Warriors Hold Off Rally To Defeat Pistons
The Golden State Warriors defeated the Detroit Pistons, 120-109, at Little Caesars Arena on Monday.
The Warriors (6-2) had to work harder than expected to get past the Pistons (2-6) at Little Caesars Arena on Monday. The Pistons knew they needed to deliver a bounce-back performance due to their ongoing losing streak, and they were close to completing that feat. However, the Pistons could not close the game down the stretch, allowing the Warriors to steal the victory on the road. The Warriors enjoyed a decent start and raced to a 31-26 score in the first quarter, and they bolstered their lead to eight points at halftime following a 25-22 score in the second quarter. The Pistons showed signs of life in the third quarter and outscored the Warriors by a 34-27 score, making a one-point game with only 12 minutes left. However, the Warriors were not ready to receive surprises. Golden State won the final quarter by a comfortable 37-27 score and sealed the victory. With the win, Golden State moved to 5-1 on the road, while the Pistons fell to 1-3 at home. It’s also worth noting the Pistons have now lost five games in a row.
Stephen Curry dazzled and led the Warriors to victory thanks to a 34-point performance that also included four assists. Klay Thompson finished with 17 points, and Kevon Looney contributed 10 points with six boards and two blocks. Draymond Green had six points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Chris Paul bounced back and finished with 17 points, six assists and five rebounds. Dario Saric (12 points, six rebounds) and Jonathan Kuminga (10 points) looked good off the bench.
All five starters scored in double digits for the Pistons. Killian Hayes and Cade Cunningham each had 21 points and four rebounds, though Hayes dished out seven assists as well. Isaiah Stewart posted 17 points and 11 rebounds. Ausar Thompson contributed 16 points, seven rebounds, four steals and two assists. Stanley Umude had 15 points off the bench.
The Warriors (6-2) had to work harder than expected to get past the Pistons (2-6) at Little Caesars Arena on Monday. The Pistons knew they needed to deliver a bounce-back performance due to their ongoing losing streak, and they were close to completing that feat. However, the Pistons could not close the game down the stretch, allowing the Warriors to steal the victory on the road. The Warriors enjoyed a decent start and raced to a 31-26 score in the first quarter, and they bolstered their lead to eight points at halftime following a 25-22 score in the second quarter. The Pistons showed signs of life in the third quarter and outscored the Warriors by a 34-27 score, making a one-point game with only 12 minutes left. However, the Warriors were not ready to receive surprises. Golden State won the final quarter by a comfortable 37-27 score and sealed the victory. With the win, Golden State moved to 5-1 on the road, while the Pistons fell to 1-3 at home. It’s also worth noting the Pistons have now lost five games in a row.
Stephen Curry dazzled and led the Warriors to victory thanks to a 34-point performance that also included four assists. Klay Thompson finished with 17 points, and Kevon Looney contributed 10 points with six boards and two blocks. Draymond Green had six points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Chris Paul bounced back and finished with 17 points, six assists and five rebounds. Dario Saric (12 points, six rebounds) and Jonathan Kuminga (10 points) looked good off the bench.
All five starters scored in double digits for the Pistons. Killian Hayes and Cade Cunningham each had 21 points and four rebounds, though Hayes dished out seven assists as well. Isaiah Stewart posted 17 points and 11 rebounds. Ausar Thompson contributed 16 points, seven rebounds, four steals and two assists. Stanley Umude had 15 points off the bench.
Pacers Destroy Spurs With Dominant Win
The Indiana Pacers defeated the San Antonio Spurs, 152-111, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Monday.
The Pacers (4-3) delivered one of their best offensive performances recently and inflicted a heavy defeat on the Spurs (3-4). As dominant as the Pacers were, it’s worth noting they were playing a Spurs team that looked extremely tired and in the second half of a back-to-back following their overtime loss to the Toronto Raptors on Sunday. The Pacers quickly took control of the contest and led by 16 points following the initial 12 minutes, so the game was pretty much decided the rest of the way. The Pacers looked dominant in this game, so they should have their morale very high following this contest. Indiana won each quarter by seven or more points. The Pacers won the final period by nine points to close things out, not giving the Spurs not even a shot at a potential comeback. With the win, the Pacers moved to 3-2 at home. Meanwhile, the Spurs have now lost two games in a row and own a 2-2 record on the road, but their performances have been trending in the wrong direction.
