Hornets Come Back, Defeat Timberwolves
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves, 110-108, at Spectrum Center on Friday.
The Hornets (6-14) have had a rough season and have been struggling on both ends of the court, but they managed to deliver a strong performance here to get past the Timberwolves (10-9) in a game that was extremely tight. Minnesota enjoyed a stronger start and looked good in the early going, securing a 34-29 lead in the first quarter, and the Western Conference franchise reached a 10-point lead at the halftime break following a 28-23 score in the second quarter. However, Charlotte flipped the script admirably and outscored their rivals by an impressive 39-21 score in the start of the second half, grabbing an eight-point lead with only 12 minutes left. Minnesota attempted a comeback and won the final score by a 25-19 score, but it wasn’t enough, and they paid a steep price for their poor third-quarter performance. Minnesota came close to two points several times, but they couldn’t complete the comeback.
Kelly Oubre Jr. was the best player for the Hornets in this game, finishing with 28 points, six rebounds, three steals and two assists. Terry Rozier notched 22 points, eight assists and four rebounds, and P.J. Washington finished with 16 points and three rebounds. Jalen McDaniels posted eight points, six rebounds and three assists, and Theo Maledon had a strong game off the bench with 14 points, seven rebounds and three assists despite not starting.
Anthony Edwards was the best player for Minnesota since he ended up with 25 points, five rebounds and four assists, while D’Angelo Russell racked up with 20 points, 10 assists and four rebounds. Karl-Anthony Towns ended with 19 points, five assists and four rebounds, and Rudy Gobert finished with 17 points, 17 rebounds, two steals, two blocks and one assist.
The Hornets (6-14) have had a rough season and have been struggling on both ends of the court, but they managed to deliver a strong performance here to get past the Timberwolves (10-9) in a game that was extremely tight. Minnesota enjoyed a stronger start and looked good in the early going, securing a 34-29 lead in the first quarter, and the Western Conference franchise reached a 10-point lead at the halftime break following a 28-23 score in the second quarter. However, Charlotte flipped the script admirably and outscored their rivals by an impressive 39-21 score in the start of the second half, grabbing an eight-point lead with only 12 minutes left. Minnesota attempted a comeback and won the final score by a 25-19 score, but it wasn’t enough, and they paid a steep price for their poor third-quarter performance. Minnesota came close to two points several times, but they couldn’t complete the comeback.
Kelly Oubre Jr. was the best player for the Hornets in this game, finishing with 28 points, six rebounds, three steals and two assists. Terry Rozier notched 22 points, eight assists and four rebounds, and P.J. Washington finished with 16 points and three rebounds. Jalen McDaniels posted eight points, six rebounds and three assists, and Theo Maledon had a strong game off the bench with 14 points, seven rebounds and three assists despite not starting.
Anthony Edwards was the best player for Minnesota since he ended up with 25 points, five rebounds and four assists, while D’Angelo Russell racked up with 20 points, 10 assists and four rebounds. Karl-Anthony Towns ended with 19 points, five assists and four rebounds, and Rudy Gobert finished with 17 points, 17 rebounds, two steals, two blocks and one assist.
76ers Come From Behind, Defeat Magic
The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Orlando Magic, 107-99, at Amway Center on Friday.
The 76ers (10-9) had to work out harder than expected, but in the end, they managed to get past the Magic (5-14) in a tough road contest. The Magic grabbed the lead in the first quarter following a 29-24 score in the first quarter, but Philadelphia showed signs of a potential turnaround with a 28-27 score in the second quarter. The 76ers were down by four points entering the break, but they managed to flip the script in the second quarter following a 30-20 score in the third quarter, holding a six-point advantage with only 12 minutes left to go on the clock. The Sixers closed things out in the fourth quarter following a 25-23 score and sealed the victory with ease.
Four starters scored in double digits for the Sixers, with Tobias Harris ending with 23 points and 10 rebounds while Shake Milton posted a team-high 24 points to go along with 10 assists and nine rebounds. DeAnthony Melton posted 13 points, four assists, four steals and four rebounds, while Montrezl Harrell delivered a 14-point, eight-rebound effort. Georges Niang looked good off the bench with 18 points in 23 minutes.
Franz Wagner was the best player for the Magic after ending with 24 points and four rebounds, while Paolo Banchero recorded 19 points, four rebounds and three assists. Bol Bol had another impressive contest and finished with 18 points, eight rebounds, four blocks and two steals. R.J. Hampton 10 points and four rebounds off the bench. Jalen Suggs didn’t score (0-2 FG) but delivered four assists.
