Pacers beat Pistons 131-123
The Detroit Pistons (2-21) dropped their league-worst 20th game Monday night to the Indiana Pacers (13-8), 131-123, at Little Caesars Arena on Monday night.
Things looked good for the Pistons early, as they held a three-point lead at the end of the first quarter. However, the Pacers were able to snatch the lead heading into halftime. The two teams tied the third frame, and the lead changed hands throughout the second half, but Indiana were able to pull away in the fourth quarter to capture their fourth straight win. Both teams shot 55-plus percent from the field, however the Pacers out-rebounded the Pistons 43-30, including 11-6 on the offensive boards.
The Pacers have typically been led by All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton – who was named to the inaugural All-NBA In-Season Tournament team – and while he only scored 14 points, he also had 16 assists, which is the sixth time he has registered 15-plus assists in a game this season. Instead, it was Bennedict Mathurin who led the way with a season-high 30 points along with eight assists, seven rebounds and two steals over 37 minutes off the bench. Myles Turner led the starters in scoring with 23 points to go along with eight rebounds and three blocks.
Meanwhile, the Pistons had six players register double-digit points in Monday’s loss. Cade Cunningham led Detroit in scoring for the ninth time in 11 games with 23 points while adding seven assists and six rebounds. Ausar Thompson had 20 points and six rebounds, while Bojan Bogdanovic chipped in 17 points and three steals. Jaden Ivey led the bench with 18 points while Alec Burks scored a quick 14 points over 13 minutes.
The Pacers continue their four-game road trip Wednesday against the Milwaukee Bucks in a rematch of the In-Season Tournament semifinals, while the Pistons look to break their historic losing streak on the road against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday.
Things looked good for the Pistons early, as they held a three-point lead at the end of the first quarter. However, the Pacers were able to snatch the lead heading into halftime. The two teams tied the third frame, and the lead changed hands throughout the second half, but Indiana were able to pull away in the fourth quarter to capture their fourth straight win. Both teams shot 55-plus percent from the field, however the Pacers out-rebounded the Pistons 43-30, including 11-6 on the offensive boards.
The Pacers have typically been led by All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton – who was named to the inaugural All-NBA In-Season Tournament team – and while he only scored 14 points, he also had 16 assists, which is the sixth time he has registered 15-plus assists in a game this season. Instead, it was Bennedict Mathurin who led the way with a season-high 30 points along with eight assists, seven rebounds and two steals over 37 minutes off the bench. Myles Turner led the starters in scoring with 23 points to go along with eight rebounds and three blocks.
Meanwhile, the Pistons had six players register double-digit points in Monday’s loss. Cade Cunningham led Detroit in scoring for the ninth time in 11 games with 23 points while adding seven assists and six rebounds. Ausar Thompson had 20 points and six rebounds, while Bojan Bogdanovic chipped in 17 points and three steals. Jaden Ivey led the bench with 18 points while Alec Burks scored a quick 14 points over 13 minutes.
The Pacers continue their four-game road trip Wednesday against the Milwaukee Bucks in a rematch of the In-Season Tournament semifinals, while the Pistons look to break their historic losing streak on the road against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday.
Magic take down Cavs 104-94
The Orlando Magic (16-7) defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers (13-10) by a score of 104-94 at the Amway Center on Monday night.
Not surprisingly, the contest was a low-scoring one as it featured two of the top defensive teams in the Eastern Conference. Cleveland was able to rush out to a seven-point lead after the first quarter, but the Magic responded by winning the next two frames, including a dominant 30-15 third quarter performance. The Cavs made it interesting in the fourth quarter as they cut the lead to single digits, but Orlando was able to hang on for their second straight win, while Cleveland had their three-game winning streak cut down. While both teams each committed 14 turnovers, the Magic outscored the Cavs in points off turnovers 26-11, which was a major factor in Orlando’s victory.
It was a balanced scoring attack by the Magic, with four of the five Orlando starters scoring in double digits. Paolo Banchero led the way with his fifth double-double of the season with 20 points, 10 rebounds and four assists, though he did have a career-high eight turnovers in the contest. Franz Wagner chipped in with 19 points, eight rebounds and four assists, while Joe Ingles chipped in 12 points, four rebounds and three assists off the bench. Both Ingles and Banchero sustained ankle sprains in the third quarter, but both were able to return to action in the fourth quarter.
