Suns Hold On To Secure Win Over Cavaliers
The Phoenix Suns defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers, 120-115, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Wednesday evening.
The Suns (15-3) remain one of the hottest teams in the NBA and delivered another impressive performance, winning their 14th straight contest against a Cavaliers (9-10) team that continues to slide due to the injuries sustained by some of their key contributors. Phoenix set the tone of this game quickly and jumped out to a 36-33 lead in the first quarter, an advantage they’d lose following a 33-25 score in the second quarter from the Cavaliers. Phoenix didn’t rattle despite being down at half-time, though, and they responded with a 26-20 score that made this a one-point game for the Suns with only 12 minutes left. The Cavaliers fought hard, but the Suns kept things close down the stretch and executed well enough to come away with the victory.
Devin Booker scored 35 points to lead the Suns while adding four rebounds and three assists. Chris Paul chipped in with 17 points and 12 assists while making four free throws in the final 8.8 seconds. Deandre Ayton had 16 points and nine rebounds, while Mikal Bridges ended with 11 points. JaVale McGee had 13 points and 12 rebounds off the bench, while Cameron Johnson added 14 points.
Jarrett Allen led the way for Cleveland with 25 points and 11 rebounds, while Darius Garland chipped in with 19 points and seven assists. Lauri Markkanen posted 14 points and 11 rebounds, and Cedi Osman also delivered a strong performance with 23 points coming off the bench. Kevin Love (14 points, eight rebounds) and Ricky Rubio (15 points, five dimes) also looked good off the bench.
The Suns (15-3) remain one of the hottest teams in the NBA and delivered another impressive performance, winning their 14th straight contest against a Cavaliers (9-10) team that continues to slide due to the injuries sustained by some of their key contributors. Phoenix set the tone of this game quickly and jumped out to a 36-33 lead in the first quarter, an advantage they’d lose following a 33-25 score in the second quarter from the Cavaliers. Phoenix didn’t rattle despite being down at half-time, though, and they responded with a 26-20 score that made this a one-point game for the Suns with only 12 minutes left. The Cavaliers fought hard, but the Suns kept things close down the stretch and executed well enough to come away with the victory.
Devin Booker scored 35 points to lead the Suns while adding four rebounds and three assists. Chris Paul chipped in with 17 points and 12 assists while making four free throws in the final 8.8 seconds. Deandre Ayton had 16 points and nine rebounds, while Mikal Bridges ended with 11 points. JaVale McGee had 13 points and 12 rebounds off the bench, while Cameron Johnson added 14 points.
Jarrett Allen led the way for Cleveland with 25 points and 11 rebounds, while Darius Garland chipped in with 19 points and seven assists. Lauri Markkanen posted 14 points and 11 rebounds, and Cedi Osman also delivered a strong performance with 23 points coming off the bench. Kevin Love (14 points, eight rebounds) and Ricky Rubio (15 points, five dimes) also looked good off the bench.
Lakers Get Past Pacers in OT, 124-116
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Indiana Pacers in overtime, 124-116, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday night.
The Lakers (10-10) have much more modest goals for the time being in this difficult start to their season, with getting back to .500 being the immediate priority Wednesday. Los Angeles didn't exactly get off to a good start in that regard, sporting a six-point deficit at halftime. Frank Vogel's squad began making up some ground in the Pacers (8-12) in the third quarter, however, whittling Indiana's lead down to two with a stellar defensive stretch of play where they held the hosts to 18 points. L.A. eventually had a chance to close things out in regulation before Chris Duarte's 23-footer with 6.5 seconds remaining forced overtime. The visitors then took over after the 2:51 mark of the extra period, finishing on a 10-2 run from that point forward for the victory.
LeBron James led the Lakers in his return from a one-game suspension, posting a game-high 39 points while adding six assists, five rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Russell Westbrook furnished 20 points, seven boards, five assists and one block. Malik Monk delivered 17 points, eight rebounds, one assist and one steal. Wayne Ellington and Carmelo Anthony posted 14 points apiece.