The 76ers (10-9) had to work out harder than expected, but in the end, they managed to get past the Magic (5-14) in a tough road contest. The Magic grabbed the lead in the first quarter following a 29-24 score in the first quarter, but Philadelphia showed signs of a potential turnaround with a 28-27 score in the second quarter. The 76ers were down by four points entering the break, but they managed to flip the script in the second quarter following a 30-20 score in the third quarter, holding a six-point advantage with only 12 minutes left to go on the clock. The Sixers closed things out in the fourth quarter following a 25-23 score and sealed the victory with ease.
Four starters scored in double digits for the Sixers, with Tobias Harris ending with 23 points and 10 rebounds while Shake Milton posted a team-high 24 points to go along with 10 assists and nine rebounds. DeAnthony Melton posted 13 points, four assists, four steals and four rebounds, while Montrezl Harrell delivered a 14-point, eight-rebound effort. Georges Niang looked good off the bench with 18 points in 23 minutes.
Franz Wagner was the best player for the Magic after ending with 24 points and four rebounds, while Paolo Banchero recorded 19 points, four rebounds and three assists. Bol Bol had another impressive contest and finished with 18 points, eight rebounds, four blocks and two steals. R.J. Hampton 10 points and four rebounds off the bench. Jalen Suggs didn’t score (0-2 FG) but delivered four assists.
Blazers Secure Win Over Knicks In OT
The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the New York Knicks, 132-129, at Madison Square Garden on Friday.
The Trail Blazers (11-8) and the Knicks (9-10) had to play five extra minutes to find a winner, but in the end, the visitors prevailed and secured a big win against an inconsistent Knicks team. What should be even more frustrating for the Knicks should be that they jumped ahead in the early going by a 31-25 lead in the first quarter but only to see Portland recover the advantage and move up by two points following a 37-30 score in the second quarter. The Trail Blazers were leading by seven points after a 30-25 score in third quarter, and they could’ve closed things out, but the Knicks had other plans – they outscored their opponents by a 30-24 score and forced overtime. Unfortunately, the Knicks couldn’t carry the momentum into the OT and allowed the Blazers to close out the victory.
Jerami Grant had his best game as a Portland player and finished with 44 points, while Anfernee Simons had an impressive outing and posted 38 points to go along with five assists and four rebounds. Josh Hart notched 10 points, four assists and two steals, but he stood out as a rebounder with 19 boards. Jusuf Nurkic ended with 20 points, eight rebounds and seven assists.
Jalen Brunson led the way for the Knicks with 32 points, five rebounds and four assists, while R.J. Barrett finished with a 19-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included five assists. Julius Randle delivered 23 points, six rebounds, three assists and three steals, while Miles Robinson ended with 12 points, eight rebounds and two blocks. Immanuel Quickley looked impressive off the bench with 18 points, five assists and four rebounds.
The Trail Blazers (11-8) and the Knicks (9-10) had to play five extra minutes to find a winner, but in the end, the visitors prevailed and secured a big win against an inconsistent Knicks team. What should be even more frustrating for the Knicks should be that they jumped ahead in the early going by a 31-25 lead in the first quarter but only to see Portland recover the advantage and move up by two points following a 37-30 score in the second quarter. The Trail Blazers were leading by seven points after a 30-25 score in third quarter, and they could’ve closed things out, but the Knicks had other plans – they outscored their opponents by a 30-24 score and forced overtime. Unfortunately, the Knicks couldn’t carry the momentum into the OT and allowed the Blazers to close out the victory.
Jerami Grant had his best game as a Portland player and finished with 44 points, while Anfernee Simons had an impressive outing and posted 38 points to go along with five assists and four rebounds. Josh Hart notched 10 points, four assists and two steals, but he stood out as a rebounder with 19 boards. Jusuf Nurkic ended with 20 points, eight rebounds and seven assists.
Jalen Brunson led the way for the Knicks with 32 points, five rebounds and four assists, while R.J. Barrett finished with a 19-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included five assists. Julius Randle delivered 23 points, six rebounds, three assists and three steals, while Miles Robinson ended with 12 points, eight rebounds and two blocks. Immanuel Quickley looked impressive off the bench with 18 points, five assists and four rebounds.
Celtics Secure Comfortable Win Over Kings
The Boston Celtics defeated the Sacramento Kings, 112-104, at TD Garden on Friday.
The Celtics (15-4) had another impressive performance at home and moved to 8-1 in front of their fans with a solid win against the Kings (10-8), one of the hottest teams in the league right now. Boston enjoyed an excellent start and never looked back, as they grabbed a 36-22 score in the first quarter to build a double-digit lead early in the contest. Sacramento responded with a 40-28 score in the second quarter and made things close, but they couldn’t carry the momentum into the second half. The Celtics won the third quarter by a 30-22 score and were up by 10 points with 12 minutes left, and while Sacramento fought hard down the stretch, they just couldn’t make things happen and had to settle with the loss. The Kings are now 4-5 on the road this season.