While the Cavaliers struggled overall from the field – shooting just 35.3 percent from the floor and 22.5 percent from three – Darius Garland had an efficient night and led the way with 36 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Donovan Mitchel had 22 points and three steals in the game, though he shot 33.3 percent overall and 20.0 percent from beyond the arc. Tristan Thompson played a season-high 29 minutes off the bench and registered his first double-double of the season with 10 points and 13 rebounds.
Next up, the Cavs hit the road to face the Boston Celtics on Tuesday night, while the Magic will also play the Celtics on the road but won’t face them until Friday, Dec. 15.
Not surprisingly, the contest was a low-scoring one as it featured two of the top defensive teams in the Eastern Conference. Cleveland was able to rush out to a seven-point lead after the first quarter, but the Magic responded by winning the next two frames, including a dominant 30-15 third quarter performance. The Cavs made it interesting in the fourth quarter as they cut the lead to single digits, but Orlando was able to hang on for their second straight win, while Cleveland had their three-game winning streak cut down. While both teams each committed 14 turnovers, the Magic outscored the Cavs in points off turnovers 26-11, which was a major factor in Orlando’s victory.
It was a balanced scoring attack by the Magic, with four of the five Orlando starters scoring in double digits. Paolo Banchero led the way with his fifth double-double of the season with 20 points, 10 rebounds and four assists, though he did have a career-high eight turnovers in the contest. Franz Wagner chipped in with 19 points, eight rebounds and four assists, while Joe Ingles chipped in 12 points, four rebounds and three assists off the bench. Both Ingles and Banchero sustained ankle sprains in the third quarter, but both were able to return to action in the fourth quarter.
While the Cavaliers struggled overall from the field – shooting just 35.3 percent from the floor and 22.5 percent from three – Darius Garland had an efficient night and led the way with 36 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Donovan Mitchel had 22 points and three steals in the game, though he shot 33.3 percent overall and 20.0 percent from beyond the arc. Tristan Thompson played a season-high 29 minutes off the bench and registered his first double-double of the season with 10 points and 13 rebounds.
Next up, the Cavs hit the road to face the Boston Celtics on Tuesday night, while the Magic will also play the Celtics on the road but won’t face them until Friday, Dec. 15.
76ers dominate Wizards 146-101
The Philadelphia 76ers (15-7) blew out the Washington Wizards (3-19) 146-101 at the Wells Fargo Arena on Monday night.
The 76ers dominated right out of the game, taking a 16-point lead after the first quarter. They didn’t let up, as they won the second quarter 32-19 to take a 29-point lead into halftime and held a 45-point lead after three frames. The Wizards struggled at both ends of the floor, shooting just 42.4 percent from the floor, 29.0 percent from three, and missed 11 of 31 free throw attempts.
As has been the case for most of the season, Philadelphia was led by reigning MVP Joel Embiid, who finished the game with an efficient 34 points (14-20 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 10 rebounds, six assists and two steals, while Tyrese Maxey played second-fiddle once again with 24 points and six assists. Thanks to their large lead, the 76ers were able to play all 10 of their bench players, with three of them – Marcus Morris, Patrick Beverely and Danuel House – each reaching double-digit point totals.
There wasn’t much positivity for the Wizards outside of Kyle Kuzma, who led the way with 21 points and nine rebounds. Jordan Poole was able to reach double digits with 11 points but shot just 3-for-11 from the field, committed three turnovers and finished with a minus-30 point differential, second worst only to Deni Avdija. Bilal Coulibaly managed to play a team-high 30 minutes in Monday’s game and registered 13 points, eight rebounds and four assists.
It was the Wizards’ fifth straight loss and 14th defeat in 15 games as they sit just one game ahead of the Detroit Pistons (2-21) at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, and will head back to Washington to host the New Orleans Pelicans. Meanwhile, the 76ers have now won three straight and will hit the road to take on the Pistons.
The 76ers dominated right out of the game, taking a 16-point lead after the first quarter. They didn’t let up, as they won the second quarter 32-19 to take a 29-point lead into halftime and held a 45-point lead after three frames. The Wizards struggled at both ends of the floor, shooting just 42.4 percent from the floor, 29.0 percent from three, and missed 11 of 31 free throw attempts.
As has been the case for most of the season, Philadelphia was led by reigning MVP Joel Embiid, who finished the game with an efficient 34 points (14-20 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 4-4 FT), 10 rebounds, six assists and two steals, while Tyrese Maxey played second-fiddle once again with 24 points and six assists. Thanks to their large lead, the 76ers were able to play all 10 of their bench players, with three of them – Marcus Morris, Patrick Beverely and Danuel House – each reaching double-digit point totals.
