Magic Cruise To Easy Win Over Pistons
The Orlando Magic defeated the Detroit Pistons, 123-91, at Amway Center on Friday.
The Magic (15-7) were massive favorites entering this game and lived up to expectations here with a solid win over a struggling Pistons (2-20) team that has now dropped 19 games in a row. Orlando established control following a 28-23 score in the first quarter, and the Magic never looked back the rest of the way. By the time the second quarter finished, the Magic were already leading by 14 points after a 30-21 score. The Magic didn’t step off the gas in the third quarter. They outscored the Pistons 35-24 in the third quarter, and the game was all but over by the time the final 12 minutes arrived. Orlando closed things out with ease following a 30-23 score in the fourth and cruised to one of their easiest wins of the season. To be fair, the Magic were solid on both ends of the court and didn’t give the Pistons a chance. With the win, the Magic moved to 10-2 at home. Meanwhile, the Pistons fell to 1-10 on the road.
Franz Wagner led the way for the Magic with 27 points and three assists. Paolo Banchero was impressive as well and posted 24 points. Banchero also added four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Goga Bitadze delivered 13 points, eight rebounds and four blocks. Gary Harris finished with 11 points and two steals. Cole Anthony impressed off the bench and finished with 16 points and six assists.
Cade Cunningham was the leading scorer for the Pistons and finished with 21 points, six assists and three rebounds. Killian Hayes was the only other starter who posted double-digit points thanks to a 16-point effort that also included six boards and four assists. Alec Burks was the only other Detroit player who reached double digits thanks to a 14-point effort off the bench. Isaiah Stewart scored three points with six rebounds. Bojan Bogdanovic notched nine points, the same as Marvin Bagley III.
The Magic (15-7) were massive favorites entering this game and lived up to expectations here with a solid win over a struggling Pistons (2-20) team that has now dropped 19 games in a row. Orlando established control following a 28-23 score in the first quarter, and the Magic never looked back the rest of the way. By the time the second quarter finished, the Magic were already leading by 14 points after a 30-21 score. The Magic didn’t step off the gas in the third quarter. They outscored the Pistons 35-24 in the third quarter, and the game was all but over by the time the final 12 minutes arrived. Orlando closed things out with ease following a 30-23 score in the fourth and cruised to one of their easiest wins of the season. To be fair, the Magic were solid on both ends of the court and didn’t give the Pistons a chance. With the win, the Magic moved to 10-2 at home. Meanwhile, the Pistons fell to 1-10 on the road.
Franz Wagner led the way for the Magic with 27 points and three assists. Paolo Banchero was impressive as well and posted 24 points. Banchero also added four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Goga Bitadze delivered 13 points, eight rebounds and four blocks. Gary Harris finished with 11 points and two steals. Cole Anthony impressed off the bench and finished with 16 points and six assists.
Cade Cunningham was the leading scorer for the Pistons and finished with 21 points, six assists and three rebounds. Killian Hayes was the only other starter who posted double-digit points thanks to a 16-point effort that also included six boards and four assists. Alec Burks was the only other Detroit player who reached double digits thanks to a 14-point effort off the bench. Isaiah Stewart scored three points with six rebounds. Bojan Bogdanovic notched nine points, the same as Marvin Bagley III.
76ers Rally Back To Defeat Hawks
The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Atlanta Hawks, 125-114, at Wells Fargo Center on Friday.
The 76ers (14-7) had to work hard in this game to secure the victory over the Hawks (9-12). Philadelphia enjoyed an excellent start, and while Atlanta responded well, the 76ers were able to come back and secure the victory in front of a sellout 19,746 crowd at Wells Fargo Center. Indeed, the 76ers jumped to a 35-23 lead in the first quarter, but the Hawks responded with a 45-27 score in the second 12-minute period. Philadelphia outscored Atlanta with a 31-24 score, turning the tables around and securing a one-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. The final period was back-and-forth to start, but the 76ers eventually closed the game out with a 32-22 score. The 11-point differential might look too much, but the game was tighter than the final score suggests. With the win, the 76ers moved to 8-3 at home, while the Hawks fell to 6-6 on the road.