Six Indiana players scored in double digits in this one, and Tyrese Haliburton was one of the Pacers’ leading players on offense here -- he recorded 23 points, eight assists and two rebounds. Myles Turner recorded a double-double of 15 points and 11 rebounds. Benedict Mathurin contributed 10 points and three rebounds. Obi Toppin notched 19 points and two steals. Aaron Nesmith had 15 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals off the bench.
Only five Spurs players scored in double digits, led by Keldon Johnson, who finished with 17 points and four assists. Zach Collins notched 11 points and five rebounds. Doug McDermott contributed 17 points and four assist off the bench. Victor Wembanyama had a rough night from the field (3-12 FG) but still chipped in with a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double. Charles Bassey took advantage of his minutes and posted 10 points (5-5 FG).
The Pacers (4-3) delivered one of their best offensive performances recently and inflicted a heavy defeat on the Spurs (3-4). As dominant as the Pacers were, it’s worth noting they were playing a Spurs team that looked extremely tired and in the second half of a back-to-back following their overtime loss to the Toronto Raptors on Sunday. The Pacers quickly took control of the contest and led by 16 points following the initial 12 minutes, so the game was pretty much decided the rest of the way. The Pacers looked dominant in this game, so they should have their morale very high following this contest. Indiana won each quarter by seven or more points. The Pacers won the final period by nine points to close things out, not giving the Spurs not even a shot at a potential comeback. With the win, the Pacers moved to 3-2 at home. Meanwhile, the Spurs have now lost two games in a row and own a 2-2 record on the road, but their performances have been trending in the wrong direction.
Six Indiana players scored in double digits in this one, and Tyrese Haliburton was one of the Pacers’ leading players on offense here -- he recorded 23 points, eight assists and two rebounds. Myles Turner recorded a double-double of 15 points and 11 rebounds. Benedict Mathurin contributed 10 points and three rebounds. Obi Toppin notched 19 points and two steals. Aaron Nesmith had 15 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals off the bench.
Only five Spurs players scored in double digits, led by Keldon Johnson, who finished with 17 points and four assists. Zach Collins notched 11 points and five rebounds. Doug McDermott contributed 17 points and four assist off the bench. Victor Wembanyama had a rough night from the field (3-12 FG) but still chipped in with a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double. Charles Bassey took advantage of his minutes and posted 10 points (5-5 FG).
Mavs Continue Solid Start With Win Over Magic
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Orlando Magic, 117-102, at Amway Center on Monday.
The Mavericks (6-1) have been among the most pleasant surprises in the Western Conference following the first two weeks of the 2023-24 regular season. In fact, Dallas has lost just one game and is trending in the right direction following this comfortable, though not easy, win over the Magic (4-3). The Magic were the better team early on and established a six-point advantage following the first quarter (33-27). Dallas struggled to react, and Orlando pushed their lead even further, securing a 13-point lead by halftime after a 33-26 score in the second quarter. However, the Mavericks woke up in the second half and played the third quarter with a different attitude. That allowed them to flip the script, and a 33-17 score gave Dallas a three-point edge with only 12 minutes left. Carrying the momentum of the third quarter, the Mavs outscored the Magic 31-19 in the fourth quarter to secure a win that looked easier on paper than in reality.
Luka Doncic carried the way for the Mavericks with 29 points, six assists, three rebounds and two steals despite a brief exit in the second half. Kyrie Irving had an impressive 21-point, 10-assist double-double, while Tim Hardaway Jr. also notched 21 points. Both players also grabbed six rebounds. Grant Williams kept his strong start to the season alive with 13 points (5-9 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 1-3 FT).
Paolo Banchero was the leading scorer for the Magic with 22 points, six assists and five rebounds. Franz Wagner delivered 12 points, five rebounds and four assists, but he struggled massively from the floor (5-13 FG). Jalen Suggs recorded 10 points and seven assists. Moritz Wagner and Cole Anthony each had 19 points coming off the bench.