Malcolm Brogdon paced the Pacers with 28 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Duarte totaled 17 points, three boards, one assist and one block. Justin Holiday supplied 16 points, six rebounds and three assists. Domantas Sabonis generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that included six assists and one steal. Myles Turner collected 12 points, six rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal. T.J. McConnell finished with 10 points, eight assists and five rebounds. Caris LeVert matched McConnell's scoring total while adding three rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Lakers return home to host the Sacramento Kings on Friday night, while the Pacers remain home and host the Toronto Raptors on Friday night as well.
The Lakers (10-10) have much more modest goals for the time being in this difficult start to their season, with getting back to .500 being the immediate priority Wednesday. Los Angeles didn't exactly get off to a good start in that regard, sporting a six-point deficit at halftime. Frank Vogel's squad began making up some ground in the Pacers (8-12) in the third quarter, however, whittling Indiana's lead down to two with a stellar defensive stretch of play where they held the hosts to 18 points. L.A. eventually had a chance to close things out in regulation before Chris Duarte's 23-footer with 6.5 seconds remaining forced overtime. The visitors then took over after the 2:51 mark of the extra period, finishing on a 10-2 run from that point forward for the victory.
LeBron James led the Lakers in his return from a one-game suspension, posting a game-high 39 points while adding six assists, five rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Russell Westbrook furnished 20 points, seven boards, five assists and one block. Malik Monk delivered 17 points, eight rebounds, one assist and one steal. Wayne Ellington and Carmelo Anthony posted 14 points apiece.
Malcolm Brogdon paced the Pacers with 28 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Duarte totaled 17 points, three boards, one assist and one block. Justin Holiday supplied 16 points, six rebounds and three assists. Domantas Sabonis generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that included six assists and one steal. Myles Turner collected 12 points, six rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal. T.J. McConnell finished with 10 points, eight assists and five rebounds. Caris LeVert matched McConnell's scoring total while adding three rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Lakers return home to host the Sacramento Kings on Friday night, while the Pacers remain home and host the Toronto Raptors on Friday night as well.
Hornets Hold Off Magic For Second Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the host Orlando Magic, 106-99, at Amway Center on Wednesday evening.
The Magic got out to a good start and led for most of the first quarter, taking a, 28-24, lead into the second. The Hornets came out stronger in the second and rallied to a three-point advantage by halftime. The score stayed tight through the third and after a few lead changes, the Hornets took a five-point lead into the final frame. They stayed in control in the fourth and pushed their lead to a game-high 12 points, with just under five minutes to go, which was enough to hold on for their second straight win. This marks the fourth straight loss for the Magic.
Terry Rozier led the Hornets with 27 points, three rebounds, five assists, six steals and a block, in 37 minutes. LaMelo Ball followed up with 22 points, four rebounds and four assists, while Kelly Oubre Jr. added 21 points, and six rebounds, off the bench. The Hornets shot 42 percent from the field, including 12-of-41 from deep.
Meanwhile, Mo Bamba led the Magic with 18 points and 12 rebounds, in 31 minutes. Jalen Suggs added 17 points, four rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block, while Wendell Carter J. totaled 14 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and two steals. The Magic shot 41 percent from the field, including 15-of-42 from long range.
The Magic (4-15) play host to the Bulls on Friday. The Hornets (12-8) play host to the Timberwolves on Friday.
The Magic got out to a good start and led for most of the first quarter, taking a, 28-24, lead into the second. The Hornets came out stronger in the second and rallied to a three-point advantage by halftime. The score stayed tight through the third and after a few lead changes, the Hornets took a five-point lead into the final frame. They stayed in control in the fourth and pushed their lead to a game-high 12 points, with just under five minutes to go, which was enough to hold on for their second straight win. This marks the fourth straight loss for the Magic.
Terry Rozier led the Hornets with 27 points, three rebounds, five assists, six steals and a block, in 37 minutes. LaMelo Ball followed up with 22 points, four rebounds and four assists, while Kelly Oubre Jr. added 21 points, and six rebounds, off the bench. The Hornets shot 42 percent from the field, including 12-of-41 from deep.
Meanwhile, Mo Bamba led the Magic with 18 points and 12 rebounds, in 31 minutes. Jalen Suggs added 17 points, four rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block, while Wendell Carter J. totaled 14 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and two steals. The Magic shot 41 percent from the field, including 15-of-42 from long range.
