Banchero's 36 helps power Magic over Knicks on Wednesday
The Orlando Magic took down the New York Knicks, 118-100, at the Kia Center on Wednesday.
It was the Knicks (33-22), without All-Star forward Julius Randle (shoulder), who got off to a hot start Wednesday as they raced out to a 12-point lead before finishing the first quarter up 36-27. But it was all Magic (30-25) in the second frame, as the home team doubled the points over their opponent and entered the half up by 10. The teams traded buckets in the third quarter, but the fourth quarter was when Orlando extended their lead by as much as 23 points, and both teams opted to empty their benches down the stretch. The Magic improved to 18-8 at home, while the Knicks fell to an even 14-14 on the road.
Jalen Brunson led the way for the Knicks with 33 points, six assists and two steals. Precious Achiuwa totaled 23 points, 14 rebounds and five assists for his sixth double-double of the season. Alec Burks contributed 13 points and three rebounds, while Jacob Toppin led the bench with 11 points and four rebounds. Jericho Sims got the start at center for Isaiah Hartenstein (Achilles) and finished with eight points and eight rebounds.
For the Magic, Paolo Banchero led the way with 36 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Franz Wagner chipped in 21 points, three rebounds, six assists and three steals. Cole Anthony led the bench with 11 points and two rebounds, while Moritz Wagner contributed 10 points and two rebounds in reserve. Jonathan Isaac tallied eight points, five rebounds and two assists off the pine.
Wednesday’s game was the last for both teams before the All-Star break and will return to action Thursday, Feb. 22. The Knicks will look to break out of their four-game slump when they visit the Philadelphia 76ers, while the Magic start their three-game road trip against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
It was the Knicks (33-22), without All-Star forward Julius Randle (shoulder), who got off to a hot start Wednesday as they raced out to a 12-point lead before finishing the first quarter up 36-27. But it was all Magic (30-25) in the second frame, as the home team doubled the points over their opponent and entered the half up by 10. The teams traded buckets in the third quarter, but the fourth quarter was when Orlando extended their lead by as much as 23 points, and both teams opted to empty their benches down the stretch. The Magic improved to 18-8 at home, while the Knicks fell to an even 14-14 on the road.
Jalen Brunson led the way for the Knicks with 33 points, six assists and two steals. Precious Achiuwa totaled 23 points, 14 rebounds and five assists for his sixth double-double of the season. Alec Burks contributed 13 points and three rebounds, while Jacob Toppin led the bench with 11 points and four rebounds. Jericho Sims got the start at center for Isaiah Hartenstein (Achilles) and finished with eight points and eight rebounds.
For the Magic, Paolo Banchero led the way with 36 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Franz Wagner chipped in 21 points, three rebounds, six assists and three steals. Cole Anthony led the bench with 11 points and two rebounds, while Moritz Wagner contributed 10 points and two rebounds in reserve. Jonathan Isaac tallied eight points, five rebounds and two assists off the pine.
Wednesday’s game was the last for both teams before the All-Star break and will return to action Thursday, Feb. 22. The Knicks will look to break out of their four-game slump when they visit the Philadelphia 76ers, while the Magic start their three-game road trip against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Adebayo, Herro each score 23 as Heat hold off 76ers on Wednesday
The Miami Heat outlasted the Philadelphia 76ers, 109-104, at Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday.
It was a hard-fought game from both teams as neither squad led by more than double-digits throughout the contest. Each team were missing significant contributors, with the Heat (30-25) missing Jimmy Butler (personal) and Terry Rozier (knee), while the 76ers (32-22) were without reigning MVP Joel Embiid (knee), Nicholas Batum (hamstring), Tobias Harris (hip), De’Anthony Melton (back) and newcomer Kyle Lowry (not injury related).
Both teams traded buckets throughout the first half, with the 76ers taking a two-point lead into halftime. The second half was a defensive affair, with neither team scoring more than 50 points over the last two quarters of play. However, it was the Heat who were able to make buckets where it counted most, as they took advantage of turnovers and offensive rebounds to extend and maintain their slim lead down the stretch. Miami improved their road record to 15-12, while Philadelphia dropped to 17-11 at home.
Bam Adebayo led the way with a dominant 23 points, 14 rebounds, two assists and two steals for his 30th double-double of the season. Tyler Herro had a nice all-around game with 23 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Duncan Robinson added 20 points and four assists, while Haywood Highsmith led the bench with 16 points, two rebounds and two steals. Jaime Jaquez finished with 12 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two steals off the pine.
Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 30 points, six rebounds and seven assists. Buddy Hield totaled 22 points, three rebounds, 10 assists and two steals for his first double-double of the season. Paul Reed finished with 18 points, 12 rebounds and two assists for his fourth double-double of the year. Ricky Council got extended time off the bench and led the reserves with 13 points, four rebounds and two assists.
With Wednesday’s game in the books, both teams will play their next games following the All-Star break. The 76ers will host the New York Knicks on Feb. 22, while the Heat will start a four-game Western Conference road trip Feb. 23 when they visit the New Orleans Pelicans.
It was a hard-fought game from both teams as neither squad led by more than double-digits throughout the contest. Each team were missing significant contributors, with the Heat (30-25) missing Jimmy Butler (personal) and Terry Rozier (knee), while the 76ers (32-22) were without reigning MVP Joel Embiid (knee), Nicholas Batum (hamstring), Tobias Harris (hip), De’Anthony Melton (back) and newcomer Kyle Lowry (not injury related).
Both teams traded buckets throughout the first half, with the 76ers taking a two-point lead into halftime. The second half was a defensive affair, with neither team scoring more than 50 points over the last two quarters of play. However, it was the Heat who were able to make buckets where it counted most, as they took advantage of turnovers and offensive rebounds to extend and maintain their slim lead down the stretch. Miami improved their road record to 15-12, while Philadelphia dropped to 17-11 at home.
Bam Adebayo led the way with a dominant 23 points, 14 rebounds, two assists and two steals for his 30th double-double of the season. Tyler Herro had a nice all-around game with 23 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Duncan Robinson added 20 points and four assists, while Haywood Highsmith led the bench with 16 points, two rebounds and two steals. Jaime Jaquez finished with 12 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two steals off the pine.
Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 30 points, six rebounds and seven assists. Buddy Hield totaled 22 points, three rebounds, 10 assists and two steals for his first double-double of the season. Paul Reed finished with 18 points, 12 rebounds and two assists for his fourth double-double of the year. Ricky Council got extended time off the bench and led the reserves with 13 points, four rebounds and two assists.
With Wednesday’s game in the books, both teams will play their next games following the All-Star break. The 76ers will host the New York Knicks on Feb. 22, while the Heat will start a four-game Western Conference road trip Feb. 23 when they visit the New Orleans Pelicans.
Hornets Rally Past Hawks
By Dan Bruno
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the visiting Atlanta Hawks, 122-99, at Spectrum Center on Wednesday evening.
The Hornets jumped out to an eight-point lead, but the Hawks rallied back to claim a, 31-29, after one quarter. The score stayed close through the second, while the Hornets picked up momentum and pushed ahead to a six-point lead at the break. The hosts kept the energy in the third and outscored the Hawks by 10 points in the quarter to make it a 16-point game entering the final quarter. The visitors had no answers in the fourth, as the Hornets rolled to their third straight win. This also marks the second straight loss for the Hawks.
Brandon Miller led the Hornets with 26 points, six rebounds, four assists, a steal and three blocks, in 36 minutes. Tre Mann followed up with 21 points, eight rebounds, six assists and two steals, while Miles Bridges added 17 points, five rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, six players scored in double digits for the Hawks, led by De'Andre Hunter, who totaled 21 points, three rebounds and a steal, off the bench. Jalen Johnson followed up with 19 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks, while Trae Young tallied 12 points, two rebounds and 12 assists.
The Hawks (24-31) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Raptors in their return to action after the all-star break. The Hornets (13-41) take on the Jazz in Utah in their first game back from the break.
The Hornets jumped out to an eight-point lead, but the Hawks rallied back to claim a, 31-29, after one quarter. The score stayed close through the second, while the Hornets picked up momentum and pushed ahead to a six-point lead at the break. The hosts kept the energy in the third and outscored the Hawks by 10 points in the quarter to make it a 16-point game entering the final quarter. The visitors had no answers in the fourth, as the Hornets rolled to their third straight win. This also marks the second straight loss for the Hawks.
Brandon Miller led the Hornets with 26 points, six rebounds, four assists, a steal and three blocks, in 36 minutes. Tre Mann followed up with 21 points, eight rebounds, six assists and two steals, while Miles Bridges added 17 points, five rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, six players scored in double digits for the Hawks, led by De'Andre Hunter, who totaled 21 points, three rebounds and a steal, off the bench. Jalen Johnson followed up with 19 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks, while Trae Young tallied 12 points, two rebounds and 12 assists.
The Hawks (24-31) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Raptors in their return to action after the all-star break. The Hornets (13-41) take on the Jazz in Utah in their first game back from the break.