The Mavericks (6-1) have been among the most pleasant surprises in the Western Conference following the first two weeks of the 2023-24 regular season. In fact, Dallas has lost just one game and is trending in the right direction following this comfortable, though not easy, win over the Magic (4-3). The Magic were the better team early on and established a six-point advantage following the first quarter (33-27). Dallas struggled to react, and Orlando pushed their lead even further, securing a 13-point lead by halftime after a 33-26 score in the second quarter. However, the Mavericks woke up in the second half and played the third quarter with a different attitude. That allowed them to flip the script, and a 33-17 score gave Dallas a three-point edge with only 12 minutes left. Carrying the momentum of the third quarter, the Mavs outscored the Magic 31-19 in the fourth quarter to secure a win that looked easier on paper than in reality.
Luka Doncic carried the way for the Mavericks with 29 points, six assists, three rebounds and two steals despite a brief exit in the second half. Kyrie Irving had an impressive 21-point, 10-assist double-double, while Tim Hardaway Jr. also notched 21 points. Both players also grabbed six rebounds. Grant Williams kept his strong start to the season alive with 13 points (5-9 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 1-3 FT).
Paolo Banchero was the leading scorer for the Magic with 22 points, six assists and five rebounds. Franz Wagner delivered 12 points, five rebounds and four assists, but he struggled massively from the floor (5-13 FG). Jalen Suggs recorded 10 points and seven assists. Moritz Wagner and Cole Anthony each had 19 points coming off the bench.
76ers Blast Wizards, 146-128
The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Washington Wizards, 146-128, at Wells Fargo Center on Monday night.
The 76ers (5-1) came into the night with an unblemished home record and boasting solid favorite status over the visiting Wizards (1-5), and they managed to establish a quick 33-24 lead through one. Both teams clicked offensively in the second quarter, but Philadelphia still managed to add another eight points to its advantage with a 42-point tally during the period. The scoreboard was kept busy again in the third period with 87 total points recorded, but Washington trailed by 22 points heading into the fourth quarter and never had a chance to even get with striking distance of the hosts in the final 12 minutes. Both clubs shot over 50.0 percent, and the 76ers' Joel Embiid scored 29 points in the third quarter without missing from the field or free-throw line.
Kyle Kuzma led the Wizards with 28 points, adding six rebounds, four assists and one block. Jordan Poole delivered 23 points, six assists, one rebound and one block. Deni Avdija totaled 16 points, six assists, five rebounds and one steal. Daniel Gafford and Tyus Jones posted matching 12-point contributions while recording seven rebounds and six assists, respectively.
Embiid paced the 76ers with 48 points, complementing them with 11 rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block. Tyrese Maxey generated a 22-point, 11-assist double-double that included one rebound, one steal and one block. Tobias Harris posted 18 points, five rebounds, five assists and one steal. De'Anthony Melton supplied 14 points, four assists, three rebounds and one steal. Nicolas Batum netted 11 points.
The Wizards remain on the road and visit the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night, while the 76ers remain home and host the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night.
The 76ers (5-1) came into the night with an unblemished home record and boasting solid favorite status over the visiting Wizards (1-5), and they managed to establish a quick 33-24 lead through one. Both teams clicked offensively in the second quarter, but Philadelphia still managed to add another eight points to its advantage with a 42-point tally during the period. The scoreboard was kept busy again in the third period with 87 total points recorded, but Washington trailed by 22 points heading into the fourth quarter and never had a chance to even get with striking distance of the hosts in the final 12 minutes. Both clubs shot over 50.0 percent, and the 76ers' Joel Embiid scored 29 points in the third quarter without missing from the field or free-throw line.
Kyle Kuzma led the Wizards with 28 points, adding six rebounds, four assists and one block. Jordan Poole delivered 23 points, six assists, one rebound and one block. Deni Avdija totaled 16 points, six assists, five rebounds and one steal. Daniel Gafford and Tyus Jones posted matching 12-point contributions while recording seven rebounds and six assists, respectively.