There wasn’t much positivity for the Wizards outside of Kyle Kuzma, who led the way with 21 points and nine rebounds. Jordan Poole was able to reach double digits with 11 points but shot just 3-for-11 from the field, committed three turnovers and finished with a minus-30 point differential, second worst only to Deni Avdija. Bilal Coulibaly managed to play a team-high 30 minutes in Monday’s game and registered 13 points, eight rebounds and four assists.
It was the Wizards’ fifth straight loss and 14th defeat in 15 games as they sit just one game ahead of the Detroit Pistons (2-21) at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, and will head back to Washington to host the New Orleans Pelicans. Meanwhile, the 76ers have now won three straight and will hit the road to take on the Pistons.
Heat Survive, Take Down Hornets
The Miami Heat defeated the Charlotte Hornets, 116-114, at Spectrum Center on Monday.
The Heat (13-10) and the Hornets (7-14) played a tight contest that went down to the wire. Despite Miami dominating most of the contest, a furious comeback from Charlotte almost allowed them to complete a fourth-quarter comeback. Miami looked good in the early stages and raced to a 29-24 lead in the first quarter. The Heat kept the momentum after the initial 12 minutes and bolstered their lead to nine points following a 30-26 second quarter. The Heat remained in control in the second half and outscored Charlotte by a 30-27 score in the third quarter, making it a 12-point game with 12 minutes left. The Heat were expected to cruise the rest of the game, but the Hornets responded with a 37-27 score in the fourth quarter. The Heat had chances to ice the game, but they kept giving life to the Hornets repeatedly. In the end, though, the Heat completed the win after Terry Rozier missed the game-winning three from halfcourt. The Heat moved to 8-6 on the road, while the Hornets fell to 4-8 at home.
Duncan Robinson led the way for the Heat with 24 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals. Jimmy Butler finished with 23 points, eight assists, four rebounds, a steal and a block. Cody Martin recorded 20 points, nine boards and five assists. Kevin Love thrived off the bench and posted 19 points with six rebounds. Jaime Jaquez Jr. notched 18 points before fouling out. Miami shot 48.1 percent from the field.
Terry Rozier carried the Hornets with 34 points, 13 assists and two rebounds. Miles Bridges had 18 points and four rebounds. Gordon Hayward delivered 17 points, seven assists and six rebounds. Brandon Miller recorded 16 points, four rebounds and two assists. P.J. Washington notched 15 points and eight rebounds. Charlotte shot 47.8 percent from the field.
The Heat (13-10) and the Hornets (7-14) played a tight contest that went down to the wire. Despite Miami dominating most of the contest, a furious comeback from Charlotte almost allowed them to complete a fourth-quarter comeback. Miami looked good in the early stages and raced to a 29-24 lead in the first quarter. The Heat kept the momentum after the initial 12 minutes and bolstered their lead to nine points following a 30-26 second quarter. The Heat remained in control in the second half and outscored Charlotte by a 30-27 score in the third quarter, making it a 12-point game with 12 minutes left. The Heat were expected to cruise the rest of the game, but the Hornets responded with a 37-27 score in the fourth quarter. The Heat had chances to ice the game, but they kept giving life to the Hornets repeatedly. In the end, though, the Heat completed the win after Terry Rozier missed the game-winning three from halfcourt. The Heat moved to 8-6 on the road, while the Hornets fell to 4-8 at home.
Duncan Robinson led the way for the Heat with 24 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals. Jimmy Butler finished with 23 points, eight assists, four rebounds, a steal and a block. Cody Martin recorded 20 points, nine boards and five assists. Kevin Love thrived off the bench and posted 19 points with six rebounds. Jaime Jaquez Jr. notched 18 points before fouling out. Miami shot 48.1 percent from the field.
Terry Rozier carried the Hornets with 34 points, 13 assists and two rebounds. Miles Bridges had 18 points and four rebounds. Gordon Hayward delivered 17 points, seven assists and six rebounds. Brandon Miller recorded 16 points, four rebounds and two assists. P.J. Washington notched 15 points and eight rebounds. Charlotte shot 47.8 percent from the field.
Nuggets Hold On, Defeat Hawks Away From Home
The Denver Nuggets defeated the Atlanta Hawks, 129-122, at State Farm Arena on Monday.
