Magic Use Big Second Half, Get Past Spurs
The Orlando Magic defeated the San Antonio Spurs, 133-113, at Amway Center on Friday.
The Magic (13-21) didn’t have problems to get past the Spurs (10-22) in this one, as they enjoyed an excellent start, and while it seemed the Spurs would put up a fight, the Magic looked dominant in the second half and raced out with the win. Orlando quickly grabbed the lead following a 34-28 score in the opening 12 minutes, but San Antonio responded with a 33-27 score in the second quarter, so the game was tied at the break. The Magic looked dominant in the second half and won the third quarter by a 33-28, setting themselves up for success down the stretch, and that’s exactly what they did as Orlando won the final 12 minutes by a dominant 39-24 score. It was tougher than initially expected, but the Magic eventually raced out to a comfortable victory thanks to their second-half performance. With the win, the Magic improved to 9-9 at home while the Spurs fell to 5-10 on the road.
Franz Wagner led the Magic with 21 points and four assists, while Paolo Banchero finished with 18 points, seven rebounds and four assists across 29 minutes. Moritz Wagner notched 17 points and eight rebounds, while Bol Bol had another strong game with 14 points, two boards and two steals across 24 minutes. Cole Anthony was a stud off the bench with 23 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists.
Keldon Johnson was the best player for the Spurs in this loss since he ended with 17 points, four rebounds and four assists, while Tre Jones finished with 16 points, eight assists and four rebounds. Devin Vassell delivered 14 points and four steals, and Jeremy Sochan had 13 points, nine rebounds and four assists as a starter. Doug McDermott ended with 13 points coming off the bench.
The Magic (13-21) didn’t have problems to get past the Spurs (10-22) in this one, as they enjoyed an excellent start, and while it seemed the Spurs would put up a fight, the Magic looked dominant in the second half and raced out with the win. Orlando quickly grabbed the lead following a 34-28 score in the opening 12 minutes, but San Antonio responded with a 33-27 score in the second quarter, so the game was tied at the break. The Magic looked dominant in the second half and won the third quarter by a 33-28, setting themselves up for success down the stretch, and that’s exactly what they did as Orlando won the final 12 minutes by a dominant 39-24 score. It was tougher than initially expected, but the Magic eventually raced out to a comfortable victory thanks to their second-half performance. With the win, the Magic improved to 9-9 at home while the Spurs fell to 5-10 on the road.
Franz Wagner led the Magic with 21 points and four assists, while Paolo Banchero finished with 18 points, seven rebounds and four assists across 29 minutes. Moritz Wagner notched 17 points and eight rebounds, while Bol Bol had another strong game with 14 points, two boards and two steals across 24 minutes. Cole Anthony was a stud off the bench with 23 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists.
Keldon Johnson was the best player for the Spurs in this loss since he ended with 17 points, four rebounds and four assists, while Tre Jones finished with 16 points, eight assists and four rebounds. Devin Vassell delivered 14 points and four steals, and Jeremy Sochan had 13 points, nine rebounds and four assists as a starter. Doug McDermott ended with 13 points coming off the bench.
76ers Complete Comeback To Defeat Clippers
The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers, 119-114, at Wells Fargo Center on Friday.
The 76ers (19-12) and the Clippers (19-15) were set to play a game between contenders, and this clash certainly didn’t disappoint anyone, given how things unfolded. It was a tale of two halves, though, with the Clippers looking dominant in the first half and taking control of the game, only to see Philadelphia turning things around in the second half to escape with the win in front of their fans. The Clippers raced out to a 33-24 score in the opening 12 minutes, and they bolstered that advantage to 12 points following a 30-27 score in the second quarter, but the 76ers erased that deficit in the third quarter, playing with far more intensity in the second half and outscoring their rivals by a 34-22 score. The final quarter was a back-and-forth contest, but Philadelphia completed the comeback and won by a 34-29 score. With the victory, the 76ers moved to 14-5 at home, while the Clippers fell to 8-8 on the road.
Joel Embiid and James Harden were the best players for the 76ers in this one, as Embiid finished with 44 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while Harden made history with a 20-point, 21-assist and 11-rebound triple-double. DeAnthony Melton finished with 13 points, three rebounds, three assists and three steals, and Tobias Harris posted 14 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Shake Milton added 13 points and two rebounds off the bench.
Kawhi Leonard was the best player for the Clippers in this game and finished with 28 points, five assists and three rebounds, while Paul George delivered 22 points, four assists, three rebounds and two steals. Marcus Morris notched 11 points and four boards, and Ivica Zubac grabbed 12 rebounds while adding seven points and two blocks. Norman Powell added 21 points.
