Cavaliers Secure Huge Win Over 76ers
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Philadelphia 76ers, 113-85, at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Wednesday.
The Cavaliers (14-8) delivered an impressive performance on both ends of the court and cruised to victory against another Eastern Conference playoff contender, the 76ers (12-10). It was a dominant performance for the Cavaliers, as they raced out to a 25-21 score in the first quarter and never looked back, to the point that they won each of the four quarters with ease. The Cavaliers pulled away for good with a 44-27 score in the second quarter, and as a result, they were leading by 21 points at the halftime break. The 76ers were downright awful in the second half and couldn’t reach the 20-point mark in each of the final two quarters, losing both by scores of 21-18 and 23-19, respectively. The Cavaliers moved to 9-1 at home with the win, while the 76ers fell to 5-5 on the road.
Joel Embiid was the leading scorer for the 76ers in this one but didn’t have a good performance, as he ended with 19 points and six rebounds while also adding three steals. Shake Milton notched 14 points, three rebounds and three assists, but no other Philadelphia player scored in double digits here. In fact, the 76ers were atrocious offensively and only shot 41.8 percent from the field, as well as 23.1 percent from deep.
Darius Garland led the way for the Cavaliers with 21 points and nine assists, while Donovan Mitchell posted 18 points, six assists, three rebounds and two steals. Evan Mobley sniffed a double-double and finished with 16 points and eight boards while adding three assists. Isaac Okoro had 11 points and Caris LeVert notched 22 points with six boards and four assists.
The Cavaliers (14-8) delivered an impressive performance on both ends of the court and cruised to victory against another Eastern Conference playoff contender, the 76ers (12-10). It was a dominant performance for the Cavaliers, as they raced out to a 25-21 score in the first quarter and never looked back, to the point that they won each of the four quarters with ease. The Cavaliers pulled away for good with a 44-27 score in the second quarter, and as a result, they were leading by 21 points at the halftime break. The 76ers were downright awful in the second half and couldn’t reach the 20-point mark in each of the final two quarters, losing both by scores of 21-18 and 23-19, respectively. The Cavaliers moved to 9-1 at home with the win, while the 76ers fell to 5-5 on the road.
Joel Embiid was the leading scorer for the 76ers in this one but didn’t have a good performance, as he ended with 19 points and six rebounds while also adding three steals. Shake Milton notched 14 points, three rebounds and three assists, but no other Philadelphia player scored in double digits here. In fact, the 76ers were atrocious offensively and only shot 41.8 percent from the field, as well as 23.1 percent from deep.
Darius Garland led the way for the Cavaliers with 21 points and nine assists, while Donovan Mitchell posted 18 points, six assists, three rebounds and two steals. Evan Mobley sniffed a double-double and finished with 16 points and eight boards while adding three assists. Isaac Okoro had 11 points and Caris LeVert notched 22 points with six boards and four assists.
Hawks Dominate, Route Magic On The Road
The Atlanta Hawks defeated the Orlando Magic, 125-108, at Amway Center on Wednesday.
The Hawks (12-10) enjoyed an excellent start and took advantage of a dominant first quarter to get past the Magic (5-17), in a game that showed that these two franchises are clearly moving in different directions. Atlanta grabbed the lead in the early going and raced out to a 38-27 advantage in the first quarter, and they’d never look back the rest of the way. The Hawks didn’t stop there and also won the second quarter by a 32-23 score, meaning they were up by 20 points at the break. The Hawks didn’t slow down in the second half and pushed their lead up to 24 points, so the final 12 minutes of action were not really needed to determine the outcome of the game. Even though the Magic won the final quarter by a 32-25 score, it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback and Atlanta cruised their way to victory with ease.
Trae Young was the best player for the Hawks in this game and finished with 30 points and 14 assists, while his backcourt partner, Dejounte Murray, notched 27 points, six assists, three rebounds and two steals. Clint Capela posted 20 points and 12 rebounds. A.J. Griffin was impressive off the bench and finished with 15 points, while Onyeka Okongwu posted 12 points with eight rebounds off the bench as well.
Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero were the best players for the Magic in this loss and both reached the 20-point mark in this game. Wagner ended with 22 points, six rebounds and three assists, while Banchero finished with 20 points, five assists and two boards. No other starters scored in double digits for Orlando. Terrence Ross posted 12 points and Cole Anthony delivered 11 points.
The Hawks (12-10) enjoyed an excellent start and took advantage of a dominant first quarter to get past the Magic (5-17), in a game that showed that these two franchises are clearly moving in different directions. Atlanta grabbed the lead in the early going and raced out to a 38-27 advantage in the first quarter, and they’d never look back the rest of the way. The Hawks didn’t stop there and also won the second quarter by a 32-23 score, meaning they were up by 20 points at the break. The Hawks didn’t slow down in the second half and pushed their lead up to 24 points, so the final 12 minutes of action were not really needed to determine the outcome of the game. Even though the Magic won the final quarter by a 32-25 score, it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback and Atlanta cruised their way to victory with ease.
Trae Young was the best player for the Hawks in this game and finished with 30 points and 14 assists, while his backcourt partner, Dejounte Murray, notched 27 points, six assists, three rebounds and two steals. Clint Capela posted 20 points and 12 rebounds. A.J. Griffin was impressive off the bench and finished with 15 points, while Onyeka Okongwu posted 12 points with eight rebounds off the bench as well.
Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero were the best players for the Magic in this loss and both reached the 20-point mark in this game. Wagner ended with 22 points, six rebounds and three assists, while Banchero finished with 20 points, five assists and two boards. No other starters scored in double digits for Orlando. Terrence Ross posted 12 points and Cole Anthony delivered 11 points.
Celtics Secure Comfortable Win Over Heat
The Boston Celtics defeated the Miami Heat, 134-121, at TD Garden on Wednesday.
The Celtics (17-4) remain one of the best teams in the league and moved to 10-1 at home with his comfortable win over the Heat (10-11), a team that fell to 2-7 on the road with the loss here. Boston looked good in the early going and won the first quarter by a 38-35 score, and they bolstered their lead to eight points following a 30-25 score. The Heat showed signs of life in the second half and outscored their rivals by a 36-34 score in the third quarter, but it wasn’t enough for them to mount a comeback. The Celtics won the final quarter by a 32-25 score and raced out to victory with ease.
Jayson Tatum had one of his best performances of the season and finished with 49 points, but he also added 11 rebounds, three assists and two steals across 39 minutes. Jaylen Brown finished with 26 points, seven rebounds and five assists, while Marcus Smart came close to a double-double after ending with 10 points and nine assists while also adding five rebounds. Derrick White had 15 points with five assists, and Malcolm Brogdon finished with 21 points off the bench.
Seven of Miami’s nine players scored in double digits, with Max Strus and Bam Adebayo leading the way with matching 23-point performances. Adebayo also had six boards and five assists. Tyler Herro delivered 22 points, nine assists and seven rebounds, while Kyle Lowry posted 14 points, five assists and four rebounds. Caleb Martin had 10 points, same as Gabe Vincent, and Haywood Highsmith recorded 16 points with seven boards.
The Celtics (17-4) remain one of the best teams in the league and moved to 10-1 at home with his comfortable win over the Heat (10-11), a team that fell to 2-7 on the road with the loss here. Boston looked good in the early going and won the first quarter by a 38-35 score, and they bolstered their lead to eight points following a 30-25 score. The Heat showed signs of life in the second half and outscored their rivals by a 36-34 score in the third quarter, but it wasn’t enough for them to mount a comeback. The Celtics won the final quarter by a 32-25 score and raced out to victory with ease.
Jayson Tatum had one of his best performances of the season and finished with 49 points, but he also added 11 rebounds, three assists and two steals across 39 minutes. Jaylen Brown finished with 26 points, seven rebounds and five assists, while Marcus Smart came close to a double-double after ending with 10 points and nine assists while also adding five rebounds. Derrick White had 15 points with five assists, and Malcolm Brogdon finished with 21 points off the bench.
Seven of Miami’s nine players scored in double digits, with Max Strus and Bam Adebayo leading the way with matching 23-point performances. Adebayo also had six boards and five assists. Tyler Herro delivered 22 points, nine assists and seven rebounds, while Kyle Lowry posted 14 points, five assists and four rebounds. Caleb Martin had 10 points, same as Gabe Vincent, and Haywood Highsmith recorded 16 points with seven boards.
