Bucks take down Knicks at Madison Square Garden
The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the New York Knicks, 130-111, at Madison Square Garden on Saturday.
The two teams traded buckets to start the game, but the Bucks (22-7) were able to push their lead to as many as 15 midway through the second quarter before the Knicks (16-12) ended the frame on a 14-7 run to cut the deficit to eight heading into halftime. Milwaukee jumped out to a double-digit lead again in the third quarter and were able to slowly widen the gap right down to the final buzzer. The keys to the Bucks’ seventh-straight victory was their three-point shooting (16-for-32 vs. 9-for-29), rebounding (53 vs. 41) and fast break points (22 vs. 11).
The Bucks had a balanced scoring attack in Saturday’s win, with five players scoring 19-plus points. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with 28 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Bobby Portis had a double-double off the bench with 23 points, 11 rebounds and two steals. Khris Middleton chipped in 20 points, five rebounds and five assists while Damian Lillard finished with 19 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Malik Beasly had a team-high plus-19 point differential and finished with 19 points and six rebounds.
All five Knicks starters scored in double-digits, with Jalen Brunson leading the way with 36 points, seven assists and three rebounds. Julius Randle continued his impressive December production with 26 points and eight rebounds while making all 10 of his free throw attempts. RJ Barrett shot just 29.4 percent from the field and finished with 13 points and seven rebounds. Donte DiVincenzo chipped in 11 points while Isaiah Hartenstein registered his second double-double of the season with 12 points and 13 rebounds.
Both teams will square off against each other on Christmas day.
The two teams traded buckets to start the game, but the Bucks (22-7) were able to push their lead to as many as 15 midway through the second quarter before the Knicks (16-12) ended the frame on a 14-7 run to cut the deficit to eight heading into halftime. Milwaukee jumped out to a double-digit lead again in the third quarter and were able to slowly widen the gap right down to the final buzzer. The keys to the Bucks’ seventh-straight victory was their three-point shooting (16-for-32 vs. 9-for-29), rebounding (53 vs. 41) and fast break points (22 vs. 11).
The Bucks had a balanced scoring attack in Saturday’s win, with five players scoring 19-plus points. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with 28 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Bobby Portis had a double-double off the bench with 23 points, 11 rebounds and two steals. Khris Middleton chipped in 20 points, five rebounds and five assists while Damian Lillard finished with 19 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Malik Beasly had a team-high plus-19 point differential and finished with 19 points and six rebounds.
All five Knicks starters scored in double-digits, with Jalen Brunson leading the way with 36 points, seven assists and three rebounds. Julius Randle continued his impressive December production with 26 points and eight rebounds while making all 10 of his free throw attempts. RJ Barrett shot just 29.4 percent from the field and finished with 13 points and seven rebounds. Donte DiVincenzo chipped in 11 points while Isaiah Hartenstein registered his second double-double of the season with 12 points and 13 rebounds.
Both teams will square off against each other on Christmas day.
Celtics dominate Clippers 145-108 on Saturday
The Boston Celtics blew out the Los Angeles Clippers, 145-108, at Crypto.com Arena on Saturday.
The two teams traded buckets over the first eight minutes of play, but the Celtics (22-6) closed the first quarter out on a 14-7 run to take a seven-point lead into the break. They ballooned that to double digits in the second frame and took a commanding 68-51 lead into halftime. The Clippers (17-12) couldn’t go on a meaningful run to stop the Celtics’ momentum and found themselves down 25 heading into the fourth quarter. Boston pushed their lead to as much as 39 points, and both squads had their deep benches on the floor at the end of regulation.
Boston is now 2-1 on their four-game road trip and have scored 140-plus points in consecutive games for the first time since the 1966-67 team, while Los Angeles dropped their second-straight game. The Celtics went 25-for-53 from beyond the arc -- tied for the third-most three-point makes in a game in franchise history -- and out-rebounded the Clippers 51-34.
Six Celtics players ended Saturday’s win with double-digit points. Back from his one-game absence with an ankle sprain, Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with a game-high 30 points along with five rebounds and two assists. Jaylen Brown continued his productive December with 24 points, six rebounds and two assists while finishing with a game-high plus-29 point differential. Jrue Holiday had 20 points, seven assists and three rebounds while Neemias Queta registered his second double-double of the season with 14 points, 12 assists and three rebounds off the bench. Derrick White had 18 points, three rebounds, three assists and three blocks, and is the first guard in NBA history to register three-plus blocks in four straight games.