The 76ers (19-12) and the Clippers (19-15) were set to play a game between contenders, and this clash certainly didn’t disappoint anyone, given how things unfolded. It was a tale of two halves, though, with the Clippers looking dominant in the first half and taking control of the game, only to see Philadelphia turning things around in the second half to escape with the win in front of their fans. The Clippers raced out to a 33-24 score in the opening 12 minutes, and they bolstered that advantage to 12 points following a 30-27 score in the second quarter, but the 76ers erased that deficit in the third quarter, playing with far more intensity in the second half and outscoring their rivals by a 34-22 score. The final quarter was a back-and-forth contest, but Philadelphia completed the comeback and won by a 34-29 score. With the victory, the 76ers moved to 14-5 at home, while the Clippers fell to 8-8 on the road.
Joel Embiid and James Harden were the best players for the 76ers in this one, as Embiid finished with 44 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while Harden made history with a 20-point, 21-assist and 11-rebound triple-double. DeAnthony Melton finished with 13 points, three rebounds, three assists and three steals, and Tobias Harris posted 14 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Shake Milton added 13 points and two rebounds off the bench.
Kawhi Leonard was the best player for the Clippers in this game and finished with 28 points, five assists and three rebounds, while Paul George delivered 22 points, four assists, three rebounds and two steals. Marcus Morris notched 11 points and four boards, and Ivica Zubac grabbed 12 rebounds while adding seven points and two blocks. Norman Powell added 21 points.
Hawks Mount Big Comeback To Defeat Pistons
The Atlanta Hawks defeated the Detroit Pistons, 130-105, at StateFarm Arena on Friday.
The Hawks (17-16) once again moved over the .500 mark with a strong performance, as they delivered a strong game against the Pistons (8-27) on both ends of the court to defeat one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference. However, and despite the fact that the Hawks won by 25 points here, the win wasn’t comfortable and they didn’t dominate from start to finish. Indeed, the Pistons grabbed a 34-32 lead in the opening 12 minutes, and they grew that slim lead to three points at the break following a 29-28 score in the second quarter. That said, the Hawks would play with far more intensity in the second half, and they outscored their rivals by a 35-18 score in the third quarter, grabbing a double-digit advantage they’d never let go. The Hawks didn’t step the foot off the gas in the final minutes and closed things out by outscoring Detroit by a 35-24 score in the final 12 minutes. With the win, Atlanta moved to 11-6 at home, while the Pistons fell to 4-15 on the road.
Trae Young and Dejounte Murray both led the Hawks in scoring and both guards finished with 26 points. Young also chipped in with 13 assists, two rebounds and two steals, while Murray added five assists, three boards and four steals. Clint Capela scored in double digits in this one and looked active on both ends of the court, with 10 points and 10 rebounds while also adding two blocks. Bogdan Bogdanovic had 19 points off the bench, and Onyeka Okongwu posted 12 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
Bojan Bogdanovic led the Pistons in his loss with a 23-point performance, while Killian Hayes impressed with 17 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Jaden Ivey finished with 15 points and four assists, while Jalen Duran had 13 points while adding eight rebounds.
The Hawks (17-16) once again moved over the .500 mark with a strong performance, as they delivered a strong game against the Pistons (8-27) on both ends of the court to defeat one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference. However, and despite the fact that the Hawks won by 25 points here, the win wasn’t comfortable and they didn’t dominate from start to finish. Indeed, the Pistons grabbed a 34-32 lead in the opening 12 minutes, and they grew that slim lead to three points at the break following a 29-28 score in the second quarter. That said, the Hawks would play with far more intensity in the second half, and they outscored their rivals by a 35-18 score in the third quarter, grabbing a double-digit advantage they’d never let go. The Hawks didn’t step the foot off the gas in the final minutes and closed things out by outscoring Detroit by a 35-24 score in the final 12 minutes. With the win, Atlanta moved to 11-6 at home, while the Pistons fell to 4-15 on the road.
Trae Young and Dejounte Murray both led the Hawks in scoring and both guards finished with 26 points. Young also chipped in with 13 assists, two rebounds and two steals, while Murray added five assists, three boards and four steals. Clint Capela scored in double digits in this one and looked active on both ends of the court, with 10 points and 10 rebounds while also adding two blocks. Bogdan Bogdanovic had 19 points off the bench, and Onyeka Okongwu posted 12 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
Bojan Bogdanovic led the Pistons in his loss with a 23-point performance, while Killian Hayes impressed with 17 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Jaden Ivey finished with 15 points and four assists, while Jalen Duran had 13 points while adding eight rebounds.
Celtics Overcome Slow Start To Defeat Timberwolves
The Boston Celtics defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves, 121-109, at TD Garden on Friday.