Jayson Tatum had an impressive performance for the Celtics with 30 points, eight rebounds and four assists, while Jaylen Brown secured 25 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Derrick White notched 16 points, three rebounds and three steals, and Al Horford delivered 13 points, five assists and four boards. No other Boston player scored in double digits here, but Marcus Smart delivered four points, four boards and five assists, while Sam Hauser had nine points off the bench.
De’Aaron Fox recorded 20 points and four boards, while Harrison Barnes ended with 12 points and five rebounds for the losing cause. Domantas Sabonis came close to a triple-double of 18 points, 10 rebounds and six assists, while Keegan Murray recorded 10 rebounds and three points. Davion Mitchell recorded 13 points coming off the bench.
The Celtics (15-4) had another impressive performance at home and moved to 8-1 in front of their fans with a solid win against the Kings (10-8), one of the hottest teams in the league right now. Boston enjoyed an excellent start and never looked back, as they grabbed a 36-22 score in the first quarter to build a double-digit lead early in the contest. Sacramento responded with a 40-28 score in the second quarter and made things close, but they couldn’t carry the momentum into the second half. The Celtics won the third quarter by a 30-22 score and were up by 10 points with 12 minutes left, and while Sacramento fought hard down the stretch, they just couldn’t make things happen and had to settle with the loss. The Kings are now 4-5 on the road this season.
Jayson Tatum had an impressive performance for the Celtics with 30 points, eight rebounds and four assists, while Jaylen Brown secured 25 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Derrick White notched 16 points, three rebounds and three steals, and Al Horford delivered 13 points, five assists and four boards. No other Boston player scored in double digits here, but Marcus Smart delivered four points, four boards and five assists, while Sam Hauser had nine points off the bench.
De’Aaron Fox recorded 20 points and four boards, while Harrison Barnes ended with 12 points and five rebounds for the losing cause. Domantas Sabonis came close to a triple-double of 18 points, 10 rebounds and six assists, while Keegan Murray recorded 10 rebounds and three points. Davion Mitchell recorded 13 points coming off the bench.
Rockets Outlast Hawks, 128-122
The Houston Rockets defeated the Atlanta Hawks, 128-122, at Toyota Center on Friday night.
The Hawks (11-8) came into the contest as fairly comfortable road favorites, yet the Rockets (4-14) served notice early they had a hot hand. Houston owned a 38-33 lead through one, but Atlanta fought back to take a three-point lead into intermission. When the visitors added another seven points to their advantage in the third quarter, it seemed like the home squad was headed to another disappointing loss. Nevertheless, a surprising 34-18 edge for the Rockets in the final 12 minutes -- spurred by a 24-12 run in the final 7:10 -- led to the upset.
Trae Young led the Hawks with 44 points, supplementing them with five assists and one steal. Dejounte Murray supplied 39 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals. A.J. Griffin compiled 11 points off the bench. John Collins and De'Andre Hunter generated matching eight-point, five-rebound efforts.
Jalen Green paced the Rockets with 30 points, complementing them with five rebounds and five assists. Kenyon Martin Jr. posted a 21-point, 15-rebound double-double that included two assists and one steal. Jabari Smith matched Martin's scoring and added nine boards, one assist, one steal and one block. Garrison Mathews finished with 20 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Kevin Porter Jr. generated a 12-point, 10-assist double-double that included seven rebounds and one steal.
The Hawks return home to host the Miami Heat on Sunday afternoon, while the Rockets host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday night.
The Hawks (11-8) came into the contest as fairly comfortable road favorites, yet the Rockets (4-14) served notice early they had a hot hand. Houston owned a 38-33 lead through one, but Atlanta fought back to take a three-point lead into intermission. When the visitors added another seven points to their advantage in the third quarter, it seemed like the home squad was headed to another disappointing loss. Nevertheless, a surprising 34-18 edge for the Rockets in the final 12 minutes -- spurred by a 24-12 run in the final 7:10 -- led to the upset.
Trae Young led the Hawks with 44 points, supplementing them with five assists and one steal. Dejounte Murray supplied 39 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals. A.J. Griffin compiled 11 points off the bench. John Collins and De'Andre Hunter generated matching eight-point, five-rebound efforts.
Jalen Green paced the Rockets with 30 points, complementing them with five rebounds and five assists. Kenyon Martin Jr. posted a 21-point, 15-rebound double-double that included two assists and one steal. Jabari Smith matched Martin's scoring and added nine boards, one assist, one steal and one block. Garrison Mathews finished with 20 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Kevin Porter Jr. generated a 12-point, 10-assist double-double that included seven rebounds and one steal.
The Hawks return home to host the Miami Heat on Sunday afternoon, while the Rockets host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday night.
