Celtics crush Jazz at TD Garden
The Boston Celtics blew out the Utah Jazz, 126-97, at TD Garden on Friday.
It was tough sledding for the Jazz (16-20), who didn’t hold a lead for the entire game. The Celtics (27-7) dominated from the tip when they started the game on a 10-0 run and won the first quarter, 30-15. Boston had an even better second quarter, winning the frame by 16 points to take a 31-point lead into halftime. Utah weren’t able to make up the difference in the third frame, and with such a large deficit, both teams elected to go deep into their bench for the fourth quarter. The Celtics won Friday's contest in large part due to their three-point makes (17 vs. 6), points off turnovers (26 vs. 14) and fast break points (26 vs. 14). They’ve now won 12 of their last 14 games, while the Jazz had their three-game win streak snapped.
Lauri Markkanen led the Jazz with 17 points, four rebounds and three assists, while Collin Sexton added 13 points, three assists and three steals. Keyonte George led Utah's bench with 12 points and four rebounds while Talen Horton-Tucker took advantage of some fourth quarter minutes to finish with 11 points and two steals. John Collins had 12 points, 11 rebounds and two assists for his 10th double-double of the season.
In spite of playing just 25 minutes, Jayson Tatum tallied 30 points, nine rebounds and five assists. It was his 14th 30-point game of the season -- thanks to his 5-for-8 shooting from three and 13-for-14 from the free throw line -- and he finished with a game-high plus-34 point differential. Kristaps Porzingis had 19 points, five rebounds and two assists while Jrue Holiday had 14 points, six rebounds and two blocks. Jaylen Brown chipped in 13 points, three rebounds and five assists, while Sam Hauser led Boston's bench with 13 points and five rebounds.
With Friday’s game in the books, both teams will play their next respective games Saturday. The Celtics hit the road to face the Indiana Pacers on Saturday in the first of a two-game home-and-home series, while the Jazz visit the Philadelphia 76ers.
It was tough sledding for the Jazz (16-20), who didn’t hold a lead for the entire game. The Celtics (27-7) dominated from the tip when they started the game on a 10-0 run and won the first quarter, 30-15. Boston had an even better second quarter, winning the frame by 16 points to take a 31-point lead into halftime. Utah weren’t able to make up the difference in the third frame, and with such a large deficit, both teams elected to go deep into their bench for the fourth quarter. The Celtics won Friday's contest in large part due to their three-point makes (17 vs. 6), points off turnovers (26 vs. 14) and fast break points (26 vs. 14). They’ve now won 12 of their last 14 games, while the Jazz had their three-game win streak snapped.
Lauri Markkanen led the Jazz with 17 points, four rebounds and three assists, while Collin Sexton added 13 points, three assists and three steals. Keyonte George led Utah's bench with 12 points and four rebounds while Talen Horton-Tucker took advantage of some fourth quarter minutes to finish with 11 points and two steals. John Collins had 12 points, 11 rebounds and two assists for his 10th double-double of the season.
In spite of playing just 25 minutes, Jayson Tatum tallied 30 points, nine rebounds and five assists. It was his 14th 30-point game of the season -- thanks to his 5-for-8 shooting from three and 13-for-14 from the free throw line -- and he finished with a game-high plus-34 point differential. Kristaps Porzingis had 19 points, five rebounds and two assists while Jrue Holiday had 14 points, six rebounds and two blocks. Jaylen Brown chipped in 13 points, three rebounds and five assists, while Sam Hauser led Boston's bench with 13 points and five rebounds.
With Friday’s game in the books, both teams will play their next respective games Saturday. The Celtics hit the road to face the Indiana Pacers on Saturday in the first of a two-game home-and-home series, while the Jazz visit the Philadelphia 76ers.
Pacers obliterate Hawks, 150-116, on Friday
The Indiana Pacers took care of business against the Atlanta Hawks, 150-116, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Friday.
The Hawks (14-20) held their largest lead of the night of six points after one minute of play, but it was all Pacers (20-14) from there on out. Indiana used their three-point barrage to race out to a 14-point advantage after 12 minutes of play, and entered halftime with a commanding 24-point lead. Atlanta could do nothing to stop the momentum as they lost the third quarter, 39-29, and with the game out of hand heading into the final frame, both teams emptied their benches to finish off the contest. The Pacers assisted 50 of their 60 field-goal makes (compared to 21 assists by the Hawks), and shot 19-for-39 from three-point range, while the Hawks shot just 10-for-42 from beyond the arc. Indiana has now won six straight games while Atlanta dropped to 2-5 over their last seven contests.