The Celtics (23-10) had a strong performance against the Timberwolves (16-17), with Minnesota falling to a record under .500 while also falling to 7-9 on the road, while Boston moved to 12-5 at home. The Celtics started slow, however, and the Timberwolves raced out to a 29-22 lead in the first quarter, but Boston responded with a 32-27 score in the second quarter. The Celtics were still down by just two points entering the third quarter, and a 34-30 score allowed gave Boston an advantage they’d never relinquish in the final 12 minutes. The Celtics closed things out with a 33-23 score in the fourth quarter and eased up to victory.
Jaylen Brown was the best player for the Celtics and finished with 36 points, seven rebounds and three assists, while Jayson Tatum chipped in with 30 points, eight rebounds and five assists across 35 minutes. Derrick White had 18 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Al Horford finished with 17 points, 11 rebounds, three blocks, two assists and two steals. Marcus Smart dished out 10 assists while scoring six points.
Anthony Edwards led the way for Minnesota in this loss with 30 points, but he also added six rebounds and four assists, while D’Angelo Russell notched 21 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds. Jalen McDaniels delivered 17 points, six rebounds, four assists, three blocks and two steals. Naz Reid had 14 points and five rebounds coming off the bench. Jaylen Nowell had 13 points.
The Celtics (23-10) had a strong performance against the Timberwolves (16-17), with Minnesota falling to a record under .500 while also falling to 7-9 on the road, while Boston moved to 12-5 at home. The Celtics started slow, however, and the Timberwolves raced out to a 29-22 lead in the first quarter, but Boston responded with a 32-27 score in the second quarter. The Celtics were still down by just two points entering the third quarter, and a 34-30 score allowed gave Boston an advantage they’d never relinquish in the final 12 minutes. The Celtics closed things out with a 33-23 score in the fourth quarter and eased up to victory.
Jaylen Brown was the best player for the Celtics and finished with 36 points, seven rebounds and three assists, while Jayson Tatum chipped in with 30 points, eight rebounds and five assists across 35 minutes. Derrick White had 18 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Al Horford finished with 17 points, 11 rebounds, three blocks, two assists and two steals. Marcus Smart dished out 10 assists while scoring six points.
Anthony Edwards led the way for Minnesota in this loss with 30 points, but he also added six rebounds and four assists, while D’Angelo Russell notched 21 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds. Jalen McDaniels delivered 17 points, six rebounds, four assists, three blocks and two steals. Naz Reid had 14 points and five rebounds coming off the bench. Jaylen Nowell had 13 points.
Raptors Surprise Cavaliers, 118-107
The Toronto Raptors defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers, 118-107, at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Friday night.
The Raptors (15-18) came into the contest as notable underdogs, but they set the tone early by roaring to 69 first-half points to take a 16-point lead into intermission. Just as important, Toronto ensured there would be no third-quarter surge for the Cavaliers (22-12) by adding another four points to its edge during the period, giving them enough cushion for the road victory.
Pascal Siakam and O.G. Anunoby co-led the Raptors with 26 points each while adding nine assists and nine rebounds, respectively. Scottie Barnes furnished 25 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and two steals. Fred VanVleet turned in 18 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block.
Darius Garland led the Cavaliers with 17 points, complementing them with eight assists, one rebound and one steal. Isaac Okoro compiled 15 points, three rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Kevin Love and Cedi Osman generated matching 13-point contributions, with Love adding five rebounds. Donovan Mitchell registered 12 points, five boards, four assists and three steals. Jarrett Allen supplied 11 points, seven boards, one assist and one steal. Evan Mobley managed 10 points, eight rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Raptors return home and host the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night, while the Cavaliers remain home and host the Brooklyn Nets on Monday night.
The Raptors (15-18) came into the contest as notable underdogs, but they set the tone early by roaring to 69 first-half points to take a 16-point lead into intermission. Just as important, Toronto ensured there would be no third-quarter surge for the Cavaliers (22-12) by adding another four points to its edge during the period, giving them enough cushion for the road victory.
Pascal Siakam and O.G. Anunoby co-led the Raptors with 26 points each while adding nine assists and nine rebounds, respectively. Scottie Barnes furnished 25 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and two steals. Fred VanVleet turned in 18 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block.
Darius Garland led the Cavaliers with 17 points, complementing them with eight assists, one rebound and one steal. Isaac Okoro compiled 15 points, three rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Kevin Love and Cedi Osman generated matching 13-point contributions, with Love adding five rebounds. Donovan Mitchell registered 12 points, five boards, four assists and three steals. Jarrett Allen supplied 11 points, seven boards, one assist and one steal. Evan Mobley managed 10 points, eight rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Raptors return home and host the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night, while the Cavaliers remain home and host the Brooklyn Nets on Monday night.
Nets Topple Bucks, 118-100
The Brooklyn Nets defeated the Milwaukee Bucks, 118-100, at Barclays Center on Friday night.
