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs co-led the Magic with 21 points, adding seven rebounds and four assists, respectively. Banchero added six dimes, while Suggs also recorded two steals and two blocks. Markelle Fultz delivered 18 points, four boards, two assists and one block. Moritz Wagner supplied 12 points, five rebounds, one assist and one steal. Jonathan Isaac tallied 10 points, eight rebounds, one assist, two steals and one block.
Fred VanVleet paced the Rockets with 37 points, supplementing them with eight rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block. Jabari Smith Jr. registered 23 points, seven rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Dillon Brooks registered 15 points, five boards and three assists. Jalen Green finished with 14 points, five rebounds, five assists and one steal. Amen Thompson managed 13 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block.
The Magic visits the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday night, while the Rockets visit the Utah Jazz on Thursday night.
Timberwolves Get Past Wizards, 130-121
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Washington Wizards, 130-121, at Target Center on Tuesday night.
The Wizards (15-65) were naturally the team with nothing to play for coming in, but Washington shocked the Timberwolves (55-24) by alarmingly racing out to a 44-26 lead through one. That seemed to shock Minnesota out of its funk, as the hosts roared back to outscore the visitors by a 73-50 margin in the middle quarters. The Wizards would claw back to get within one on multiple occasions in the fourth quarter, but the T-Wolves' 12-0 run between the 8:06 and 5:06 marks of the final period created enough cushion to eventually grant them the win.
Corey Kispert led the Wizards with 25 points, complementing them with five assists and three rebounds. Jordan Poole totaled 24 points, six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Patrick Baldwin Jr. and Deni Avdija generated matching 15-point, six-rebound efforts while recording four and five assists, respectively. Anthony Gill matched his teammates' scoring and also turned in nine rebounds, three assists and three blocks. Johnny Davis finished with 10 points and three rebounds.
Anthony Edwards paced the Timberwolves with 51 points, supplementing them with seven assists and six rebounds. Nickeil Alexander-Walker furnished 23 points, five assists, four rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Rudy Gobert generated a 19-point, 16-rebound double-double that included three assists, four blocks and two steals. Mike Conley registered 15 points, three assists, two rebounds and one steal.
The Wizards return home to host the Chicago Bulls on Friday night, while the Timberwolves visit the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night.
The Wizards (15-65) were naturally the team with nothing to play for coming in, but Washington shocked the Timberwolves (55-24) by alarmingly racing out to a 44-26 lead through one. That seemed to shock Minnesota out of its funk, as the hosts roared back to outscore the visitors by a 73-50 margin in the middle quarters. The Wizards would claw back to get within one on multiple occasions in the fourth quarter, but the T-Wolves' 12-0 run between the 8:06 and 5:06 marks of the final period created enough cushion to eventually grant them the win.
Corey Kispert led the Wizards with 25 points, complementing them with five assists and three rebounds. Jordan Poole totaled 24 points, six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Patrick Baldwin Jr. and Deni Avdija generated matching 15-point, six-rebound efforts while recording four and five assists, respectively. Anthony Gill matched his teammates' scoring and also turned in nine rebounds, three assists and three blocks. Johnny Davis finished with 10 points and three rebounds.
Anthony Edwards paced the Timberwolves with 51 points, supplementing them with seven assists and six rebounds. Nickeil Alexander-Walker furnished 23 points, five assists, four rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Rudy Gobert generated a 19-point, 16-rebound double-double that included three assists, four blocks and two steals. Mike Conley registered 15 points, three assists, two rebounds and one steal.
The Wizards return home to host the Chicago Bulls on Friday night, while the Timberwolves visit the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night.
Thunder Too Much For Kings
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the visiting Sacramento Kings, 112-105, at Paycom Center on Tuesday evening.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander poured in 40 points on 11-for-20 shooting to lead the Thunder to their second straight win. The game got out to a competitive start, as Kings held the upper hand through most of the first quarter and took a three-point lead into the second. They picked up momentum and outscored the Thunder, 33-17, in the second to earn a 19-point advantage at the break. The Thunder responded in the third and outscored the visitors, 39-23, to cut it back to a three-point game heading into the final quarter. The Thunder continued to rally and closed the game on an, 8-0, run to secure the home win.
Gilgeous Alexander also tallied seven rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks, in his 38 minutes of action. Luguentz Dort followed up with 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Chet Holmgren turned in 15 points, nine rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks.