The Nuggets (15-9) endured a slow start against the Hawks (9-13), but they did enough to build a strong lead before Atlanta came close to mounting a late comeback. Denver looked lost in the early stages, and the Hawks took advantage of that to secure a 36-28 lead after the first quarter. Denver responded with a 37-26 score, securing a one-point lead at the halftime break. The Nuggets kept the momentum going, and a 38-24 score in the third quarter practically put the game out of Atlanta’s reach. However, the Hawks were not done fighting yet. A fourth-quarter surge tightened the gap, and the Hawks were as close as being down by four points. However, the Nuggets were clutch when it mattered the most, and that allowed them to close the game out. The Nuggets moved to 6-8 on the road, while the Hawks fell to 3-7 at home.
Jamal Murray led the way for the Nuggets with 29 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Nikola Jokic posted 25 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, three steals and two blocks. Aaron Gordon recorded 18 points and 12 rebounds. Julian Strawther was impressive off the bench and delivered 22 points, five steals and two assists. Reggie Jackson notched 12 points and six assists.
Dejounte Murray was the best player for the Hawks with 21 points, six rebounds and three assists. Trae Young recorded 19 points and nine assists. Saddiq Bey delivered 16 points, four rebounds and two assists. Clint Capela had 14 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Bogdan Bogdanovic went off for 40 points off the bench while shooting 10-for-17 from three-point range.
The Nuggets (15-9) endured a slow start against the Hawks (9-13), but they did enough to build a strong lead before Atlanta came close to mounting a late comeback. Denver looked lost in the early stages, and the Hawks took advantage of that to secure a 36-28 lead after the first quarter. Denver responded with a 37-26 score, securing a one-point lead at the halftime break. The Nuggets kept the momentum going, and a 38-24 score in the third quarter practically put the game out of Atlanta’s reach. However, the Hawks were not done fighting yet. A fourth-quarter surge tightened the gap, and the Hawks were as close as being down by four points. However, the Nuggets were clutch when it mattered the most, and that allowed them to close the game out. The Nuggets moved to 6-8 on the road, while the Hawks fell to 3-7 at home.
Jamal Murray led the way for the Nuggets with 29 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Nikola Jokic posted 25 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, three steals and two blocks. Aaron Gordon recorded 18 points and 12 rebounds. Julian Strawther was impressive off the bench and delivered 22 points, five steals and two assists. Reggie Jackson notched 12 points and six assists.
Dejounte Murray was the best player for the Hawks with 21 points, six rebounds and three assists. Trae Young recorded 19 points and nine assists. Saddiq Bey delivered 16 points, four rebounds and two assists. Clint Capela had 14 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Bogdan Bogdanovic went off for 40 points off the bench while shooting 10-for-17 from three-point range.
Knicks Outlast Raptors, 136-130
The New York Knicks defeated the Toronto Raptors, 136-130, at Madison Square Garden on Monday night.
The Knicks (13-9) aren't usually known for their high-scoring outputs, but New York has been on a bit of an upswing offensively in recent games. That continued right from the opening tip Monday, with the hosts and Raptors (9-14) playing to a 35-35 tie. The Knicks managed to open a six-point lead going into halftime with a 31-point second-quarter tally, but Toronto lopped all but one point from its deficit in the third. The final period would feature multiple ties, but the home team would progressively pull away over the final seven minutes plus.
O.G. Anunoby paced the Raptors with 29 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, two assists and one steal. Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes and Dennis Schroder turned in 20 points each, Siakam also posting four steaks, Barnes pulling down six rebounds and Schroder dishing out 10 assists. Jakob Poeltl furnished 11 points, eight rebounds and two assists.
Julius Randle led the Knicks with 34 points, supplementing them with eight rebounds and five assists. R.J. Barrett delivered 27 points, three rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Jalen Brunson compiled 21 points, nine assists, two rebounds and one steal. Quentin Grimes managed 19 points, three rebounds and one assist. Josh Hart supplied 16 points, eight assists, seven rebounds and one steal.
The Raptors return home to host the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night, while the Knicks visit the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night as well.
The Knicks (13-9) aren't usually known for their high-scoring outputs, but New York has been on a bit of an upswing offensively in recent games. That continued right from the opening tip Monday, with the hosts and Raptors (9-14) playing to a 35-35 tie. The Knicks managed to open a six-point lead going into halftime with a 31-point second-quarter tally, but Toronto lopped all but one point from its deficit in the third. The final period would feature multiple ties, but the home team would progressively pull away over the final seven minutes plus.