Pacers Top Nets, 128-117
The Indiana Pacers defeated the Brooklyn Nets, 128-117, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Friday night.
The Nets (9-11) opened their quest to get back to .500 in fine fashion, as they held a 35-23 lead over the Pacers (11-7) through one thanks to a dominant opening quarter. However, it was Indiana that was the hotter club on the offensive end in the second, recording 34 points of its own but still lopping just four points from its deficit prior to halftime. The hosts were still down six going into the final period, but an 18-4 run by the Pacers from the 11:35 to 6:43 marks of the fourth quarter turned the dynamic of the game around and gave them enough cushion to withstand one final push by Brooklyn.
Kevin Durant led the Nets with 36 points, adding nine rebounds, eight assists and two blocks. Ben Simmons furnished 20 points, six rebounds, three assists and one block. Kyrie Irving matched Simmons' scoring and added four rebounds and four assists. Seth Curry delivered 14 points, five assists and two rebounds. Nicolas Claxton generated a 12-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist and five blocks.
Buddy Hield paced the Pacers with 26 points, complementing them with three rebounds, three assists and three steals. Myles Turner totaled 23 points, eight boards, three assists and two blocks. Tyrese Haliburton supplied a 21-point, 15-assist double-double that included six rebounds and four steals. Bennedict Mathurin managed 20 points, four rebounds, two steals and one block. Jalen Smith and Aaron Nesmith generated matching 10-point tallies while pulling down five and two rebounds, respectively.
The Nets return home to host the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday afternoon, while the Pacers hit the road and visit the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday afternoon as well.
The Nets (9-11) opened their quest to get back to .500 in fine fashion, as they held a 35-23 lead over the Pacers (11-7) through one thanks to a dominant opening quarter. However, it was Indiana that was the hotter club on the offensive end in the second, recording 34 points of its own but still lopping just four points from its deficit prior to halftime. The hosts were still down six going into the final period, but an 18-4 run by the Pacers from the 11:35 to 6:43 marks of the fourth quarter turned the dynamic of the game around and gave them enough cushion to withstand one final push by Brooklyn.
Kevin Durant led the Nets with 36 points, adding nine rebounds, eight assists and two blocks. Ben Simmons furnished 20 points, six rebounds, three assists and one block. Kyrie Irving matched Simmons' scoring and added four rebounds and four assists. Seth Curry delivered 14 points, five assists and two rebounds. Nicolas Claxton generated a 12-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist and five blocks.
Buddy Hield paced the Pacers with 26 points, complementing them with three rebounds, three assists and three steals. Myles Turner totaled 23 points, eight boards, three assists and two blocks. Tyrese Haliburton supplied a 21-point, 15-assist double-double that included six rebounds and four steals. Bennedict Mathurin managed 20 points, four rebounds, two steals and one block. Jalen Smith and Aaron Nesmith generated matching 10-point tallies while pulling down five and two rebounds, respectively.
The Nets return home to host the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday afternoon, while the Pacers hit the road and visit the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday afternoon as well.
Heat Gets Past Wizards, 110-107
The Miami Heat defeated the Washington Wizards, 110-107, at FTX Arena on Friday night.
The Wizards (10-9) came into the contest looking for a bit of redemption after dropping an eight-point decision to the Heat (9-11) on Wednesday night, and they looked to be well on their way when they came out enough to build a 38-28 lead through one. However, Miami began to chip away at that point, knocking seven points from its deficit prior to halftime and then eliminating it altogether prior to the end of the third quarter. Washington then had regained a five-point advantage with just over seven minutes remaining before the hosts eventually tied the game with just over three minutes left and eventually squeaked out the narrow win after Bradley Beal missed a 26-foot jumper with 1.2 seconds remaining.
Kyle Kuzma and Beal co-led the Wizards with matching 28-point, five-assist efforts while adding seven and five rebounds, respectively. Kristaps Porzingis turned in 18 points, seven rebounds, one assist and two blocks.
Bam Adebayo paced the Heat with 38 points, complementing them with 12 rebounds and three assists. Caleb Martin supplied 20 points, four rebounds, one assist and one steal. Kyle Lowry registered 13 points, eight assists, seven rebounds and one steal. Tyler Herro generated an 11-point, 10-assist double-double that included five rebounds and one block.
The Wizards remain on the road and visit the Boston Celtics on Sunday evening, while the Heat hits the road and visits the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday afternoon as well.
The Wizards (10-9) came into the contest looking for a bit of redemption after dropping an eight-point decision to the Heat (9-11) on Wednesday night, and they looked to be well on their way when they came out enough to build a 38-28 lead through one. However, Miami began to chip away at that point, knocking seven points from its deficit prior to halftime and then eliminating it altogether prior to the end of the third quarter. Washington then had regained a five-point advantage with just over seven minutes remaining before the hosts eventually tied the game with just over three minutes left and eventually squeaked out the narrow win after Bradley Beal missed a 26-foot jumper with 1.2 seconds remaining.