The lone bright spot for the Hawks on Friday was Dejounte Murray, who had a game-high 30 points on an efficient 13-for-19 shooting, and added two assists. Bogdan Bogdanovic was the next leading scorer with 16 points along with four rebounds, three assists and two steals, and although he made nine of his 10 free throw attempts, he missed eight of his nine shots from three. Trae Young also struggled from the field, finishing with 13 points on 4-for-18 shooting (including 1-for-11 from three), along with two rebounds, six assists and two steals. Jalen Johnson added 12 points, eight rebounds and three assists while Clint Capela and Saddiq Bey chipped in nine points each.
Eight Pacers players -- including all five starters -- finished in double-digits in Friday’s win. Myles Turner led the way with 27 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Bruce Brown made eight of his nine shots to finish with 17 points, three rebounds and two assists. Benedict Mathurin led the bench with 18 points, three rebounds and four assists while TJ McConnell registered his second double-double of the season with 10 points, three rebounds, 10 assists and three steals. Tyrese Haliburton was two rebounds shy of a triple-double, tallying 10 points, eight rebounds, 18 assists and two steals.
Next up, the Pacers will host the Boston Celtics on Saturday, while the Hawks visit the Orlando Magic on Sunday.
The Hawks (14-20) held their largest lead of the night of six points after one minute of play, but it was all Pacers (20-14) from there on out. Indiana used their three-point barrage to race out to a 14-point advantage after 12 minutes of play, and entered halftime with a commanding 24-point lead. Atlanta could do nothing to stop the momentum as they lost the third quarter, 39-29, and with the game out of hand heading into the final frame, both teams emptied their benches to finish off the contest. The Pacers assisted 50 of their 60 field-goal makes (compared to 21 assists by the Hawks), and shot 19-for-39 from three-point range, while the Hawks shot just 10-for-42 from beyond the arc. Indiana has now won six straight games while Atlanta dropped to 2-5 over their last seven contests.
The lone bright spot for the Hawks on Friday was Dejounte Murray, who had a game-high 30 points on an efficient 13-for-19 shooting, and added two assists. Bogdan Bogdanovic was the next leading scorer with 16 points along with four rebounds, three assists and two steals, and although he made nine of his 10 free throw attempts, he missed eight of his nine shots from three. Trae Young also struggled from the field, finishing with 13 points on 4-for-18 shooting (including 1-for-11 from three), along with two rebounds, six assists and two steals. Jalen Johnson added 12 points, eight rebounds and three assists while Clint Capela and Saddiq Bey chipped in nine points each.
Eight Pacers players -- including all five starters -- finished in double-digits in Friday’s win. Myles Turner led the way with 27 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Bruce Brown made eight of his nine shots to finish with 17 points, three rebounds and two assists. Benedict Mathurin led the bench with 18 points, three rebounds and four assists while TJ McConnell registered his second double-double of the season with 10 points, three rebounds, 10 assists and three steals. Tyrese Haliburton was two rebounds shy of a triple-double, tallying 10 points, eight rebounds, 18 assists and two steals.
Next up, the Pacers will host the Boston Celtics on Saturday, while the Hawks visit the Orlando Magic on Sunday.
Cavaliers Cruise In Win Over Wizards
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Washington Wizards, 114-90, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Friday.
The Cavaliers (20-15) reached the 20th-win mark with an impressive performance over the Wizards (6-28), one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference. Cleveland dominated the game as soon as things started, and they quickly raced to a 36-26 lead in the first quarter. The second quarter was a low-scoring affair, but it allowed Cleveland to bolster their lead to 12 points following a 16-14 score. The Wizards showed a fighting spirit in the third quarter, but it was not enough for them to mount a potential comeback. A 32-19 score in the first 12 minutes of the second half put the game out of the Wizards’ reach, and the Cavaliers didn’t have problems closing things out in the fourth quarter. With the win, the Cavaliers moved to 11-8 at home. Meanwhile, the Wizards fell to 3-17 on the road.
Donovan Mitchell led the way for the Cavaliers with 26 points and four assists. Jarrett Allen delivered 12 points, 12 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Georges Niang posted 14 points and nine rebounds. Caris LeVert and Sam Merrill each had 11 points coming off the bench. Isaac Okoro posted eight points and four rebounds. Cleveland shot 53.2 percent from the field.
Tyus Jones had 16 points, five assists and two steals. Deni Avdija recorded 13 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Kyle Kuzma posted nine points, two rebounds and two assists. Jordan Poole had two points and didn’t make a single shot from the field (0-4 FG, 0-2 3Pt). Corey Kispert had 13 points coming off the bench. Washington shot 41.7 percent from the field.