Joel Embiid was the star of the game for the 76ers and finished with 38 points, 14 rebounds, three assists and four blocks. Tyrese Maxey delivered 30 points, seven assists and two rebounds. DeAnthony Melton posted 15 points, six rebounds and five assists. Tobias Harris notched 13 points and eight rebounds. Kelly Oubre Jr. impressed off the bench and delivered 11 points across 24 minutes.
De’Andre Hunter was the highest scorer for the Hawks and finished with 24 points and seven rebounds. Dejounte Murray had 20 points, nine assists and four rebounds. Bogdan Bogdanovic also had 20 points, and he added nine rebounds as well. Clint Capela had 15 points and 16 rebounds. Saddiq Bey posted 16 points and eight rebounds.
The 76ers (14-7) had to work hard in this game to secure the victory over the Hawks (9-12). Philadelphia enjoyed an excellent start, and while Atlanta responded well, the 76ers were able to come back and secure the victory in front of a sellout 19,746 crowd at Wells Fargo Center. Indeed, the 76ers jumped to a 35-23 lead in the first quarter, but the Hawks responded with a 45-27 score in the second 12-minute period. Philadelphia outscored Atlanta with a 31-24 score, turning the tables around and securing a one-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. The final period was back-and-forth to start, but the 76ers eventually closed the game out with a 32-22 score. The 11-point differential might look too much, but the game was tighter than the final score suggests. With the win, the 76ers moved to 8-3 at home, while the Hawks fell to 6-6 on the road.
Joel Embiid was the star of the game for the 76ers and finished with 38 points, 14 rebounds, three assists and four blocks. Tyrese Maxey delivered 30 points, seven assists and two rebounds. DeAnthony Melton posted 15 points, six rebounds and five assists. Tobias Harris notched 13 points and eight rebounds. Kelly Oubre Jr. impressed off the bench and delivered 11 points across 24 minutes.
De’Andre Hunter was the highest scorer for the Hawks and finished with 24 points and seven rebounds. Dejounte Murray had 20 points, nine assists and four rebounds. Bogdan Bogdanovic also had 20 points, and he added nine rebounds as well. Clint Capela had 15 points and 16 rebounds. Saddiq Bey posted 16 points and eight rebounds.
Hornets Hold On To Defeat Raptors
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Toronto Raptors, 119-116, at Spectrum Center on Friday.
The Hornets (7-13) and the Raptors (9-13) played a back-and-forth contest that was only decided in the final minutes of the matchup. Charlotte enjoyed an excellent start and raced to a 35-22 score in the opening quarter. Toronto showed signs of a potential comeback following a 32-31 score in the second quarter, but they were still down by double digits at halftime. The Raptors showed signs of a comeback in the third quarter, but the Hornets restored their 13-point lead after a 24-23 score in that frame. The Raptors looked impressive in the fourth quarter and outscored Charlotte by a 39-29 score, but that was not enough. A few clutch free throws down the stretch allowed the Hornets to ice the game, and they secured a tight three-point victory. With the win, the Hornets moved to 4-7 at home. Meanwhile, the Raptors fell to 3-7 on the road.
Gordon Hayward finished with 24 points, four rebounds and four assists for the Hornets. Brandon Miller posted 20 points, five rebounds and three assists. Miles Bridges had 22 points and eight rebounds, but he also added three assists and two steals. Terry Rozier posted a 21-point, 13-assist double-double that included two rebounds. Nick Richards had 15 points and eight rebounds coming off the bench.
Scottie Barnes was the best player for the Raptors and finished with 31 points, but he also added 10 rebounds and 10 assists. Pascal Siakam had 25 points, five rebounds and four assists. O.G. Anunoby delivered 11 points, four assists and three rebounds. Precious Achiuwa finished with 17 points and 10 rebounds coming off the bench.
The Hornets (7-13) and the Raptors (9-13) played a back-and-forth contest that was only decided in the final minutes of the matchup. Charlotte enjoyed an excellent start and raced to a 35-22 score in the opening quarter. Toronto showed signs of a potential comeback following a 32-31 score in the second quarter, but they were still down by double digits at halftime. The Raptors showed signs of a comeback in the third quarter, but the Hornets restored their 13-point lead after a 24-23 score in that frame. The Raptors looked impressive in the fourth quarter and outscored Charlotte by a 39-29 score, but that was not enough. A few clutch free throws down the stretch allowed the Hornets to ice the game, and they secured a tight three-point victory. With the win, the Hornets moved to 4-7 at home. Meanwhile, the Raptors fell to 3-7 on the road.