Kyle Kuzma and Beal co-led the Wizards with matching 28-point, five-assist efforts while adding seven and five rebounds, respectively. Kristaps Porzingis turned in 18 points, seven rebounds, one assist and two blocks.
Bam Adebayo paced the Heat with 38 points, complementing them with 12 rebounds and three assists. Caleb Martin supplied 20 points, four rebounds, one assist and one steal. Kyle Lowry registered 13 points, eight assists, seven rebounds and one steal. Tyler Herro generated an 11-point, 10-assist double-double that included five rebounds and one block.
The Wizards remain on the road and visit the Boston Celtics on Sunday evening, while the Heat hits the road and visits the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday afternoon as well.
Bucks Rally For Home Win
By Dan Bruno
The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the visiting Cleveland Cavaliers, 117-102, at Fiserv Forum on Friday evening.
The Cavs got out to a strong start and held on to a five-point lead after one quarter. They kept the pressure on and pushed to a 16-point lead mid way through the second, but the Bucks cut it back to an 11-point game by halftime. The Bucks came to life in the third and outscored the visitors 35-10 to claim a 14-point lead heading into the final frame. The hosts maintained control through the fourth and closed out the home win, ending a four-game win streak for the Cavs.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 38 points, nine rebounds, six assists and two blocks, in 31 minutes. Jevon Carter followed up with 18 points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Bobby Portis tallied 14 points, eight rebounds, four assists and a block. The Bucks shot 51 percent from the field, including 15-of-32 from deep.
Meanwhile, Donovan Mitchell led the Cavs with 29 points, three rebounds and a steal, in 32 minutes. Darius Garland followed up with 20 points, four rebounds and three assists, while Isaac Okoro added 13 points and four rebounds. The Cavs shot 39 percent from the field, including 12-of-33 from long range.
The Cavs (12-7) will look to bounce back as they take on the Pistons in Detroit on Sunday. The Bucks (13-5) play host to the Mavs on Sunday.
The Cavs got out to a strong start and held on to a five-point lead after one quarter. They kept the pressure on and pushed to a 16-point lead mid way through the second, but the Bucks cut it back to an 11-point game by halftime. The Bucks came to life in the third and outscored the visitors 35-10 to claim a 14-point lead heading into the final frame. The hosts maintained control through the fourth and closed out the home win, ending a four-game win streak for the Cavs.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 38 points, nine rebounds, six assists and two blocks, in 31 minutes. Jevon Carter followed up with 18 points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Bobby Portis tallied 14 points, eight rebounds, four assists and a block. The Bucks shot 51 percent from the field, including 15-of-32 from deep.
Meanwhile, Donovan Mitchell led the Cavs with 29 points, three rebounds and a steal, in 32 minutes. Darius Garland followed up with 20 points, four rebounds and three assists, while Isaac Okoro added 13 points and four rebounds. The Cavs shot 39 percent from the field, including 12-of-33 from long range.
The Cavs (12-7) will look to bounce back as they take on the Pistons in Detroit on Sunday. The Bucks (13-5) play host to the Mavs on Sunday.
Lakers Hold On For Road Win
By Dan Bruno
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the host San Antonio Spurs, 105-94, at AT&T Center on Friday evening.
The Lakers got out to a strong start and led 33-21 after one quarter. They stayed in control through the second and added another six points to their advantage to make it an 18-point game by halftime. The Spurs turned it up a notch in the third and outscored the visitors 34-20 to cut it to a four-point game heading into final frame. The Lakers reclaimed dominance in the fourth and rallied to the finish to close out the road win, while this marks the seventh straight loss for the Spurs.
Anthony Davis led the Lakers with 25 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, three blocks and a steal, in 35 minutes. LeBron James followed up with 21 points, eight rebounds, five assists, three steals and a block, while Lonnie Walker added 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and three steals. The Lakers shot 48 percent from the field, including 8-of-27 from long range.
Meanwhile, Tre Jones led the Spurs with 19 points, two rebounds, five assists and two steals, in 33 minutes. Devin Vassell followed up with 18 points, six rebounds, three assists and a steal, while Keldon Johnson added 15 points, nine rebounds and two assists. The Spurs shot 38 percent from the field, including 6-of-33 from long range.
The Lakers (6-11) and Spurs (6-14) clash again in San Antonio on Saturday.