The Cavaliers (20-15) reached the 20th-win mark with an impressive performance over the Wizards (6-28), one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference. Cleveland dominated the game as soon as things started, and they quickly raced to a 36-26 lead in the first quarter. The second quarter was a low-scoring affair, but it allowed Cleveland to bolster their lead to 12 points following a 16-14 score. The Wizards showed a fighting spirit in the third quarter, but it was not enough for them to mount a potential comeback. A 32-19 score in the first 12 minutes of the second half put the game out of the Wizards’ reach, and the Cavaliers didn’t have problems closing things out in the fourth quarter. With the win, the Cavaliers moved to 11-8 at home. Meanwhile, the Wizards fell to 3-17 on the road.
Donovan Mitchell led the way for the Cavaliers with 26 points and four assists. Jarrett Allen delivered 12 points, 12 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Georges Niang posted 14 points and nine rebounds. Caris LeVert and Sam Merrill each had 11 points coming off the bench. Isaac Okoro posted eight points and four rebounds. Cleveland shot 53.2 percent from the field.
Tyus Jones had 16 points, five assists and two steals. Deni Avdija recorded 13 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Kyle Kuzma posted nine points, two rebounds and two assists. Jordan Poole had two points and didn’t make a single shot from the field (0-4 FG, 0-2 3Pt). Corey Kispert had 13 points coming off the bench. Washington shot 41.7 percent from the field.
Nets Pull Upset, Secure Win Over Thunder
The Brooklyn Nets defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder, 124-115, at Barclays Center on Friday.
The Nets (16-20) moved to 10-8 at home with a huge win over one of the best teams in the Western Conference, the Thunder (23-11). Oklahoma City had a poor showing on offense and woke up late, but the team could not complete the comeback. With the loss, the Thunder fell to 9-6 on the road. The Nets enjoyed a dominant start and quickly raced to a 39-21 score in the first quarter, setting the tone for the rest of the game. The Nets kept the momentum going and also won the second quarter by a 36-26 score. The Thunder played the second half with a more aggressive approach, and it showed. Oklahoma City won the third quarter by a 32-26 score and the fourth one by a 36-23 score. However, the late push was not enough and Brooklyn ended up holding for the win.
Nic Claxton led the way for the Nets with 23 points and 13 rebounds. Spencer Dinwiddie also had 23 points but also added four assists and three rebounds. Mikal Bridges notched 17 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Cam Thomas had 19 points coming off the bench. Dennis Smith Jr. posted 13 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists. Dorian Finney-Smith and Cameron Johnson each had nine points, three rebounds and two assists.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander posted 34 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Jalen Williams recorded 20 points, five rebounds and five assists. Chet Holmgren recorded 17 points, six rebounds and three assists. Josh Giddey had 13 points, eight rebounds and five assists. Luguentz Dort posted 12 points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals.
The Nets (16-20) moved to 10-8 at home with a huge win over one of the best teams in the Western Conference, the Thunder (23-11). Oklahoma City had a poor showing on offense and woke up late, but the team could not complete the comeback. With the loss, the Thunder fell to 9-6 on the road. The Nets enjoyed a dominant start and quickly raced to a 39-21 score in the first quarter, setting the tone for the rest of the game. The Nets kept the momentum going and also won the second quarter by a 36-26 score. The Thunder played the second half with a more aggressive approach, and it showed. Oklahoma City won the third quarter by a 32-26 score and the fourth one by a 36-23 score. However, the late push was not enough and Brooklyn ended up holding for the win.
Nic Claxton led the way for the Nets with 23 points and 13 rebounds. Spencer Dinwiddie also had 23 points but also added four assists and three rebounds. Mikal Bridges notched 17 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Cam Thomas had 19 points coming off the bench. Dennis Smith Jr. posted 13 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists. Dorian Finney-Smith and Cameron Johnson each had nine points, three rebounds and two assists.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander posted 34 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Jalen Williams recorded 20 points, five rebounds and five assists. Chet Holmgren recorded 17 points, six rebounds and three assists. Josh Giddey had 13 points, eight rebounds and five assists. Luguentz Dort posted 12 points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals.
Knicks Dominate In Huge Win Over Sixers
The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers, 128-92, at Wells Fargo Center on Friday.
The Knicks (20-15) had one of their best offensive showings of the season Friday and topped the 76ers (23-11) in what was one of Philadelphia’s worst outings of the campaign. With the win, New York moved to 10-11 on the road, while the 76ers fell to 13-5 at home. Philadelphia enjoyed a good start, but New York quickly adjusted and grabbed a 34-30 lead in the first quarter. The Knicks carried the momentum after the first 12 minutes and made it a double-digit game after a 41-25 score in the second quarter. The third quarter was a low-scoring affair, and the 76ers restored the deficit a bit following a 21-18 score. However, the Knicks were dominant in the final quarter and cruised to victory following a 35-16 score in the final 12 minutes.