Gordon Hayward finished with 24 points, four rebounds and four assists for the Hornets. Brandon Miller posted 20 points, five rebounds and three assists. Miles Bridges had 22 points and eight rebounds, but he also added three assists and two steals. Terry Rozier posted a 21-point, 13-assist double-double that included two rebounds. Nick Richards had 15 points and eight rebounds coming off the bench.
Scottie Barnes was the best player for the Raptors and finished with 31 points, but he also added 10 rebounds and 10 assists. Pascal Siakam had 25 points, five rebounds and four assists. O.G. Anunoby delivered 11 points, four assists and three rebounds. Precious Achiuwa finished with 17 points and 10 rebounds coming off the bench.
Celtics Defeat Knicks, 133-123
The Boston Celtics defeated the visiting New York Knicks, 133-123, at TD Garden on Friday.
While there were six ties and six lead changes in the first half, Boston rode a 41-33 second quarter and 35-30 third quarter to their win. They never relinquished the lead in the second half, getting their lead up to 20 points at times. The Celtics shot 53 percent from the field and 86 percent from the free-throw line while the Knicks shot 50 percent from the field and 74 percent from the charity stripe. Boston also won the turnover battle, 13-7, recording eight steals and five blocks while NY had just four steals and three blocks.
The Knicks (12-9) were led by Jalen Brunson, finishing with 23 points and four assists. RJ Barrett had 23 points, three rebounds and three assists. Julius Randle tallied 20 points, five rebounds and three assists. Immanuel Quickley led the bench with 17 points, while Isaiah Hartenstein had five points, 16 rebounds, four assists and two blocks.
The Celtics (16-5) were led by Derrick White, amassing 30 points, three rebounds, three assists two steals and two blocks. Jayson Tatum tallied 25 points, six rebounds and five assists. Kristaps Porzingis provided 21 points, three rebounds and two steals, while Jaylen Brown accrued 18 points and four assists. Jrue Holiday accumulated 16 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals, while Al Horford led the bench with 14 points, 10 rebounds and two assists.
On deck for New York is a home matchup with the Toronto Raptors on Monday. As for Boston, they play host to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday for their next outing.
While there were six ties and six lead changes in the first half, Boston rode a 41-33 second quarter and 35-30 third quarter to their win. They never relinquished the lead in the second half, getting their lead up to 20 points at times. The Celtics shot 53 percent from the field and 86 percent from the free-throw line while the Knicks shot 50 percent from the field and 74 percent from the charity stripe. Boston also won the turnover battle, 13-7, recording eight steals and five blocks while NY had just four steals and three blocks.
The Knicks (12-9) were led by Jalen Brunson, finishing with 23 points and four assists. RJ Barrett had 23 points, three rebounds and three assists. Julius Randle tallied 20 points, five rebounds and three assists. Immanuel Quickley led the bench with 17 points, while Isaiah Hartenstein had five points, 16 rebounds, four assists and two blocks.
The Celtics (16-5) were led by Derrick White, amassing 30 points, three rebounds, three assists two steals and two blocks. Jayson Tatum tallied 25 points, six rebounds and five assists. Kristaps Porzingis provided 21 points, three rebounds and two steals, while Jaylen Brown accrued 18 points and four assists. Jrue Holiday accumulated 16 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals, while Al Horford led the bench with 14 points, 10 rebounds and two assists.
On deck for New York is a home matchup with the Toronto Raptors on Monday. As for Boston, they play host to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday for their next outing.
Nets Wallop Wizards, 124-97
The Brooklyn Nets defeated the visiting Washington Wizards, 124-97, at Barclay's Center on Friday.