The Lakers got out to a strong start and led 33-21 after one quarter. They stayed in control through the second and added another six points to their advantage to make it an 18-point game by halftime. The Spurs turned it up a notch in the third and outscored the visitors 34-20 to cut it to a four-point game heading into final frame. The Lakers reclaimed dominance in the fourth and rallied to the finish to close out the road win, while this marks the seventh straight loss for the Spurs.
Anthony Davis led the Lakers with 25 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, three blocks and a steal, in 35 minutes. LeBron James followed up with 21 points, eight rebounds, five assists, three steals and a block, while Lonnie Walker added 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and three steals. The Lakers shot 48 percent from the field, including 8-of-27 from long range.
Meanwhile, Tre Jones led the Spurs with 19 points, two rebounds, five assists and two steals, in 33 minutes. Devin Vassell followed up with 18 points, six rebounds, three assists and a steal, while Keldon Johnson added 15 points, nine rebounds and two assists. The Spurs shot 38 percent from the field, including 6-of-33 from long range.
The Lakers (6-11) and Spurs (6-14) clash again in San Antonio on Saturday.
Thunder Hold Off Bulls In OT
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the visiting Chicago Bulls, 123-119, in overtime at Paycom Center on Friday evening.
The Bulls jumped out to a quick eight-point lead, but the Thunder rallied to take a two-point lead into the second. The score stayed tight through the second and it was tied at 59, at the break. The Thunder turned it up a notch in the third and pushed their way to a seven-point lead heading into the final quarter. However, the Bulls chipped away in the fourth and brought it to a tie at 110, by the end of regulation. The visitors took the first edge in the extra frame, but he Thunder came back to claim the upper hand and held on for the impressive home win.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 30 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and a block, in 40 minutes. Darius Bazley followed up with 17 points, three rebounds and two blocks, while Aleksej Pokusevski logged 15 points, six rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block. The Thunder shot 46 percent from the field, including 7-of-29 from long range.
Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 30 points, four rebonds, six assists and two steals, in 42 minutes. Zach LaVine followed up with 27 points, five rebounds, five assists and a steal, while Patrick Williams added 11 points, six rebounds and two blocks. The Bulls shot 44 percent from the field, including 12-of-33 from deep.
The Bulls (8-11) will look to bounce back as they take on the Jazz in Utah on Monday. The Thunder (8-11) take on the Rockets in Houston on Saturday.
The Bulls jumped out to a quick eight-point lead, but the Thunder rallied to take a two-point lead into the second. The score stayed tight through the second and it was tied at 59, at the break. The Thunder turned it up a notch in the third and pushed their way to a seven-point lead heading into the final quarter. However, the Bulls chipped away in the fourth and brought it to a tie at 110, by the end of regulation. The visitors took the first edge in the extra frame, but he Thunder came back to claim the upper hand and held on for the impressive home win.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 30 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and a block, in 40 minutes. Darius Bazley followed up with 17 points, three rebounds and two blocks, while Aleksej Pokusevski logged 15 points, six rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block. The Thunder shot 46 percent from the field, including 7-of-29 from long range.
Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 30 points, four rebonds, six assists and two steals, in 42 minutes. Zach LaVine followed up with 27 points, five rebounds, five assists and a steal, while Patrick Williams added 11 points, six rebounds and two blocks. The Bulls shot 44 percent from the field, including 12-of-33 from deep.
The Bulls (8-11) will look to bounce back as they take on the Jazz in Utah on Monday. The Thunder (8-11) take on the Rockets in Houston on Saturday.
Grizzlies Dominate Pelicans In Memphis
By Dan Bruno
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the visiting New Orleans Pelicans, 132-111, at FedEx Forum on Friday evening.
The Grizzlies jumped out to a great start and led 44-25 after one quarter. The Pelicans tightened up their defense in the second but the Grizzlies managed to increase their advantage to 20, heading into the break. The hosts kept the pressure on in the third and outscored the Pelicans by nine, to make it a 29-point deficit going into the final frame. The Pelicans put up a fight in the fourth but it was too little, too late as the Grizzlies cruised to the home win.
Dillon Brooks led the way for the Grizzlies with 25 points, two rebounds and four assists, in 29 minutes. Ja Morant totaled 23 points, four rebounds and 11 assists, while Jaren Jackson added 20 points, four rebounds, three blocks and a steal. The Grizzlies shot 52 percent from the field, including 18-of-38 from deep.
Meanwhile, Trey Murphy led the Pelicans with 21 points, three rebounds and a steal, in 26 minutes off the bench. Zion Williamson followed up with 14 points, five rebounds, four assists and a steal, while Herbert Jones added 13 points, five rebounds, three assists, a steal and a block. The Pelicans shot 43 percent from the field, including 10-of-31 from long range.
The Pelicans (11-8) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Thunder on Monday. The Grizzlies (11-8) take on the Knicks in New York on Sunday.