Celtics decimate Nets on Wednesday to sweep season series
The Boston Celtics dominated the Brooklyn Nets, 136-86, at TD Garden on Wednesday. It was the second game of a home-and-home series between the two teams, with Boston winning both contests.
It was all Celtics (43-12) from the tip, as they raced to a 30-15 lead after the first quarter and never relinquished their lead. The Nets (21-33) not only struggled from the field, but couldn’t get a stop on defense as they found themselves down 68-32 at halftime. Boston continued to dominate on both ends of the floor in the second half and elected to sit their starters toward the end of the third quarter. The Celtics improved to an NBA-best 26-3 at home, while the Nets fell to 8-16 on the road.
Taking advantage of extended playing time down the stretch, Payton Pritchard led the Celtics with a season-high 28 points on 11-for-16 shooting (including 6-for-9 from three), along with four rebounds and three assists. Derrick White led the starters with 27 points, five rebounds and four assists and had a game-high plus-44 point differential. Jayson Tatum finished with 20 points, seven rebounds and nine assists. Kristaps Porzingis played in just the first half after sustaining an ankle injury late in the second quarter and totaled 15 points and five rebounds. Sam Hauser got the start for Jaylen Brown (shoulder) and tallied 14 points, five rebounds and two assists.
Trendon Watford, who also saw more minutes in garbage time, led the Nets with 15 points and two rebounds off the bench. Mikal Bridges was the only starter to finish in double-digits and contributed 10 points, four rebounds and four assists. Nic Claxton had six points, eight rebounds and three assists, while Keon Johnson had nine points and two assists in reserve. Cam Thomas struggled with his shot and finished with five points on 1-for-9 shooting along with two assists.
Wednesday’s contest was the fourth and final time the Nets and Celtics will face each other this season, with Boston sweeping the series 4-0. Both teams will play their next games Thursday, Feb. 22 following the All-Star break. The Nets will travel north of the border to take on the Toronto Raptors, while the Celtics visit the Chicago Bulls.
It was all Celtics (43-12) from the tip, as they raced to a 30-15 lead after the first quarter and never relinquished their lead. The Nets (21-33) not only struggled from the field, but couldn’t get a stop on defense as they found themselves down 68-32 at halftime. Boston continued to dominate on both ends of the floor in the second half and elected to sit their starters toward the end of the third quarter. The Celtics improved to an NBA-best 26-3 at home, while the Nets fell to 8-16 on the road.
Taking advantage of extended playing time down the stretch, Payton Pritchard led the Celtics with a season-high 28 points on 11-for-16 shooting (including 6-for-9 from three), along with four rebounds and three assists. Derrick White led the starters with 27 points, five rebounds and four assists and had a game-high plus-44 point differential. Jayson Tatum finished with 20 points, seven rebounds and nine assists. Kristaps Porzingis played in just the first half after sustaining an ankle injury late in the second quarter and totaled 15 points and five rebounds. Sam Hauser got the start for Jaylen Brown (shoulder) and tallied 14 points, five rebounds and two assists.
Trendon Watford, who also saw more minutes in garbage time, led the Nets with 15 points and two rebounds off the bench. Mikal Bridges was the only starter to finish in double-digits and contributed 10 points, four rebounds and four assists. Nic Claxton had six points, eight rebounds and three assists, while Keon Johnson had nine points and two assists in reserve. Cam Thomas struggled with his shot and finished with five points on 1-for-9 shooting along with two assists.
Wednesday’s contest was the fourth and final time the Nets and Celtics will face each other this season, with Boston sweeping the series 4-0. Both teams will play their next games Thursday, Feb. 22 following the All-Star break. The Nets will travel north of the border to take on the Toronto Raptors, while the Celtics visit the Chicago Bulls.
Cavaliers Edge Bulls, 108-105
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Chicago Bulls, 108-105, at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Wednesday night.
The Bulls (26-29) came out of the gate hot, undermining their underdog status by jumping out to a 32-25 lead through one. Both defenses then clamped down during a second period in which only 35 total points were scored, and Chicago still held a six-point advantage over the Cavaliers (36-17) at halftime. Cleveland had only put another one-point dent in its deficit going into the final period, but a 37-point haul in the final period capped off by a pair of Donovan Mitchell free throws with 4.1 seconds remaining sealed the hard-fought home victory.