Jalen Brunson scored 29 points to lead the Knicks, adding three rebounds and two assists. Isaiah Hartenstein posted 17 points, six rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks. Julius Randle delivered eight points (1-11 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 6-6 FT), seven rebounds and five assists. Donte DiVincenzo added 14 points. Josh Hart posted 10 points and 15 rebounds. Quentin Grimes notched 19 points.
Joel Embiid finished with 30 points and 10 rebounds, but his efforts were not enough. Tyrese Maxey had 27 points, nine assists and four rebounds. Kelly Oubre Jr. recorded 15 points and seven rebounds. No other Philadelphia players scored in double digits.
The Knicks (20-15) had one of their best offensive showings of the season Friday and topped the 76ers (23-11) in what was one of Philadelphia’s worst outings of the campaign. With the win, New York moved to 10-11 on the road, while the 76ers fell to 13-5 at home. Philadelphia enjoyed a good start, but New York quickly adjusted and grabbed a 34-30 lead in the first quarter. The Knicks carried the momentum after the first 12 minutes and made it a double-digit game after a 41-25 score in the second quarter. The third quarter was a low-scoring affair, and the 76ers restored the deficit a bit following a 21-18 score. However, the Knicks were dominant in the final quarter and cruised to victory following a 35-16 score in the final 12 minutes.
Jalen Brunson scored 29 points to lead the Knicks, adding three rebounds and two assists. Isaiah Hartenstein posted 17 points, six rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks. Julius Randle delivered eight points (1-11 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 6-6 FT), seven rebounds and five assists. Donte DiVincenzo added 14 points. Josh Hart posted 10 points and 15 rebounds. Quentin Grimes notched 19 points.
Joel Embiid finished with 30 points and 10 rebounds, but his efforts were not enough. Tyrese Maxey had 27 points, nine assists and four rebounds. Kelly Oubre Jr. recorded 15 points and seven rebounds. No other Philadelphia players scored in double digits.
Clippers Handle Pelicans, 111-95
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans, 111-95, at Smoothie King Center on Friday night.
The Clippers (22-12) found a worth adversary early on in the host Pelicans (21-15), which battled them to a 26-26 tie through one. However, Los Angeles would go on to alter the dynamic of the game during the middle periods, outscoring New Orleans by a 66-42 margin in that span to make the final period a formality. The visitors shot 48.8 percent, including 41.7 percent from three-point range, while limiting the home squad to 35.9 percent shooting overall, a paltry figure that came despite 41.4 percent shooting from behind the arc.
Paul George led the Clippers with 24 points, adding seven rebounds, one assist and one block. Kawhi Leonard furnished 19 points, nine boards, two assists, one steal and one block. Ivica Zubac supplied 15 points, eight rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Norman Powell delivered 13 points, three rebounds, two assists and one steal.
Jonas Valanciunas paced the Pelicans with a 13-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist and one bock. Jordan Hawkins matched Valanciunas' scoring and added one rebound. Zion Williamson and C.J. McCollum generated matching 12-point, six-rebound, one-steal tallies. Brandon Ingram matched his teammate's scoring contributions and added four assists and one rebound.
The Clippers head back home to face the Lakers in a designated road game on Sunday night, while the Pelicans visit the Sacramento Kings on Sunday evening.
The Clippers (22-12) found a worth adversary early on in the host Pelicans (21-15), which battled them to a 26-26 tie through one. However, Los Angeles would go on to alter the dynamic of the game during the middle periods, outscoring New Orleans by a 66-42 margin in that span to make the final period a formality. The visitors shot 48.8 percent, including 41.7 percent from three-point range, while limiting the home squad to 35.9 percent shooting overall, a paltry figure that came despite 41.4 percent shooting from behind the arc.
Paul George led the Clippers with 24 points, adding seven rebounds, one assist and one block. Kawhi Leonard furnished 19 points, nine boards, two assists, one steal and one block. Ivica Zubac supplied 15 points, eight rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Norman Powell delivered 13 points, three rebounds, two assists and one steal.
Jonas Valanciunas paced the Pelicans with a 13-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist and one bock. Jordan Hawkins matched Valanciunas' scoring and added one rebound. Zion Williamson and C.J. McCollum generated matching 12-point, six-rebound, one-steal tallies. Brandon Ingram matched his teammate's scoring contributions and added four assists and one rebound.
The Clippers head back home to face the Lakers in a designated road game on Sunday night, while the Pelicans visit the Sacramento Kings on Sunday evening.
Bulls Top Hornets, 104-91
The Chicago Bulls topped the Charlotte Hornets, 104-91, at United Center on Friday night.
The Bulls (16-21) found out before tip-off that both Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic would be returning from their multi-game absences due foot and thigh/groin injuries, respectively, and they seemed buoyed by the reinforcements during a first half in which they limited the Hornets (8-25) to 41 points. Charlotte fought back to narrow its deficit to five going into the final period, but Chicago's 8-0 run to open the fourth quarter set the tone for a comfortable fourth quarter.