The Nets (21-12) checked into the contest aiming to win their eighth straight and do so against one of the highest-caliber teams in either conference. They got off to an excellent start in that regard, jumping out to a 36-29 lead through one and then adding another six points to their advantage before halftime with an impressive display of defense in the second quarter. The Bucks (22-10) did manage to shave three points from their deficit in the third, but Brooklyn snuffed out any thoughts of a comeback with a 33-25 edge in the final 12 minutes.
Giannis Antetokounmpo paced the Bucks with 26 points, adding 13 rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Brook Lopez totaled 23 points, five rebounds and one steal. Jrue Holiday supplied 18 points, five assists, three rebounds and one steal. Bobby Portis generated a 10-point, 12-rebound double-double.
Kevin Durant led the Nets with 24 points, complementing them with six assists, five rebounds, one steal and one block. Nicolas Claxton registered 19 points, eight boards, five assists and three steals. Kyrie Irving managed 18 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Royce O'Neale netted 17 points, while Ben Simmons and T.J. Warren posted matching 12-point contributions. Simmons added 11 rebounds, eight assists and three steals, while Warren also posted six rebounds and three assists.
The Bucks remain on the road and visit the Boston Celtics on Sunday afternoon, while the Nets visit the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday night.
The Nets (21-12) checked into the contest aiming to win their eighth straight and do so against one of the highest-caliber teams in either conference. They got off to an excellent start in that regard, jumping out to a 36-29 lead through one and then adding another six points to their advantage before halftime with an impressive display of defense in the second quarter. The Bucks (22-10) did manage to shave three points from their deficit in the third, but Brooklyn snuffed out any thoughts of a comeback with a 33-25 edge in the final 12 minutes.
Giannis Antetokounmpo paced the Bucks with 26 points, adding 13 rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Brook Lopez totaled 23 points, five rebounds and one steal. Jrue Holiday supplied 18 points, five assists, three rebounds and one steal. Bobby Portis generated a 10-point, 12-rebound double-double.
Kevin Durant led the Nets with 24 points, complementing them with six assists, five rebounds, one steal and one block. Nicolas Claxton registered 19 points, eight boards, five assists and three steals. Kyrie Irving managed 18 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Royce O'Neale netted 17 points, while Ben Simmons and T.J. Warren posted matching 12-point contributions. Simmons added 11 rebounds, eight assists and three steals, while Warren also posted six rebounds and three assists.
The Bucks remain on the road and visit the Boston Celtics on Sunday afternoon, while the Nets visit the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday night.
Bulls Edge Knicks, 118-117
The Chicago Bulls defeated the New York Knicks, 118-117, at Madison Square Garden on Friday night.
The Bulls (14-18) came into the night aiming to extend a two-game winning streak, and they got off to a good start in that regard with a 29-22 lead through one. However, the Knicks (18-15) wiped out their deficit in the second quarter and took a two-point lead into halftime, and New York extended its advantage by another point going into the final period. The fourth quarter was as hotly contested as the rest of the game, and Chicago was able to finish on a 4-0 run over the final 7.1 seconds to wipe out a late three-point deficit and escape with a road victory.
Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 33 points, adding four rebounds, three assists and one steal. DeMar DeRozan followed with a 25-point tally that included the game-winning jumper with one second remaining and also provided 10 assists, seven rebounds, two steals and one block. Nikola Vucevic generated a 21-point, 12-rebound double-double that included two assists and one steal.
R.J. Barrett paced the Knicks with 44 points, supplementing them with seven rebounds and four assists. Julius Randle generated a 29-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists, two blocks and one steal. Immanuel Quickley furnished 15 points, three rebounds and three assists. Jalen Brunson totaled 12 points, nine assists and four boards.
The Bulls return home to take on the Houston Rockets on Monday night, while the Knicks remain home and host the New York Knicks on Sunday afternoon.
The Bulls (14-18) came into the night aiming to extend a two-game winning streak, and they got off to a good start in that regard with a 29-22 lead through one. However, the Knicks (18-15) wiped out their deficit in the second quarter and took a two-point lead into halftime, and New York extended its advantage by another point going into the final period. The fourth quarter was as hotly contested as the rest of the game, and Chicago was able to finish on a 4-0 run over the final 7.1 seconds to wipe out a late three-point deficit and escape with a road victory.
Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 33 points, adding four rebounds, three assists and one steal. DeMar DeRozan followed with a 25-point tally that included the game-winning jumper with one second remaining and also provided 10 assists, seven rebounds, two steals and one block. Nikola Vucevic generated a 21-point, 12-rebound double-double that included two assists and one steal.
R.J. Barrett paced the Knicks with 44 points, supplementing them with seven rebounds and four assists. Julius Randle generated a 29-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists, two blocks and one steal. Immanuel Quickley furnished 15 points, three rebounds and three assists. Jalen Brunson totaled 12 points, nine assists and four boards.