Coby White led the Bulls with 32 points, adding seven rebounds, four assists and one steal. DeMar DeRozan furnished 24 points, six assists and two rebounds. Ayo Dosunmu furnished 12 points, four rebounds and two assists. Andre Drummond generated a 10-point, 15-rebound double-double that included one steal and one block. Alex Caruso matched Drummond's scoring and added three assists, two rebounds, two steals and one block.
Mitchell paced the Cavaliers with 30 points, supplementing them with seven assists, six rebounds and two steals. Isaac Okoro delivered 16 points, two assists and one rebound. Evan Mobley supplied 14 points, nine boards, one steal and one block. Jarrett Allen generated a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block. Darius Garland delivered 12 points, seven assists, one rebound and one steal. Georges Niang netted 11 points.
The Bulls are now off until Feb. 22, when they'll return to action from the All-Star break with a home date against the Boston Celtics. The Cavaliers host the Orlando Magic on Feb. 22 as well in their first post-All-Star-break contest.
The Bulls (26-29) came out of the gate hot, undermining their underdog status by jumping out to a 32-25 lead through one. Both defenses then clamped down during a second period in which only 35 total points were scored, and Chicago still held a six-point advantage over the Cavaliers (36-17) at halftime. Cleveland had only put another one-point dent in its deficit going into the final period, but a 37-point haul in the final period capped off by a pair of Donovan Mitchell free throws with 4.1 seconds remaining sealed the hard-fought home victory.
Coby White led the Bulls with 32 points, adding seven rebounds, four assists and one steal. DeMar DeRozan furnished 24 points, six assists and two rebounds. Ayo Dosunmu furnished 12 points, four rebounds and two assists. Andre Drummond generated a 10-point, 15-rebound double-double that included one steal and one block. Alex Caruso matched Drummond's scoring and added three assists, two rebounds, two steals and one block.
Mitchell paced the Cavaliers with 30 points, supplementing them with seven assists, six rebounds and two steals. Isaac Okoro delivered 16 points, two assists and one rebound. Evan Mobley supplied 14 points, nine boards, one steal and one block. Jarrett Allen generated a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block. Darius Garland delivered 12 points, seven assists, one rebound and one steal. Georges Niang netted 11 points.
The Bulls are now off until Feb. 22, when they'll return to action from the All-Star break with a home date against the Boston Celtics. The Cavaliers host the Orlando Magic on Feb. 22 as well in their first post-All-Star-break contest.
Pacers Outlast Raptors, 127-125
The Indiana Pacers defeated the Toronto Raptors, 127-125, at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday night.
The Raptors (19-36) started off clicking on all cylinders offensively, leading to 71 first-half points. However, the Pacers (31-25) ensured they kept their deficit manageable, scoring 65 points of their own over the first two quarters. They then proceeded to knock all but two points from their deficit during the third quarter, setting up an intriguing final period. The final six minutes-plus were a nip-and-tuck affair, and it ultimately took Isaiah Jackson's two free throws and RJ Barrett's missed eight-footer with at the buzzer to preserve Indiana's two-point victory.
Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 23 points, adding seven assists, five rebounds, one steal and one block. Tyrese Haliburton generated a 21-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and two steals. Jackson provided a 15-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist and four blocks. Obi Toppin matched Jackson's scoring and also recorded five rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Andrew Nembhard totaled 14 points, five assists, three rebounds and two steals. Doug McDermott netted 13 points.
Scottie Barnes paced the Raptors with a 29-point, 12-rebound double-double that included eight assists, one steal and one block. Barrett delivered 23 points, nine rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Jakob Poeltl registered 19 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal. Immanuel Quickley compiled 14 points, seven assists and six rebounds. Bruce Brown recorded 12 points, three rebounds, three assists and one steal. Chris Boucher turned in 10 points, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
The Pacers return to action after the All-Star break on Feb. 22 with a home matchup against the Detroit Pistons, while the Raptors do the same against the Brooklyn Nets at home as well.
The Raptors (19-36) started off clicking on all cylinders offensively, leading to 71 first-half points. However, the Pacers (31-25) ensured they kept their deficit manageable, scoring 65 points of their own over the first two quarters. They then proceeded to knock all but two points from their deficit during the third quarter, setting up an intriguing final period. The final six minutes-plus were a nip-and-tuck affair, and it ultimately took Isaiah Jackson's two free throws and RJ Barrett's missed eight-footer with at the buzzer to preserve Indiana's two-point victory.
Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 23 points, adding seven assists, five rebounds, one steal and one block. Tyrese Haliburton generated a 21-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and two steals. Jackson provided a 15-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist and four blocks. Obi Toppin matched Jackson's scoring and also recorded five rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Andrew Nembhard totaled 14 points, five assists, three rebounds and two steals. Doug McDermott netted 13 points.