A 26-18 first quarter set the foundation for Brooklyn in this blowout win, riding a 40-24 third quarter to their victory. They got their lead up to 30 points at times, leading by at least 15 points for the entirety of the fourth quarter. The Nets shot 48 percent from the field and 30 percent from three-point range while holding the Wizards to 42 percent from the field and 18 percent from long range (6-of-33). Brooklyn out-assisted Washington, 27-19, while out-rebounding them, 63-54. The Nets also outscored the Wizards in the paint, 76-56, and in fastbreak points, 22-7.
The Wizards (3-18) were led by Kyle Kuzma, collecting 17 points, three rebounds and two assists. Deni Avdija amassed 15 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two blocks. Tyus Jones tallied 14 points, two rebounds and three assists, while Bilal Coulibaly totaled 11 points, 10 rebounds and two assists. Jordan Poole had just eight points, two rebounds and two assists.
The Nets (12-9) were led by Mikal Bridges, finishing with 21 points, four rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Cam Thomas collected 17 points, two rebounds and four assists. Spencer Dinwiddie amassed 14 points, three rebounds, nine assists and four steals. Nic Claxton had 13 points, 15 rebounds and two blocks, while Day'Ron Sharpe led the bench with 15 points, 11 rebounds and four assists.
Both teams return to action on Monday, with Washington staying on the road to play the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn playing the Sacramento Kings on the road as well.
A 26-18 first quarter set the foundation for Brooklyn in this blowout win, riding a 40-24 third quarter to their victory. They got their lead up to 30 points at times, leading by at least 15 points for the entirety of the fourth quarter. The Nets shot 48 percent from the field and 30 percent from three-point range while holding the Wizards to 42 percent from the field and 18 percent from long range (6-of-33). Brooklyn out-assisted Washington, 27-19, while out-rebounding them, 63-54. The Nets also outscored the Wizards in the paint, 76-56, and in fastbreak points, 22-7.
The Wizards (3-18) were led by Kyle Kuzma, collecting 17 points, three rebounds and two assists. Deni Avdija amassed 15 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two blocks. Tyus Jones tallied 14 points, two rebounds and three assists, while Bilal Coulibaly totaled 11 points, 10 rebounds and two assists. Jordan Poole had just eight points, two rebounds and two assists.
The Nets (12-9) were led by Mikal Bridges, finishing with 21 points, four rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Cam Thomas collected 17 points, two rebounds and four assists. Spencer Dinwiddie amassed 14 points, three rebounds, nine assists and four steals. Nic Claxton had 13 points, 15 rebounds and two blocks, while Day'Ron Sharpe led the bench with 15 points, 11 rebounds and four assists.
Both teams return to action on Monday, with Washington staying on the road to play the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn playing the Sacramento Kings on the road as well.
Cavaliers Upend Heat, 111-99
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Miami Heat, 111-99, at Kaseya Center on Friday night.
The Heat (12-10) opened the game clicking on both ends of the floor, leading to a 25-17 lead through one. However, that opening period would prove to the be the highlight of the hosts' night, as they were subsequently outscored, 71-50, over the middle quarters by a resurgent Cavaliers (13-9) squad on the way to a fairly lopsided loss. Cleveland enjoyed a sizable 51-37 rebounding advantage.
Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with a 27-point, 13-assist double-double that included six assists and one steal. Darius Garland furnished 18 points, six assists, two rebounds and four steals. Georges Niang totaled 13 points, three boards and two assists. Max Strus delivered 11 points, seven rebounds, one assist and one steal.
Kyle Lowry and Josh Richardson co-led the Heat with 17 points apiece, adding five assists and two rebounds, respectively. Jimmy Butler supplied 16 points, five rebounds, two assists and one steal. Caleb Martin compiled 15 points, six boards, four assists and two blocks. Kevin Love generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block. Jaime Jaquez matched Love's scoring and also posted three rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Cavaliers remain on the road and visit the Orlando Magic on Monday night, while the Heat travel to face the Charlotte Hornets on Monday night.
The Heat (12-10) opened the game clicking on both ends of the floor, leading to a 25-17 lead through one. However, that opening period would prove to the be the highlight of the hosts' night, as they were subsequently outscored, 71-50, over the middle quarters by a resurgent Cavaliers (13-9) squad on the way to a fairly lopsided loss. Cleveland enjoyed a sizable 51-37 rebounding advantage.
Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with a 27-point, 13-assist double-double that included six assists and one steal. Darius Garland furnished 18 points, six assists, two rebounds and four steals. Georges Niang totaled 13 points, three boards and two assists. Max Strus delivered 11 points, seven rebounds, one assist and one steal.
Kyle Lowry and Josh Richardson co-led the Heat with 17 points apiece, adding five assists and two rebounds, respectively. Jimmy Butler supplied 16 points, five rebounds, two assists and one steal. Caleb Martin compiled 15 points, six boards, four assists and two blocks. Kevin Love generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block. Jaime Jaquez matched Love's scoring and also posted three rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Cavaliers remain on the road and visit the Orlando Magic on Monday night, while the Heat travel to face the Charlotte Hornets on Monday night.
Thunder Outlast Warriors In OKC
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the visiting Golden State Warriors, 138-136, at Paycom Center on Friday evening.
The Warriors got out to a strong start and led, 28-19, after one quarter. The Thunder picked up the pace in the second and outscored the visitors, 37-34, to cut it to a six-point game at the break. They kept the momentum going in the third and outscored the Warriors by 11 points in the quarter to claim a five-point lead heading into the fourth period. The score stayed tight through the fourth and after a few lead changes, the score was tied at 118, at the end of regulation. Both sides brought a fierce effort to the extra frame, but the Thunder took the momentum down the stretch and closed out their third win in four outings.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 38 points, five rebounds, five assists, five steals and a block, in 42 minutes. Jalen Williams followed up with 28 points, five rebounds, two assists, three steals and a block, while Chet Holmgren totaled 21 points, seven rebounds and three blocks.
Meanwhile, Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 34 points, six rebonds, three assists and a steal, in 40 minutes. Jonathan Kuminga followed up with 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Klay Thompson totaled 22 points, four rebounds and a block.
The Warriors (10-12) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Suns in Phoenix on Tuesday. The Thunder (14-7) play host to the Jazz on Monday.
The Warriors got out to a strong start and led, 28-19, after one quarter. The Thunder picked up the pace in the second and outscored the visitors, 37-34, to cut it to a six-point game at the break. They kept the momentum going in the third and outscored the Warriors by 11 points in the quarter to claim a five-point lead heading into the fourth period. The score stayed tight through the fourth and after a few lead changes, the score was tied at 118, at the end of regulation. Both sides brought a fierce effort to the extra frame, but the Thunder took the momentum down the stretch and closed out their third win in four outings.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 38 points, five rebounds, five assists, five steals and a block, in 42 minutes. Jalen Williams followed up with 28 points, five rebounds, two assists, three steals and a block, while Chet Holmgren totaled 21 points, seven rebounds and three blocks.
Meanwhile, Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 34 points, six rebonds, three assists and a steal, in 40 minutes. Jonathan Kuminga followed up with 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Klay Thompson totaled 22 points, four rebounds and a block.
The Warriors (10-12) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Suns in Phoenix on Tuesday. The Thunder (14-7) play host to the Jazz on Monday.
Timberwolves Too Much For Grizzlies
By Dan Bruno
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the host Memphis Grizzlies, 127-103, at FedEx Forum on Friday evening.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Timberwolves led, 33-31, after one quarter. The visitors kept the upper the upper hand through the second and maintained a five-point advantage at the break. The Grizzlies came out flat in the third, while the Timberwolves poured in 38 points in the quarter to push it to a 19-point difference, heading into the final quarter. The hosts had no answers in the fourth, as the Timberwolves cruised to their sixth straight win.
Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves with 24 points, seven rebounds, five assists and a steal, in 29 minutes. Troy Brown followed up with 20 points, four rebounds, four assists and a steal, while Rudy Gobert totaled 16 points, 20 rebounds, a steal and six blocks.
Meanwhile, Jaren Jackson led the Grizzlies with 21 points, two rebounds, a steal and a block, in 29 minutes. Desmond Bane followed up with 16 points, two rebounds and a block, while David Roddy added 13 points and three rebounds.