The Bulls return home to take on the Houston Rockets on Monday night, while the Knicks remain home and host the New York Knicks on Sunday afternoon.
Luka Drops 50 To Lead Mavs
By Dan Bruno
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the host Houston Rockets, 112-106, at Toyota Center on Friday evening.
Luka Doncic came up huge with 50 points to lead the Mavs to their second straight win. The Rockets got out to a good start, but the Mavs rallied towards the end of the first quarter and took a six-point lead into the second. The visitors kept the momentum going and were able to increase their advantage to 11 by halftime. The Rockets turned it up a notch in the third and charged all the way to a three-point advantage heading into the final frame. The Mavericks reclaimed control early in the fourth and were able to stay a step ahead the rest of the way. This marks the fifth straight loss for the Rockets
Doncic shot 17-of-30 from the field and added eight rebounds, 10 assists and three steals, in 42 minutes. Spencer Dinwiddie and Davis Bertans tallied 11 points each, while Tim Hardaway chipped in seven points, seven rebounds, four assists and a block. The Mavs shot 45 percent from the field, including 16-of-44 from deep.
Meanwhile, Jabari Smith led the Rockets with 24 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and a block, in 34 minutes. Jalen Green followed up with 23 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals, while Alperen Sengun added 19 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Rockets shot 46 percent from the field, including 8-of-26 from long range.
The Rockets (9-23) will look to bounce back as they take on the Bulls in Chicago on Monday. The Mavs (17-16) play host to the Lakers on Sunday.
Luka Doncic came up huge with 50 points to lead the Mavs to their second straight win. The Rockets got out to a good start, but the Mavs rallied towards the end of the first quarter and took a six-point lead into the second. The visitors kept the momentum going and were able to increase their advantage to 11 by halftime. The Rockets turned it up a notch in the third and charged all the way to a three-point advantage heading into the final frame. The Mavericks reclaimed control early in the fourth and were able to stay a step ahead the rest of the way. This marks the fifth straight loss for the Rockets
Doncic shot 17-of-30 from the field and added eight rebounds, 10 assists and three steals, in 42 minutes. Spencer Dinwiddie and Davis Bertans tallied 11 points each, while Tim Hardaway chipped in seven points, seven rebounds, four assists and a block. The Mavs shot 45 percent from the field, including 16-of-44 from deep.
Meanwhile, Jabari Smith led the Rockets with 24 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and a block, in 34 minutes. Jalen Green followed up with 23 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals, while Alperen Sengun added 19 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Rockets shot 46 percent from the field, including 8-of-26 from long range.
The Rockets (9-23) will look to bounce back as they take on the Bulls in Chicago on Monday. The Mavs (17-16) play host to the Lakers on Sunday.
Haliburton Stifles Heat
By Dan Bruno
The Indiana Pacers defeated the host Miami Heat, 111-108, at FTX Arena on Friday evening.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Pacers led 31-28 after one quarter. The Heat battled back in the second and rallied to take a 58-56 lead by halftime. The hosts stayed in front for most of the third, but the Pacers closed the quarter on a 19-7 run to claim a two-point advantage heading into the final frame. They kept the momentum going and built a 12-point lead, but the Heat made another rally to tie the score at 108 with 14 seconds left. However, Tyrese Haliburton quickly put the Pacers back in front with a clutch three-pointer to seal a second straight win, while this marks the second straight loss for the Heat.
Haliburton led the Pacers with 43 points, two rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a block, in 38 minutes. Buddy Hield followed up with 21 points, five rebounds and two assists, while Jalen Smith recorded 14 points, 11 rebounds and three blocks. The Pacers shot 48 percent from the field, including 21-of-47 from deep.
Meanwhile, Tyler Herro led the Heat with 28 points, four rebounds and two assists, in 39 minutes. Kyle Lowry followed up with 21 points, six rebounds and five assists, while Jimmy Butler added 20 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. The Heat shot 43 percent from the field, including 13-of-33 from long range.
The Heat (16-17) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Timberwolves on Monday. The Pacers (17-16) take on the Pelicans in New Orleans on Monday.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Pacers led 31-28 after one quarter. The Heat battled back in the second and rallied to take a 58-56 lead by halftime. The hosts stayed in front for most of the third, but the Pacers closed the quarter on a 19-7 run to claim a two-point advantage heading into the final frame. They kept the momentum going and built a 12-point lead, but the Heat made another rally to tie the score at 108 with 14 seconds left. However, Tyrese Haliburton quickly put the Pacers back in front with a clutch three-pointer to seal a second straight win, while this marks the second straight loss for the Heat.