The Magic (4-15) play host to the Bulls on Friday. The Hornets (12-8) play host to the Timberwolves on Friday.
Nets Dominate, Cruise To Win Over Celtics
The Brooklyn Nets defeated the Boston Celtics, 123-104, at TD Garden on Wednesday night.
The Nets (13-5) cruised their way to victory in a game where they looked in control from start to finish against a Celtics (10-8) team that simply looked overmatched. Brooklyn quickly jumped out to a 29-22 lead following the first quarter, but they didn’t let the foot off the gas at any point and were up by double digits by the time the first half ended (62-49) following a 33-27 score in the second quarter. As if that wasn’t enough, the Nets also won the third quarter by eight points (35-27), so the final 12 minutes were not going to shake up the final score. Boston won the final 12 minutes by a 28-26 score, but Brooklyn’s win was never in danger.
Patty Mills has been thriving as a starter for the Nets this season and led the team offensively with 23 points, while Kevin Durant notched 21 points and eight assists. LaMarcus Aldridge had 17 points and nine rebounds, and James Harden came close to a triple-double with 20 points, 11 assists and seven rebounds. Cam Thomas added 13 points and looked quite good off the bench.
Marcus Smart led the Celtics with 20 points and eight assists in this loss, while Jayson Tatum chipped in with 15 points, eight rebounds and three assists despite shooting just 4-for-16 overall. Jaylen Brown also had a rough night from the field (5-15 FG) and posted 13 points to go along with five rebounds. Dennis Schroder had 10 points, six assists and six rebounds while coming off the bench.
The Nets (13-5) cruised their way to victory in a game where they looked in control from start to finish against a Celtics (10-8) team that simply looked overmatched. Brooklyn quickly jumped out to a 29-22 lead following the first quarter, but they didn’t let the foot off the gas at any point and were up by double digits by the time the first half ended (62-49) following a 33-27 score in the second quarter. As if that wasn’t enough, the Nets also won the third quarter by eight points (35-27), so the final 12 minutes were not going to shake up the final score. Boston won the final 12 minutes by a 28-26 score, but Brooklyn’s win was never in danger.
Patty Mills has been thriving as a starter for the Nets this season and led the team offensively with 23 points, while Kevin Durant notched 21 points and eight assists. LaMarcus Aldridge had 17 points and nine rebounds, and James Harden came close to a triple-double with 20 points, 11 assists and seven rebounds. Cam Thomas added 13 points and looked quite good off the bench.
Marcus Smart led the Celtics with 20 points and eight assists in this loss, while Jayson Tatum chipped in with 15 points, eight rebounds and three assists despite shooting just 4-for-16 overall. Jaylen Brown also had a rough night from the field (5-15 FG) and posted 13 points to go along with five rebounds. Dennis Schroder had 10 points, six assists and six rebounds while coming off the bench.
Pelicans Blast Wizards, 127-102
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Washington Wizards, 127-102, at Smoothie King Center on Wednesday night.
The Pelicans (4-16) entered the home contest as heavy underdogs, but their early play hinted it could be a night of surprises. New Orleans opened the game with a hot hand that led to 36 first-quarter points, and they followed it up by matching that total in the second period. Coupled with some strong defense, that led to a 22-point halftime lead that would ultimately grow by three by game's end. The hosts got it done with strong work from distance and on defense, shooting 41.4 percent from three-point range and forcing 19 turnovers.
Bradley Beal led the Wizards with 23 points, supplementing them with five rebounds and one assist. Raul Neto poured in 13 points, while Spencer Dinwiddie managed 11 points, nine assists and eight rebounds. Montrezl Harrell produced 10 points, nine boards, two assists and one steal.
Brandon Ingram paced the Pelicans with 26 points, complementing them with five boards, three assists and one steal. Jonas Valanciunas generated a 21-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included four assists. Josh Hart managed 16 points, seven boards, four assists and two steals. Willy Hernangomez registered 13 points, seven rebounds, four assists, three steals and two blocks. Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Devonte' Graham contributed matching 12-point tallies, with Alexander-Walker adding six rebounds, five assists and one block.