Scottie Barnes paced the Raptors with a 29-point, 12-rebound double-double that included eight assists, one steal and one block. Barrett delivered 23 points, nine rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Jakob Poeltl registered 19 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal. Immanuel Quickley compiled 14 points, seven assists and six rebounds. Bruce Brown recorded 12 points, three rebounds, three assists and one steal. Chris Boucher turned in 10 points, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
The Pacers return to action after the All-Star break on Feb. 22 with a home matchup against the Detroit Pistons, while the Raptors do the same against the Brooklyn Nets at home as well.
Pelicans Squeeze By Wizards, 133-126
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Washington Wizards, 133-126, at Smoothie King Center on Wednesday night.
The Pelicans (33-22) unsurprisingly checked into the night as home favorites, and they appeared well on their way to validating that status during a first half in which they compiled 68 points and built an eight-point lead. However, a resurgent Wizards (9-45) squad eliminated all but one point from their deficit in the third quarter and subsequently took a two-point lead with 5:30 remaining, but New Orleans' 20-11 run over the final 5:15 sealed the hard-fought home victory.
Deni Avdija led the Wizards with a 43-point, 14-rebound double-double that included three assists and one block. Corey Kispert delivered 20 points, six assists, four rebounds and one steal. Jordan Poole tallied 16 points, seven assists, five rebounds and three steals. Tyus Jones and Marvin Bagley produced matching 14-point contributions while recording 13 assists and 10 rebounds, respectively.
Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 36 points, supplementing them with eight assists, six rebounds and one block. CJ McCollum furnished 24 points, six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Brandon Ingram supplied 18 points, seven assists, three rebounds, two steals and one block. Naji Marshall went for 13 points, two rebounds, one assist and three steals. Jonas Valanciunas finished with 10 points, five rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Wizards return to action after the All-Star break with a Feb. 22 road matchup against the Denver Nuggets, while the Pelicans host the Houston Rockets in their first post-All-Star-break matchup on the same night.
The Pelicans (33-22) unsurprisingly checked into the night as home favorites, and they appeared well on their way to validating that status during a first half in which they compiled 68 points and built an eight-point lead. However, a resurgent Wizards (9-45) squad eliminated all but one point from their deficit in the third quarter and subsequently took a two-point lead with 5:30 remaining, but New Orleans' 20-11 run over the final 5:15 sealed the hard-fought home victory.
Deni Avdija led the Wizards with a 43-point, 14-rebound double-double that included three assists and one block. Corey Kispert delivered 20 points, six assists, four rebounds and one steal. Jordan Poole tallied 16 points, seven assists, five rebounds and three steals. Tyus Jones and Marvin Bagley produced matching 14-point contributions while recording 13 assists and 10 rebounds, respectively.
Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 36 points, supplementing them with eight assists, six rebounds and one block. CJ McCollum furnished 24 points, six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Brandon Ingram supplied 18 points, seven assists, three rebounds, two steals and one block. Naji Marshall went for 13 points, two rebounds, one assist and three steals. Jonas Valanciunas finished with 10 points, five rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Wizards return to action after the All-Star break with a Feb. 22 road matchup against the Denver Nuggets, while the Pelicans host the Houston Rockets in their first post-All-Star-break matchup on the same night.
Grizzlies Top Rockets In Memphis
By Dan Bruno
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the visiting Houston Rockets, 121-113, at FedEx Forum on Wednesday evening.
The Grizzlies jumped out to a great start and led, 36-21, after one quarter. They kept the momentum going and pushed their lead up to 24 in the second, before the Rockets rallied back to make it a nine-point game at the break. The visitors brought a solid effort in the third and managed to trim it down to a three-point game heading into the final quarter. After conceding the lead briefly to start the fourth, the Grizzlies took over down the stretch and closed out the home win to snap a nine-game slide. This also marks the fifth loss in the last six games for the Rockets.
GG Jackson led the Grizzlies with 20 points, nine rebounds and three blocks, in 24 minutes off the bench. Luke Kennard added 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Jaren Jackson totaled 18 points, two rebounds, three assists and a block.
Meanwhile, six players scored in double digits for the Rockets, including Amen Thompson, who totaled 19 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals, and Dillon Brooks, who finished with 19 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, two steals and a block. Alperen Sengun tallied 19 points, five rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block.
The Rockets (24-30) will look to bounce back as they take on the Pelicans in New Orleans in their return to action after the all-star break. They Grizzlies (19-36) play host to the Bucks on Thursday.