Haliburton led the Pacers with 43 points, two rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a block, in 38 minutes. Buddy Hield followed up with 21 points, five rebounds and two assists, while Jalen Smith recorded 14 points, 11 rebounds and three blocks. The Pacers shot 48 percent from the field, including 21-of-47 from deep.
Meanwhile, Tyler Herro led the Heat with 28 points, four rebounds and two assists, in 39 minutes. Kyle Lowry followed up with 21 points, six rebounds and five assists, while Jimmy Butler added 20 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. The Heat shot 43 percent from the field, including 13-of-33 from long range.
The Heat (16-17) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Timberwolves on Monday. The Pacers (17-16) take on the Pelicans in New Orleans on Monday.
Pelicans Edge Thunder In OT
By Dan Bruno
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the host Oklahoma City Thunder, 128-125, in overtime at Paycom Arena on Friday evening.
The Pelicans got out to a great start and led 33-23 after one quarter. They kept up the dominance in the second and pushed their lead to 18, at the break. The Thunder turned the tables in the third and outscored the visitors 31-16 to cut it to a three-point game heading into the final frame. The Thunder kept pushing and took a nine-point lead late in the fourth, but the Pelicans came up clutch to force overtime. The Thunder took the first lead in extra time, but the Pelicans hit back-to-back threes to pull ahead and held on to close out their second straight win.
Trey Murphy led the Pelicans with 23 points, five rebounds and two steals, in 40 minutes. Jaxson Hayes followed up with 21 points, six rebounds and four assists, while CJ McCollum added 17 points, six rebounds, 11 assists, two blocks and a steal. The Pelicans shot 44 percent from the field, including 13-of-37 from long range.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 44 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, two steals and a block, in 43 minutes. Josh Giddey followed up with 20 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block, while Aleksej Pokusevski tallied 17 points, six rebounds, three assists, four steals and a block. The Thunder shot 46 percent from the field, including 13-of-35 from deep.
The Thunder (14-19) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Spurs on Tuesday. The Pelicans (20-12) play host to the Pacers on Monday.
The Pelicans got out to a great start and led 33-23 after one quarter. They kept up the dominance in the second and pushed their lead to 18, at the break. The Thunder turned the tables in the third and outscored the visitors 31-16 to cut it to a three-point game heading into the final frame. The Thunder kept pushing and took a nine-point lead late in the fourth, but the Pelicans came up clutch to force overtime. The Thunder took the first lead in extra time, but the Pelicans hit back-to-back threes to pull ahead and held on to close out their second straight win.
Trey Murphy led the Pelicans with 23 points, five rebounds and two steals, in 40 minutes. Jaxson Hayes followed up with 21 points, six rebounds and four assists, while CJ McCollum added 17 points, six rebounds, 11 assists, two blocks and a steal. The Pelicans shot 44 percent from the field, including 13-of-37 from long range.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 44 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, two steals and a block, in 43 minutes. Josh Giddey followed up with 20 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block, while Aleksej Pokusevski tallied 17 points, six rebounds, three assists, four steals and a block. The Thunder shot 46 percent from the field, including 13-of-35 from deep.
The Thunder (14-19) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Spurs on Tuesday. The Pelicans (20-12) play host to the Pacers on Monday.
Nuggets Too Much For Trail Blazers
By Dan Bruno
The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 120-107, at Ball Arena on Friday evening.
The Nuggets got out to a strong start and led by five after one quarter. The Trail Blazers turned it up in the second and outscored the hosts 37-26 to take a six-point lead into the break. The Nuggets came out much stronger in the third and reclaimed control, as they outscored the visitors 35-16 to make it a 13-point game heading into the final quarter. Both sides put up a steady effort in the fourth, but the Nuggets stayed in control and held on for their third straight win. This marks the third consecutive loss for the Trail Blazers.
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 29 points, eight rebounds, 11 assists and two steals, in 36 minutes. Jamal Murray followed up with 25 points, eight rebounds, 12 assists and two steals, while Michael Porter added 18 points, five rebounds, two assists and a steal. The Nuggets shot 58 percent from the field, including 10-of-21 from deep.
Meanwhile, Damian Lillard led the Trail Blazers with 34 points, seven rebounds and eight assists, in 39 minutes. Jerami Grant followed up with 20 points, seven rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Josh Hart and Anfernee Simons chipped in 14 points each. The Trail Blazers shot 45 percent from the field, including 9-of-35 from long range.
The Trail Blazers (17-16) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Hornets on Monday. The Nuggets (20-11) play host to the Suns on Sunday.
The Nuggets got out to a strong start and led by five after one quarter. The Trail Blazers turned it up in the second and outscored the hosts 37-26 to take a six-point lead into the break. The Nuggets came out much stronger in the third and reclaimed control, as they outscored the visitors 35-16 to make it a 13-point game heading into the final quarter. Both sides put up a steady effort in the fourth, but the Nuggets stayed in control and held on for their third straight win. This marks the third consecutive loss for the Trail Blazers.