The Wizards remain on the road and take on the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night, while the Pelicans hit the road and face the Utah Jazz on Friday night as well.
The Pelicans (4-16) entered the home contest as heavy underdogs, but their early play hinted it could be a night of surprises. New Orleans opened the game with a hot hand that led to 36 first-quarter points, and they followed it up by matching that total in the second period. Coupled with some strong defense, that led to a 22-point halftime lead that would ultimately grow by three by game's end. The hosts got it done with strong work from distance and on defense, shooting 41.4 percent from three-point range and forcing 19 turnovers.
Bradley Beal led the Wizards with 23 points, supplementing them with five rebounds and one assist. Raul Neto poured in 13 points, while Spencer Dinwiddie managed 11 points, nine assists and eight rebounds. Montrezl Harrell produced 10 points, nine boards, two assists and one steal.
Brandon Ingram paced the Pelicans with 26 points, complementing them with five boards, three assists and one steal. Jonas Valanciunas generated a 21-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included four assists. Josh Hart managed 16 points, seven boards, four assists and two steals. Willy Hernangomez registered 13 points, seven rebounds, four assists, three steals and two blocks. Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Devonte' Graham contributed matching 12-point tallies, with Alexander-Walker adding six rebounds, five assists and one block.
The Wizards remain on the road and take on the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night, while the Pelicans hit the road and face the Utah Jazz on Friday night as well.
Rockets Put An End To 15-Game Slide
By Dan Bruno
The Houston Rockets defeated the visiting Chicago Bulls, 118-113, at Toyota Center on Wednesday evening.
The contest got out to a high-scoring start, as the Bulls led, 32-30, after one quarter. The Bulls kept up the pace, but the Rockets could not, as the visitors rallied to a nine-point lead by halftime. However, the Rockets came out on fire in the third, where they outscored the Bulls, 35-18, to take an eight-point advantage into the final frame. The Bulls could not regain control, as the hosts stayed a step ahead through the fourth and hung on to put an end to their 15-game losing streak. This marks the second straight loss for the Bulls.
Eight players scored in double digits for the Rockets, led by Danuel House Jr., who finished with 18 points, four rebounds, two blocks and a steal. Christian Wood followed up with 16 points, 10 rebounds, six assists and blocks, while Kevin Porter Jr. added 14 points, six rebounds, nine assists and a steal. The Rockets shot 50 percent from the field, including 17-of-36 from long range.
Meanwhile, Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 28 points, two rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, in 36 minutes. Lonzo Ball followed up with 19 points, five rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks, while DeMar DeRozan added 17 points, five rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Bulls shot 46 percent from the field, including 15-of-35 from deep.
The Bulls (12-7) will look to bounce back as they take on the Magic in Orlando on Friday. The Rockets (2-16) play host to the Hornets on Saturday.
The contest got out to a high-scoring start, as the Bulls led, 32-30, after one quarter. The Bulls kept up the pace, but the Rockets could not, as the visitors rallied to a nine-point lead by halftime. However, the Rockets came out on fire in the third, where they outscored the Bulls, 35-18, to take an eight-point advantage into the final frame. The Bulls could not regain control, as the hosts stayed a step ahead through the fourth and hung on to put an end to their 15-game losing streak. This marks the second straight loss for the Bulls.
Eight players scored in double digits for the Rockets, led by Danuel House Jr., who finished with 18 points, four rebounds, two blocks and a steal. Christian Wood followed up with 16 points, 10 rebounds, six assists and blocks, while Kevin Porter Jr. added 14 points, six rebounds, nine assists and a steal. The Rockets shot 50 percent from the field, including 17-of-36 from long range.
Meanwhile, Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 28 points, two rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, in 36 minutes. Lonzo Ball followed up with 19 points, five rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks, while DeMar DeRozan added 17 points, five rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Bulls shot 46 percent from the field, including 15-of-35 from deep.
The Bulls (12-7) will look to bounce back as they take on the Magic in Orlando on Friday. The Rockets (2-16) play host to the Hornets on Saturday.