The Grizzlies (6-15) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Mavericks on Monday. The Timberwolves (17-4) clash with the Pelicans in New Orleans on Monday.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Timberwolves led, 33-31, after one quarter. The visitors kept the upper the upper hand through the second and maintained a five-point advantage at the break. The Grizzlies came out flat in the third, while the Timberwolves poured in 38 points in the quarter to push it to a 19-point difference, heading into the final quarter. The hosts had no answers in the fourth, as the Timberwolves cruised to their sixth straight win.
Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves with 24 points, seven rebounds, five assists and a steal, in 29 minutes. Troy Brown followed up with 20 points, four rebounds, four assists and a steal, while Rudy Gobert totaled 16 points, 20 rebounds, a steal and six blocks.
Meanwhile, Jaren Jackson led the Grizzlies with 21 points, two rebounds, a steal and a block, in 29 minutes. Desmond Bane followed up with 16 points, two rebounds and a block, while David Roddy added 13 points and three rebounds.
The Grizzlies (6-15) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Mavericks on Monday. The Timberwolves (17-4) clash with the Pelicans in New Orleans on Monday.
Bulls Rally For Fourth Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Chicago Bulls defeated the host San Antonio Spurs, 121-112, at Frost Bank Center on Friday evening.
The Spurs jumped out to a great start and led, 33-24, after one quarter. They maintained a cushion through the second and pushed their lead to 11, by halftime. The Bulls turned things around in the third, outscoring the hosts, 35-20, to claim a four-point lead heading into the final frame. The Bulls kept their focus in the fourth and stayed a step ahead to close out their fourth straight win. This marks the 16th consecutive loss for the Spurs.
Four players reached the 20-point mark for the Bulls, led by Coby White, who finished with 24 points, four rebounds, six assists and a steal. Nikola Vucevic followed up with 21 points, 16 rebounds, two assists and a block, while DeMar DeRozan tallied 20 points, six rebounds, 10 assists and three steals.
Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 21 points, 20 rebounds, four assists, a steal and four blocks, in 32 minutes. Keldon Johnson followed up with 20 points, two rebounds, five assists and a block, while Tre Jones tallied 18 points, five rebounds, nine assists and a steal.
The Spurs (3-18) will look to end the slide as they meet with the Rockets in Houston on Monday. The Bulls (9-14) take on the Bucks in Milwaukee on Monday.
The Spurs jumped out to a great start and led, 33-24, after one quarter. They maintained a cushion through the second and pushed their lead to 11, by halftime. The Bulls turned things around in the third, outscoring the hosts, 35-20, to claim a four-point lead heading into the final frame. The Bulls kept their focus in the fourth and stayed a step ahead to close out their fourth straight win. This marks the 16th consecutive loss for the Spurs.
Four players reached the 20-point mark for the Bulls, led by Coby White, who finished with 24 points, four rebounds, six assists and a steal. Nikola Vucevic followed up with 21 points, 16 rebounds, two assists and a block, while DeMar DeRozan tallied 20 points, six rebounds, 10 assists and three steals.
Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 21 points, 20 rebounds, four assists, a steal and four blocks, in 32 minutes. Keldon Johnson followed up with 20 points, two rebounds, five assists and a block, while Tre Jones tallied 18 points, five rebounds, nine assists and a steal.
The Spurs (3-18) will look to end the slide as they meet with the Rockets in Houston on Monday. The Bulls (9-14) take on the Bucks in Milwaukee on Monday.
Rockets Nab First Road Win
By Dan Bruno
The Houston Rockets defeated the host Denver Nuggets, 114-106, at Ball Arena on Friday evening.
The Rockets got out to a solid start and led, 27-22, after one quarter. The Nuggets picked up their effort in the second and managed to trim one point off the deficit, making it a four-point game at the break. The visitors took their game to another level in the third and outscored the Nuggets, 40-26, to claim an 18-point lead heading into the final frame. The hosts put up a fight in the fourth, but it was not enough, as the Rockets held on for their first road win of the season. This also marks the first home loss of the year and the third consecutive loss for the Nuggets.
Fred VanVleet and Jalen Green poured in 26 points each to lead the way for the Rockets. Alperen Sengun totaled 17 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and a block, while Dillon Brooks chipped in 16 points, five rebounds and two steals.
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 23 points, 16 rebounds, five assists and two blocks, in 34 minutes. Jamal Murray followed up with 21 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Michael Porter added 20 points, eight rebounds and two blocks.