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 29 points, eight rebounds, 11 assists and two steals, in 36 minutes. Jamal Murray followed up with 25 points, eight rebounds, 12 assists and two steals, while Michael Porter added 18 points, five rebounds, two assists and a steal. The Nuggets shot 58 percent from the field, including 10-of-21 from deep.
Meanwhile, Damian Lillard led the Trail Blazers with 34 points, seven rebounds and eight assists, in 39 minutes. Jerami Grant followed up with 20 points, seven rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Josh Hart and Anfernee Simons chipped in 14 points each. The Trail Blazers shot 45 percent from the field, including 9-of-35 from long range.
The Trail Blazers (17-16) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Hornets on Monday. The Nuggets (20-11) play host to the Suns on Sunday.
Grizzlies Defeat Suns, 125-100
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the host Phoenix Suns, 125-100, at Footprint Center on Friday.
A 39-20 first quarter set the tone in this blowout victory for Memphis, winning this game in wire-to-wire fashion. In fact, they led by at least 15 points for the final three quarters, getting their lead up to 34 points at times. The Grizzlies dominated down low, out-rebounding Phoenix, 67-49, while outscoring them in the paint, 72-42. They also had 11 steals to the Suns six steals, winning the turnover battle, 14-10. The Grizzlies also shot 28-of-38 from the free-throw line while the Suns connected on just 15-of-26.
The Grizzlies (20-11) were led by Jaren Jackson Jr, generating 24 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks. Desmond Bane amassed 17 points, three rebounds and two assists. Dillon Brooks had 16 points, two assists and two steals, while Ja Morant collected 12 points, five rebounds and 11 assists. Brandon Clarke led the bench with 24 points, nine rebounds and two steals.
The Suns (19-14) were led by Deandre Ayton, accruing 18 points and five rebounds. Landry Shamet totaled 15 points, five rebounds and three assists. Chris Paul had just 19 points, two rebounds and three assists. Duane Washington led their bench with 14 points, three rebounds and five assists, while Damion Lee collected 10 points, two rebounds and two assists.
Both of these teams are on the Christmas Day card on Sunday, with Phoenix traveling to face the Denver Nuggets and Memphis playing the Golden State Warriors on the road as well.
A 39-20 first quarter set the tone in this blowout victory for Memphis, winning this game in wire-to-wire fashion. In fact, they led by at least 15 points for the final three quarters, getting their lead up to 34 points at times. The Grizzlies dominated down low, out-rebounding Phoenix, 67-49, while outscoring them in the paint, 72-42. They also had 11 steals to the Suns six steals, winning the turnover battle, 14-10. The Grizzlies also shot 28-of-38 from the free-throw line while the Suns connected on just 15-of-26.
The Grizzlies (20-11) were led by Jaren Jackson Jr, generating 24 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks. Desmond Bane amassed 17 points, three rebounds and two assists. Dillon Brooks had 16 points, two assists and two steals, while Ja Morant collected 12 points, five rebounds and 11 assists. Brandon Clarke led the bench with 24 points, nine rebounds and two steals.
The Suns (19-14) were led by Deandre Ayton, accruing 18 points and five rebounds. Landry Shamet totaled 15 points, five rebounds and three assists. Chris Paul had just 19 points, two rebounds and three assists. Duane Washington led their bench with 14 points, three rebounds and five assists, while Damion Lee collected 10 points, two rebounds and two assists.
Both of these teams are on the Christmas Day card on Sunday, with Phoenix traveling to face the Denver Nuggets and Memphis playing the Golden State Warriors on the road as well.
Wizards Wallop Kings, 125-111
The Washington Wizards defeated the host Sacramento Kings, 125-111, at Golden 1 Center on Friday.
While Sacramento held the lead for the first nine minutes of this game, Washington never relinquished the lead across the final three frames. They rode a 40-23 second quarter to their blowout win, maintaining a double-digit lead for the entirety of the second half. They got their lead up to 30 points at times. Washington shot 56 percent from the field while holding Sacramento to 44 percent shooting. In addition, the Wizards out-assisted the Kings, 30-19, while outscoring them in the paint, 68-50.
The Wizards (13-21) were led by Kyle Kuzma, collecting 32 points, nine rebounds, five assists and two steals. Bradley Beal finished with 24 points and four assists. Monte Morris amassed 16 points, two rebounds, five assists and three steals, while Kristaps Porzingis provided seven points, 13 rebounds and two blocks. Rui Hachimura led the bench with 21 points, five rebounds and four assists.