Bucks Cruise To Huge Win Over Pistons
The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Detroit Pistons, 114-93, at Fiserv Forum on Wednesday night.
The Bucks (11-8) didn’t have major problems getting past the Pistons (4-14) in a game where the difference of talent between both franchises was absolutely noticeable. Milwaukee got off to an impressive start and grabbed the lead following the first 12 minutes (32-26), a score that also repeated itself in the second 12 minutes of action so the Bucks held a comfortable 12-point advantage by the time halftime arrived. Milwaukee won the third quarter as well, 24-22, and they closed things out by outscoring Detroit by a 26-19 score in the final 12 minutes of action. The Pistons didn’t have any chance to slow down the reigning NBA champions and lost by a sizable 21-point margin.
Giannis Antetokounmpo was the best player for the Bucks since he ended with another well-rounded night of 33 points, seven rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks. Bobby Portis had 28 points and 10 rebounds, and Jrue Holiday chipped in with 22 points, eight boards and six dimes. Khris Middleton came close to a double-double since he finished with 11 points and nine rebounds, and Pat Connaughton posted 11 points and seven boards.
Surprisingly, Trey Lyles led the Pistons off the bench after scoring 19 points and seven rebounds. Jerami Grant and Saddiq Bey each had 13 points, with Bey adding seven rebounds and Grant finishing with 13 points and four rebounds. Saben Lee posted 12 points, five rebounds, five assists and four assists off the bench as well. Cade Cunningham had nine points.
The Bucks (11-8) didn’t have major problems getting past the Pistons (4-14) in a game where the difference of talent between both franchises was absolutely noticeable. Milwaukee got off to an impressive start and grabbed the lead following the first 12 minutes (32-26), a score that also repeated itself in the second 12 minutes of action so the Bucks held a comfortable 12-point advantage by the time halftime arrived. Milwaukee won the third quarter as well, 24-22, and they closed things out by outscoring Detroit by a 26-19 score in the final 12 minutes of action. The Pistons didn’t have any chance to slow down the reigning NBA champions and lost by a sizable 21-point margin.
Giannis Antetokounmpo was the best player for the Bucks since he ended with another well-rounded night of 33 points, seven rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks. Bobby Portis had 28 points and 10 rebounds, and Jrue Holiday chipped in with 22 points, eight boards and six dimes. Khris Middleton came close to a double-double since he finished with 11 points and nine rebounds, and Pat Connaughton posted 11 points and seven boards.
Surprisingly, Trey Lyles led the Pistons off the bench after scoring 19 points and seven rebounds. Jerami Grant and Saddiq Bey each had 13 points, with Bey adding seven rebounds and Grant finishing with 13 points and four rebounds. Saben Lee posted 12 points, five rebounds, five assists and four assists off the bench as well. Cade Cunningham had nine points.
Timberwolves Upend Heat, 113-101
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Miami Heat, 113-101, at Target Center on Wednesday night.
The Timberwolves (9-9) came in as very narrow underdogs and riding a four-game winning streak, and they opened the contest with solid play. Minnesota held a 30-27 lead through one quarter, but the Heat's (12-7) second-quarter resurgence gave Miami an eight-point lead at intermission. Nevertheless, Chris Finch's club remained undeterred in its quest for .500, outscoring the visitors by a 59-39 margin over the final two quarters for the relatively comfortable victory. The T-Wolves owned a substantial 52-40 rebounding advantage and forced an uncharacteristic 21 turnovers from the Heat.
Bam Adebayo led the Heat with 18 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, three assists and one steal. Duncan Robinson supplied 17 points, five boards, three assists and one steal. Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro generated matching 16-point tallies while pulling down eight and seven rebounds, respectively. Gabe Vincent delivered 14 points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals.
Anthony Edwards paced the Timberwolves with 33 points, complementing them with 14 rebounds, six assists, three steals and one block. Malik Beasley turned in 29 points, three rebounds, one steal and one block. D'Angelo Russell supplied 20 points, six assists, three rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Karl-Anthony Towns posted 11 points, six boards, four assists and two blocks. Jarred Vanderbilt mustered a modest eight points but added 15 rebounds, four steals and three assists.