Nets Top Wizards, 113-107
The Brooklyn Nets defeated the Washington Wizards, 113-107, at Barclays Center on Wednesday night.
The Nets (12-11) came into the game on a quest to finally get over .500, but it was evident early the Wizards (11-11) wouldn't make matters easy. Washington trailed by only a 57-53 margin at halftime, and the visitors were down by just three going into the final period. However, Brooklyn eventually opened up as much as a 10-point lead with three minutes remaining, giving the hosts enough cushion for the victory.
Kristaps Porzingis led the Wizards with a 27-point, 19-rebound double-double that also included two blocks and one steal. Bradley Beal and Kyle Kuzma generated matching 25-point tallies while recording six and three assists, respectively. Beal also dished out six assists, while Kuzma added three.
Kevin Durant paced the Nets with 39 points, complementing them with five rebounds, five assists and one block. Kyrie Irving furnished 27 points, five assists, one rebound, two blocks and one steal. Joe Harris delivered 14 points, five rebounds, one assist and three steals. Royce O'Neale and Edmond Sumner posted matching eight-point contributions, with O'Neale adding eight rebounds and seven assists.
The Wizards remain on the road and next visit the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night, while the Nets remain home and host the Toronto Raptors on Friday night as well.
The Nets (12-11) came into the game on a quest to finally get over .500, but it was evident early the Wizards (11-11) wouldn't make matters easy. Washington trailed by only a 57-53 margin at halftime, and the visitors were down by just three going into the final period. However, Brooklyn eventually opened up as much as a 10-point lead with three minutes remaining, giving the hosts enough cushion for the victory.
Kristaps Porzingis led the Wizards with a 27-point, 19-rebound double-double that also included two blocks and one steal. Bradley Beal and Kyle Kuzma generated matching 25-point tallies while recording six and three assists, respectively. Beal also dished out six assists, while Kuzma added three.
Kevin Durant paced the Nets with 39 points, complementing them with five rebounds, five assists and one block. Kyrie Irving furnished 27 points, five assists, one rebound, two blocks and one steal. Joe Harris delivered 14 points, five rebounds, one assist and three steals. Royce O'Neale and Edmond Sumner posted matching eight-point contributions, with O'Neale adding eight rebounds and seven assists.
The Wizards remain on the road and next visit the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night, while the Nets remain home and host the Toronto Raptors on Friday night as well.
Bucks Top Knicks, 109-103
The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the New York Knicks, 109-103, at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night.
The Bucks (15-5) were solid road favorites coming into the game, but the Knicks (10-12) served early notice they would be serving as stiff competition by heading into halftime only down by a 47-45 margin. Milwaukee was only able to add one point to its advantage during the third quarter, and New York eventually fought all the way back to knot the game at 103-103 with 47.6 seconds remaining before a Grayson Allen three-pointer and pair of Jrue Holiday free throws sealed the visitors' victory.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 37 points, adding 13 rebounds, seven assists and one block. Holiday furnished 22 points, six boards, five assists, two steals and two blocks. Allen supplied 11 points, five rebounds, four assists and one steal. Bobby Portis generated a 10-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists. Pat Connaughton matched Portis' scoring and also pulled down four rebounds.
RJ Barrett paced the Knicks with 26 points, complementing them with three assists and two rebounds. Julius Randle totaled 18 points, eight rebounds and five assists. Jalen Brunson registered 17 points, five boards, five assists, one steal and one block. Mitchell Robinson posted a 15-point, 20-rebound double-double that included one assist and one block.
The Bucks return home and host the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, while the Knicks take on the Dallas Mavericks at home on Saturday afternoon.