The Nuggets (14-9) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Hawks in Atlanta on Monday. The Rockets (10-9) will look for their third straight win as they play host to the Spurs on Monday.
The Rockets got out to a solid start and led, 27-22, after one quarter. The Nuggets picked up their effort in the second and managed to trim one point off the deficit, making it a four-point game at the break. The visitors took their game to another level in the third and outscored the Nuggets, 40-26, to claim an 18-point lead heading into the final frame. The hosts put up a fight in the fourth, but it was not enough, as the Rockets held on for their first road win of the season. This also marks the first home loss of the year and the third consecutive loss for the Nuggets.
Fred VanVleet and Jalen Green poured in 26 points each to lead the way for the Rockets. Alperen Sengun totaled 17 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and a block, while Dillon Brooks chipped in 16 points, five rebounds and two steals.
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 23 points, 16 rebounds, five assists and two blocks, in 34 minutes. Jamal Murray followed up with 21 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Michael Porter added 20 points, eight rebounds and two blocks.
The Nuggets (14-9) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Hawks in Atlanta on Monday. The Rockets (10-9) will look for their third straight win as they play host to the Spurs on Monday.
Kings Topple Suns, 114-106
The Sacramento Kings defeated the Phoenix Suns, 114-106, at Footprint Center on Friday night.
Despite playing without Kevin Durant (ankle), the Suns (12-10) put together an impressive first half that led to a 59-50 halftime lead. However, the Kings (12-8) would change the dynamic of the game in the third quarter with a 33-12 advantage during the period, as Phoenix never got any closer than six points during the final 12 minutes.
De'Aaron Fox led the Kings with 34 points, complementing with seven assists, four rebounds and one steal. Domantas Sabonis generated a 15-point, 17-rebound double-double that included five assists. Sasha Vezenkov registered 14 points, three rebounds, two assists and three steals. Keegan Murray and Malik Monk produced matching 13-point efforts while also posting four rebounds and six assists, respectively. Keon Ellis went for 10 points and two rebounds.
Devin Booker paced the Suns with 28 points, which he supplemented with seven rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Eric Gordon furnished 19 points, three assists, two steals and one block. Jusuf Nurkic supplied 15 points, nine boards, three assists and one steal. Chimezie Metu delivered 10 points, four rebounds, one assist, two steals and two blocks.
The Kings return home to host the Brooklyn Nets on Monday night, while the Suns host the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night.
Despite playing without Kevin Durant (ankle), the Suns (12-10) put together an impressive first half that led to a 59-50 halftime lead. However, the Kings (12-8) would change the dynamic of the game in the third quarter with a 33-12 advantage during the period, as Phoenix never got any closer than six points during the final 12 minutes.
De'Aaron Fox led the Kings with 34 points, complementing with seven assists, four rebounds and one steal. Domantas Sabonis generated a 15-point, 17-rebound double-double that included five assists. Sasha Vezenkov registered 14 points, three rebounds, two assists and three steals. Keegan Murray and Malik Monk produced matching 13-point efforts while also posting four rebounds and six assists, respectively. Keon Ellis went for 10 points and two rebounds.
Devin Booker paced the Suns with 28 points, which he supplemented with seven rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Eric Gordon furnished 19 points, three assists, two steals and one block. Jusuf Nurkic supplied 15 points, nine boards, three assists and one steal. Chimezie Metu delivered 10 points, four rebounds, one assist, two steals and two blocks.
The Kings return home to host the Brooklyn Nets on Monday night, while the Suns host the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night.
Mavericks Defeat Blazers, 125-112
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the host Portland Trail Blazers, 125-112, at Moda Center on Friday.
A 37-22 first quarter set the foundation for Dallas in this dominating victory, winning this game in wire-to-wire fashion. They got their lead up to 19 points at times, and Portland never attempted a game-tying shot after the opening five minutes. The Mavericks shot 52 percent from the field while holding the Trail Blazers to 37 percent shooting. Dallas out-assisted Portland, 26-20, while out-blocking them, 5-1. The Mavericks also outscored the Trail Blazers in the paint, 62-30.