Embiid paced the 76ers with 48 points, complementing them with 11 rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block. Tyrese Maxey generated a 22-point, 11-assist double-double that included one rebound, one steal and one block. Tobias Harris posted 18 points, five rebounds, five assists and one steal. De'Anthony Melton supplied 14 points, four assists, three rebounds and one steal. Nicolas Batum netted 11 points.
The Wizards remain on the road and visit the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night, while the 76ers remain home and host the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night.
Heat Edges Lakers, 108-107
The Miami Heat defeated the Los Angeles Lakers, 108-107, at Kaseya Center on Monday night.
The Heat (3-4) were looking to build on their second win against franchise legend LeBron James and his Lakers (3-4), but early on, each team matched each other basket for basket to send the game knotted up at 33-33 going into the second quarter. Miami then appeared to pull way in the middle periods courtesy of a 57-46 advantage in that span, but Los Angeles outscored the home squad by a 28-18 margin in the final 12 minutes to get within one point of catching the Heat. However, James, Austin Reaves and Cam Reddish all missed would-be go-ahead shots in the last 2:14 of the game.
James led the Lakers with 30 points, adding four rebounds, three assists, three blocks and one steal. Reaves generated a 23-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included nine assists and one steal. D'Angelo Russell furnished 13 points, six assists, four rebounds and one block. Christian Wood supplied 12 points, six boards, one assist and one steal. Anthony Davis was limited to nine points, six rebounds, four assists and one block before exiting for good in the third quarter due to hip spasms.
Jimmy Butler paced the Heat with 28 points, complementing them with six assists, four rebounds and two steals. Bam Adebayo posted a 22-point, 20-rebound, 10-assist triple-double that included two steals and two blocks. Tyler Herro matched Adebayo's scoring and also recorded five rebounds, five assists and three steals. Duncan Robinson netted 12 points, three assists, two rebounds and one steal.
The Lakers next pay a visit to the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night, while the Heat visits the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday night as well.
The Heat (3-4) were looking to build on their second win against franchise legend LeBron James and his Lakers (3-4), but early on, each team matched each other basket for basket to send the game knotted up at 33-33 going into the second quarter. Miami then appeared to pull way in the middle periods courtesy of a 57-46 advantage in that span, but Los Angeles outscored the home squad by a 28-18 margin in the final 12 minutes to get within one point of catching the Heat. However, James, Austin Reaves and Cam Reddish all missed would-be go-ahead shots in the last 2:14 of the game.
James led the Lakers with 30 points, adding four rebounds, three assists, three blocks and one steal. Reaves generated a 23-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included nine assists and one steal. D'Angelo Russell furnished 13 points, six assists, four rebounds and one block. Christian Wood supplied 12 points, six boards, one assist and one steal. Anthony Davis was limited to nine points, six rebounds, four assists and one block before exiting for good in the third quarter due to hip spasms.
Jimmy Butler paced the Heat with 28 points, complementing them with six assists, four rebounds and two steals. Bam Adebayo posted a 22-point, 20-rebound, 10-assist triple-double that included two steals and two blocks. Tyler Herro matched Adebayo's scoring and also recorded five rebounds, five assists and three steals. Duncan Robinson netted 12 points, three assists, two rebounds and one steal.
The Lakers next pay a visit to the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night, while the Heat visits the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday night as well.
Bucks Edge Nets, 129-125
The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Brooklyn Nets, 129-125, at Barclays Center on Monday night.
The Bucks (4-2) encountered a feisty Nets (3-4) early, leading to a four-point halftime deficit for Milwaukee. However, it was the visitors that managed to forge a two-point lead going into the final period with a 33-point haul in the third, and they managed to finish on a 17-10 run over the final 4:48 after falling behind once again by three.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with a 36-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included three assists, two blocks and one steal. Damian Lillard totaled 21 points, seven assists, six rebounds and one steal. Jae Crowder and Khris Middleton posted matching 15-point tallies while recording five rebounds and four assists, respectively. Bobby Portis and Cameron Payne each managed 11 points, with Portis adding six rebounds. Patrick Connaughton registered 10 points, three assists and one rebound.