The Heat remains on the road and visits the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night, while the Timberwolves visit the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night.
The Timberwolves (9-9) came in as very narrow underdogs and riding a four-game winning streak, and they opened the contest with solid play. Minnesota held a 30-27 lead through one quarter, but the Heat's (12-7) second-quarter resurgence gave Miami an eight-point lead at intermission. Nevertheless, Chris Finch's club remained undeterred in its quest for .500, outscoring the visitors by a 59-39 margin over the final two quarters for the relatively comfortable victory. The T-Wolves owned a substantial 52-40 rebounding advantage and forced an uncharacteristic 21 turnovers from the Heat.
Bam Adebayo led the Heat with 18 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, three assists and one steal. Duncan Robinson supplied 17 points, five boards, three assists and one steal. Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro generated matching 16-point tallies while pulling down eight and seven rebounds, respectively. Gabe Vincent delivered 14 points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals.
Anthony Edwards paced the Timberwolves with 33 points, complementing them with 14 rebounds, six assists, three steals and one block. Malik Beasley turned in 29 points, three rebounds, one steal and one block. D'Angelo Russell supplied 20 points, six assists, three rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Karl-Anthony Towns posted 11 points, six boards, four assists and two blocks. Jarred Vanderbilt mustered a modest eight points but added 15 rebounds, four steals and three assists.
The Heat remains on the road and visits the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night, while the Timberwolves visit the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night.
Jazz Edge Out Thunder In OKC
By Dan Bruno
The Utah Jazz defeated the host Oklahoma City Thunder, 110-104, at Paycom Center on Wednesday evening.
The Thunder got out to a good start at home with a 25-21, lead after one quarter. The contest stayed tight through the second, and the hosts hung on to a three-point lead at halftime. The Jazz came out strong in the third but could not pull away, as they held a one-point edge heading into the final frame. The Thunder reclaimed a brief lead, but the Jazz took control late in the fourth and closed out the road win. This marks the fourth straight loss for the Thunder.
Jordan Clarkson led the Jazz with 20 points, three rebounds and five assists, in 24 minutes off the bench. Bojan Bogdanovic followed up with 19 points, five rebounds and a steal, while Rudy Gobert totaled 15 points, 17 rebounds, five blocks and two steals. The Jazz shot 45 percent from the field, including 15-of-47 from deep.
Meanwhile, Luguentz Dort led the Thunder with 27 points three rebounds, four assists and a steal, in 37 minutes. Josh Giddey followed up with 19 points, seven rebounds and eight assists, while Jeremiah Robinson-Earl finished with 13 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. The Thunder shot 45 percent from the field, including 15-of-36 from long range.
The Thunder (6-12) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Wizards on Friday. The Jazz (12-6) play host to the Pelicans on Friday.
The Thunder got out to a good start at home with a 25-21, lead after one quarter. The contest stayed tight through the second, and the hosts hung on to a three-point lead at halftime. The Jazz came out strong in the third but could not pull away, as they held a one-point edge heading into the final frame. The Thunder reclaimed a brief lead, but the Jazz took control late in the fourth and closed out the road win. This marks the fourth straight loss for the Thunder.
Jordan Clarkson led the Jazz with 20 points, three rebounds and five assists, in 24 minutes off the bench. Bojan Bogdanovic followed up with 19 points, five rebounds and a steal, while Rudy Gobert totaled 15 points, 17 rebounds, five blocks and two steals. The Jazz shot 45 percent from the field, including 15-of-47 from deep.
Meanwhile, Luguentz Dort led the Thunder with 27 points three rebounds, four assists and a steal, in 37 minutes. Josh Giddey followed up with 19 points, seven rebounds and eight assists, while Jeremiah Robinson-Earl finished with 13 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. The Thunder shot 45 percent from the field, including 15-of-36 from long range.
The Thunder (6-12) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Wizards on Friday. The Jazz (12-6) play host to the Pelicans on Friday.
Raptors Defeat Grizzlies, 126-113
The Toronto Raptors defeated the host Memphis Grizzlies, 126-113, at FedEx Forum on Wednesday.