The Clippers were led by Paul George, who finished with 21 points, three rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Ivica Zubac had his ninth double-double of the season with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while James Harden almost had a double-double of his own with 14 points, nine assists and four rebounds. Daniel Theis led the bench with 15 points, Russell Westbrook chipped in 12 points, five rebounds and five assists, and Brandon Boston got extended playing time in the blowout to finish with 13 points and three rebounds.
With Saturday’s game in the books, the Celtics will stay in Hollywood to take on the Los Angeles Lakers on Christmas Day, while the Clippers continue their four-game home stand against the Charlotte Hornets on Boxing Day.
The two teams traded buckets over the first eight minutes of play, but the Celtics (22-6) closed the first quarter out on a 14-7 run to take a seven-point lead into the break. They ballooned that to double digits in the second frame and took a commanding 68-51 lead into halftime. The Clippers (17-12) couldn’t go on a meaningful run to stop the Celtics’ momentum and found themselves down 25 heading into the fourth quarter. Boston pushed their lead to as much as 39 points, and both squads had their deep benches on the floor at the end of regulation.
Boston is now 2-1 on their four-game road trip and have scored 140-plus points in consecutive games for the first time since the 1966-67 team, while Los Angeles dropped their second-straight game. The Celtics went 25-for-53 from beyond the arc -- tied for the third-most three-point makes in a game in franchise history -- and out-rebounded the Clippers 51-34.
Six Celtics players ended Saturday’s win with double-digit points. Back from his one-game absence with an ankle sprain, Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with a game-high 30 points along with five rebounds and two assists. Jaylen Brown continued his productive December with 24 points, six rebounds and two assists while finishing with a game-high plus-29 point differential. Jrue Holiday had 20 points, seven assists and three rebounds while Neemias Queta registered his second double-double of the season with 14 points, 12 assists and three rebounds off the bench. Derrick White had 18 points, three rebounds, three assists and three blocks, and is the first guard in NBA history to register three-plus blocks in four straight games.
The Clippers were led by Paul George, who finished with 21 points, three rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Ivica Zubac had his ninth double-double of the season with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while James Harden almost had a double-double of his own with 14 points, nine assists and four rebounds. Daniel Theis led the bench with 15 points, Russell Westbrook chipped in 12 points, five rebounds and five assists, and Brandon Boston got extended playing time in the blowout to finish with 13 points and three rebounds.
With Saturday’s game in the books, the Celtics will stay in Hollywood to take on the Los Angeles Lakers on Christmas Day, while the Clippers continue their four-game home stand against the Charlotte Hornets on Boxing Day.
Rockets Complete Comeback To Defeat Pelicans
The Houston Rockets defeated the New Orleans Pelicans, 106-104, at Smoothie King Center on Saturday evening.
The Rockets (15-12) had to come from behind to defeat the Pelicans (17-13) and did just that, mounting a fourth-quarter comeback to top the hosts. Houston enjoyed a decent start and grabbed a 26-24 lead following the opening 12 minutes. However, the Pelicans responded and grabbed the lead with a 27-21 score in the second quarter. A 33-32 score in the third gave New Orleans a five-point edge, but they were never in complete control of the contest. The Rockets would use that to close the game in the final 12 minutes. A 27-20 score in the fourth quarter lifted Houston to an improbable victory, as the Rockets executed very well down the stretch. With the win, the Rockets moved to 3-10 on the road, while the Pelicans fell to 9-6 at home.
Alperen Sengun was magnificent for the Rockets and finished with a career-high 37 points. He also added 11 rebounds and six assists. Fred VanVleet posted 10 points and three assists. Jabari Smith finished with 26 points, 11 rebounds and two assists. No other Houston player scored in double digits. Houston shot 42.7 percent from the field and 31 percent from three-point range.
Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 28 points, but he also added eight rebounds, four assists and two steals. Brandon Ingram had 19 points, five assists and three rebounds. CJ McCollum finished with 13 points and five rebounds. Jonas Valanciunas recorded 10 points and 11 rebounds despite dealing with a minor injury. Trey Murphy III had 14 points coming off the bench. The Pelicans shot 46.3 percent from the field and 25.8 percent from three.
The Rockets (15-12) had to come from behind to defeat the Pelicans (17-13) and did just that, mounting a fourth-quarter comeback to top the hosts. Houston enjoyed a decent start and grabbed a 26-24 lead following the opening 12 minutes. However, the Pelicans responded and grabbed the lead with a 27-21 score in the second quarter. A 33-32 score in the third gave New Orleans a five-point edge, but they were never in complete control of the contest. The Rockets would use that to close the game in the final 12 minutes. A 27-20 score in the fourth quarter lifted Houston to an improbable victory, as the Rockets executed very well down the stretch. With the win, the Rockets moved to 3-10 on the road, while the Pelicans fell to 9-6 at home.