Cam Thomas paced the Nets with 45 points, complementing them with four rebounds, three assists and one steal. Mikal Bridges furnished 31 points, five boards, four assists and one block. Lonnie Walker delivered 19 points, four boards and two assists. Royce O'Neale finished with 12 points, nine boards, three assists and one block.
The Bucks return home to host the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night, while the Nets remain home and host the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night as well.
The Bucks (4-2) encountered a feisty Nets (3-4) early, leading to a four-point halftime deficit for Milwaukee. However, it was the visitors that managed to forge a two-point lead going into the final period with a 33-point haul in the third, and they managed to finish on a 17-10 run over the final 4:48 after falling behind once again by three.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with a 36-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included three assists, two blocks and one steal. Damian Lillard totaled 21 points, seven assists, six rebounds and one steal. Jae Crowder and Khris Middleton posted matching 15-point tallies while recording five rebounds and four assists, respectively. Bobby Portis and Cameron Payne each managed 11 points, with Portis adding six rebounds. Patrick Connaughton registered 10 points, three assists and one rebound.
Cam Thomas paced the Nets with 45 points, complementing them with four rebounds, three assists and one steal. Mikal Bridges furnished 31 points, five boards, four assists and one block. Lonnie Walker delivered 19 points, four boards and two assists. Royce O'Neale finished with 12 points, nine boards, three assists and one block.
The Bucks return home to host the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night, while the Nets remain home and host the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night as well.
Knicks Rally Past Clippers In New York
By Dan Bruno
The New York Knicks defeated the visiting Los Angeles Clippers, 111-97, at Madison Square Garden on Monday evening.
The Clippers got out to a solid start and led, 21-19, after one quarter. The Knicks kept it close through the second but still trailed by four at halftime. Both sides picked up the pace in the third, where the hosts managed to outscore the Clippers, 34-30, to tie the game at 76, heading into the final frame. The Knicks built up momentum in the fourth and outscored the visitors by 14 points in the quarter to run away with the impressive home win.
Julius Randle led the Knicks with 27 points, 10 rebounds and three assists, in 37 minutes. RJ Barrett followed up with 26 points, six rebounds and four assists, while Mitchell Robinson logged 13 points, 15 rebounds and four steals. The Clippers shot 46.6 percent from the field, including 12-for-31 from deep.
Meanwhile, Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 18 points, five rebounds and three assists, in 32 minutes. James Harden totaled 17 points, three rebounds, six assists and a steal, in his debut with the team. Russell Westbrook tallied 17 points, four rebounds and four assists. The Clippers shot 49.3 percent from the field, including 11-for-32 from long range.
The Clippers (3-3) will look to bounce back as they take on the Nets in Brooklyn on Wednesday. The Knicks (3-4) play host to the Spurs on Wednesday.
The Clippers got out to a solid start and led, 21-19, after one quarter. The Knicks kept it close through the second but still trailed by four at halftime. Both sides picked up the pace in the third, where the hosts managed to outscore the Clippers, 34-30, to tie the game at 76, heading into the final frame. The Knicks built up momentum in the fourth and outscored the visitors by 14 points in the quarter to run away with the impressive home win.
Julius Randle led the Knicks with 27 points, 10 rebounds and three assists, in 37 minutes. RJ Barrett followed up with 26 points, six rebounds and four assists, while Mitchell Robinson logged 13 points, 15 rebounds and four steals. The Clippers shot 46.6 percent from the field, including 12-for-31 from deep.
Meanwhile, Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 18 points, five rebounds and three assists, in 32 minutes. James Harden totaled 17 points, three rebounds, six assists and a steal, in his debut with the team. Russell Westbrook tallied 17 points, four rebounds and four assists. The Clippers shot 49.3 percent from the field, including 11-for-32 from long range.
The Clippers (3-3) will look to bounce back as they take on the Nets in Brooklyn on Wednesday. The Knicks (3-4) play host to the Spurs on Wednesday.