The Grizzlies jumped out to a great start and led 44-25 after one quarter. The Pelicans tightened up their defense in the second but the Grizzlies managed to increase their advantage to 20, heading into the break. The hosts kept the pressure on in the third and outscored the Pelicans by nine, to make it a 29-point deficit going into the final frame. The Pelicans put up a fight in the fourth but it was too little, too late as the Grizzlies cruised to the home win.
Dillon Brooks led the way for the Grizzlies with 25 points, two rebounds and four assists, in 29 minutes. Ja Morant totaled 23 points, four rebounds and 11 assists, while Jaren Jackson added 20 points, four rebounds, three blocks and a steal. The Grizzlies shot 52 percent from the field, including 18-of-38 from deep.
Meanwhile, Trey Murphy led the Pelicans with 21 points, three rebounds and a steal, in 26 minutes off the bench. Zion Williamson followed up with 14 points, five rebounds, four assists and a steal, while Herbert Jones added 13 points, five rebounds, three assists, a steal and a block. The Pelicans shot 43 percent from the field, including 10-of-31 from long range.
The Pelicans (11-8) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Thunder on Monday. The Grizzlies (11-8) take on the Knicks in New York on Sunday.
Suns Defeat Pistons, 108-102
The Phoenix Suns defeated the visiting Detroit Pistons, 108-102, at Footprint Center on Friday.
It took 11 ties and eight lead changes to determine a winner in this game, with neither team ever grabbing a double-digit lead. The Suns largest lead was nine points, thanks to a 31-25 third quarter. That allowed them to maintain the lead for the closing 18 minutes. Phoenix recorded 25 assists to 12 turnovers, while Detroit had just 21 assists to 17 turnovers. The Suns also shot 48 percent from the field while holding the Pistons to 42 percent shooting. Phoenix outscored Detroit in the paint, 64-50, as well.
The Pistons (5-16) were led by Bojan Bogdanovic, totaling 19 points, four rebounds and three assists. Killian Hayes collected 17 points, eight rebounds, nine assists and two steals. Marvin Bagley generated 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Alec Burks led the bench with 17 points. They only had one player shoot above 50 percent from the field.
The Suns (12-6) were led by Deandre Ayton, accruing 28 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks on 11-of-13 from the field. Devin Booker tallied 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Cameron Payne provided 16 points, two rebounds and 10 assists, while Mikal Bridges finished with 15 points, two rebounds and two assists.
Phoenix has to play the second half of a back-to-back set on Saturday, playing host to the Utah Jazz. As for Detroit, they return to action on Sunday in a home matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
It took 11 ties and eight lead changes to determine a winner in this game, with neither team ever grabbing a double-digit lead. The Suns largest lead was nine points, thanks to a 31-25 third quarter. That allowed them to maintain the lead for the closing 18 minutes. Phoenix recorded 25 assists to 12 turnovers, while Detroit had just 21 assists to 17 turnovers. The Suns also shot 48 percent from the field while holding the Pistons to 42 percent shooting. Phoenix outscored Detroit in the paint, 64-50, as well.
The Pistons (5-16) were led by Bojan Bogdanovic, totaling 19 points, four rebounds and three assists. Killian Hayes collected 17 points, eight rebounds, nine assists and two steals. Marvin Bagley generated 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Alec Burks led the bench with 17 points. They only had one player shoot above 50 percent from the field.
The Suns (12-6) were led by Deandre Ayton, accruing 28 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks on 11-of-13 from the field. Devin Booker tallied 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Cameron Payne provided 16 points, two rebounds and 10 assists, while Mikal Bridges finished with 15 points, two rebounds and two assists.
Phoenix has to play the second half of a back-to-back set on Saturday, playing host to the Utah Jazz. As for Detroit, they return to action on Sunday in a home matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Warriors Defeat Jazz, 129-118
The Golden State Warriors defeated the visiting Utah Jazz, 129-118, at Chase Center on Friday.
A 37-23 first quarter carried Golden State to their victory, holding the lead for all but 19 seconds in this game. They got their lead up to 19 points at times, leading by at least five points for the closing 16 minutes. The Warriors shot 52 percent from the field and 44 percent from three-point range while holding the Jazz to 47 percent from the field and 24 percent from long range. Golden State out-rebounded Utah, 56-47, while out-assisting them, 33-28. In addition, the Dubs outscored the Jazz in second-chance points, 27-16, and in fastbreak scoring, 35-11.
The Jazz (12-9) were led by Lauri Markkanen, amassing 24 points and six rebounds. Kelly Olynyk collected 21 points, four rebounds and two blocks. Jordan Clarkson compiled 21 points, four rebounds and 10 assists, while Collin Sexton had 13 points and seven assists. Jarred Vanderbilt generated 13 points, 10 rebounds and two assists, while Malik Beasley led the bench with 10 points, five rebounds and five steals.