Miles Bridges led the Hornets with 28 points, adding five rebounds and two assists. Terry Rozier supplied 15 points, seven assists, four rebounds and one steal. Cody Martin registered 13 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals. Nick Smith Jr. compiled 10 points, two rebounds and one steal.
Coby White paced the Bulls with a 22-point, 10-rebound double-double that included six assists. DeMar DeRozan posted 17 points, six assists, one rebound and three steals. LaVine managed 15 points, five rebounds and four assists. Ayo Dosunmu totaled 12 points, five rebounds, four assists, two blocks and one steal. Vucevic provided 11 points, seven rebounds and three assists.
The two teams reconvene for a rematch at Spectrum Center in North Carolina on Monday night.
The Bulls (16-21) found out before tip-off that both Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic would be returning from their multi-game absences due foot and thigh/groin injuries, respectively, and they seemed buoyed by the reinforcements during a first half in which they limited the Hornets (8-25) to 41 points. Charlotte fought back to narrow its deficit to five going into the final period, but Chicago's 8-0 run to open the fourth quarter set the tone for a comfortable fourth quarter.
Miles Bridges led the Hornets with 28 points, adding five rebounds and two assists. Terry Rozier supplied 15 points, seven assists, four rebounds and one steal. Cody Martin registered 13 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals. Nick Smith Jr. compiled 10 points, two rebounds and one steal.
Coby White paced the Bulls with a 22-point, 10-rebound double-double that included six assists. DeMar DeRozan posted 17 points, six assists, one rebound and three steals. LaVine managed 15 points, five rebounds and four assists. Ayo Dosunmu totaled 12 points, five rebounds, four assists, two blocks and one steal. Vucevic provided 11 points, seven rebounds and three assists.
The two teams reconvene for a rematch at Spectrum Center in North Carolina on Monday night.
Timberwolves Blast Rockets, 122-95
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Houston Rockets, 122-95, at Toyota Center on Friday night.
The Timberwolves (25-9) opened the game in impressive fashion and kept it up for three quarters, building a 10-point led by halftime and a 12-point advantage heading into the final period. However, Minnesota would then put its foot on the gas, outscoring the Rockets (17-16) by a 38-23 margin in the fourth quarter on the way to what turned out to be a lopsided win. The visitors enjoyed a 52.3 percent - 40.0 percent shooting advantage and also won the battle of the boards, 52-38.
Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 24 points, adding five assists, three rebounds and two steals. Karl-Anthony Towns offered 22 points, eight rebounds, six assists and one block. Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels generated matching 16-point efforts while recording seven and three rebounds, respectively. Rudy Gobert generated a 13-point, 12-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and two blocks.
Jalen Green paced the Rockets with 20 points, supplementing them with five rebounds and two assists. Alperen Sengun delivered 19 points, five boards and one assist. Jabari Smith Jr. totaled 16 points, nine rebounds and two assists. Cam Whitmore furnished 11 points, two rebounds and two steals.
The Timberwolves remain on the road and visit the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday night, while the Rockets host the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday night.
The Timberwolves (25-9) opened the game in impressive fashion and kept it up for three quarters, building a 10-point led by halftime and a 12-point advantage heading into the final period. However, Minnesota would then put its foot on the gas, outscoring the Rockets (17-16) by a 38-23 margin in the fourth quarter on the way to what turned out to be a lopsided win. The visitors enjoyed a 52.3 percent - 40.0 percent shooting advantage and also won the battle of the boards, 52-38.
Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 24 points, adding five assists, three rebounds and two steals. Karl-Anthony Towns offered 22 points, eight rebounds, six assists and one block. Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels generated matching 16-point efforts while recording seven and three rebounds, respectively. Rudy Gobert generated a 13-point, 12-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and two blocks.
Jalen Green paced the Rockets with 20 points, supplementing them with five rebounds and two assists. Alperen Sengun delivered 19 points, five boards and one assist. Jabari Smith Jr. totaled 16 points, nine rebounds and two assists. Cam Whitmore furnished 11 points, two rebounds and two steals.
The Timberwolves remain on the road and visit the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday night, while the Rockets host the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday night.
Mavs Blow Past Blazers
By Dan Bruno
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 139-103, at American Airlines Center on Friday evening.
The Mavs jumped out to a great start with a, 38-26, lead after one quarter. The Trail Blazers picked up their game in the second and managed to trim the deficit back to nine points by halftime. The Mavs took it to another level in the third and outscored the Trail Blazers, 40-16, to claim a 33-point lead heading into the final frame. The Mavs had no trouble cruising the rest of the way and closed out their third win in four games. This also marks the third straight loss for the Blazers.