The Bucks (15-5) were solid road favorites coming into the game, but the Knicks (10-12) served early notice they would be serving as stiff competition by heading into halftime only down by a 47-45 margin. Milwaukee was only able to add one point to its advantage during the third quarter, and New York eventually fought all the way back to knot the game at 103-103 with 47.6 seconds remaining before a Grayson Allen three-pointer and pair of Jrue Holiday free throws sealed the visitors' victory.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 37 points, adding 13 rebounds, seven assists and one block. Holiday furnished 22 points, six boards, five assists, two steals and two blocks. Allen supplied 11 points, five rebounds, four assists and one steal. Bobby Portis generated a 10-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists. Pat Connaughton matched Portis' scoring and also pulled down four rebounds.
RJ Barrett paced the Knicks with 26 points, complementing them with three assists and two rebounds. Julius Randle totaled 18 points, eight rebounds and five assists. Jalen Brunson registered 17 points, five boards, five assists, one steal and one block. Mitchell Robinson posted a 15-point, 20-rebound double-double that included one assist and one block.
The Bucks return home and host the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, while the Knicks take on the Dallas Mavericks at home on Saturday afternoon.
Pelicans Thump Raptors, 126-108
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Toronto Raptors, 126-108, at Smoothie King Center on Wednesday night.
The Pelicans (13-8) came into the contest knowing they'd once again be down CJ McCollum (COVID-19 protocols) and Brandon Ingram (toe), but New Orleans nevertheless put together one of its best offensive halves of the season by racking up 74 points over the first two quarters. That gave the hosts a 27-point advantage over the Raptors (11-10) by halftime, making the victory a foregone conclusion despite Toronto's 61-point tally in the second half.
Gary Trent led the Raptors with 35 points off the bench, adding one rebound, one assist and three steals. Pascal Siakam delivered 23 points, six boards, four assists, two steals and two blocks. O.G. Anunoby supplied 12 points, five boards, three assists, one steal and one block. Juancho Hernangomez turned in nine points, three rebounds and three assists.
Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 33 points, supplementing them with 10 boards, five assists, four steals and two blocks. Trey Murphy finished with 26 points, five rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Jonas Valanciunas generated a 16-point, 13-rebound double-double that included three assists. Dyson Daniels posted 14 points, nine assists, eight rebounds and one steal. Herbert Jones compiled 12 points, four rebounds and one assist. Larry Nance managed 10 points, five rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block.
The Raptors remain on the road and visit the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night, while the Pelicans hit the road and visit the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night.
The Pelicans (13-8) came into the contest knowing they'd once again be down CJ McCollum (COVID-19 protocols) and Brandon Ingram (toe), but New Orleans nevertheless put together one of its best offensive halves of the season by racking up 74 points over the first two quarters. That gave the hosts a 27-point advantage over the Raptors (11-10) by halftime, making the victory a foregone conclusion despite Toronto's 61-point tally in the second half.
Gary Trent led the Raptors with 35 points off the bench, adding one rebound, one assist and three steals. Pascal Siakam delivered 23 points, six boards, four assists, two steals and two blocks. O.G. Anunoby supplied 12 points, five boards, three assists, one steal and one block. Juancho Hernangomez turned in nine points, three rebounds and three assists.
Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 33 points, supplementing them with 10 boards, five assists, four steals and two blocks. Trey Murphy finished with 26 points, five rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Jonas Valanciunas generated a 16-point, 13-rebound double-double that included three assists. Dyson Daniels posted 14 points, nine assists, eight rebounds and one steal. Herbert Jones compiled 12 points, four rebounds and one assist. Larry Nance managed 10 points, five rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block.
The Raptors remain on the road and visit the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night, while the Pelicans hit the road and visit the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night.
Timberwolves Hold Off Grizzlies In Minnesota
By Dan Bruno
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the visiting Memphis Grizzlies, 109-101, at Target Center on Wednesday evening.
The game got out to a competitive start as the Timberwolves led 27-26 after one quarter. Both sides kept up the fight in the second and after a couple of lead changes, the Grizzlies took a four-point lead into the break. The Timberwolves jumped out to a strong start in the third and gained the upper hand. They kept control through the rest of the quarter and took a three-point lead into the final frame. The hosts kept up the pace in the fourth and stayed on top the rest of the way to secure the win and snap a three-game slide.
Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 29 points, three rebounds, five assists, five steals and three blocks, in 40 minutes. Jaylen Nowell followed up with 24 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals, while D'Angelo Russell added 15 points, five rebounds, 10 assists and two steals. The Timberwolves shot 46 percent from the field, including 12-of-39 from deep.