The Grizzlies jumped out to a great start and led, 36-21, after one quarter. They kept the momentum going and pushed their lead up to 24 in the second, before the Rockets rallied back to make it a nine-point game at the break. The visitors brought a solid effort in the third and managed to trim it down to a three-point game heading into the final quarter. After conceding the lead briefly to start the fourth, the Grizzlies took over down the stretch and closed out the home win to snap a nine-game slide. This also marks the fifth loss in the last six games for the Rockets.
GG Jackson led the Grizzlies with 20 points, nine rebounds and three blocks, in 24 minutes off the bench. Luke Kennard added 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Jaren Jackson totaled 18 points, two rebounds, three assists and a block.
Meanwhile, six players scored in double digits for the Rockets, including Amen Thompson, who totaled 19 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals, and Dillon Brooks, who finished with 19 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, two steals and a block. Alperen Sengun tallied 19 points, five rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block.
The Rockets (24-30) will look to bounce back as they take on the Pelicans in New Orleans in their return to action after the all-star break. They Grizzlies (19-36) play host to the Bucks on Thursday.
Mavs Cruise Past Spurs To Keep Win Streak Alive
By Dan Bruno
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the visiting San Antonio Spurs, 116-93, at American Airlines Center on Wednesday evening.
The Spurs got out to a strong start and led, 32-25, after one quarter. The Mavs turned it up in the second and outscored the hosts, 31-19, in the quarter to take a five-point lead into the break. The hosts kept the momentum going in the third and managed to add another 18 points to their advantage, making it a 23-point difference entering the final quarter. The visitors has no answers down the stretch as the Mavericks closed out their sixth straight win.
Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with 34 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, two steals and a block, in 33 minutes. Luka Doncic followed up with 27 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, two steals and two blocks, while Daniel Gafford finished with 10 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and a block.
Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 26 points, nine rebounds, five assists, a steal and three blocks, in 27 minutes. Malaki Branham followed up with 13 points on 5-for-9 shooting, off the bench. Devin Vassell logged 11 points, four rebounds, six assists and three steals.
The Spurs (11-44) will look to bounce back as they are set to clash with the Kings in Sacramento in their first game back from the all-star break. The Mavericks (32-23) will be back in action at home against the Suns in their return from the break.
The Spurs got out to a strong start and led, 32-25, after one quarter. The Mavs turned it up in the second and outscored the hosts, 31-19, in the quarter to take a five-point lead into the break. The hosts kept the momentum going in the third and managed to add another 18 points to their advantage, making it a 23-point difference entering the final quarter. The visitors has no answers down the stretch as the Mavericks closed out their sixth straight win.
Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with 34 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, two steals and a block, in 33 minutes. Luka Doncic followed up with 27 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, two steals and two blocks, while Daniel Gafford finished with 10 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and a block.
Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 26 points, nine rebounds, five assists, a steal and three blocks, in 27 minutes. Malaki Branham followed up with 13 points on 5-for-9 shooting, off the bench. Devin Vassell logged 11 points, four rebounds, six assists and three steals.
The Spurs (11-44) will look to bounce back as they are set to clash with the Kings in Sacramento in their first game back from the all-star break. The Mavericks (32-23) will be back in action at home against the Suns in their return from the break.
Kings Finish Strong In Denver
By Dan Bruno
The Sacramento Kings defeated the host Denver Nuggets, 102-98, at Ball Arena on Wednesday evening.
The Nuggets got out to a strong start and led, 27-16, after one quarter. The Kings improved their play in the second but still saw the deficit grow to 12 points by halftime. The Nuggets stayed in front to start the third and held a 14-point lead mid way through the quarter, but the Kings mounted a, 20-9, run to cut it down to a three-point game heading into the final quarter. The Kings kept the momentum going in the fourth and eventually took control in crunch time, closing out the road win and ending a two-game slide. This also marks the third straight loss for the Nuggets.
De'Aaron Fox led the Kings with 30 points, eight rebounds, eight assists and two steals, in 43 minutes. Domantas Sabonis totaled 20 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists and three steals, while Harrison Barnes added 20 points, five rebounds and a block.
Meanwhile, Aaron Gordon led the Nuggets with 25 points, 15 rebounds and two assists, in 33 minutes. Michael Porter followed up with 19 points, four rebounds and two assists, while Nikola Jokic tallied 15 points, five rebounds, eight assists and a block.
The Nuggets (36-19) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Wizards in their first game back from the all-star break. The Kings (31-23) play host to the Spurs in their first game back from the break.