The Kings (17-14) were led by De'Aaron Fox, finishing with 26 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Domantas Sabonis tallied 20 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. Kevin Huerter had 14 points and two rebounds, while Harrison Barnes totaled 11 points and five boards. Malik Monk led the bench with 16 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals.
Both of these teams are off until Tuesday, with Sacramento staying home to play the Denver Nuggets and Washington returning home to face the Philadelphia 76ers.
While Sacramento held the lead for the first nine minutes of this game, Washington never relinquished the lead across the final three frames. They rode a 40-23 second quarter to their blowout win, maintaining a double-digit lead for the entirety of the second half. They got their lead up to 30 points at times. Washington shot 56 percent from the field while holding Sacramento to 44 percent shooting. In addition, the Wizards out-assisted the Kings, 30-19, while outscoring them in the paint, 68-50.
The Wizards (13-21) were led by Kyle Kuzma, collecting 32 points, nine rebounds, five assists and two steals. Bradley Beal finished with 24 points and four assists. Monte Morris amassed 16 points, two rebounds, five assists and three steals, while Kristaps Porzingis provided seven points, 13 rebounds and two blocks. Rui Hachimura led the bench with 21 points, five rebounds and four assists.
The Kings (17-14) were led by De'Aaron Fox, finishing with 26 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Domantas Sabonis tallied 20 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. Kevin Huerter had 14 points and two rebounds, while Harrison Barnes totaled 11 points and five boards. Malik Monk led the bench with 16 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals.
Both of these teams are off until Tuesday, with Sacramento staying home to play the Denver Nuggets and Washington returning home to face the Philadelphia 76ers.
Hornets Defeat Lakers, 134-130
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the host Los Angeles Lakers, 134-130, at Crypto.com Arena on Friday.
There were only four ties and four lead changes in this game, with Charlotte riding a 30-20 third quarter to their win. They actually started that frame on a 21-5 run to take a game-high 16-point lead and never relinquished the lead after that. With that said, LA tied the game in the final minute, but Gordon Hayward hit the game-winning shot with six seconds left. Dennis Schroder had a wide-open game-winning three at the buzzer but missed that corner attempt. Charlotte shot 55 percent from the field, while LA hit 52 percent of their shots. The Hornets had 11 steals and six blocks, while the Lakers had just five steals and one block. Charlotte also outscored Los Angeles, 62-48, in the paint, and 29-10 in fastbreak scoring.
The Hornets (9-24) were led by PJ Washington, providing 24 points, five rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. Terry Rozier tallied 23 points, four rebounds, six assists and two steals. LaMelo Ball collected 23 points, eight rebounds, eight assists and three steals. Gordon Hayward had 15 points, six rebounds and four assists, while Kelly Oubre led the bench with 19 points and five boards.
The Lakers (13-19) were led by LeBron James, tallying 34 points, two rebounds and eight assists. Lonnie Walker totaled 15 points and three rebounds. Patrick Beverley accrued 11 points, six rebounds and three assists, while Thomas Bryant finished with eight points and 13 rebounds. Austin Reaves led the bench with 20 points, two rebounds and two assists, while Russell Westbrook registered 17 points, five rebounds and seven assists.
On deck for Charlotte is a road matchup with the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday. As for Los Angeles, they travel to face the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday for their next outing.
There were only four ties and four lead changes in this game, with Charlotte riding a 30-20 third quarter to their win. They actually started that frame on a 21-5 run to take a game-high 16-point lead and never relinquished the lead after that. With that said, LA tied the game in the final minute, but Gordon Hayward hit the game-winning shot with six seconds left. Dennis Schroder had a wide-open game-winning three at the buzzer but missed that corner attempt. Charlotte shot 55 percent from the field, while LA hit 52 percent of their shots. The Hornets had 11 steals and six blocks, while the Lakers had just five steals and one block. Charlotte also outscored Los Angeles, 62-48, in the paint, and 29-10 in fastbreak scoring.
The Hornets (9-24) were led by PJ Washington, providing 24 points, five rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. Terry Rozier tallied 23 points, four rebounds, six assists and two steals. LaMelo Ball collected 23 points, eight rebounds, eight assists and three steals. Gordon Hayward had 15 points, six rebounds and four assists, while Kelly Oubre led the bench with 19 points and five boards.
The Lakers (13-19) were led by LeBron James, tallying 34 points, two rebounds and eight assists. Lonnie Walker totaled 15 points and three rebounds. Patrick Beverley accrued 11 points, six rebounds and three assists, while Thomas Bryant finished with eight points and 13 rebounds. Austin Reaves led the bench with 20 points, two rebounds and two assists, while Russell Westbrook registered 17 points, five rebounds and seven assists.
On deck for Charlotte is a road matchup with the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday. As for Los Angeles, they travel to face the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday for their next outing.