Blazers Defeat Pistons, 110-101
The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the host Detroit Pistons, 110-101, at Little Ceasars Arena on Wednesday.
While Detroit had an 18-point lead late in the first half, Portland outscored Detroit by double-digits in the third and fourth quarters. A 36-25 third quarter started the comeback, and they completed it with a 27-17 fourth quarter. The Trail Blazers shot 47 percent from the field while holding the Pistons to 44 percent shooting. Portland also out-rebounded Detroit, 56-44, while out-blocking them, 7-4.
The Trail Blazers (2-3) were led by Shaedon Sharpe, collecting 29 points, seven rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Jerami Grant scored 24 points. DeAndre Ayton accrued 16 points, 11 rebounds and five steals, while Scoot Henderson had 11 points and seven assists before rolling his ankle. Malcolm Brogdon led the bench with 14 points, six rebounds and six assists.
The Pistons (2-3) were led by Cade Cunningham, finishing with 30 points, five rebounds and four assists. Ausar Thompson tallied 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals. Isaiah Stewart compiled 12 points, six rebounds and four assists, while Marvin Bagley provided 10 points, six rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
Detroit has to play again on Thursday, traveling to face the New Orleans Pelicans. As for Portland, they return to action on Friday in a home matchup with the Memphis Grizzlies.
While Detroit had an 18-point lead late in the first half, Portland outscored Detroit by double-digits in the third and fourth quarters. A 36-25 third quarter started the comeback, and they completed it with a 27-17 fourth quarter. The Trail Blazers shot 47 percent from the field while holding the Pistons to 44 percent shooting. Portland also out-rebounded Detroit, 56-44, while out-blocking them, 7-4.
The Trail Blazers (2-3) were led by Shaedon Sharpe, collecting 29 points, seven rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Jerami Grant scored 24 points. DeAndre Ayton accrued 16 points, 11 rebounds and five steals, while Scoot Henderson had 11 points and seven assists before rolling his ankle. Malcolm Brogdon led the bench with 14 points, six rebounds and six assists.
The Pistons (2-3) were led by Cade Cunningham, finishing with 30 points, five rebounds and four assists. Ausar Thompson tallied 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals. Isaiah Stewart compiled 12 points, six rebounds and four assists, while Marvin Bagley provided 10 points, six rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
Detroit has to play again on Thursday, traveling to face the New Orleans Pelicans. As for Portland, they return to action on Friday in a home matchup with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Raptors Blow Out Bucks
By Dan Bruno
The Toronto Raptors defeated the visiting Milwaukee Bucks, 130-111, at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday evening.
The Raptors jumped out to a great start and owned a 31-18 lead by the end of the first quarter. They kept the pressure on in the second to make it a 22-point lead by halftime, but the Bucks brought a better effort in the third quarter to cut it back to a 16-point game heading into the final frame. The Raptors reclaimed the momentum and rallied back to a 22 -point lead early in the fourth, where it became too much for the Bucks to overcome. The win ends a three-game slide for the Raptors and moves them to 2-2 at home on the season. It also marked the first road game of the season for the Bucks, as they fell short for their second loss in four games.
Pascal Siakam led the Raptors with 26 points, six rebounds and seven assists, in 33 minutes of action. Dennis Schroder followed up with 24 points, four rebounds, 11 assists and a steal, while Scottie Barnes totaled 21 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, a steal and two blocks. The Raptors shot 56.0 percent from the field, including 15-for-38 from long range.
Meanwhile, Malik Beasley led the Bucks with 20 points, two rebounds and two steals in 25 minutes. Giannis Antetokounmpo followed up with 16 points, four rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Damian Lillard tallied 20 points, two rebounds and two steals. The Bucks shot 46.1 percent from the field, including 13-for-34 from deep.
The Bucks (2-2) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Knicks on Friday. The Raptors (2-3) take on the 76ers in Philly on Thursday.