Kyrie Irving led the way for the Mavs with 24 points, nine rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks, in 29 minutes. Jaden Hardy racked up 19 points, nine rebounds, nine assists and a steal, while Tim Hardaway tallied 19 points, four rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, off the bench.
Meanwhile, Jerami Grant led the Trail Blazers with 18 points, three assists, three steals and a block, in 23 minutes. Scoot Henderson followed up with 17 points, three rebounds, 10 assists and a steal, while Duop Reath logged 16 points, seven rebounds and two assists.
The Trail Blazers (9-25) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Nets in Brooklyn on Sunday. The Mavs (21-15) play host to the Timberwolves on Sunday.
The Mavs jumped out to a great start with a, 38-26, lead after one quarter. The Trail Blazers picked up their game in the second and managed to trim the deficit back to nine points by halftime. The Mavs took it to another level in the third and outscored the Trail Blazers, 40-16, to claim a 33-point lead heading into the final frame. The Mavs had no trouble cruising the rest of the way and closed out their third win in four games. This also marks the third straight loss for the Blazers.
Kyrie Irving led the way for the Mavs with 24 points, nine rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks, in 29 minutes. Jaden Hardy racked up 19 points, nine rebounds, nine assists and a steal, while Tim Hardaway tallied 19 points, four rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, off the bench.
Meanwhile, Jerami Grant led the Trail Blazers with 18 points, three assists, three steals and a block, in 23 minutes. Scoot Henderson followed up with 17 points, three rebounds, 10 assists and a steal, while Duop Reath logged 16 points, seven rebounds and two assists.
The Trail Blazers (9-25) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Nets in Brooklyn on Sunday. The Mavs (21-15) play host to the Timberwolves on Sunday.
Magic Knock Off Nuggets In Denver
By Dan Bruno
The Orlando Magic defeated the host Denver Nuggets, 122-120, at Ball Arena on Friday evening.
The Nuggets jumped out to a strong start and led, 37-28, after one quarter. The hosts kept up their play in the second and pushed their lead to 13 points by halftime. The Magic turned it up in the third and outscored the Nuggets, 41-31, to make it a three-point game heading into the final quarter. The visitors pulled ahead early in the fourth and stayed in front for most of the quarter, before the Nuggets regained a two-point lead with just under a minute left. The Magic kept pressing and Paolo Banchero came up with four clutch free throws to overtake the lead and end a three-game slide for his squad.
Banchero led the Magic with 32 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists and three steals, in 41 minutes. Jalen Suggs followed up with 27 points, four rebounds and a block, while Cole Anthony totaled 23 points, two rebounds, four assists and a steal, off the bench.
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 29 points, four rebounds, eight assists and three steals, in 37 minutes. Michael Porter followed up with 22 points, three rebounds and two steals, while Jamal Murray tallied 20 points, seven rebounds, nine assists and a steal.
The Nuggets (25-12) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pistons on Sunday. The Magic (20-15) play host to the Hawks on Sunday.
The Nuggets jumped out to a strong start and led, 37-28, after one quarter. The hosts kept up their play in the second and pushed their lead to 13 points by halftime. The Magic turned it up in the third and outscored the Nuggets, 41-31, to make it a three-point game heading into the final quarter. The visitors pulled ahead early in the fourth and stayed in front for most of the quarter, before the Nuggets regained a two-point lead with just under a minute left. The Magic kept pressing and Paolo Banchero came up with four clutch free throws to overtake the lead and end a three-game slide for his squad.
Banchero led the Magic with 32 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists and three steals, in 41 minutes. Jalen Suggs followed up with 27 points, four rebounds and a block, while Cole Anthony totaled 23 points, two rebounds, four assists and a steal, off the bench.
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 29 points, four rebounds, eight assists and three steals, in 37 minutes. Michael Porter followed up with 22 points, three rebounds and two steals, while Jamal Murray tallied 20 points, seven rebounds, nine assists and a steal.
The Nuggets (25-12) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pistons on Sunday. The Magic (20-15) play host to the Hawks on Sunday.
Suns Down Heat In Phoenix
By Dan Bruno
The Phoenix Suns defeated the visiting Miami Heat, 113-97, at Footprint Center on Friday evening.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Suns led, 33-29, after one quarter. The score stayed close in the second but after a couple of lead changes, the Suns carried a seven-point lead into the break. The hosts turned it up a notch in the third and outscored the Heat by 12 points in the quarter to make it a 19-point deficit heading into the final frame. The visitors kept up the fight in the fourth but it was not enough, as the Suns closed out their fifth win in six games. This also marks the third loss in four outings for the Heat.