Meanwhile, Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 24 points, five rebounds, six assists and two steals, in 34 minutes. Jaren Jackson followed up with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks, while Tyus Jones chipped in 13 points and six rebounds. The Grizzlies shot 42.5 percent from the field, including 9-of-26 from long range.
The Grizzlies (12-9) will look to bounce back as they okay host to the 76ers on Friday. The Timberwolves (11-11) play host to the Thunder on Saturday.
The game got out to a competitive start as the Timberwolves led 27-26 after one quarter. Both sides kept up the fight in the second and after a couple of lead changes, the Grizzlies took a four-point lead into the break. The Timberwolves jumped out to a strong start in the third and gained the upper hand. They kept control through the rest of the quarter and took a three-point lead into the final frame. The hosts kept up the pace in the fourth and stayed on top the rest of the way to secure the win and snap a three-game slide.
Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 29 points, three rebounds, five assists, five steals and three blocks, in 40 minutes. Jaylen Nowell followed up with 24 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals, while D'Angelo Russell added 15 points, five rebounds, 10 assists and two steals. The Timberwolves shot 46 percent from the field, including 12-of-39 from deep.
Meanwhile, Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 24 points, five rebounds, six assists and two steals, in 34 minutes. Jaren Jackson followed up with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks, while Tyus Jones chipped in 13 points and six rebounds. The Grizzlies shot 42.5 percent from the field, including 9-of-26 from long range.
The Grizzlies (12-9) will look to bounce back as they okay host to the 76ers on Friday. The Timberwolves (11-11) play host to the Thunder on Saturday.
Thunder Rally To Top Spurs In OKC
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the visiting San Antonio Spurs, 119-111, at Paycom Center on Wednesday evening.
The game got out to a competitive start as the Spurs led 35-32 after one quarter. The visitors picked up the pace in the second and outscored the Thunder 42-28 in the quarter to take a 17-point lead into the break. The Thunder came out stronger in the third and chipped away to make it an eight-point game heading into the final frame. The Thunder kept the momentum going and outscored the Spurs 31-15 through the final frame to run away with the home win, ending a two-game slide. This marks the ninth straight loss for the Spurs.
Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 27 points, six rebounds and two assists, in 23 minutes. Luguentz Dort followed up with 23 points, four assists and two blocks, while Tre Mann added 16 points, three rebounds and two steals. The Thunder shot 52 percent from the field, including 9-of-27 from deep.
Meanwhile, Devin Vassell led the Spurs with 25 points, seven rebounds, three assists and a steal, in 37 minutes. Keldon Johnson followed up with 19 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Tre Jones tallied 15 points, four rebounds, five assists and a steal. The Spurs shot 45 percent from the field, including 10-of-37 from long range.
The Spurs (6-15) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pelicans on Friday. The Thunder (8-13) take on the Timberwolves in Minnesota on Saturday.
The game got out to a competitive start as the Spurs led 35-32 after one quarter. The visitors picked up the pace in the second and outscored the Thunder 42-28 in the quarter to take a 17-point lead into the break. The Thunder came out stronger in the third and chipped away to make it an eight-point game heading into the final frame. The Thunder kept the momentum going and outscored the Spurs 31-15 through the final frame to run away with the home win, ending a two-game slide. This marks the ninth straight loss for the Spurs.
Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 27 points, six rebounds and two assists, in 23 minutes. Luguentz Dort followed up with 23 points, four assists and two blocks, while Tre Mann added 16 points, three rebounds and two steals. The Thunder shot 52 percent from the field, including 9-of-27 from deep.
Meanwhile, Devin Vassell led the Spurs with 25 points, seven rebounds, three assists and a steal, in 37 minutes. Keldon Johnson followed up with 19 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Tre Jones tallied 15 points, four rebounds, five assists and a steal. The Spurs shot 45 percent from the field, including 10-of-37 from long range.
The Spurs (6-15) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pelicans on Friday. The Thunder (8-13) take on the Timberwolves in Minnesota on Saturday.
Nuggets Notch Fourth Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Houston Rockets, 120-100, at Ball Arena on Wednesday evening.