The Raptors jumped out to a great start and owned a 31-18 lead by the end of the first quarter. They kept the pressure on in the second to make it a 22-point lead by halftime, but the Bucks brought a better effort in the third quarter to cut it back to a 16-point game heading into the final frame. The Raptors reclaimed the momentum and rallied back to a 22 -point lead early in the fourth, where it became too much for the Bucks to overcome. The win ends a three-game slide for the Raptors and moves them to 2-2 at home on the season. It also marked the first road game of the season for the Bucks, as they fell short for their second loss in four games.
Pascal Siakam led the Raptors with 26 points, six rebounds and seven assists, in 33 minutes of action. Dennis Schroder followed up with 24 points, four rebounds, 11 assists and a steal, while Scottie Barnes totaled 21 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, a steal and two blocks. The Raptors shot 56.0 percent from the field, including 15-for-38 from long range.
Meanwhile, Malik Beasley led the Bucks with 20 points, two rebounds and two steals in 25 minutes. Giannis Antetokounmpo followed up with 16 points, four rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Damian Lillard tallied 20 points, two rebounds and two steals. The Bucks shot 46.1 percent from the field, including 13-for-34 from deep.
The Bucks (2-2) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Knicks on Friday. The Raptors (2-3) take on the 76ers in Philly on Thursday.
Hawks Defeat Wizards, 130-121
The Atlanta Hawks defeated the visiting Washington Wizards, 130-121, at State Farm Arena on Wednesday.
While there were seven ties and four lead changes in the first half, Atlanta never relinquished the lead in the second half. A 34-21 second quarter started that blowout, with the Hawks finishing things off with a 40-31 third quarter. They held a double-digit lead for the closing 20 minutes until the final meaningless shot, getting their lead up to 26 points at times. The Hawks shot 29-of-32 from the free-throw line, while the Wizards hit just 9-of-14. In addition, Atlanta outrebounded Washington, 62-42, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 19-5.
The Wizards (1-3) were led by Kyle Kuzma, collecting 25 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Deni Avdija amassed 22 points, five rebounds and three assists. Jordan Poole scored 13 points. Delon Wright provided three points, three rebounds, nine assists and two steals off the bench.
The Hawks (3-2) were led by Dejounte Murray, tallying 24 points, four rebounds and eight assists on 10-of-15 shooting. Trae Young totaled 23 points, three rebounds, 10 assists and two steals. De'Andre Hunter had 23 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two steals, while Clint Capela amassed 10 points and 11 boards. Onyeka Okongwu led the bench with 16 points, 11 rebounds and two assists.
On deck for Washington is a road matchup with the Miami Heat on Friday. As for Atlanta, they return to action on Saturday in a road matchup with the New Orleans Pelicans.
While there were seven ties and four lead changes in the first half, Atlanta never relinquished the lead in the second half. A 34-21 second quarter started that blowout, with the Hawks finishing things off with a 40-31 third quarter. They held a double-digit lead for the closing 20 minutes until the final meaningless shot, getting their lead up to 26 points at times. The Hawks shot 29-of-32 from the free-throw line, while the Wizards hit just 9-of-14. In addition, Atlanta outrebounded Washington, 62-42, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 19-5.
The Wizards (1-3) were led by Kyle Kuzma, collecting 25 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Deni Avdija amassed 22 points, five rebounds and three assists. Jordan Poole scored 13 points. Delon Wright provided three points, three rebounds, nine assists and two steals off the bench.
The Hawks (3-2) were led by Dejounte Murray, tallying 24 points, four rebounds and eight assists on 10-of-15 shooting. Trae Young totaled 23 points, three rebounds, 10 assists and two steals. De'Andre Hunter had 23 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two steals, while Clint Capela amassed 10 points and 11 boards. Onyeka Okongwu led the bench with 16 points, 11 rebounds and two assists.
On deck for Washington is a road matchup with the Miami Heat on Friday. As for Atlanta, they return to action on Saturday in a road matchup with the New Orleans Pelicans.
Celtics Decimate Pacers, 155-104
The Boston Celtics defeated the Indiana Pacers, 155-104, at TD Garden on Wednesday night.