Grayson Allen led the way for the Suns with 31 points, four rebounds, four assists and two blocks, in 37 minutes. Bradley Beal followed up with 25 points, eight rebounds and nine assists, while Devin Booker tallied 20 points, five rebounds, 10 assists and two steals.
Meanwhile, Bam Adebayo led the Heat with 28 points, 11 rebounds and a block, in 36 minutes. Kevin Love followed up with 20 points, seven rebounds and two assists, while Jaime Jaquez and Josh Richardson chipped in 10 points each.
The Heat (20-15) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Rockets on Monday. The Suns (19-16) play host to the Grizzlies on Sunday.
The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Suns led, 33-29, after one quarter. The score stayed close in the second but after a couple of lead changes, the Suns carried a seven-point lead into the break. The hosts turned it up a notch in the third and outscored the Heat by 12 points in the quarter to make it a 19-point deficit heading into the final frame. The visitors kept up the fight in the fourth but it was not enough, as the Suns closed out their fifth win in six games. This also marks the third loss in four outings for the Heat.
Grayson Allen led the way for the Suns with 31 points, four rebounds, four assists and two blocks, in 37 minutes. Bradley Beal followed up with 25 points, eight rebounds and nine assists, while Devin Booker tallied 20 points, five rebounds, 10 assists and two steals.
Meanwhile, Bam Adebayo led the Heat with 28 points, 11 rebounds and a block, in 36 minutes. Kevin Love followed up with 20 points, seven rebounds and two assists, while Jaime Jaquez and Josh Richardson chipped in 10 points each.
The Heat (20-15) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Rockets on Monday. The Suns (19-16) play host to the Grizzlies on Sunday.
Warriors Defeat Pistons, 113-109
The Golden State Warriors defeated the visiting Detroit Pistons, 113-109, at Chase Center on Friday.
There were seven ties and 16 lead changes in this game, with neither team leading by more than 11 points. With that said, Golden State led for all but nine seconds in the second half, finishing the game on a 12-6 run to overcome that nine-second deficit. Golden State shot 46 percent from the field, 42 percent from three-point range (16-of-38) and 84 percent from the free-throw line (21-of-25), while Detroit shot 45 percent from the field, 30 percent from long range (13-of-44) and 80 percent from the charity stripe (8-of-10). They also out-rebounded them, 56-48, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 21-10.
The Pistons (3-32) were led by Cade Cunningham, collecting 30 points, five rebounds and three assists. Jalen Duren amassed 13 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Bojan Bogdanovic missed 14 of 19 shots to finish with 12 points, five rebounds and three assists. Jaden Ivey totaled 12 points, four rebounds and three assists, while Kevin Knox led the bench with 18 points and three assists.
The Warriors (17-18) were led by Stephen Curry, compiling 26 points, six rebounds and four assists. Klay Thompson tallied 19 points, three rebounds, four assists and two blocks. Jonathan Kuminga had 11 points and six boards, while Dario Saric led the bench with 17 points and three boards. Brandin Podzeimski provided 11 points, five rebounds and five assists.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Detroit staying on the road to play the Denver Nuggets and Golden State remaining home to face the Toronto Raptors.
There were seven ties and 16 lead changes in this game, with neither team leading by more than 11 points. With that said, Golden State led for all but nine seconds in the second half, finishing the game on a 12-6 run to overcome that nine-second deficit. Golden State shot 46 percent from the field, 42 percent from three-point range (16-of-38) and 84 percent from the free-throw line (21-of-25), while Detroit shot 45 percent from the field, 30 percent from long range (13-of-44) and 80 percent from the charity stripe (8-of-10). They also out-rebounded them, 56-48, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 21-10.
The Pistons (3-32) were led by Cade Cunningham, collecting 30 points, five rebounds and three assists. Jalen Duren amassed 13 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Bojan Bogdanovic missed 14 of 19 shots to finish with 12 points, five rebounds and three assists. Jaden Ivey totaled 12 points, four rebounds and three assists, while Kevin Knox led the bench with 18 points and three assists.
The Warriors (17-18) were led by Stephen Curry, compiling 26 points, six rebounds and four assists. Klay Thompson tallied 19 points, three rebounds, four assists and two blocks. Jonathan Kuminga had 11 points and six boards, while Dario Saric led the bench with 17 points and three boards. Brandin Podzeimski provided 11 points, five rebounds and five assists.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Detroit staying on the road to play the Denver Nuggets and Golden State remaining home to face the Toronto Raptors.
Grizzlies Defeat Lakers, 127-113
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the host Los Angeles Lakers, 127-113, at Crypto.com Arena on Friday.