The Warriors (10-10) were led by Stephen Curry, tallying 33 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Klay Thompson finished with 20 points and six boards. Andrew Wiggins accrued 20 points, nine rebounds, five assists and three steals, while Draymond Green accumulated 13 points, three rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Kevon Looney also had 10 points, 12 rebounds and four assists. Jordan Poole led the bench with 19 points, four rebounds and six assists.
Utah has to play the second half of a back-to-back set on Saturday, traveling to face the Phoenix Suns. As for Golden State, they play the Minnesota Timberwolves on the road on Sunday.
A 37-23 first quarter carried Golden State to their victory, holding the lead for all but 19 seconds in this game. They got their lead up to 19 points at times, leading by at least five points for the closing 16 minutes. The Warriors shot 52 percent from the field and 44 percent from three-point range while holding the Jazz to 47 percent from the field and 24 percent from long range. Golden State out-rebounded Utah, 56-47, while out-assisting them, 33-28. In addition, the Dubs outscored the Jazz in second-chance points, 27-16, and in fastbreak scoring, 35-11.
The Jazz (12-9) were led by Lauri Markkanen, amassing 24 points and six rebounds. Kelly Olynyk collected 21 points, four rebounds and two blocks. Jordan Clarkson compiled 21 points, four rebounds and 10 assists, while Collin Sexton had 13 points and seven assists. Jarred Vanderbilt generated 13 points, 10 rebounds and two assists, while Malik Beasley led the bench with 10 points, five rebounds and five steals.
The Warriors (10-10) were led by Stephen Curry, tallying 33 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Klay Thompson finished with 20 points and six boards. Andrew Wiggins accrued 20 points, nine rebounds, five assists and three steals, while Draymond Green accumulated 13 points, three rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Kevon Looney also had 10 points, 12 rebounds and four assists. Jordan Poole led the bench with 19 points, four rebounds and six assists.
Utah has to play the second half of a back-to-back set on Saturday, traveling to face the Phoenix Suns. As for Golden State, they play the Minnesota Timberwolves on the road on Sunday.
Nuggets Defeat Clippers, 114-104
The Denver Nuggets defeated the host Los Angeles Clippers, 114-104, at Crypto.com Arena on Friday.
While the Nuggets didn't necessarily win in wire-to-wire fashion, they held the lead for all but 41 seconds. The Clippers scored the first basket, but the Nuggets never relinquished the lead after a 10-2 start. They got their lead up to 21 points at times, leading by at least seven points for the entirety of the second half. Denver recorded 27 assists to six turnovers, while Los Angeles had 22 assists to 14 turnovers. The Nuggets also outscored the Clips in the paint, 52-42, and in second-chance scoring, 21-4.
The Nuggets (12-7) were led by Aaron Gordon, accruing 29 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Jamal Murray amassed 21 points, six rebounds and nine assists. Nikola Jokic collected 19 points, 13 rebounds, six assists and two steals, while Bruce Brown tallied eight points, four rebounds and four assists.
The Clippers (11-9) were led by John Wall, providing 23 points and two assists off the bench. Terence Mann led the starters with 16 points, four rebounds and five assists. Marcus Morris had 15 points and two boards, while Reggie Jackson registered nine points, five rebounds and eight assists. Ivica Zubac totaled six points and nine boards.
On deck for Los Angeles is a home matchup with the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. As for Denver, they're off until Monday, playing host to the Houston Rockets.
While the Nuggets didn't necessarily win in wire-to-wire fashion, they held the lead for all but 41 seconds. The Clippers scored the first basket, but the Nuggets never relinquished the lead after a 10-2 start. They got their lead up to 21 points at times, leading by at least seven points for the entirety of the second half. Denver recorded 27 assists to six turnovers, while Los Angeles had 22 assists to 14 turnovers. The Nuggets also outscored the Clips in the paint, 52-42, and in second-chance scoring, 21-4.
The Nuggets (12-7) were led by Aaron Gordon, accruing 29 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Jamal Murray amassed 21 points, six rebounds and nine assists. Nikola Jokic collected 19 points, 13 rebounds, six assists and two steals, while Bruce Brown tallied eight points, four rebounds and four assists.
The Clippers (11-9) were led by John Wall, providing 23 points and two assists off the bench. Terence Mann led the starters with 16 points, four rebounds and five assists. Marcus Morris had 15 points and two boards, while Reggie Jackson registered nine points, five rebounds and eight assists. Ivica Zubac totaled six points and nine boards.
On deck for Los Angeles is a home matchup with the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. As for Denver, they're off until Monday, playing host to the Houston Rockets.