The Celtics (4-0) came into the night looking to keep their record unblemished, and they set an early tone that left little doubt they'd accomplish just that. Boston already owned a 44-27 lead after one, and their advantage sat at 75-54 by intermission. The hosts then dispelled any thoughts the Pacers (2-2) may have had of a comeback with a dominant third quarter during which they enjoyed a 34-17 advantage. Although the game was decided by that point, Joe Mazzulla's club still tacked on another 46 points in the final 12 minutes despite reserves playing heavy minutes.
T.J. McConnell led the Pacers with 18 points, adding seven rebounds, five assists and one steal. Andrew Nembhard furnished 14 points, two rebounds and one assist. Obi Toppin supplied 11 points, two boards, one assist and two steals.
Jayson Tatum paced the Celtics with a 30-point, 12-rebound double-double that included four assists. Derrick White registered 18 points, four assists and three rebounds. Sam Hauser delivered 17 points, three rebounds and one steal. Jaylen Brown posted 16 points, seven rebounds and one assist. Jrue Holiday and Payton Pritchard generated matching 15-point tallies while recording seven rebounds and nine assists, respectively. Kristaps Porzingis finished with 13 points, six rebounds and two assists.
The Pacers return home to host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night, while the Celtics hit the road and visit the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday night.
The Celtics (4-0) came into the night looking to keep their record unblemished, and they set an early tone that left little doubt they'd accomplish just that. Boston already owned a 44-27 lead after one, and their advantage sat at 75-54 by intermission. The hosts then dispelled any thoughts the Pacers (2-2) may have had of a comeback with a dominant third quarter during which they enjoyed a 34-17 advantage. Although the game was decided by that point, Joe Mazzulla's club still tacked on another 46 points in the final 12 minutes despite reserves playing heavy minutes.
T.J. McConnell led the Pacers with 18 points, adding seven rebounds, five assists and one steal. Andrew Nembhard furnished 14 points, two rebounds and one assist. Obi Toppin supplied 11 points, two boards, one assist and two steals.
Jayson Tatum paced the Celtics with a 30-point, 12-rebound double-double that included four assists. Derrick White registered 18 points, four assists and three rebounds. Sam Hauser delivered 17 points, three rebounds and one steal. Jaylen Brown posted 16 points, seven rebounds and one assist. Jrue Holiday and Payton Pritchard generated matching 15-point tallies while recording seven rebounds and nine assists, respectively. Kristaps Porzingis finished with 13 points, six rebounds and two assists.
The Pacers return home to host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night, while the Celtics hit the road and visit the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday night.
Nets Trip Up Heat, 109-105
The Brooklyn Nets defeated the Miami Heat, 109-105, at Kaseya Center on Wednesday night.
The Heat (1-4) came in looking for their first win since their Opening Night victory against the Pistons, and early on, it appeared they were well on pace to accomplish the feat against the short-handed Nets (2-2). Miami exited a high-scoring first quarter with a three-point lead they'd extended to 10 points by halftime. Brooklyn was only able to make a two-point dent in its deficit in the third quarter, but the visitors' 34-22 advantage in the final 12 minutes, which was initially propelled by a 14-3 run over the first 3:22 of the period, sealed the comeback victory.
Mikal Bridges led the Nets with 21 points, adding seven rebounds, five assists and one steal. Lonnie Walker and Armoni Brooks contributed matching 17-point tallies while posting three and two rebounds, respectively. Walker also recorded four assists and three steals. Dorian Finney-Smith managed 15 points, three rebounds and two assists. Cam Thomas furnished 13 points, two rebounds, one assist, three steals and one block. Trenton Watford supplied 11 points, four rebounds, four assists and one steal.
Tyler Herro paced the Heat with 30 points, supplementing them with five assists and three rebounds. Bam Adebayo generated a 21-point, 14-rebound double-double that included three assists, two steals and two blocks. Jimmy Butler registered 20 points, seven rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Nets remain on the road and visit the Chicago Bulls on Friday night, while the Heat remain home and host the Washington Wizards on Friday night.
The Heat (1-4) came in looking for their first win since their Opening Night victory against the Pistons, and early on, it appeared they were well on pace to accomplish the feat against the short-handed Nets (2-2). Miami exited a high-scoring first quarter with a three-point lead they'd extended to 10 points by halftime. Brooklyn was only able to make a two-point dent in its deficit in the third quarter, but the visitors' 34-22 advantage in the final 12 minutes, which was initially propelled by a 14-3 run over the first 3:22 of the period, sealed the comeback victory.