The Nuggets jumped out to a great start with 44-24 lead after one quarter. They kept control through the second and added another seven points to their advantage, making it a 27-point game by halftime. The Rockets came out better in the third quarter and managed to trim three points off the deficit. They kept up the fight in the fourth, but it was too little, too late, as the Nuggets cruised to a fourth straight win. This marks the second straight loss for the Rockets.
Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 26 points, four rebounds and two assists, in 31 minutes. Aaron Gordon followed up with 20 points, six rebounds, two assists and a block, while Nikola Jokic logged 17 points, nine rebounds, 12 assists, a steal and a block. The Nuggets shot 53 percent from the field, including 17-of-32 from deep.
Meanwhile, Kevin Porter led the Rockets with 23 points, six rebounds, five assists and a steal, in 32 minutes. Alperen Sengun followed up with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Jalen Green finished with 16 points, three rebounds and three assists. The Rockets shot 42 percent from the field, including 12-of-41 from deep.
The Rockets (5-16) will look to bounce back as they take on the Suns in Phoenix on Friday. The Nuggets (14-7) take on the Hawks in Atlanta on Friday.
The Nuggets jumped out to a great start with 44-24 lead after one quarter. They kept control through the second and added another seven points to their advantage, making it a 27-point game by halftime. The Rockets came out better in the third quarter and managed to trim three points off the deficit. They kept up the fight in the fourth, but it was too little, too late, as the Nuggets cruised to a fourth straight win. This marks the second straight loss for the Rockets.
Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 26 points, four rebounds and two assists, in 31 minutes. Aaron Gordon followed up with 20 points, six rebounds, two assists and a block, while Nikola Jokic logged 17 points, nine rebounds, 12 assists, a steal and a block. The Nuggets shot 53 percent from the field, including 17-of-32 from deep.
Meanwhile, Kevin Porter led the Rockets with 23 points, six rebounds, five assists and a steal, in 32 minutes. Alperen Sengun followed up with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Jalen Green finished with 16 points, three rebounds and three assists. The Rockets shot 42 percent from the field, including 12-of-41 from deep.
The Rockets (5-16) will look to bounce back as they take on the Suns in Phoenix on Friday. The Nuggets (14-7) take on the Hawks in Atlanta on Friday.
Suns Earn Sixth Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Phoenix Suns defeated the visiting Chicago Bulls, 132-113, at Footprint Center on Wednesday evening.
The Suns got out to a strong start with a 32-25 lead after one quarter. They turned it up a notch in the second and outscored the visitors 32-18 in the quarter to build a 21-point advantage by halftime. The Bulls did not have any answers in the third, as the hosts managed to add another four points to their cushion. The Bulls kept up the effort in the fourth, but they could not make up the difference, as the Suns closed out their sixth straight win.
Devin Booker led the way with 51 points, four rebounds, six assists and a steal, 31 minutes. Deandre Ayton followed up with 30 points, 14 rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while Damion Lee chipped in 12 points and five rebounds. The Suns shot 53 percent from the field, including 15-of-33 from long range.
Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 29 points, seven rebounds, four assists and a block, in 32 minutes. Zach LaVine followed up with 21 points, four rebounds and seven assists, while Nikola Vucevic added 17 points, eight rebounds, two steals and a block. The Bulls shot 50 percent from the field, including 4-of-25 from deep.
The Bulls (9-12) will look to bounce back as they take on the Warriors in Golden State on Friday. The Suns (15-6) play host to the Rockets on Friday.
The Suns got out to a strong start with a 32-25 lead after one quarter. They turned it up a notch in the second and outscored the visitors 32-18 in the quarter to build a 21-point advantage by halftime. The Bulls did not have any answers in the third, as the hosts managed to add another four points to their cushion. The Bulls kept up the effort in the fourth, but they could not make up the difference, as the Suns closed out their sixth straight win.
Devin Booker led the way with 51 points, four rebounds, six assists and a steal, 31 minutes. Deandre Ayton followed up with 30 points, 14 rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while Damion Lee chipped in 12 points and five rebounds. The Suns shot 53 percent from the field, including 15-of-33 from long range.