O.G. Anunoby paced the Raptors with 29 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, two assists and one steal. Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes and Dennis Schroder turned in 20 points each, Siakam also posting four steaks, Barnes pulling down six rebounds and Schroder dishing out 10 assists. Jakob Poeltl furnished 11 points, eight rebounds and two assists.
Julius Randle led the Knicks with 34 points, supplementing them with eight rebounds and five assists. R.J. Barrett delivered 27 points, three rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Jalen Brunson compiled 21 points, nine assists, two rebounds and one steal. Quentin Grimes managed 19 points, three rebounds and one assist. Josh Hart supplied 16 points, eight assists, seven rebounds and one steal.
The Raptors return home to host the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night, while the Knicks visit the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night as well.
Pelicans Topple Timberwolves, 121-107
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves, 121-107, at Smoothie King Center on Monday night.
The Timberwolves (17-5) learned they be without Anthony Edwards (hip) shortly before tip-off, but they played the Pelicans (13-11) to a 29-29 draw through the first 12 minutes. New Orleans then managed to open a seven-point lead going into halftime with A solid second period, but by lopping three points from its deficit going into the final quarter, Minnesota was very much within striking distance. However, the hosts' 9-0 run over the first 3:37 of the fourth quarter set the tone for what would be a runaway win down the stretch.
Karl-Anthony Towns, Mike Conley and Naz Reid co-led the Timberwolves with 17 points, with Towns and Conley also recording 12 rebounds and seven assists, respectively, among their other contributions. Shake Milton and Jaden McDaniels posted 12 points apiece while adding five assists and three rebounds, respectively. Rudy Gobert got into foul trouble over his 25 minutes, finishing with eight points, eight rebounds and two blocks.
Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 36 points, complementing them with five rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. C.J. McCollum registered 23 points, four rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Brandon Ingram supplied 20 points, five assists and three rebounds. Jonas Valanciunas generated a 14-point, 13-rebound double-double that included four assists, two steals and two blocks.
The Timberwolves remain on the road and visit the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night, while the Pelicans visit the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night.
The Timberwolves (17-5) learned they be without Anthony Edwards (hip) shortly before tip-off, but they played the Pelicans (13-11) to a 29-29 draw through the first 12 minutes. New Orleans then managed to open a seven-point lead going into halftime with A solid second period, but by lopping three points from its deficit going into the final quarter, Minnesota was very much within striking distance. However, the hosts' 9-0 run over the first 3:37 of the fourth quarter set the tone for what would be a runaway win down the stretch.
Karl-Anthony Towns, Mike Conley and Naz Reid co-led the Timberwolves with 17 points, with Towns and Conley also recording 12 rebounds and seven assists, respectively, among their other contributions. Shake Milton and Jaden McDaniels posted 12 points apiece while adding five assists and three rebounds, respectively. Rudy Gobert got into foul trouble over his 25 minutes, finishing with eight points, eight rebounds and two blocks.
Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 36 points, complementing them with five rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. C.J. McCollum registered 23 points, four rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Brandon Ingram supplied 20 points, five assists and three rebounds. Jonas Valanciunas generated a 14-point, 13-rebound double-double that included four assists, two steals and two blocks.
The Timberwolves remain on the road and visit the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night, while the Pelicans visit the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night.
Rockets Best Spurs, 93-82
The Houston Rockets defeated the San Antonio Spurs, 93-82, at Toyota Center on Monday night.
One of the hallmarks of the early tenure of head coach Ime Udoka in Houston has been improved defense, and accordingly, the Spurs (3-19) and Rockets (11-9) combined for only 40 points in the first quarter. San Antonio's slim two-point lead would soon evaporate, however, with Houston taking a four-point advantage into halftime. Their edge was up to six points going into the final period, and although the visitors would get as close as four points, the hosts were able to win while pulling away.
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with an 15-point, 18-rebound double-double that included three assists and five blocks. Devin Vassell turned in 14 points, six rebounds and two assists. Malaki Branham delivered 13 points, seven assists, six rebounds and one steal. Keldon Johnson supplied 12 points, seven rebounds, two assists and four steals. Cedi Osman netted 10 points.
Tari Eason paced the Rockets with an 18-point, 14-rebound double-double that included one assist and two steals. Fred VanVleet furnished 16 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Alperen Sengun totaled 15 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. Jeff Green recorded 12 points, two rebounds and one assist.
The Spurs head back home to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night, while the Rockets remain home and host the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday night.