The Nuggets got out to a strong start and led, 27-16, after one quarter. The Kings improved their play in the second but still saw the deficit grow to 12 points by halftime. The Nuggets stayed in front to start the third and held a 14-point lead mid way through the quarter, but the Kings mounted a, 20-9, run to cut it down to a three-point game heading into the final quarter. The Kings kept the momentum going in the fourth and eventually took control in crunch time, closing out the road win and ending a two-game slide. This also marks the third straight loss for the Nuggets.
De'Aaron Fox led the Kings with 30 points, eight rebounds, eight assists and two steals, in 43 minutes. Domantas Sabonis totaled 20 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists and three steals, while Harrison Barnes added 20 points, five rebounds and a block.
Meanwhile, Aaron Gordon led the Nuggets with 25 points, 15 rebounds and two assists, in 33 minutes. Michael Porter followed up with 19 points, four rebounds and two assists, while Nikola Jokic tallied 15 points, five rebounds, eight assists and a block.
The Nuggets (36-19) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Wizards in their first game back from the all-star break. The Kings (31-23) play host to the Spurs in their first game back from the break.
Suns Defeat Pistons, 116-100
The Phoenix Suns defeated the visiting Detroit Pistons, 116-100, at Footprint Center on Wednesday.
The final game makes this score look much closer than it actually was, with Phoenix leading 70-41 at the half. They held a double-digit lead for the final three quarters, getting their lead up to 35 points at times. The Suns shot 46 percent from the field, 32 percent from three-point range and 86 percent from the free-throw line, while the Pistons shot 38 percent from the field, 26 percent from long range and 63 percent from the charity stripe. Phoenix also out-rebounded Detroit, 65-56, while out-blocking them, 11-5.
The Pistons (8-46) were led by Simone Fontecchio, finishing with 16 points and two steals. Ausar Thompson tallied 14 points, seven rebounds and two steals. Jalen Duren accrued seven points, nine rebounds, five assists and two steals, while Cade Cunningham collected 13 points, four rebounds, eight assists and two steals.
The Suns (33-22) were led by Kevin Durant, tallying 25 points, five rebounds, six assists and two blocks. Eric Gordon generated 13 points, two assists and two steals, Jusuf Nurkic totaled 10 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists and two blocks, while Grayson Allen amassed nine points and six assists. Saben Lee led the bench with 16 points, five rebounds, two assists and four steals. Devin Booker was ejected in the first quarter.
Both teams are done through the All-Star break. They'll return to action on February 22m with Detroit playing the Indiana Pacers on the road and Phoenix facing the Dallas Mavericks in Texas.
The final game makes this score look much closer than it actually was, with Phoenix leading 70-41 at the half. They held a double-digit lead for the final three quarters, getting their lead up to 35 points at times. The Suns shot 46 percent from the field, 32 percent from three-point range and 86 percent from the free-throw line, while the Pistons shot 38 percent from the field, 26 percent from long range and 63 percent from the charity stripe. Phoenix also out-rebounded Detroit, 65-56, while out-blocking them, 11-5.
The Pistons (8-46) were led by Simone Fontecchio, finishing with 16 points and two steals. Ausar Thompson tallied 14 points, seven rebounds and two steals. Jalen Duren accrued seven points, nine rebounds, five assists and two steals, while Cade Cunningham collected 13 points, four rebounds, eight assists and two steals.
The Suns (33-22) were led by Kevin Durant, tallying 25 points, five rebounds, six assists and two blocks. Eric Gordon generated 13 points, two assists and two steals, Jusuf Nurkic totaled 10 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists and two blocks, while Grayson Allen amassed nine points and six assists. Saben Lee led the bench with 16 points, five rebounds, two assists and four steals. Devin Booker was ejected in the first quarter.
Both teams are done through the All-Star break. They'll return to action on February 22m with Detroit playing the Indiana Pacers on the road and Phoenix facing the Dallas Mavericks in Texas.
Lakers Defeat Jazz, 138-122
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the host Utah Jazz, 138-122, at Vivint Arena on Wednesday.
A 38-23 third quarter carried Los Angeles to this blowout win, maintaining a double-digit lead for the whole of the fourth quarter. There were five ties and eight lead changes before that lopsided frame. The Lakers shot 57 percent from the field and 46 percent from three-point range while holding the Jazz to 49 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range. LA also recorded 34 assists to nine turnovers, while Utah had 29 assists to 13 turnovers.