Meanwhile, De'Aaron Fox led the Kings with 33 points, eight rebounds, six assists and two steals, in 43 minutes. Keon Ellis followed up with 26 points, six rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks, while Domantas Sabonis had his amazing double-double streak come to an end and 61 games, as he finished with eight points, 13 rebounds, five assists and a steal.
The Kings (45-34) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pelicans on Thursday. The Thunder (54-25) play host to the Spurs on Wednesday.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander poured in 40 points on 11-for-20 shooting to lead the Thunder to their second straight win. The game got out to a competitive start, as Kings held the upper hand through most of the first quarter and took a three-point lead into the second. They picked up momentum and outscored the Thunder, 33-17, in the second to earn a 19-point advantage at the break. The Thunder responded in the third and outscored the visitors, 39-23, to cut it back to a three-point game heading into the final quarter. The Thunder continued to rally and closed the game on an, 8-0, run to secure the home win.
Gilgeous Alexander also tallied seven rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks, in his 38 minutes of action. Luguentz Dort followed up with 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Chet Holmgren turned in 15 points, nine rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks.
Meanwhile, De'Aaron Fox led the Kings with 33 points, eight rebounds, six assists and two steals, in 43 minutes. Keon Ellis followed up with 26 points, six rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks, while Domantas Sabonis had his amazing double-double streak come to an end and 61 games, as he finished with eight points, 13 rebounds, five assists and a steal.
The Kings (45-34) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pelicans on Thursday. The Thunder (54-25) play host to the Spurs on Wednesday.
Spurs Rally In Memphis
By Dan Bruno
The San Antonio Spurs defeated the host Memphis Grizzlies, 102-87, at FedEx Forum on Tuesday evening.
The Grizzlies got out to a solid start and led, 25-16, after one quarter. The Spurs turned up their play in the second and rallied to cut it down to a one-point game at the break. The visitors kept the momentum going in the third and charged ahead to a 16-point lead entering the final frame. The Spurs kept their focus in the fourth and held on for their second win in the last three games. This also marks the second straight loss for the Grizzlies.
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 18 points, seven rebounds, six assists and seven blocks, in 31 minutes of action. Sandro Mamukelashvili logged 11 points, 16 rebounds, four assists and a block, while Julian Champagnie turned in 17 points, three rebounds and two steals.
Meanwhile, Brandon Clark and Trey Jemison totaled 14 points each to lead the Grizzlies. Jordan Goodwin finished with 10 points, 19 rebounds and five assists, while GG Jackson added 11 points, four rebounds, two assists and a block.
The Grizzlies (27-52) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Cavs in Cleveland on Wednesday. The Spurs (20-59) take on the Thunder in OKC on Wednesday.
The Grizzlies got out to a solid start and led, 25-16, after one quarter. The Spurs turned up their play in the second and rallied to cut it down to a one-point game at the break. The visitors kept the momentum going in the third and charged ahead to a 16-point lead entering the final frame. The Spurs kept their focus in the fourth and held on for their second win in the last three games. This also marks the second straight loss for the Grizzlies.
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 18 points, seven rebounds, six assists and seven blocks, in 31 minutes of action. Sandro Mamukelashvili logged 11 points, 16 rebounds, four assists and a block, while Julian Champagnie turned in 17 points, three rebounds and two steals.
Meanwhile, Brandon Clark and Trey Jemison totaled 14 points each to lead the Grizzlies. Jordan Goodwin finished with 10 points, 19 rebounds and five assists, while GG Jackson added 11 points, four rebounds, two assists and a block.
The Grizzlies (27-52) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Cavs in Cleveland on Wednesday. The Spurs (20-59) take on the Thunder in OKC on Wednesday.
Nuggets Stay Focused In Utah
By Dan Bruno
The Denver Nuggets defeated the host Utah Jazz, 111-95, at Delta Center on Tuesday evening.
The Nuggets jumped out to a great start with a, 34-17, lead after one quarter. The Jazz turned up their play in the second, but the visitors kept close pace and maintained a 12-point lead by halftime. The hosts carried the momentum into the third and managed to trim it down to a seven-point lead entering the final quarter. The Nuggets regained focus in the fourth and outscored the Jazz by nine points in the quarter to secure their second straight win. This also marks the 13th consecutive loss for the Jazz.
Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray produced 28 points each to lead the way for the Nuggets. Michael Porter followed up with 12 points, five rebounds, a steal and a block, while Christian Braun added 11 points, two rebounds, five assists and two steals.
Meanwhile, Talen Horton-Tucker led the Jazz with 24 points, three rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block, in 32 minutes. Omer Yurtseven followed up with 20 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Luka Samanic totaled 15 points, 10 rebounds and three assists.
The Jazz (29-50) will look to end the slide as they play host to the Rockets on Thursday. The Nuggets (55-24) play host to the Timberwolves on Wednesday.
The Nuggets jumped out to a great start with a, 34-17, lead after one quarter. The Jazz turned up their play in the second, but the visitors kept close pace and maintained a 12-point lead by halftime. The hosts carried the momentum into the third and managed to trim it down to a seven-point lead entering the final quarter. The Nuggets regained focus in the fourth and outscored the Jazz by nine points in the quarter to secure their second straight win. This also marks the 13th consecutive loss for the Jazz.
Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray produced 28 points each to lead the way for the Nuggets. Michael Porter followed up with 12 points, five rebounds, a steal and a block, while Christian Braun added 11 points, two rebounds, five assists and two steals.
Meanwhile, Talen Horton-Tucker led the Jazz with 24 points, three rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block, in 32 minutes. Omer Yurtseven followed up with 20 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Luka Samanic totaled 15 points, 10 rebounds and three assists.
The Jazz (29-50) will look to end the slide as they play host to the Rockets on Thursday. The Nuggets (55-24) play host to the Timberwolves on Wednesday.
Warriors Defeat Lakers, 134-120
The Golden State Warriors defeated the host Los Angeles Lakers, 134-120, at Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday.
Golden State took command of this game with a 38-29 first quarter. They never gave up the lead after that, completing their victory with a 10-0 run to end the third quarter to give them a game-high 17-point lead. The Warriors shot 59 percent from the field and 63 percent from three-point range (26-of-41), while the Lakers shot 46 percent from the field and 34 percent from long range. Golden State also out-assisted Los Angeles, 37-31, while out-blocking them, 12-3.
The Warriors (44-35) were led by Klay Thompson, tallying 27 points and three assists. Stephen Curry collected 23 points, seven rebounds, eight assists and two blocks. Curry made all six of his three-point attempts. Andrew Wiggins amassed 17 points, four rebounds and three blocks, while Draymond Green generated 15 points, six rebounds and 10 assists. Chris Paul led the bench with 11 points, six rebounds and nine assists.
The Lakers (45-35) were led by LeBron James, finishing with 33 points, seven rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Austin Reaves accrued 22 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Rui Hachimura had 20 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. D'Angelo Russell totaled 14 points, two rebounds and seven assists.
On deck for Golden State is a road matchup with the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday. As for LA, they return to action on Friday in a road matchup with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Golden State took command of this game with a 38-29 first quarter. They never gave up the lead after that, completing their victory with a 10-0 run to end the third quarter to give them a game-high 17-point lead. The Warriors shot 59 percent from the field and 63 percent from three-point range (26-of-41), while the Lakers shot 46 percent from the field and 34 percent from long range. Golden State also out-assisted Los Angeles, 37-31, while out-blocking them, 12-3.
The Warriors (44-35) were led by Klay Thompson, tallying 27 points and three assists. Stephen Curry collected 23 points, seven rebounds, eight assists and two blocks. Curry made all six of his three-point attempts. Andrew Wiggins amassed 17 points, four rebounds and three blocks, while Draymond Green generated 15 points, six rebounds and 10 assists. Chris Paul led the bench with 11 points, six rebounds and nine assists.
The Lakers (45-35) were led by LeBron James, finishing with 33 points, seven rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Austin Reaves accrued 22 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Rui Hachimura had 20 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. D'Angelo Russell totaled 14 points, two rebounds and seven assists.
On deck for Golden State is a road matchup with the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday. As for LA, they return to action on Friday in a road matchup with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Clippers Defeat Suns, 105-92
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the host Phoenix Suns, 105-92, at Footprint Center on Tuesday.
Los Angeles led 35-4 after the opening 10 minutes of this game, but it got close in the second half. Phoenix fought all the way back to a seven-point margin in the fourth quarter but could never overcome that massive deficit. The Clippers shot 47 percent from the field and 46 percent from three-point range while holding the Suns to 34 percent from the field and 23 percent from long range. Los Angeles also out-rebounded Phoenix, 65-44, while out-assisting them, 28-17.