Alperen Sengun was magnificent for the Rockets and finished with a career-high 37 points. He also added 11 rebounds and six assists. Fred VanVleet posted 10 points and three assists. Jabari Smith finished with 26 points, 11 rebounds and two assists. No other Houston player scored in double digits. Houston shot 42.7 percent from the field and 31 percent from three-point range.
Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 28 points, but he also added eight rebounds, four assists and two steals. Brandon Ingram had 19 points, five assists and three rebounds. CJ McCollum finished with 13 points and five rebounds. Jonas Valanciunas recorded 10 points and 11 rebounds despite dealing with a minor injury. Trey Murphy III had 14 points coming off the bench. The Pelicans shot 46.3 percent from the field and 25.8 percent from three.
Magic Avoid Meltdown In Win Over Pacers
The Orlando Magic defeated the Indiana Pacers, 117-110, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Saturday evening.
The Magic (17-11) and the Pacers (14-14) played a back-and-forth game. However, in the end, the Magic executed better in the final minutes, propelling them to a win on the road. With the victory, Orlando moved to 6-8 away from home, while the Pacers fell to 8-7 at home. The Magic enjoyed a stronger start and grabbed a 36-27 lead in the first quarter, and they’d push that advantage even further following a 37-32 score in the second quarter. The Pacers responded in the third quarter with a 33-20 result, shortening the gap to just two points. However, they could not maintain the intensity down the stretch. Orlando won the final quarter by a 24-18 score and grabbed the win.
Paolo Banchero was the best player for the Magic in this game, finishing with 34 points, seven rebounds and four assists across 36 minutes. Franz Wagner had 24 points and six rebounds. Gary Harris recorded 15 points and three assists. Cole Anthony finished with 12 points, six rebounds and three assists off the bench. Wendell Carter Jr. had four points and eight rebounds while also adding four assists. Orlando shot 53.4 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from three-point range.
Tyrese Haliburton recorded 29 points and 14 assists to lead the Pacers. Buddy Hield finished with 20 points and seven rebounds. Myles Turner had 24 points, seven boards and four blocks. Andrew Nembhard recorded 17 points with five assists. Jalen Smith delivered 11 points coming off the bench. The Pacers shot 52.4 percent from the field and 44.1 percent from three-point range.
The Magic (17-11) and the Pacers (14-14) played a back-and-forth game. However, in the end, the Magic executed better in the final minutes, propelling them to a win on the road. With the victory, Orlando moved to 6-8 away from home, while the Pacers fell to 8-7 at home. The Magic enjoyed a stronger start and grabbed a 36-27 lead in the first quarter, and they’d push that advantage even further following a 37-32 score in the second quarter. The Pacers responded in the third quarter with a 33-20 result, shortening the gap to just two points. However, they could not maintain the intensity down the stretch. Orlando won the final quarter by a 24-18 score and grabbed the win.
Paolo Banchero was the best player for the Magic in this game, finishing with 34 points, seven rebounds and four assists across 36 minutes. Franz Wagner had 24 points and six rebounds. Gary Harris recorded 15 points and three assists. Cole Anthony finished with 12 points, six rebounds and three assists off the bench. Wendell Carter Jr. had four points and eight rebounds while also adding four assists. Orlando shot 53.4 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from three-point range.
Tyrese Haliburton recorded 29 points and 14 assists to lead the Pacers. Buddy Hield finished with 20 points and seven rebounds. Myles Turner had 24 points, seven boards and four blocks. Andrew Nembhard recorded 17 points with five assists. Jalen Smith delivered 11 points coming off the bench. The Pacers shot 52.4 percent from the field and 44.1 percent from three-point range.
Nuggets Hold Off Rally To Defeat Hornets
The Denver Nuggets defeated the Charlotte Hornets, 102-95, at Spectrum Center on Saturday evening.
The Nuggets (21-10) were not at their best but still secured a comfortable win over the Hornets (7-20) despite playing away from home. The reigning NBA champions got off to a slow start and were outscored 27-25 in the first quarter. Denver struggled to react, allowing Charlotte to boost their lead to six points after a 33-29 score in the second quarter. However, a historically bad third quarter saw Charlotte squander the lead for good. The Hornets scored just nine points and made just two field goals in the entire third quarter, while the Nuggets kept pounding and scored 30 points. Essentially, this translated to Denver having a 15-point lead entering the final 12 minutes. Charlotte won the final quarter by a 26-18 score, but it was not enough to complete the comeback, and the Nuggets closed the game with ease despite an overall subpar performance. With the win, the Nuggets moved to 10-8 on the road. Meanwhile, the Hornets fell to 4-11 at home.