Meanwhile, DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 29 points, seven rebounds, four assists and a block, in 32 minutes. Zach LaVine followed up with 21 points, four rebounds and seven assists, while Nikola Vucevic added 17 points, eight rebounds, two steals and a block. The Bulls shot 50 percent from the field, including 4-of-25 from deep.
The Bulls (9-12) will look to bounce back as they take on the Warriors in Golden State on Friday. The Suns (15-6) play host to the Rockets on Friday.
Jazz Defeat Clippers, 125-112
The Utah Jazz defeated the visiting Los Angeles Clippers, 125-112, at Vivint Arena on Wednesday.
A 35-26 first quarter set the tone for Utah in this game, holding the lead for all but a handful of minutes. They also rode a 36-25 their quarter to a game-high 17-point lead, with the Clippers never attempting a game-tying shot over the closing 17 minutes. The Jazz shot 55 percent from the field and 44 percent from three-point range while holding the Clippers to 41 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range. Utah also out-assisted Los Angeles, 24-16, while outscoring them in the paint, 52-42.
The Clippers (13-10) were led by John Wall, providing 26 points, two rebounds and five assists off the bench. Reggie Jackson led the starters with 15 points, three assists and two steals. Ivica Zubac amassed 12 points and seven rebounds, while Marcus Morris had 10 points and five boards.
The Jazz (13-11) were led by Jordan Clarkson, collecting 33 points, four rebounds and five assists. Lauri Markkanen totaled 23 points, nine rebounds and two assists. Collin Sexton compiled 21 points, six rebounds and six assists, while Jarred Vanderbilt finished with 14 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and two steals. Kelly Olynyk also accumulated 12 points, seven rebounds, three assists and three blocks.
On deck for Utah is a home matchup with the Indiana Pacers on Friday. As for Los Angeles, they return home to play the Sacramento Kings on Saturday for their next outing.
A 35-26 first quarter set the tone for Utah in this game, holding the lead for all but a handful of minutes. They also rode a 36-25 their quarter to a game-high 17-point lead, with the Clippers never attempting a game-tying shot over the closing 17 minutes. The Jazz shot 55 percent from the field and 44 percent from three-point range while holding the Clippers to 41 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range. Utah also out-assisted Los Angeles, 24-16, while outscoring them in the paint, 52-42.
The Clippers (13-10) were led by John Wall, providing 26 points, two rebounds and five assists off the bench. Reggie Jackson led the starters with 15 points, three assists and two steals. Ivica Zubac amassed 12 points and seven rebounds, while Marcus Morris had 10 points and five boards.
The Jazz (13-11) were led by Jordan Clarkson, collecting 33 points, four rebounds and five assists. Lauri Markkanen totaled 23 points, nine rebounds and two assists. Collin Sexton compiled 21 points, six rebounds and six assists, while Jarred Vanderbilt finished with 14 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and two steals. Kelly Olynyk also accumulated 12 points, seven rebounds, three assists and three blocks.
On deck for Utah is a home matchup with the Indiana Pacers on Friday. As for Los Angeles, they return home to play the Sacramento Kings on Saturday for their next outing.
Kings Defeat Pacers, 137-114
The Sacramento Kings defeated the visiting Indiana Pacers, 137-114, at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday.
A 33-20 first quarter set the tone for Sacramento in this victory, holding the lead for all but two minutes. Those were the first two minutes of this game, with the Kings riding a 44-35 third quarter to this blowout victory. They maintained a double-digit lead for the entirety of the second half, getting their lead up to 32 points at times. Sacramento shot 51 percent from the field and 37 percent from three-point range while holding Indiana to 40 percent from the field and 32 percent from long range. The Kings also out-rebounded the Pacers, 65-51, while outscoring them in fastbreak points, 31-8.
The Pacers (12-9) were led by Jalen Smith, totaling 22 points and six rebounds. Benedict Mathurin led the bench with 22 points and two boards. Buddy Hield had 17 points and four rebounds, while Tyrese Haliburton tallied nine points, four rebounds, 10 assists and two steals. TJ McConnell also amassed five points, four rebounds, 10 assists and three steals off the bench as well.