Bulls Roll Past Jazz
By Dan Bruno
The Chicago Bulls defeated the visiting Utah Jazz, 130-113, at United Center on Monday evening.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Bulls led, 37-32, after one quarter. The hosts kept the momentum going, pushing it to a 14-point game by halftime and to a 20-point deficit heading into the final frame. The Jazz put up a fight with 35 points in the fourth quarter, but it was not enough, as the Bulls cruised to the home win. This marks the third straight loss for the Jazz.
Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 24 points, two rebounds, three assists and a steal, in 31 minutes. DeMar DeRozan added 21 points, five rebounds, four assists and four steals, while Coby White totaled 18 points, three rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Bulls shot 51.6 percent from the field, including 18-for-34 from deep.
Meanwhile, Lauri Markkanen led the Jazz with 29 points, five rebounds, three assists and a block, in 34 minutes. Walker Kessler totaled 15 points, 15 rebounds and four blocks, while Collin Sexton and John Collins added 14 points each. The Jazz shot 47.7 percent from the field, including 16-for-43 from long range.
The Jazz (2-6) will look to end their slide, as they take on the Pacers in Indiana on Wednesday. The Bulls (3-5) play host to the Suns on Wednesday.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Bulls led, 37-32, after one quarter. The hosts kept the momentum going, pushing it to a 14-point game by halftime and to a 20-point deficit heading into the final frame. The Jazz put up a fight with 35 points in the fourth quarter, but it was not enough, as the Bulls cruised to the home win. This marks the third straight loss for the Jazz.
Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 24 points, two rebounds, three assists and a steal, in 31 minutes. DeMar DeRozan added 21 points, five rebounds, four assists and four steals, while Coby White totaled 18 points, three rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Bulls shot 51.6 percent from the field, including 18-for-34 from deep.
Meanwhile, Lauri Markkanen led the Jazz with 29 points, five rebounds, three assists and a block, in 34 minutes. Walker Kessler totaled 15 points, 15 rebounds and four blocks, while Collin Sexton and John Collins added 14 points each. The Jazz shot 47.7 percent from the field, including 16-for-43 from long range.
The Jazz (2-6) will look to end their slide, as they take on the Pacers in Indiana on Wednesday. The Bulls (3-5) play host to the Suns on Wednesday.
Rockets Dominate Kings In Houston
By Dan Bruno
The Houston Rockets defeated the visiting Sacramento Kings, 122-97, at Toyota Center on Monday evening.
The Rockets jumped out to a hot start with a, 32-22, lead after one quarter. The Kings could not find their footing and were outscored by another 15 points in the second, making it a 25-point deficit heading into the break. The Rockets kept the momentum going in the third and outscored the visitors, 30-18, in the frame to make it a 37-point difference heading into the final quarter. The Kings put up a fight but were not able to climb all the way back, resulting in their third straight loss.
Jalen Green led the Rockets with 23 points, two rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block, in 26 minutes. Alperen Sengun followed up with 17 points, eight rebounds, 12 assists and a steal, while Fred VanVleet logged 11 points, four rebounds and five assists. The Rockets shot 57.3 percent from the field, including 15-for-31 from long range.
Meanwhile, Keon Ellis was the high-point man for the Kings, with 15 points on 5-for-7 shooting, in 14 minutes off the bench. Kevin Huerter totaled 13 points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Keegan Murray added 12 points, five rebounds and a steal. The Kings shot 44.4 percent from the field, including 14-for-40 from deep.
The Kings (2-4) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Trail Blazers on Monday. The Rockets (3-3) play host to the Lakers on Wednesday.
The Rockets jumped out to a hot start with a, 32-22, lead after one quarter. The Kings could not find their footing and were outscored by another 15 points in the second, making it a 25-point deficit heading into the break. The Rockets kept the momentum going in the third and outscored the visitors, 30-18, in the frame to make it a 37-point difference heading into the final quarter. The Kings put up a fight but were not able to climb all the way back, resulting in their third straight loss.
Jalen Green led the Rockets with 23 points, two rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block, in 26 minutes. Alperen Sengun followed up with 17 points, eight rebounds, 12 assists and a steal, while Fred VanVleet logged 11 points, four rebounds and five assists. The Rockets shot 57.3 percent from the field, including 15-for-31 from long range.