Michael Porter Jr. led the way for the Nuggets with 22 points, five rebounds and two blocks. Nikola Jokic sniffed a triple-double and finished with 18 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. Jamal Murray had 20 points, 12 rebounds, five assists and three steals. Aaron Gordon chipped in with 14 points and two rebounds. Christian Braun had 11 points and seven rebounds coming off the bench.
Miles Bridges was the highest scorer for the Hornets after posting 22 points and eight rebounds. Nick Richards chipped in with a 12-point, 15-rebound double-double while also adding three blocks. Gordon Hayward posted eight points. Ish Smith started over the injured Terry Rozier and had four points with eight assists. P.J. Washington had 20 points, eight rebounds and four steals off the bench. Nick Smith had 19 points.
The Nuggets (21-10) were not at their best but still secured a comfortable win over the Hornets (7-20) despite playing away from home. The reigning NBA champions got off to a slow start and were outscored 27-25 in the first quarter. Denver struggled to react, allowing Charlotte to boost their lead to six points after a 33-29 score in the second quarter. However, a historically bad third quarter saw Charlotte squander the lead for good. The Hornets scored just nine points and made just two field goals in the entire third quarter, while the Nuggets kept pounding and scored 30 points. Essentially, this translated to Denver having a 15-point lead entering the final 12 minutes. Charlotte won the final quarter by a 26-18 score, but it was not enough to complete the comeback, and the Nuggets closed the game with ease despite an overall subpar performance. With the win, the Nuggets moved to 10-8 on the road. Meanwhile, the Hornets fell to 4-11 at home.
Michael Porter Jr. led the way for the Nuggets with 22 points, five rebounds and two blocks. Nikola Jokic sniffed a triple-double and finished with 18 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. Jamal Murray had 20 points, 12 rebounds, five assists and three steals. Aaron Gordon chipped in with 14 points and two rebounds. Christian Braun had 11 points and seven rebounds coming off the bench.
Miles Bridges was the highest scorer for the Hornets after posting 22 points and eight rebounds. Nick Richards chipped in with a 12-point, 15-rebound double-double while also adding three blocks. Gordon Hayward posted eight points. Ish Smith started over the injured Terry Rozier and had four points with eight assists. P.J. Washington had 20 points, eight rebounds and four steals off the bench. Nick Smith had 19 points.
Grizzlies Outpace Hawks, 125-119
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Atlanta Hawks, 125-119, at State Farm Arena on Saturday night.
The Grizzlies (9-19) were aiming for their third win in as many games since Ja Morant's season debut, but matters didn't appear to be trending in that direction during a first half that the Hawks (12-17) emerged from with a 60-50 advantage. However, Memphis turned the tables in the second half, posting 75 points over the final two periods to notch the comeback road win.
Desmond Bane led the Grizzlies with 37 points, adding six rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block. Morant generated a 30-point, 11-assist double-double that included six rebounds, one steal and one block. Jaren Jackson finished with 20 points and two rebounds.
Trae Young paced the Hawks with 30 points, complementing them with 13 assists, five rebounds, one steal and one block. Dejounte Murray furnished 26 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Clint Capela generated a 20-point, 12-rebound double-double that included one assist and two blocks. Bogdan Bogdanovic furnished 16 points, four rebounds and three assists. Saddiq Bey supplied 14 points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals. Onyeka Okongwu tallied 10 points, seven rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks.
The Grizzlies visit the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night, while the Hawks visit the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday night as well.
The Grizzlies (9-19) were aiming for their third win in as many games since Ja Morant's season debut, but matters didn't appear to be trending in that direction during a first half that the Hawks (12-17) emerged from with a 60-50 advantage. However, Memphis turned the tables in the second half, posting 75 points over the final two periods to notch the comeback road win.
Desmond Bane led the Grizzlies with 37 points, adding six rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block. Morant generated a 30-point, 11-assist double-double that included six rebounds, one steal and one block. Jaren Jackson finished with 20 points and two rebounds.