The Kings (11-9) were led by Harrison Barnes, collecting 22 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals. De'Aaron Fox finished with 19 points, five rebounds and six assists. Domantas Sabonis generated 11 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, while Malik Monk led the bench with 20 points, four rebounds, six assists and two steals.
On deck for Indiana is a road game against the Utah Jazz on Friday. As for Sacramento, they're off until Sunday, remaining home to play the Chicago Bulls.
A 33-20 first quarter set the tone for Sacramento in this victory, holding the lead for all but two minutes. Those were the first two minutes of this game, with the Kings riding a 44-35 third quarter to this blowout victory. They maintained a double-digit lead for the entirety of the second half, getting their lead up to 32 points at times. Sacramento shot 51 percent from the field and 37 percent from three-point range while holding Indiana to 40 percent from the field and 32 percent from long range. The Kings also out-rebounded the Pacers, 65-51, while outscoring them in fastbreak points, 31-8.
The Pacers (12-9) were led by Jalen Smith, totaling 22 points and six rebounds. Benedict Mathurin led the bench with 22 points and two boards. Buddy Hield had 17 points and four rebounds, while Tyrese Haliburton tallied nine points, four rebounds, 10 assists and two steals. TJ McConnell also amassed five points, four rebounds, 10 assists and three steals off the bench as well.
The Kings (11-9) were led by Harrison Barnes, collecting 22 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals. De'Aaron Fox finished with 19 points, five rebounds and six assists. Domantas Sabonis generated 11 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, while Malik Monk led the bench with 20 points, four rebounds, six assists and two steals.
On deck for Indiana is a road game against the Utah Jazz on Friday. As for Sacramento, they're off until Sunday, remaining home to play the Chicago Bulls.
Lakers Defeat Trail Blazers, 128-109
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 128-109, at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday.
While there were five ties and nine lead changes in the first half, Los Angeles started the second half on a 17-6 run to take control of this game, capping it with a 31-20 third quarter. They never relinquished their double-digit lead after that run, getting their lead up to 19 points at times. The Lakers shot 50 percent from the field and 38 percent from three-point range while holding the Trail Blazers to 47 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range. Los Angeles also out-assisted Portland, 28-21, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 26-11.
The Trail Blazers (11-11) were led by Jerami Grant, generating 27 points, four rebounds, five assists and two steals. Anfernee Simons accrued 22 points, four rebounds and eight assists. Justise Winslow amassed 21 points, five rebounds and four assists, while Shaedon Sharpe led the bench with 16 points. Jusuf Nurkic and Trendon Watford led the team with 10 rebounds apiece.
The Lakers (8-12) were led by LeBron James, collecting 31 points, seven rebounds and eight assists on 12-of-18 from the field. Anthony Davis tallied 27 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks. Austin Reaves accumulated 22 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Thomas Bryant led the bench with 14 points, six rebounds and three assists.
On deck for Los Angeles is a road matchup with the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday. As for Portland, they return to action on Saturday in a road matchup with the Utah Jazz.
While there were five ties and nine lead changes in the first half, Los Angeles started the second half on a 17-6 run to take control of this game, capping it with a 31-20 third quarter. They never relinquished their double-digit lead after that run, getting their lead up to 19 points at times. The Lakers shot 50 percent from the field and 38 percent from three-point range while holding the Trail Blazers to 47 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range. Los Angeles also out-assisted Portland, 28-21, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 26-11.
The Trail Blazers (11-11) were led by Jerami Grant, generating 27 points, four rebounds, five assists and two steals. Anfernee Simons accrued 22 points, four rebounds and eight assists. Justise Winslow amassed 21 points, five rebounds and four assists, while Shaedon Sharpe led the bench with 16 points. Jusuf Nurkic and Trendon Watford led the team with 10 rebounds apiece.
The Lakers (8-12) were led by LeBron James, collecting 31 points, seven rebounds and eight assists on 12-of-18 from the field. Anthony Davis tallied 27 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks. Austin Reaves accumulated 22 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Thomas Bryant led the bench with 14 points, six rebounds and three assists.
On deck for Los Angeles is a road matchup with the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday. As for Portland, they return to action on Saturday in a road matchup with the Utah Jazz.