The Mavericks (13-8) were led by Luka Doncic, collecting 32 points, six rebounds and 10 assists. Dante Exum amassed 23 points, six rebounds and seven assists. Derrick Jones Jr had 14 points, eight rebounds, two steals and two blocks, while Dereck Lively amassed 10 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Tim Hardaway Jr led the bench with 20 points and four boards.
The Trail Blazers (6-15) were led by Anferenee Simons, who accrued 30 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Shaedon Sharpe tallied 24 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Toumani Camara collected 11 points and nine rebounds, while Scoot Henderson led the bench with 10 points, three rebounds and three assists.
Both teams return to action on Monday, with Portland traveling to face the Los Angeles Clippers and Dallas staying on the road to play the Memphis Grizzlies.
A 37-22 first quarter set the foundation for Dallas in this dominating victory, winning this game in wire-to-wire fashion. They got their lead up to 19 points at times, and Portland never attempted a game-tying shot after the opening five minutes. The Mavericks shot 52 percent from the field while holding the Trail Blazers to 37 percent shooting. Dallas out-assisted Portland, 26-20, while out-blocking them, 5-1. The Mavericks also outscored the Trail Blazers in the paint, 62-30.
The Mavericks (13-8) were led by Luka Doncic, collecting 32 points, six rebounds and 10 assists. Dante Exum amassed 23 points, six rebounds and seven assists. Derrick Jones Jr had 14 points, eight rebounds, two steals and two blocks, while Dereck Lively amassed 10 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Tim Hardaway Jr led the bench with 20 points and four boards.
The Trail Blazers (6-15) were led by Anferenee Simons, who accrued 30 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Shaedon Sharpe tallied 24 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Toumani Camara collected 11 points and nine rebounds, while Scoot Henderson led the bench with 10 points, three rebounds and three assists.
Both teams return to action on Monday, with Portland traveling to face the Los Angeles Clippers and Dallas staying on the road to play the Memphis Grizzlies.
Clippers Top Jazz, 117-103
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Utah Jazz, 117-103, at Delta Center on Friday night.
The Clippers (11-10) set the tone for a convincing win early, establishing a 59-46 lead over the Jazz (7-15) through the first two quarters. Each team matched each other bucket for bucket in the third quarter, and Los Angeles ultimately managed to add one more point to its advantage by game's end. The visitors shot 48.9 percent, including 44.1 percent from distance.
Kawhi Leonard paced the Clippers with 41 points, adding five rebounds, five assists and one block. Paul George delivered 20 points, three rebounds, two assists and six steals. Ivica Zubac generated an 18-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists and two blocks. James Harden managed 12 points, eight assists and seven boards. Terance Mann and Norman Powell produced matching 10-tallies.
John Collins led the Jazz with a 19-point, 13-rebound double-double that included two assists, four blocks and two steals. Talen Horton-Tucker supplied 16 points, five assists, one rebound, one steal and one block. Keyonte George registered 15 points, three assists and one steal. Kelly Olynyk and Collin Sexton totaled 13 points each while posting four and three rebounds, respectively.
The Clippers return home to host the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night, while the Jazz visit the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night.
The Clippers (11-10) set the tone for a convincing win early, establishing a 59-46 lead over the Jazz (7-15) through the first two quarters. Each team matched each other bucket for bucket in the third quarter, and Los Angeles ultimately managed to add one more point to its advantage by game's end. The visitors shot 48.9 percent, including 44.1 percent from distance.
Kawhi Leonard paced the Clippers with 41 points, adding five rebounds, five assists and one block. Paul George delivered 20 points, three rebounds, two assists and six steals. Ivica Zubac generated an 18-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists and two blocks. James Harden managed 12 points, eight assists and seven boards. Terance Mann and Norman Powell produced matching 10-tallies.
John Collins led the Jazz with a 19-point, 13-rebound double-double that included two assists, four blocks and two steals. Talen Horton-Tucker supplied 16 points, five assists, one rebound, one steal and one block. Keyonte George registered 15 points, three assists and one steal. Kelly Olynyk and Collin Sexton totaled 13 points each while posting four and three rebounds, respectively.
The Clippers return home to host the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night, while the Jazz visit the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night.