Trae Young paced the Hawks with 30 points, complementing them with 13 assists, five rebounds, one steal and one block. Dejounte Murray furnished 26 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Clint Capela generated a 20-point, 12-rebound double-double that included one assist and two blocks. Bogdan Bogdanovic furnished 16 points, four rebounds and three assists. Saddiq Bey supplied 14 points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals. Onyeka Okongwu tallied 10 points, seven rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks.
The Grizzlies visit the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night, while the Hawks visit the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday night as well.
Nets Top Pistons, 126-115
The Brooklyn Nets topped the Detroit Pistons, 126-115, at Barclays Center on Saturday night.
The Nets (14-15) got off to a fast start against a Pistons (2-27) trying to avoid a 26th straight loss, taking a 32-21 lead through one. Detroit was able to put a two-point dent into its deficit in the second with a 35-point haul, but Brooklyn had pushed its advantage back to 16 points going into the final period on the way to a comfortable win.
Jaden Ivey led the Pistons with 23 points, adding seven assists, six rebounds and two blocks. Cade Cunningham delivered 22 points, six assists and three rebounds. Isaiah Stewart supplied 20 points, five rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block. Bojan Bogdanovic totaled 19 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals. Kevin Knox netted 14 points.
Mikal Bridges paced the Nets with 29 points, seven assists, six rebounds, one steal and one block. Cam Thomas registered 20 points, three assists, two rebounds and one steal. Cameron Johnson finished with 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals. Spencer Dinwiddie managed 14 points, seven assists, four rebounds and one steal. Nic Claxton and Day'Ron Sharpe contributed matching 11-point tallies while pulling down seven and three rebounds, respectively.
The two teams reconvene for a rematch at Little Caesars Arena on Tuesday night.
The Nets (14-15) got off to a fast start against a Pistons (2-27) trying to avoid a 26th straight loss, taking a 32-21 lead through one. Detroit was able to put a two-point dent into its deficit in the second with a 35-point haul, but Brooklyn had pushed its advantage back to 16 points going into the final period on the way to a comfortable win.
Jaden Ivey led the Pistons with 23 points, adding seven assists, six rebounds and two blocks. Cade Cunningham delivered 22 points, six assists and three rebounds. Isaiah Stewart supplied 20 points, five rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block. Bojan Bogdanovic totaled 19 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals. Kevin Knox netted 14 points.
Mikal Bridges paced the Nets with 29 points, seven assists, six rebounds, one steal and one block. Cam Thomas registered 20 points, three assists, two rebounds and one steal. Cameron Johnson finished with 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals. Spencer Dinwiddie managed 14 points, seven assists, four rebounds and one steal. Nic Claxton and Day'Ron Sharpe contributed matching 11-point tallies while pulling down seven and three rebounds, respectively.
The two teams reconvene for a rematch at Little Caesars Arena on Tuesday night.
Jazz Edges Raptors, 126-119
The Utah Jazz defeated the Toronto Raptors, 126-119, at Scotiabank Arena on Saturday night.
The interconference clash between two inconsistent teams was truly a tale of two halves. The Raptors (11-18) came out of the gates hot, scoring 71 first-half points on the way to a 16-point lead by intermission. The Jazz (12-18) showed some signs of life in the third quarter while cutting three points from their deficit, but Utah put together a dominant fourth quarter during which it forged a 41-21 edge on the way to the narrow comeback victory.
Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson co-led the Jazz with 30 points apiece. Markkanen added nine rebounds, five assists and three steals, while Clarkson posted six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Collin Sexton tallied 16 points, three assists and one steal. Walker Kessler and John Collins generated matching 10-point efforts while pulling down eight and five rebounds, respectively.
Scottie Barnes paced the Raptors with a 32-point, 14-rebound double-double that included seven assists and one block. Pascal Siakam and O.G. Anunoby furnished matching 19-point efforts, with Siakam adding nine rebounds and six assists and Anunoby posted four assists, two rebounds and two steals. Gary Trent Jr. netted 16 points, and Dennis Schroder turned in 11 points, seven assists, three rebounds and three steals.
The Jazz remains on the road and visits the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night, while the Raptors travel to face the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night.
The interconference clash between two inconsistent teams was truly a tale of two halves. The Raptors (11-18) came out of the gates hot, scoring 71 first-half points on the way to a 16-point lead by intermission. The Jazz (12-18) showed some signs of life in the third quarter while cutting three points from their deficit, but Utah put together a dominant fourth quarter during which it forged a 41-21 edge on the way to the narrow comeback victory.
Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson co-led the Jazz with 30 points apiece. Markkanen added nine rebounds, five assists and three steals, while Clarkson posted six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Collin Sexton tallied 16 points, three assists and one steal. Walker Kessler and John Collins generated matching 10-point efforts while pulling down eight and five rebounds, respectively.
Scottie Barnes paced the Raptors with a 32-point, 14-rebound double-double that included seven assists and one block. Pascal Siakam and O.G. Anunoby furnished matching 19-point efforts, with Siakam adding nine rebounds and six assists and Anunoby posted four assists, two rebounds and two steals. Gary Trent Jr. netted 16 points, and Dennis Schroder turned in 11 points, seven assists, three rebounds and three steals.
The Jazz remains on the road and visits the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night, while the Raptors travel to face the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night.
Cavs Overpower Bulls In Chicago
By Dan Bruno
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the host Chicago Bulls, 109-95, at United Center on Saturday evening.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Cavs led, 32-30, after one quarter. The visitors pushed their lead up to 11 points in the second, but the Bulls finished the half on a, 15-5 run, to cut it to a one-point game at the break. The Cavs turned up the defense in the second and outscored the hosts, 25-16, to earn a 10-point cushion heading into the final frame. The Bulls had no answers down the stretch, as the Cavs kept the momentum and closed out their fourth win in the last five games. This also marks the end of three-game win streak for the Bulls.
Max Strus led the Cavs with 26 points, seven assists, two steals and a block, in 41 minutes. Jarrett Allen finished up with 19 points, 17 rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a block, while Craig Porter tallied 19 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 21 points, five rebounds, eight assists and three steals, in 40 minutes of action. Nikola Vucevic totaled 20 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, while Coby White added 17 points, four rebounds, seven assists and a block.
The Bulls (13-18) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Hawks on Tuesday. The Cavs (17-13) clash with the Mavs in Dallas on Wednesday.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Cavs led, 32-30, after one quarter. The visitors pushed their lead up to 11 points in the second, but the Bulls finished the half on a, 15-5 run, to cut it to a one-point game at the break. The Cavs turned up the defense in the second and outscored the hosts, 25-16, to earn a 10-point cushion heading into the final frame. The Bulls had no answers down the stretch, as the Cavs kept the momentum and closed out their fourth win in the last five games. This also marks the end of three-game win streak for the Bulls.
Max Strus led the Cavs with 26 points, seven assists, two steals and a block, in 41 minutes. Jarrett Allen finished up with 19 points, 17 rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a block, while Craig Porter tallied 19 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 21 points, five rebounds, eight assists and three steals, in 40 minutes of action. Nikola Vucevic totaled 20 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, while Coby White added 17 points, four rebounds, seven assists and a block.
The Bulls (13-18) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Hawks on Tuesday. The Cavs (17-13) clash with the Mavs in Dallas on Wednesday.
James Scores 40 To Lead Lakers In OKC
By Dan Bruno
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the host Oklahoma City Thunder, 129-120, at Paycom Center on Saturday evening.
LeBron James poured in a season-high 40 points to lead the Lakers to the road win. The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Thunder led, 39-36, after one quarter. The Lakers turned it up a notch in the second and outscored the hosts, 35-20, to claim a 12-point lead at halftime. Both sides brought a high-powered effort in the third, but the visitors maintained the upper hand, pushing their cushion up to 16, heading into the final frame. The Thunder cut the deficit to single digits mid way through the quarter, but the Lakers held on to snap a four-game slide. This also marks the end of a three-game win streak for the Thunder.
James tallied seven rebounds, seven assists, two steals and two blocks, along with his game-high 40 points, in 37 minutes of action. Anthony Davis followed up with 26 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a two blocks, while Rui Hachimura tallied 21 points, six rebounds, two assists and a steal.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 34 points, five rebounds, seven assists and three steals, in 38 minutes. Jalen Williams followed up with 28 points, six rebounds and three assists, while Chet Holmgren logged 19 points, 10 rebounds, a steal and three blocks.
The Thunder (18-9) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Timberwolves on Tuesday. The Lakers (16-14) play host to the Celtics on Christmas Day.
LeBron James poured in a season-high 40 points to lead the Lakers to the road win. The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Thunder led, 39-36, after one quarter. The Lakers turned it up a notch in the second and outscored the hosts, 35-20, to claim a 12-point lead at halftime. Both sides brought a high-powered effort in the third, but the visitors maintained the upper hand, pushing their cushion up to 16, heading into the final frame. The Thunder cut the deficit to single digits mid way through the quarter, but the Lakers held on to snap a four-game slide. This also marks the end of a three-game win streak for the Thunder.