Mikal Bridges led the Nets with 21 points, adding seven rebounds, five assists and one steal. Lonnie Walker and Armoni Brooks contributed matching 17-point tallies while posting three and two rebounds, respectively. Walker also recorded four assists and three steals. Dorian Finney-Smith managed 15 points, three rebounds and two assists. Cam Thomas furnished 13 points, two rebounds, one assist, three steals and one block. Trenton Watford supplied 11 points, four rebounds, four assists and one steal.
Tyler Herro paced the Heat with 30 points, supplementing them with five assists and three rebounds. Bam Adebayo generated a 21-point, 14-rebound double-double that included three assists, two steals and two blocks. Jimmy Butler registered 20 points, seven rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Nets remain on the road and visit the Chicago Bulls on Friday night, while the Heat remain home and host the Washington Wizards on Friday night.
Cavaliers Edge Knicks, 95-89
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the New York Knicks, 95-89, at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night.
The Cavaliers (2-3) came into the night hoping to avenge a lopsided 18-point defeat at the hands of the Knicks (2-3) on Tuesday night, but it was New York that owned a slim one-point lead at halftime. However, Cleveland turned the defense up a notch during the third quarter, outscoring its hosts by a 22-13 margin in the period to take an eight-point advantage into the final period. The Knicks would claw back to get as close as within two with under three minutes remaining, but a subsequent 5-0 run by the Cavs helped create distance for an eventual victory.
Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 30 points, adding six rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Caris LeVert delivered 19 points, six rebounds, five assists and one steal. Evan Mobley supplied 14 points, eight boards, five assists, two steals and two blocks.
Jalen Brunson paced the Knicks with 24 points, four rebounds and four assists. Immanuel Quickley pitched in 18 points, six rebounds, four assists and one steal. Donte DiVincenzo registered 16 points, two boards, two steals and one block. Josh Hart turned in 11 points, eight rebounds and three assists.
The Cavaliers remain on the road and visit the Indiana Pacers on Friday night, while the Knicks visit the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night as well.
The Cavaliers (2-3) came into the night hoping to avenge a lopsided 18-point defeat at the hands of the Knicks (2-3) on Tuesday night, but it was New York that owned a slim one-point lead at halftime. However, Cleveland turned the defense up a notch during the third quarter, outscoring its hosts by a 22-13 margin in the period to take an eight-point advantage into the final period. The Knicks would claw back to get as close as within two with under three minutes remaining, but a subsequent 5-0 run by the Cavs helped create distance for an eventual victory.
Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 30 points, adding six rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Caris LeVert delivered 19 points, six rebounds, five assists and one steal. Evan Mobley supplied 14 points, eight boards, five assists, two steals and two blocks.
Jalen Brunson paced the Knicks with 24 points, four rebounds and four assists. Immanuel Quickley pitched in 18 points, six rebounds, four assists and one steal. Donte DiVincenzo registered 16 points, two boards, two steals and one block. Josh Hart turned in 11 points, eight rebounds and three assists.
The Cavaliers remain on the road and visit the Indiana Pacers on Friday night, while the Knicks visit the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night as well.
Pelicans Stun Thunder, 110-106
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder, 110-106, at Chesapeake Energy Arena on Wednesday night.
The Pelicans (3-1) couldn't have envisioned a much more nightmarish start than the one that played out in the first quarter Wednesday, as the Thunder (3-2) went into the second quarter with a 33-14 lead. However, New Orleans turned the tables to a significant degree at that point, lopping 11 points from their deficit before halftime. The visitors would then complete the comeback in the third via a 35-26 advantage during the period, and they then held off several OKC fourth-quarter surges that saw the hosts get to within one on two occasions.
CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 29 points, complementing them with 11 rebounds, five assists and one block. Zion Williamson generated a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double that included eight assists. Jonas Valanciunas provided 19 points, nine rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Jordan Hawkins registered 10 points, six boards, five assists and two steals.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander paced the Thunder with 20 points, adding eight assists, five rebounds and three steals. Chet Holmgren generated a 19-point, 11-rebound double-double that included three assists, two blocks and one steal. Jalen Williams posted 18 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Josh Giddey managed 15 points, nine rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Aaron Wiggins managed 10 points, four rebounds and two assists.
The Pelicans return home to host the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night, while the Thunder remains home and hosts the Golden State Warriors on Friday night.
The Pelicans (3-1) couldn't have envisioned a much more nightmarish start than the one that played out in the first quarter Wednesday, as the Thunder (3-2) went into the second quarter with a 33-14 lead. However, New Orleans turned the tables to a significant degree at that point, lopping 11 points from their deficit before halftime. The visitors would then complete the comeback in the third via a 35-26 advantage during the period, and they then held off several OKC fourth-quarter surges that saw the hosts get to within one on two occasions.
CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 29 points, complementing them with 11 rebounds, five assists and one block. Zion Williamson generated a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double that included eight assists. Jonas Valanciunas provided 19 points, nine rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Jordan Hawkins registered 10 points, six boards, five assists and two steals.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander paced the Thunder with 20 points, adding eight assists, five rebounds and three steals. Chet Holmgren generated a 19-point, 11-rebound double-double that included three assists, two blocks and one steal. Jalen Williams posted 18 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Josh Giddey managed 15 points, nine rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Aaron Wiggins managed 10 points, four rebounds and two assists.
The Pelicans return home to host the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night, while the Thunder remains home and hosts the Golden State Warriors on Friday night.
Rockets Hold Off Hornets For First Win
By Dan Bruno
The Houston Rockets defeated the visiting Charlotte Hornets, 128-119, at Toyota Center on Wednesday evening.
The Rockets got off to a hot start with a, 39-27, lead after one quarter. The Hornets brought a better effort in the second and managed to trim the deficit to just three points by halftime, but the hosts reclaimed control in the third and pushed their advantage back up to an eight points heading into the final frame. Both sides picked up the pace in the fourth, where the Rockets outscored the visitors, 42-41, to close out their first win of the season. This marks the third straight loss for the Hornets.
Jalen Green led the Rockets with 23 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals, in 31 minutes. Fred VanVleet followed up with 22 points, three rebounds and 11 assists, while Dillon Brooks totaled 20 points, three rebounds, five assists and five steals. The Rockets shot 52.4 percent from the field, including 21-for-37 from deep.
Meanwhile, P.J. Washington led the Hornets with 23 points on 8-for-13 shooting, in 35 minutes of action. Terry Rozier followed up with 21 points, three rebounds, six assists and a steal, while LaMelo Ball tallied 19 points, five assists and a steal. The Hornets shot 50.0 percent from the field, including 11-for-27 from long range.
The Hornets (1-3) will look to bounce back as they take on the Pacers in Indiana on Saturday. The Rockets (1-3) are back in action on Saturday, when they play host to the Kings
The Rockets got off to a hot start with a, 39-27, lead after one quarter. The Hornets brought a better effort in the second and managed to trim the deficit to just three points by halftime, but the hosts reclaimed control in the third and pushed their advantage back up to an eight points heading into the final frame. Both sides picked up the pace in the fourth, where the Rockets outscored the visitors, 42-41, to close out their first win of the season. This marks the third straight loss for the Hornets.
Jalen Green led the Rockets with 23 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals, in 31 minutes. Fred VanVleet followed up with 22 points, three rebounds and 11 assists, while Dillon Brooks totaled 20 points, three rebounds, five assists and five steals. The Rockets shot 52.4 percent from the field, including 21-for-37 from deep.
Meanwhile, P.J. Washington led the Hornets with 23 points on 8-for-13 shooting, in 35 minutes of action. Terry Rozier followed up with 21 points, three rebounds, six assists and a steal, while LaMelo Ball tallied 19 points, five assists and a steal. The Hornets shot 50.0 percent from the field, including 11-for-27 from long range.
The Hornets (1-3) will look to bounce back as they take on the Pacers in Indiana on Saturday. The Rockets (1-3) are back in action on Saturday, when they play host to the Kings
Timberwolves Hand Nuggets First Loss
By Dan Bruno
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the visiting Denver Nuggets, 110-89, at Target Center on Wednesday evening.