The Clippers (51-28) were led by Paul George, providing 23 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Ivica Zubac amassed 17 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Terance Mann totaled 17 points and 10 boards, while Russell Westbrook collected 16 points, 15 rebounds, 15 assists and two steals. Amir Coffey led the bench with 13 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.
The Suns (46-33) were led by Kevin Durant, compiling 21 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals. Bradley Beal had 19 points, seven rebounds, three assists and five blocks. Devin Booker missed 10 of his 11 shots to finish with 12 points, three rebounds, five assists and two steals. Royce O'Neale led the bench with 10 points, 11 rebounds, four assists and two steals.
These teams will actually have a rematch in Phoenix on Wednesday.
Los Angeles led 35-4 after the opening 10 minutes of this game, but it got close in the second half. Phoenix fought all the way back to a seven-point margin in the fourth quarter but could never overcome that massive deficit. The Clippers shot 47 percent from the field and 46 percent from three-point range while holding the Suns to 34 percent from the field and 23 percent from long range. Los Angeles also out-rebounded Phoenix, 65-44, while out-assisting them, 28-17.
The Clippers (51-28) were led by Paul George, providing 23 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Ivica Zubac amassed 17 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Terance Mann totaled 17 points and 10 boards, while Russell Westbrook collected 16 points, 15 rebounds, 15 assists and two steals. Amir Coffey led the bench with 13 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.
The Suns (46-33) were led by Kevin Durant, compiling 21 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals. Bradley Beal had 19 points, seven rebounds, three assists and five blocks. Devin Booker missed 10 of his 11 shots to finish with 12 points, three rebounds, five assists and two steals. Royce O'Neale led the bench with 10 points, 11 rebounds, four assists and two steals.
These teams will actually have a rematch in Phoenix on Wednesday.
Pelicans Defeat Blazers, 110-100
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the host Portland Trail Blazers, 110-100, at Moda Center on Tuesday.
There were nine lead changes through the opening 30 minutes of this game, with New Orleans taking control behind a 35-23 third quarter. They put the game to bed in the fourth quarter, completing a 58-45 second half. The Pelicans shot 27-of-29 from the free-throw line, while the Trail Blazers connected on just 7-of-9. New Orleans also recorded 14 steals to Portland's three, winning the turnover battle, 22-9. That also allowed the Pels to outscore the Blazers in fastbreak points, 17-2.
The Pelicans (47-32) were led by Trey Murphy, tallying 31 points, eight rebounds, three assists and two steals. CJ McCollum collected 29 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals. Zion Williamson had 22 points, seven rebounds and three assists, while Jonas Valanciunas totaled 11 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two steals.
The Trail Blazers (21-58) were led by Deandre Ayton, accruing 30 points and 13 rebounds. Scoot Henderson had 19 points, three rebounds and 15 assists. Kris Murray amassed 14 points, five rebounds, two assists and two blocks, while Dalano Banton led the bench with 12 points, three rebounds and three assists.
New Orleans will have to play again on Wednesday, staying on the road to play the Sacramento Kings. As for Portland, they play host to the Golden State Warriors on Thursday for their next outing.
There were nine lead changes through the opening 30 minutes of this game, with New Orleans taking control behind a 35-23 third quarter. They put the game to bed in the fourth quarter, completing a 58-45 second half. The Pelicans shot 27-of-29 from the free-throw line, while the Trail Blazers connected on just 7-of-9. New Orleans also recorded 14 steals to Portland's three, winning the turnover battle, 22-9. That also allowed the Pels to outscore the Blazers in fastbreak points, 17-2.
The Pelicans (47-32) were led by Trey Murphy, tallying 31 points, eight rebounds, three assists and two steals. CJ McCollum collected 29 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals. Zion Williamson had 22 points, seven rebounds and three assists, while Jonas Valanciunas totaled 11 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two steals.
The Trail Blazers (21-58) were led by Deandre Ayton, accruing 30 points and 13 rebounds. Scoot Henderson had 19 points, three rebounds and 15 assists. Kris Murray amassed 14 points, five rebounds, two assists and two blocks, while Dalano Banton led the bench with 12 points, three rebounds and three assists.
New Orleans will have to play again on Wednesday, staying on the road to play the Sacramento Kings. As for Portland, they play host to the Golden State Warriors on Thursday for their next outing.