James tallied seven rebounds, seven assists, two steals and two blocks, along with his game-high 40 points, in 37 minutes of action. Anthony Davis followed up with 26 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a two blocks, while Rui Hachimura tallied 21 points, six rebounds, two assists and a steal.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 34 points, five rebounds, seven assists and three steals, in 38 minutes. Jalen Williams followed up with 28 points, six rebounds and three assists, while Chet Holmgren logged 19 points, 10 rebounds, a steal and three blocks.
The Thunder (18-9) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Timberwolves on Tuesday. The Lakers (16-14) play host to the Celtics on Christmas Day.
Mavs Maul Spurs, 144-119
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the visiting San Antonio Spurs, 144-119, at American Airlines Center on Saturday.
While this wasn't necessarily a wire-to-wire win for Dallas, they never relinquished the lead after a 40-29 first quarter. They actually took command with a 45-20 third quarter, getting their lead up to 41 points at times. They led by at least 20 points for the closing 17 minutes. The Mavericks shot 52 percent from the field and 52 percent from three-point range while holding the Spurs to 45 percent from the field and 31 percent from long range. Dallas also out-rebounded San Antonio, 61-52, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 23-8.
The Spurs (4-24) were led by Jeremy Sochan, providing 23 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Keldon Johnson led the bench with 16 points, five rebounds and two assists. Zach Collins collected 14 points, five rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. Malaki Branham amassed 12 points, three rebounds and four assists. Victor Wembenyama sat after rolling his ankle in pregame warm-ups.
The Mavericks (17-12) got another triple-double from Luka Doncic, tallying 39 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Tim Hardaway Jr had 23 points, six rebounds and three assists. Dante Exum totaled 20 points, seven rebounds and four assists, while Grant Williams generated 14 points, two rebounds and three assists. AJ Lawson led the bench with 17 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two steals.
Dallas plays again on Christmas Day, traveling to face the Phoenix Suns. As for San Antonio, they play host to the Utah Jazz on Tuesday for their next outing.
While this wasn't necessarily a wire-to-wire win for Dallas, they never relinquished the lead after a 40-29 first quarter. They actually took command with a 45-20 third quarter, getting their lead up to 41 points at times. They led by at least 20 points for the closing 17 minutes. The Mavericks shot 52 percent from the field and 52 percent from three-point range while holding the Spurs to 45 percent from the field and 31 percent from long range. Dallas also out-rebounded San Antonio, 61-52, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 23-8.
The Spurs (4-24) were led by Jeremy Sochan, providing 23 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Keldon Johnson led the bench with 16 points, five rebounds and two assists. Zach Collins collected 14 points, five rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. Malaki Branham amassed 12 points, three rebounds and four assists. Victor Wembenyama sat after rolling his ankle in pregame warm-ups.
The Mavericks (17-12) got another triple-double from Luka Doncic, tallying 39 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Tim Hardaway Jr had 23 points, six rebounds and three assists. Dante Exum totaled 20 points, seven rebounds and four assists, while Grant Williams generated 14 points, two rebounds and three assists. AJ Lawson led the bench with 17 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two steals.
Dallas plays again on Christmas Day, traveling to face the Phoenix Suns. As for San Antonio, they play host to the Utah Jazz on Tuesday for their next outing.
Warriors Defeat Trail Blazers, 126-106
The Golden State Warriors defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 126-106, at Chase Center on Saturday.
While there were nine lead changes through the opening 20 minutes, Golden State rode a 34-16 second quarter to their victory. They never relinquished the lead in the second half, maintaining a double-digit lead for the entirety of the fourth quarter. The Warriors shot 58 percent from the field and 83 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Trail Blazers to 45 percent from the field and 68 percent from the charity stripe. Golden State out-assisted Portland, 38-26, while outscoring them in the paint, 62-42.
The Trail Blazers (7-21) were led by Anfernee Simons, accruing 25 points, two rebounds and two assists. Jerami Grant generated 17 points, two rebounds and three assists. Malcolm Brogdon tallied 17 points, six rebounds, 12 assists and three steals, while Deandre Ayton amassed 13 points, six rebounds, two assists and three steals.
The Warriors (15-14) were led by Klay Thompson, totaling 28 points and three rebounds on 11-of-16 shooting. Stephen Curry collected 27 points, three rebounds and two assists. Brandin Podziemski provided 15 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, while Jonathan Kuminga compiled 11 points, six rebounds and five assists. Kevon Looney had six points, 11 rebounds and seven assists, while Chris Paul led the bench with two points. three rebounds, 11 assists and three steals.