Meanwhile, Keon Ellis was the high-point man for the Kings, with 15 points on 5-for-7 shooting, in 14 minutes off the bench. Kevin Huerter totaled 13 points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Keegan Murray added 12 points, five rebounds and a steal. The Kings shot 44.4 percent from the field, including 14-for-40 from deep.
The Kings (2-4) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Trail Blazers on Monday. The Rockets (3-3) play host to the Lakers on Wednesday.
T'Wolves Defeat Celtics in OT, 114-109
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the visiting Boston Celtics in OT, 114-109, at Target Center on Monday.
There were 13 ties and 17 lead changes in total, taking an overtime session to determine a winner. Neither team led by more than eight points in this game, but Minnesota ripped off a 9-0 run in the overtime session to grab their win. The Timberwolves shot 52 percent from the field and 35 percent from three-point range while holding the Celtics to 39 percent from the field and 28 percent from long range. Minnesota also out-assisted Boston, 26-20, while outscoring them in the paint, 46-38.
The Celtics (5-1) were led by Jayson Tatum, tallying 32 points, five rebounds, two assists and five steals. Jaylen Brown amassed 26 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Kristaps Porzingis totaled 20 points and five boards, while Jrue Holiday collected 12 points, 11 rebounds and six assists. Sam Hauser led the bench with 11 points.
The Timberwolves (4-2) were led by Anthony Edwards, finishing with 38 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Jaden McDaniels generated 20 points and two boards. Rudy Gobert registered 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Karl-Anthony Towns tallied seven points, 10 rebounds and three assists. Naz Reid led the bench with 14 points, four rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks.
Both teams return to action on Wednesday, with Minnesota playing host to the New Orleans Pelicans and Boston traveling to face the Philadelphia 76ers.
There were 13 ties and 17 lead changes in total, taking an overtime session to determine a winner. Neither team led by more than eight points in this game, but Minnesota ripped off a 9-0 run in the overtime session to grab their win. The Timberwolves shot 52 percent from the field and 35 percent from three-point range while holding the Celtics to 39 percent from the field and 28 percent from long range. Minnesota also out-assisted Boston, 26-20, while outscoring them in the paint, 46-38.
The Celtics (5-1) were led by Jayson Tatum, tallying 32 points, five rebounds, two assists and five steals. Jaylen Brown amassed 26 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Kristaps Porzingis totaled 20 points and five boards, while Jrue Holiday collected 12 points, 11 rebounds and six assists. Sam Hauser led the bench with 11 points.
The Timberwolves (4-2) were led by Anthony Edwards, finishing with 38 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Jaden McDaniels generated 20 points and two boards. Rudy Gobert registered 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Karl-Anthony Towns tallied seven points, 10 rebounds and three assists. Naz Reid led the bench with 14 points, four rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks.
Both teams return to action on Wednesday, with Minnesota playing host to the New Orleans Pelicans and Boston traveling to face the Philadelphia 76ers.
Thunder Defeat Hawks, 126-117
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the visiting Atlanta Hawks, 126-117, at Chesapeake Arena on Monday.
Oklahoma City won the first three quarters of this game, leading by eight points at the half and by 19 at the end of the third quarter. That allowed them to win this game in wire-to-wire fashion. The Thunder shot 47 percent from the field, 39 percent from three-point range and 96 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Hawks to 37 percent from the field, 33 percent from long range and 84 percent from the charity stripe. OKC also outscored ATL in the paint, 56-48, and in fastbreak scoring, 32-21.
The Hawks (3-4) were led by Dejounte Murray, finishing with 29 points, four rebounds and six assists. Trae Young tallied 22 points, four rebounds and 11 assists. Jalen Johnson generated 13 points, 12 rebounds, five assists and three steals. Clint Capela compiled six points, 12 rebounds and two blocks, while Bogdan Bogdanovic led the bench with 17 points, two rebounds, three assists and two steals.