The Lakers (29-26) were led by Anthony Davis, accruing 37 points and 15 rebounds. Rui Hachimura started for LeBron James, finishing with 36 points and two rebounds on 13-of-19 shooting. Austin Reaves amassed 22 points, three rebounds, eight assists and three steals, while D'Angelo Russell had 11 points, nine rebounds and 16 assists.
The Jazz (26-29) were led by Collin Sexton, collecting 18 points, two assists and two blocks. Lauri Markkanen amassed 16 points and seven rebounds. Keyonte George generated 13 points, five rebounds, seven assists and two steals, while Walker Kessler compiled 12 points, seven rebounds and three blocks. Jordan Clarkson led the bench with 17 points, three rebounds and five assists.
Los Angeles is done until after the All-Star break, facing the Golden State Warriors next Thursday. Utah has to play again tomorrow, staying home to face the Golden State Warriors as well.
A 38-23 third quarter carried Los Angeles to this blowout win, maintaining a double-digit lead for the whole of the fourth quarter. There were five ties and eight lead changes before that lopsided frame. The Lakers shot 57 percent from the field and 46 percent from three-point range while holding the Jazz to 49 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range. LA also recorded 34 assists to nine turnovers, while Utah had 29 assists to 13 turnovers.
The Lakers (29-26) were led by Anthony Davis, accruing 37 points and 15 rebounds. Rui Hachimura started for LeBron James, finishing with 36 points and two rebounds on 13-of-19 shooting. Austin Reaves amassed 22 points, three rebounds, eight assists and three steals, while D'Angelo Russell had 11 points, nine rebounds and 16 assists.
The Jazz (26-29) were led by Collin Sexton, collecting 18 points, two assists and two blocks. Lauri Markkanen amassed 16 points and seven rebounds. Keyonte George generated 13 points, five rebounds, seven assists and two steals, while Walker Kessler compiled 12 points, seven rebounds and three blocks. Jordan Clarkson led the bench with 17 points, three rebounds and five assists.
Los Angeles is done until after the All-Star break, facing the Golden State Warriors next Thursday. Utah has to play again tomorrow, staying home to face the Golden State Warriors as well.
Clippers Defeat Warriors, 130-125
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the host Golden State Warriors, 130-125, at Chase Center on Wednesday.
While Golden State held the lead for all but a handful of minutes, Los Angeles rode a 44-point fourth quarter to their win. They outscored Golden State in that final frame, 44-28, overcoming a 15-point deficit. The Clippers shot 50 percent from the field and 78 percent from the free-throw line, while the Warriors shot 46 percent from the field and 72 percent from the charity stripe. They also outscored them in the paint, 56-48.
The Clippers (36-17) were led by James Harden, collecting 26 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Paul George provided 24 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Norman Powell led the bench with 21 points and two boards. Amir Coffey collected 14 points and six rebounds, while Ivica Zubac totaled 13 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Russell Westbrook also accrued 15 points, five rebounds and six assists.
The Warriors (26-26) were led by Stephen Curry, finishing with 41 points, four rebounds and five assists. Brandin Podziemski led the bench with 25 points, seven rebounds and eight assists. Klay Thompson totaled 12 points and three boards, while Draymond Green generated nine points, 10 rebounds and four assists. Jonathan Kuminga collected 13 points, eight rebounds and six assists.
Golden State will play again on Thursday, traveling to face the Utah Jazz. As for Los Angeles, they're off until next Thursday, traveling to play the Oklahoma City Thunder.
While Golden State held the lead for all but a handful of minutes, Los Angeles rode a 44-point fourth quarter to their win. They outscored Golden State in that final frame, 44-28, overcoming a 15-point deficit. The Clippers shot 50 percent from the field and 78 percent from the free-throw line, while the Warriors shot 46 percent from the field and 72 percent from the charity stripe. They also outscored them in the paint, 56-48.
The Clippers (36-17) were led by James Harden, collecting 26 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Paul George provided 24 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Norman Powell led the bench with 21 points and two boards. Amir Coffey collected 14 points and six rebounds, while Ivica Zubac totaled 13 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Russell Westbrook also accrued 15 points, five rebounds and six assists.
The Warriors (26-26) were led by Stephen Curry, finishing with 41 points, four rebounds and five assists. Brandin Podziemski led the bench with 25 points, seven rebounds and eight assists. Klay Thompson totaled 12 points and three boards, while Draymond Green generated nine points, 10 rebounds and four assists. Jonathan Kuminga collected 13 points, eight rebounds and six assists.
Golden State will play again on Thursday, traveling to face the Utah Jazz. As for Los Angeles, they're off until next Thursday, traveling to play the Oklahoma City Thunder.