The Timberwolves took control early and held a, 28-21, lead after one quarter. They doubled down in the second to make it a 19-point advantage by halftime, before the Nuggets finally showed some fight in the third quarter, trimming it back to a 17-point difference heading into the final frame. The Timberwolves did not lose focus and closed out with a solid effort in the fourth, securing their second win of the season and handing the Nuggets their first loss.
Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 24 points, two rebounds and two steals, in 32 minutes. Karl-Anthony Towns followed up with 21 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals, while Mike Conley finished with 17 points, three rebounds, six assists and a steal. The Timberwolves shot 45.8 percent from the field, including 8-for-21 from long range.
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 25 points, 10 rebounds and three assists, in 30 minutes. Jamal Murray was the only other player to score in double digits for the Nuggets, with 14 points, six rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block. Zeke Nnaji chipped in nine points, five rebounds and two blocks, off the bench. The Nuggets shot 39.6 percent from the field, including 6-for-33 from deep.
The Nuggets (4-1) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Mavs on Friday. The Timberwolves (2-2) will host the Jazz on Saturday.
The Timberwolves took control early and held a, 28-21, lead after one quarter. They doubled down in the second to make it a 19-point advantage by halftime, before the Nuggets finally showed some fight in the third quarter, trimming it back to a 17-point difference heading into the final frame. The Timberwolves did not lose focus and closed out with a solid effort in the fourth, securing their second win of the season and handing the Nuggets their first loss.
Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 24 points, two rebounds and two steals, in 32 minutes. Karl-Anthony Towns followed up with 21 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals, while Mike Conley finished with 17 points, three rebounds, six assists and a steal. The Timberwolves shot 45.8 percent from the field, including 8-for-21 from long range.
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 25 points, 10 rebounds and three assists, in 30 minutes. Jamal Murray was the only other player to score in double digits for the Nuggets, with 14 points, six rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block. Zeke Nnaji chipped in nine points, five rebounds and two blocks, off the bench. The Nuggets shot 39.6 percent from the field, including 6-for-33 from deep.
The Nuggets (4-1) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Mavs on Friday. The Timberwolves (2-2) will host the Jazz on Saturday.
Mavs Rally To Remain Undefeated
By Dan Bruno
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the visiting Chicago Bulls, 114-105, at American Airlines Center on Wednesday evening.
The game got out to a tight start as the Mavs led by three points after one quarter. The Bulls increased the pressure in the second and grabbed a one-point lead by halftime. Both sides picked up the pace in the third, where the Bulls outscored the hosts, 33-32, to take a two-point edge into the final frame. The Mavs did not sit back in the fourth and instead rallied to outscore the visitors by 11 points in the quarter and close out their fourth consecutive win to start the season.
Grant Williams led the Mavericks with 25 points, five rebounds and a steal, in 30 minutes. Tim Hardaway followed up with 24 points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Luka Doncic totaled 18 points, seven rebounds, 10 assists, two steals and a block. The Mavericks shot 45.7 percent from the field, including 20-for-48 from deep.
Meanwhile, Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 22 points, two rebounds and two steals, in 36 minutes. Nikola Vucevic followed up with 21 points, 20 rebounds and two steals, while DeMar DeRozan added 16 points, three rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Bulls shot 47.2 percent from the field, including 11-for-33 from long range.
The Bulls (2-3) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Nets on Friday. The Mavs (4-0) take on the Nuggets in Denver on Friday.
The game got out to a tight start as the Mavs led by three points after one quarter. The Bulls increased the pressure in the second and grabbed a one-point lead by halftime. Both sides picked up the pace in the third, where the Bulls outscored the hosts, 33-32, to take a two-point edge into the final frame. The Mavs did not sit back in the fourth and instead rallied to outscore the visitors by 11 points in the quarter and close out their fourth consecutive win to start the season.
Grant Williams led the Mavericks with 25 points, five rebounds and a steal, in 30 minutes. Tim Hardaway followed up with 24 points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Luka Doncic totaled 18 points, seven rebounds, 10 assists, two steals and a block. The Mavericks shot 45.7 percent from the field, including 20-for-48 from deep.