One of the hallmarks of the early tenure of head coach Ime Udoka in Houston has been improved defense, and accordingly, the Spurs (3-19) and Rockets (11-9) combined for only 40 points in the first quarter. San Antonio's slim two-point lead would soon evaporate, however, with Houston taking a four-point advantage into halftime. Their edge was up to six points going into the final period, and although the visitors would get as close as four points, the hosts were able to win while pulling away.
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with an 15-point, 18-rebound double-double that included three assists and five blocks. Devin Vassell turned in 14 points, six rebounds and two assists. Malaki Branham delivered 13 points, seven assists, six rebounds and one steal. Keldon Johnson supplied 12 points, seven rebounds, two assists and four steals. Cedi Osman netted 10 points.
Tari Eason paced the Rockets with an 18-point, 14-rebound double-double that included one assist and two steals. Fred VanVleet furnished 16 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Alperen Sengun totaled 15 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. Jeff Green recorded 12 points, two rebounds and one assist.
The Spurs head back home to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night, while the Rockets remain home and host the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday night.
Bucks Top Bulls In OT
By Dan Bruno
The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the visiting Chicago Bulls, 133-129, at Fiserv Forum on Monday evening.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Bucks led, 37-32, after one quarter. Both sides kept up the pace in the second, but the hosts stayed in control and pushed their lead up to nine points by halftime. The Bulls turned up the defense in the third and held the Bucks to just 17 points in the quarter, while they cut the deficit down to two points, heading into the final quarter. The Bucks managed to stay a step ahead for most of the fourth, but the Bulls kept scrapping and tied the score at 118, forcing overtime. The Bucks jumped out to a quick seven-point lead in the extra frame and stayed in front to close out their third win in four games. This also marks the end of a four-game win streak for the Bulls.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 32 points, 12 rebounds, six assists and two steals, in 41 minutes. Malik Beasley and Brook Lopez followed up with 19 points each, while Khris Middleton totaled 13 points, 13 rebounds, six assists and a steal.
Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 41 points, two rebounds and 11 assists, in 42 minutes. Coby White followed up with 33 points, six rebounds, four assists and a steal, while Nikola Vucevic totaled 14 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block.
The Bulls (9-15) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Nuggets on Tuesday. The Bucks (16-7) play host to the Pacers on Wednesday.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Bucks led, 37-32, after one quarter. Both sides kept up the pace in the second, but the hosts stayed in control and pushed their lead up to nine points by halftime. The Bulls turned up the defense in the third and held the Bucks to just 17 points in the quarter, while they cut the deficit down to two points, heading into the final quarter. The Bucks managed to stay a step ahead for most of the fourth, but the Bulls kept scrapping and tied the score at 118, forcing overtime. The Bucks jumped out to a quick seven-point lead in the extra frame and stayed in front to close out their third win in four games. This also marks the end of a four-game win streak for the Bulls.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 32 points, 12 rebounds, six assists and two steals, in 41 minutes. Malik Beasley and Brook Lopez followed up with 19 points each, while Khris Middleton totaled 13 points, 13 rebounds, six assists and a steal.
Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 41 points, two rebounds and 11 assists, in 42 minutes. Coby White followed up with 33 points, six rebounds, four assists and a steal, while Nikola Vucevic totaled 14 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block.
The Bulls (9-15) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Nuggets on Tuesday. The Bucks (16-7) play host to the Pacers on Wednesday.
Thunder Hand Jazz Third Straight Loss
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the visiting Utah Jazz, 134-120, at Paycom Center on Monday evening.
The Thunder jumped out to a great start and led, 34-20, after one quarter. The Jazz picked up their play in the second, but both sides poured in 32 points in the quarter, as the Thunder maintained a 14-point cushion at the break. The Thunder turned it up a notch in the third and outscored the visitors, 45-23, to push it to a 36-point deficit heading into the final quarter. The Jazz put up a fight in the fourth, tallying 45 points in the quarter, but it was not enough, as the Thunder cruised to their fourth win in five games. This marks the third straight loss for the Jazz.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 30 points, four rebounds, seven assists and three steals, in 28 minutes. Ousmane Dieng followed up with 18 points, three rebounds and three assists, while Chet Holmgren tallied 16 points, eight rebounds, two assists, a steal and two blocks.
Meanwhile, Keyonte George led the Jazz with 30 points, three rebounds, seven assists and a steal, in 33 minutes. Collin Sexton followed up with 20 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Simone Fontecchio tallied 19 points, two rebounds and four blocks.