Golden State will return to action on Christmas Day, traveling to face the Denver Nuggets. As for Portland, they return to action on Tuesday in a home matchup with the Sacramento Kings.
While there were nine lead changes through the opening 20 minutes, Golden State rode a 34-16 second quarter to their victory. They never relinquished the lead in the second half, maintaining a double-digit lead for the entirety of the fourth quarter. The Warriors shot 58 percent from the field and 83 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Trail Blazers to 45 percent from the field and 68 percent from the charity stripe. Golden State out-assisted Portland, 38-26, while outscoring them in the paint, 62-42.
The Trail Blazers (7-21) were led by Anfernee Simons, accruing 25 points, two rebounds and two assists. Jerami Grant generated 17 points, two rebounds and three assists. Malcolm Brogdon tallied 17 points, six rebounds, 12 assists and three steals, while Deandre Ayton amassed 13 points, six rebounds, two assists and three steals.
The Warriors (15-14) were led by Klay Thompson, totaling 28 points and three rebounds on 11-of-16 shooting. Stephen Curry collected 27 points, three rebounds and two assists. Brandin Podziemski provided 15 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, while Jonathan Kuminga compiled 11 points, six rebounds and five assists. Kevon Looney had six points, 11 rebounds and seven assists, while Chris Paul led the bench with two points. three rebounds, 11 assists and three steals.
Golden State will return to action on Christmas Day, traveling to face the Denver Nuggets. As for Portland, they return to action on Tuesday in a home matchup with the Sacramento Kings.
T'Wolves Defeat Kings, 110-98
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the host Sacramento Kings, 110-98, at Golden One Center on Saturday.
A 28-20 first quarter set the tone for the Timberwolves in this victory, maintaining the lead for all but one minute in this game. They got their lead up to 22 points at times in the fourth quarter. They actually led 96-72, with Sacramento going on a 23-4 run to cut it to a five-point margin with two minutes remaining. That was as close as it got, though, with Minnesota finishing the game on a 10-3 spurt. The Timberwolves shot 51 percent from the field, 30 percent from three-point range and 86 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Kings to 44 percent from the field. 24 percent from long range and 76 percent from the charity stripe. Minnesota also outscored Sacramento in fastbreak points, 28-5.
The Timberwolves (22-6) were led by Anthony Edwards, finishing with 34 points, five rebounds and 10 assists. Rudy Gobert shot 10-of-13 from the field to total 21 points, 17 rebounds and two blocks. Jaden McDaniels amassed 20 points, five rebounds and four steals, while Mike Conley collected 12 points, seven rebounds, nine assists and two steals.
The Kings (17-11) were led by De'Aaron Fox, collecting 27 points, four rebounds, six assists and two steals. Keegan Murray totaled 20 points, seven rebounds and three steals. Domantas Sabonis accumulated 17 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, while Trey Lyles led the bench with 10 points, seven rebounds and three assists.
Both teams return to action on Tuesday, with Minnesota staying on the road to face the Oklahoma City Thunder and Sacramento traveling to play the Portland Trail Blazers.
A 28-20 first quarter set the tone for the Timberwolves in this victory, maintaining the lead for all but one minute in this game. They got their lead up to 22 points at times in the fourth quarter. They actually led 96-72, with Sacramento going on a 23-4 run to cut it to a five-point margin with two minutes remaining. That was as close as it got, though, with Minnesota finishing the game on a 10-3 spurt. The Timberwolves shot 51 percent from the field, 30 percent from three-point range and 86 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Kings to 44 percent from the field. 24 percent from long range and 76 percent from the charity stripe. Minnesota also outscored Sacramento in fastbreak points, 28-5.
The Timberwolves (22-6) were led by Anthony Edwards, finishing with 34 points, five rebounds and 10 assists. Rudy Gobert shot 10-of-13 from the field to total 21 points, 17 rebounds and two blocks. Jaden McDaniels amassed 20 points, five rebounds and four steals, while Mike Conley collected 12 points, seven rebounds, nine assists and two steals.
The Kings (17-11) were led by De'Aaron Fox, collecting 27 points, four rebounds, six assists and two steals. Keegan Murray totaled 20 points, seven rebounds and three steals. Domantas Sabonis accumulated 17 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, while Trey Lyles led the bench with 10 points, seven rebounds and three assists.
Both teams return to action on Tuesday, with Minnesota staying on the road to face the Oklahoma City Thunder and Sacramento traveling to play the Portland Trail Blazers.