Meanwhile, Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 22 points, two rebounds and two steals, in 36 minutes. Nikola Vucevic followed up with 21 points, 20 rebounds and two steals, while DeMar DeRozan added 16 points, three rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Bulls shot 47.2 percent from the field, including 11-for-33 from long range.
The Bulls (2-3) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Nets on Friday. The Mavs (4-0) take on the Nuggets in Denver on Friday.
Jazz Roll Grizzlies, 133-109
The Utah Jazz defeated the visiting Memphis Grizzlies, 133-109, at Vivint Arena on Wednesday.
A 42-19 first quarter set the tone for Utah in this dominating victory, winning in wire-to-wire fashion. They actually had a 33-point lead at the half and led by at least 20 points for the final 30 minutes of this game. Utah shot 54 percent from the field and 51 percent from three-point range while holding Memphis to 37 percent from the field and 26 percent from long range. The Jazz also out-assisted the Grizzlies. 35-25, while outscoring them in fastbreak points, 16-9.
The Grizzlies (0-5) were led by Desmond Bane, collecting 21 points and three rebounds. Jaren Jackson Jr generated 19 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Marcus Smart amassed 11 points, two rebounds, six assists and four steals, while Kenneth Lofton Jr led the bench with 12 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals.
The Jazz (2-3) were led by Collin Sexton, providing 23 points, three rebounds and six assists off the bench. Jordan Clarkson led the starters with 20 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Lauri Markkanen totaled 19 points and 11 rebounds, while Kelly Olynyk compiled 14 points, eight rebounds and five assists. John Collins also had 16 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.
Utah has to play the second half of a B2B set on Thursday, remaining home to play the Orlando Magic. As for Memphis, they travel to face the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday for their next game.
A 42-19 first quarter set the tone for Utah in this dominating victory, winning in wire-to-wire fashion. They actually had a 33-point lead at the half and led by at least 20 points for the final 30 minutes of this game. Utah shot 54 percent from the field and 51 percent from three-point range while holding Memphis to 37 percent from the field and 26 percent from long range. The Jazz also out-assisted the Grizzlies. 35-25, while outscoring them in fastbreak points, 16-9.
The Grizzlies (0-5) were led by Desmond Bane, collecting 21 points and three rebounds. Jaren Jackson Jr generated 19 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Marcus Smart amassed 11 points, two rebounds, six assists and four steals, while Kenneth Lofton Jr led the bench with 12 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals.
The Jazz (2-3) were led by Collin Sexton, providing 23 points, three rebounds and six assists off the bench. Jordan Clarkson led the starters with 20 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Lauri Markkanen totaled 19 points and 11 rebounds, while Kelly Olynyk compiled 14 points, eight rebounds and five assists. John Collins also had 16 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.
Utah has to play the second half of a B2B set on Thursday, remaining home to play the Orlando Magic. As for Memphis, they travel to face the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday for their next game.
Warriors Defeat Kings, 102-101
The Golden State Warriors defeated the visiting Sacramento Kings, 102-101, at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday.
There were nine ties and 12 lead changes in this game, with neither team leading by more than 11 points. There were three lead changes in the final 33 seconds, with Klay Thompson hitting a game-winning jumper with just 0.2 seconds remaining. That capped off a 28-22 fourth quarter for Golden State. The Warriors shot 48 percent from the field, 36 percent from three-point range and 87 percent from the free-throw line, while the Kings shot 41 percent from the field, 31 percent from long range and 78 percent from the charity stripe. Golden State also out-assisted Sacramento, 32-22.
The Kings (2-2) were led by Domantas Sabonis, finishing with 23 points, 11 rebounds and six assists. Harrison Barnes scored 14 points. Davion Mitchell accrued 13 points, three rebounds, four assists and three steals, while Kevin Huerter had 11 points and nine boards. Malik Monk led the bench with 16 points, three rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
The Warriors (4-1) were led by Stephen Curry, collecting 21 points, five rebounds and three assists. Thompson tallied 14 points, two rebounds, two assists and three blocks. Draymond Green finished with 13 points, two rebounds, nine assists, two steals and two blocks, while Dario Saric led the bench with 15 points, six rebounds and two assists.