The Jazz (7-16) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Knicks on Wednesday. The Thunder (15-7) clash with the Kings in Sacramento on Thursday.
The Thunder jumped out to a great start and led, 34-20, after one quarter. The Jazz picked up their play in the second, but both sides poured in 32 points in the quarter, as the Thunder maintained a 14-point cushion at the break. The Thunder turned it up a notch in the third and outscored the visitors, 45-23, to push it to a 36-point deficit heading into the final quarter. The Jazz put up a fight in the fourth, tallying 45 points in the quarter, but it was not enough, as the Thunder cruised to their fourth win in five games. This marks the third straight loss for the Jazz.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 30 points, four rebounds, seven assists and three steals, in 28 minutes. Ousmane Dieng followed up with 18 points, three rebounds and three assists, while Chet Holmgren tallied 16 points, eight rebounds, two assists, a steal and two blocks.
Meanwhile, Keyonte George led the Jazz with 30 points, three rebounds, seven assists and a steal, in 33 minutes. Collin Sexton followed up with 20 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Simone Fontecchio tallied 19 points, two rebounds and four blocks.
The Jazz (7-16) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Knicks on Wednesday. The Thunder (15-7) clash with the Kings in Sacramento on Thursday.
Mavs Earn Third Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the host Memphis Grizzlies, 120-113, at FedEx Forum on Monday evening.
The game got out to a competitive start, as the Mavs held a five-point lead after one quarter. The visitors picked up the pace in the second and outscored the Grizzlies, 38-27, to take a 16-point cushion into the break. Both sides brought a good effort in the third, but the Mavs stayed in control and carried a 17-point advantage into the final frame. The Grizzlies delivered an impressive fight in the fourth, outscoring the visitors by 10, but it was not enough, as the Mavs closed out their third straight win.
Luka Doncic led the Mavericks with 35 points, eight rebounds, six assists, two steals and two blocks, in 44 minutes. Dereck Lively totaled 16 points, 16 rebounds, two assists and a block, while Jaden Hardy tallied 19 points, four assists and a steal.
Meanwhile, Jaren Jackson led the Grizzlies with 41 points, four rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks, in 42 minutes. Desmond Bane followed up with 28 points, three rebounds, eight assists and a steal, while Vince Williams was the only other player to score in double digits for the Grizzlies, with 10 points, off the bench.
The Grizzlies (6-16) will look to bounce back as they take on the Rockets in Houston on Wednesday. The Mavericks (14-8) play host to the Lakers on Tuesday.
The game got out to a competitive start, as the Mavs held a five-point lead after one quarter. The visitors picked up the pace in the second and outscored the Grizzlies, 38-27, to take a 16-point cushion into the break. Both sides brought a good effort in the third, but the Mavs stayed in control and carried a 17-point advantage into the final frame. The Grizzlies delivered an impressive fight in the fourth, outscoring the visitors by 10, but it was not enough, as the Mavs closed out their third straight win.
Luka Doncic led the Mavericks with 35 points, eight rebounds, six assists, two steals and two blocks, in 44 minutes. Dereck Lively totaled 16 points, 16 rebounds, two assists and a block, while Jaden Hardy tallied 19 points, four assists and a steal.
Meanwhile, Jaren Jackson led the Grizzlies with 41 points, four rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks, in 42 minutes. Desmond Bane followed up with 28 points, three rebounds, eight assists and a steal, while Vince Williams was the only other player to score in double digits for the Grizzlies, with 10 points, off the bench.
The Grizzlies (6-16) will look to bounce back as they take on the Rockets in Houston on Wednesday. The Mavericks (14-8) play host to the Lakers on Tuesday.
Kings Defeat Nets, 131-118
The Sacramento Kings defeated the visiting Brooklyn Nets, 131-118, at Golden 1 Center on Monday.
A 26-18 first quarter carried the Kings to this victory, winning in wire-to-wire fashion. Sacramento rode a 44-37 third quarter to a game-high 21-point lead, leading by at least six points for the closing 20 minutes. The Kings shot 51 percent from the field and 56 percent from three-point range while holding the Nets to 48 percent from the field and 48 percent from long range. Sacramento also out-assisted Brooklyn, 38-24, while outscoring them in fastbreak points, 15-2.
The Nets (12-10) were led by Mikal Bridges, collecting 22 points, five rebounds and five assists. Spencer Dinwiddie amassed 18 points, two rebounds and six assists. Cam Thomas compiled 18 points and three assists, while Cameron Johnson amassed 15 points, four rebounds and two assists. Dorian Finney-Smith led the bench with 13 points, three boards and two blocks.