The Thunder (4-3) were led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, collecting 30 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Jalen Williams had 21 points, three rebounds and two assists. Luguentz Dort amassed 19 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while Chet Holmgren accrued 16 points, 12 rebounds, three assists and three blocks.
On deck for Oklahoma City is a home matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday. As for Atlanta, they return to action on Thursday in a road matchup with the Orlando Magic.
Oklahoma City won the first three quarters of this game, leading by eight points at the half and by 19 at the end of the third quarter. That allowed them to win this game in wire-to-wire fashion. The Thunder shot 47 percent from the field, 39 percent from three-point range and 96 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Hawks to 37 percent from the field, 33 percent from long range and 84 percent from the charity stripe. OKC also outscored ATL in the paint, 56-48, and in fastbreak scoring, 32-21.
The Hawks (3-4) were led by Dejounte Murray, finishing with 29 points, four rebounds and six assists. Trae Young tallied 22 points, four rebounds and 11 assists. Jalen Johnson generated 13 points, 12 rebounds, five assists and three steals. Clint Capela compiled six points, 12 rebounds and two blocks, while Bogdan Bogdanovic led the bench with 17 points, two rebounds, three assists and two steals.
The Thunder (4-3) were led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, collecting 30 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Jalen Williams had 21 points, three rebounds and two assists. Luguentz Dort amassed 19 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while Chet Holmgren accrued 16 points, 12 rebounds, three assists and three blocks.
On deck for Oklahoma City is a home matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday. As for Atlanta, they return to action on Thursday in a road matchup with the Orlando Magic.
Nuggets Defeat Pelicans, 134-116
The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting New Orleans Pelicans, 134-116, at Ball Arena on Monday.
While the Pelicans had a double-digit lead at the half, the Nuggets rode a 40-21 third quarter to their blowout win. They finished things with a 35-24 fourth quarter, outscoring New Orleans in the second half, 75-45. The Nuggets shot 54 percent from the field while holding the Pelicans to 50 percent shooting. Denver recorded 37 assists to nine turnovers, while New Orleans had 24 assists to 13 turnovers. They also outscored the Pels in the paint, 64-46, while out-rebounding them, 52-45.
The Pelicans (4-3) were led by Jordan Hawkins, collecting 31 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Brandon Ingram totaled 22 points, two rebounds and five assists. Zion Williamson tallied 20 points, 10 rebounds, nine assists and two steals, while Matt Ryan led the bench with 17 points. Jonas Valanciunas amassed six points, 11 rebounds and two assists.
The Nuggets (7-1) got another triple-double from Nikola Jokic, finishing with 35 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists. Michael Porter Jr provided 22 points, nine rebounds and three assists. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope compiled 15 points and seven assists, while Aaron Gordon accumulated 15 points, 12 rebounds and six assists.
Both teams return to action on Wednesday, with Denver remaining home to face the Golden State Warriors and New Orleans traveling to play the Minnesota Timberwolves.
While the Pelicans had a double-digit lead at the half, the Nuggets rode a 40-21 third quarter to their blowout win. They finished things with a 35-24 fourth quarter, outscoring New Orleans in the second half, 75-45. The Nuggets shot 54 percent from the field while holding the Pelicans to 50 percent shooting. Denver recorded 37 assists to nine turnovers, while New Orleans had 24 assists to 13 turnovers. They also outscored the Pels in the paint, 64-46, while out-rebounding them, 52-45.
The Pelicans (4-3) were led by Jordan Hawkins, collecting 31 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Brandon Ingram totaled 22 points, two rebounds and five assists. Zion Williamson tallied 20 points, 10 rebounds, nine assists and two steals, while Matt Ryan led the bench with 17 points. Jonas Valanciunas amassed six points, 11 rebounds and two assists.
The Nuggets (7-1) got another triple-double from Nikola Jokic, finishing with 35 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists. Michael Porter Jr provided 22 points, nine rebounds and three assists. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope compiled 15 points and seven assists, while Aaron Gordon accumulated 15 points, 12 rebounds and six assists.
Both teams return to action on Wednesday, with Denver remaining home to face the Golden State Warriors and New Orleans traveling to play the Minnesota Timberwolves.