On deck for Golden State is a road matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday. As for Sacramento, they return to action on Saturday in a road matchup with the Houston Rockets.
There were nine ties and 12 lead changes in this game, with neither team leading by more than 11 points. There were three lead changes in the final 33 seconds, with Klay Thompson hitting a game-winning jumper with just 0.2 seconds remaining. That capped off a 28-22 fourth quarter for Golden State. The Warriors shot 48 percent from the field, 36 percent from three-point range and 87 percent from the free-throw line, while the Kings shot 41 percent from the field, 31 percent from long range and 78 percent from the charity stripe. Golden State also out-assisted Sacramento, 32-22.
The Kings (2-2) were led by Domantas Sabonis, finishing with 23 points, 11 rebounds and six assists. Harrison Barnes scored 14 points. Davion Mitchell accrued 13 points, three rebounds, four assists and three steals, while Kevin Huerter had 11 points and nine boards. Malik Monk led the bench with 16 points, three rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
The Warriors (4-1) were led by Stephen Curry, collecting 21 points, five rebounds and three assists. Thompson tallied 14 points, two rebounds, two assists and three blocks. Draymond Green finished with 13 points, two rebounds, nine assists, two steals and two blocks, while Dario Saric led the bench with 15 points, six rebounds and two assists.
On deck for Golden State is a road matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday. As for Sacramento, they return to action on Saturday in a road matchup with the Houston Rockets.
Lakers Defeat Clippers in OT, 130-125
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the visiting Los Angeles Clippers in overtime, 130-125, at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday.
The Clippers won 11 straight games in this series, but the Lakers snapped that streak here. The Clippers actually led 37-24 after the opening frame, but the Lakers fought back to send the game into overtime. There were eight ties and 10 lead changes in total, with the Lakers riding a 13-8 overtime to their comeback victory. The Lakers shot 51 percent from the field while holding the Clippers below 48 percent shooting. They also outscored the Clippers in fastbreak scoring, 23-9, while out-blocking them, 9-1.
The Clippers (3-2) were led by Kawhi Leonard, collecting 38 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Paul George fouled out in overtime but still had 35 points, six rebounds and two steals. Russell Westbrook compiled 24 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists and four steals, while Norman Powell led the bench with 12 points, two rebounds and three assists.
The Lakers (3-2) were led by LeBron James, finishing with 35 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists and two blocks on 13-of-19 from the field. Anthony Davis tallied 27 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, two steals and four blocks. D'Angelo Russell registered 27 points, two rebounds and six assists, while Austin Reaves had 15 points, six rebounds, seven assists and three steals.
On deck for the Lakers is a road matchup with the Orlando Magic on Saturday. The Clippers are off until Monday, playing the New York Knicks on the road as well.
The Clippers won 11 straight games in this series, but the Lakers snapped that streak here. The Clippers actually led 37-24 after the opening frame, but the Lakers fought back to send the game into overtime. There were eight ties and 10 lead changes in total, with the Lakers riding a 13-8 overtime to their comeback victory. The Lakers shot 51 percent from the field while holding the Clippers below 48 percent shooting. They also outscored the Clippers in fastbreak scoring, 23-9, while out-blocking them, 9-1.
The Clippers (3-2) were led by Kawhi Leonard, collecting 38 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Paul George fouled out in overtime but still had 35 points, six rebounds and two steals. Russell Westbrook compiled 24 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists and four steals, while Norman Powell led the bench with 12 points, two rebounds and three assists.
The Lakers (3-2) were led by LeBron James, finishing with 35 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists and two blocks on 13-of-19 from the field. Anthony Davis tallied 27 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, two steals and four blocks. D'Angelo Russell registered 27 points, two rebounds and six assists, while Austin Reaves had 15 points, six rebounds, seven assists and three steals.
On deck for the Lakers is a road matchup with the Orlando Magic on Saturday. The Clippers are off until Monday, playing the New York Knicks on the road as well.