The Kings (13-8) were led by De'Aaron Fox, finishing with 29 points, three rebounds and eight assists. Keegan Murray totaled 24 points, three rebounds and three assists. Domantas Sabonis tallied 15 points, 15 rebounds, nine assists and two steals, while Malik Monk led the bench with 21 points, two rebounds and nine assists.
Sacramento has to play again on Tuesday, traveling to face the Los Angeles Clippers. As for Brooklyn, they return to action on Wednesday in a road matchup with the Phoenix Suns.
A 26-18 first quarter carried the Kings to this victory, winning in wire-to-wire fashion. Sacramento rode a 44-37 third quarter to a game-high 21-point lead, leading by at least six points for the closing 20 minutes. The Kings shot 51 percent from the field and 56 percent from three-point range while holding the Nets to 48 percent from the field and 48 percent from long range. Sacramento also out-assisted Brooklyn, 38-24, while outscoring them in fastbreak points, 15-2.
The Nets (12-10) were led by Mikal Bridges, collecting 22 points, five rebounds and five assists. Spencer Dinwiddie amassed 18 points, two rebounds and six assists. Cam Thomas compiled 18 points and three assists, while Cameron Johnson amassed 15 points, four rebounds and two assists. Dorian Finney-Smith led the bench with 13 points, three boards and two blocks.
The Kings (13-8) were led by De'Aaron Fox, finishing with 29 points, three rebounds and eight assists. Keegan Murray totaled 24 points, three rebounds and three assists. Domantas Sabonis tallied 15 points, 15 rebounds, nine assists and two steals, while Malik Monk led the bench with 21 points, two rebounds and nine assists.
Sacramento has to play again on Tuesday, traveling to face the Los Angeles Clippers. As for Brooklyn, they return to action on Wednesday in a road matchup with the Phoenix Suns.
Clippers Defeat Blazers, 132-127
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 132-127, at Crypto.com Arena on Monday.
While there were seven ties and 18 lead changes in total, Los Angeles held the lead for all but a handful of minutes after a 43-32 first quarter. With that said, LA closed the game on a 10-4 run over the final 73 seconds to overcome a one-point deficit. The Clippers shot 55 percent from the field and 96 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Blazers to 48 percent from the field and 85 percent from the charity stripe. Los Angeles out-assisted Portland, 33-25, while outscoring them in the paint, 66-32.
The Trail Blazers (6-16) were led by Anfernee Simons, tallying 38 points and four assists. Shaedon Sharpe amassed 27 points, three rebounds and six assists. Duop Reath registered 10 points, three rebounds and four assists. Scoot Henderson led the bench with 19 points, four rebounds, six assists and two blocks.
The Clippers (12-10) were led by Kawhi Leonard, collecting 34 points, six rebounds, five assists and three steals. James Harden had 20 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and two blocks. Paul George provided 20 points, eight rebounds and eight assists, while Ivica Zubac totaled 18 points, six rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Norman Powell led the bench with 16 points.
Los Angeles has to play again on Tuesday, remaining home to play the Sacramento Kings. As for Portland, they play the Utah Jazz at home on Thursday for their next outing.
While there were seven ties and 18 lead changes in total, Los Angeles held the lead for all but a handful of minutes after a 43-32 first quarter. With that said, LA closed the game on a 10-4 run over the final 73 seconds to overcome a one-point deficit. The Clippers shot 55 percent from the field and 96 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Blazers to 48 percent from the field and 85 percent from the charity stripe. Los Angeles out-assisted Portland, 33-25, while outscoring them in the paint, 66-32.
The Trail Blazers (6-16) were led by Anfernee Simons, tallying 38 points and four assists. Shaedon Sharpe amassed 27 points, three rebounds and six assists. Duop Reath registered 10 points, three rebounds and four assists. Scoot Henderson led the bench with 19 points, four rebounds, six assists and two blocks.
The Clippers (12-10) were led by Kawhi Leonard, collecting 34 points, six rebounds, five assists and three steals. James Harden had 20 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and two blocks. Paul George provided 20 points, eight rebounds and eight assists, while Ivica Zubac totaled 18 points, six rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Norman Powell led the bench with 16 points.
Los Angeles has to play again on Tuesday, remaining home to play the Sacramento Kings. As for Portland, they play the Utah Jazz at home on Thursday for their next outing.