There were 12 ties and 17 lead changes in this game, but Memphis rode a 33-19 fourth quarter to this blowout win. They actually never led by more than five points until the closing minutes, finishing the game on a 24-10 run. Memphis shot 54 percent from the field and 51 percent from three-point range (23-of-45) while holding Los Angeles to 49 percent from the field and 36 percent from long range (10-of-28). The Grizzlies also out-assisted the Lakers, 33-26, while out-rebounding them, 49-44.
The Grizzlies (12-23) were led by Jaren Jackson Jr, generating 31 points, nine rebounds and three blocks on 11-of-14 shooting. Marcus Smart amassed 29 points, two rebounds and five assists. Ja Morant collected 21 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, while Desmond Bane tallied 24 points, five rebounds and 13 assists.
The Lakers (17-19) were led by LeBron James, finishing with 32 points, five rebounds, seven assists and five steals. Anthony Davis accrued 31 points, six rebounds, four assists and two blocks. Austin Reaves registered 19 points, seven rebounds, 12 assists and two steals, while Christian Wood led the bench with 11 points and five boards.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Los Angeles remaining home to play the Los Angeles Clippers and Memphis staying on the road to face the Phoenix Suns.
There were 12 ties and 17 lead changes in this game, but Memphis rode a 33-19 fourth quarter to this blowout win. They actually never led by more than five points until the closing minutes, finishing the game on a 24-10 run. Memphis shot 54 percent from the field and 51 percent from three-point range (23-of-45) while holding Los Angeles to 49 percent from the field and 36 percent from long range (10-of-28). The Grizzlies also out-assisted the Lakers, 33-26, while out-rebounding them, 49-44.
The Grizzlies (12-23) were led by Jaren Jackson Jr, generating 31 points, nine rebounds and three blocks on 11-of-14 shooting. Marcus Smart amassed 29 points, two rebounds and five assists. Ja Morant collected 21 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, while Desmond Bane tallied 24 points, five rebounds and 13 assists.
The Lakers (17-19) were led by LeBron James, finishing with 32 points, five rebounds, seven assists and five steals. Anthony Davis accrued 31 points, six rebounds, four assists and two blocks. Austin Reaves registered 19 points, seven rebounds, 12 assists and two steals, while Christian Wood led the bench with 11 points and five boards.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Los Angeles remaining home to play the Los Angeles Clippers and Memphis staying on the road to face the Phoenix Suns.
Kings Defeat Warriors, 135-130
The Sacramento Kings defeated the visiting Toronto Raptors, 135-130, at Golden One Center on Friday.
While this game came down to the wire, Sacramento held the lead for all but one minute. In fact, they never relinquished the lead over the closing three quarters, getting their lead up to 23 points, thanks to a 77-57 first half. Toronto did have a game-tying attempt in the closing minute but was unable to prevail. The Kings shot 55 percent from three-point range (21-of-38), while the Raptors shot 35 percent (13-of-37). Sacramento also outscored Toronto in second-chance points, 26-12.
The Raptors (14-21) were led by Scottie Barnes, collecting 20 points, four rebounds, six assists and two blocks. Immanuel Quickley compiled 20 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Pascal Siakam provided 18 points, four rebounds, nine assists and two steals, while Dennis Schroder led the bench with 18 points, two rebounds and three assists.
The Kings (21-13) got a triple-double from Domantas Sabonis, finishing with 24 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists. De'Aaron Fox finished 24 points, two rebounds, four assists and two steals. Keegan Murray had 18 points and 12 rebounds, while Harrison Barnes had 16 points, four rebounds and two assists. Malik Monk led the bench with 15 points and nine assists.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Sacramento staying home to play the New Orleans Pelicans and Toronto remaining on the road to face the Golden State Warriors.
While this game came down to the wire, Sacramento held the lead for all but one minute. In fact, they never relinquished the lead over the closing three quarters, getting their lead up to 23 points, thanks to a 77-57 first half. Toronto did have a game-tying attempt in the closing minute but was unable to prevail. The Kings shot 55 percent from three-point range (21-of-38), while the Raptors shot 35 percent (13-of-37). Sacramento also outscored Toronto in second-chance points, 26-12.
The Raptors (14-21) were led by Scottie Barnes, collecting 20 points, four rebounds, six assists and two blocks. Immanuel Quickley compiled 20 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Pascal Siakam provided 18 points, four rebounds, nine assists and two steals, while Dennis Schroder led the bench with 18 points, two rebounds and three assists.
The Kings (21-13) got a triple-double from Domantas Sabonis, finishing with 24 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists. De'Aaron Fox finished 24 points, two rebounds, four assists and two steals. Keegan Murray had 18 points and 12 rebounds, while Harrison Barnes had 16 points, four rebounds and two assists. Malik Monk led the bench with 15 points and nine assists.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Sacramento staying home to play the New Orleans Pelicans and Toronto remaining on the road to face the Golden State Warriors.