This was a tale of two halves, with Memphis getting out to a 71-59 halftime lead and Toronto responding with a 67-42 second half. They did most of that damage across the final six minutes, finishing the game on a 19-4 run. The Grizzlies shot just 2-for-13 from the field in those closing six minutes, Toronto shot 14-of-30 from three-point range while holding Memphis to 9-of-29. In addition, the Raptors won the turnover battle, 14-10, while outscoring the Grizzlies in fastbreak points, 15-6.
The Raptors (9-10) were led by Gary Trent Jr, tallying 26 points and four assists. Fred VanVleet amassed 23 points, six rebounds, seven assists, two steals and two blocks. Pascal Siakam provided 17 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Precious Achiwua and Scottie Barnes also scored 17 points apiece to round out the starting five.
The Grizzlies (9-9) were led by Ja Morant and his 23 points, six rebounds, nine assists and three steals. Dillon Brooks totaled 20 points, two rebounds and three assists. Desmond Bane had 20 points and four boards, while Jaren Jackson Jr generated 16 points, two rebounds and two blocks. Brandon Clarke led the bench with 16 points and eight boards.
Both teams return to action on Friday, with Toronto traveling to face the Indiana Pacers and Memphis remaining home to play the Atlanta Hawks.
This was a tale of two halves, with Memphis getting out to a 71-59 halftime lead and Toronto responding with a 67-42 second half. They did most of that damage across the final six minutes, finishing the game on a 19-4 run. The Grizzlies shot just 2-for-13 from the field in those closing six minutes, Toronto shot 14-of-30 from three-point range while holding Memphis to 9-of-29. In addition, the Raptors won the turnover battle, 14-10, while outscoring the Grizzlies in fastbreak points, 15-6.
The Raptors (9-10) were led by Gary Trent Jr, tallying 26 points and four assists. Fred VanVleet amassed 23 points, six rebounds, seven assists, two steals and two blocks. Pascal Siakam provided 17 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Precious Achiwua and Scottie Barnes also scored 17 points apiece to round out the starting five.
The Grizzlies (9-9) were led by Ja Morant and his 23 points, six rebounds, nine assists and three steals. Dillon Brooks totaled 20 points, two rebounds and three assists. Desmond Bane had 20 points and four boards, while Jaren Jackson Jr generated 16 points, two rebounds and two blocks. Brandon Clarke led the bench with 16 points and eight boards.
Both teams return to action on Friday, with Toronto traveling to face the Indiana Pacers and Memphis remaining home to play the Atlanta Hawks.
Hawks Defeat Spurs, 124-106
The Atlanta Hawks defeated the host San Antonio Spurs, 124-106, at AT&T Center on Wednesday.
While there were eight ties and five lead changes through the first 20 minutes, Atlanta rode a 38-31 second quarter to their victory. That allowed them to hold a double-digit lead for the final 20 minutes, riding a 38-25 third quarter to this blowout scoreline. The Hawks shot 51 percent from the field, 46 percent from three-point range and 92 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Spurs to 43 percent from the field, 36 percent from long range and 80 percent from the charity stripe. In addition, they outscored Atlanta in fastbreak points, 11-5.
The Hawks (10-9) were led by Trae Young, tallying 31 points, seven rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Bogdan Bogdanovic amassed 18 points, five rebounds, three assists and two blocks. John Collins totaled 15 points and five rebounds, while Clint Capela collected 11 points, 13 rebounds, five steals and three blocks.
The Spurs (4-13) were led by Dejounte Murray and his 22 points, eight rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Jakob Poeltl accrued 15 points and 10 rebounds. Keldon Johnson had 15 points and four rebounds, while Bryn Forbes led the bench with 23 points and three rebounds.
Both teams return to action on Friday in inter-conference games, with Atlanta traveling to face the Memphis Grizzlies and San Antonio remaining home to play the Boston Celtics.
While there were eight ties and five lead changes through the first 20 minutes, Atlanta rode a 38-31 second quarter to their victory. That allowed them to hold a double-digit lead for the final 20 minutes, riding a 38-25 third quarter to this blowout scoreline. The Hawks shot 51 percent from the field, 46 percent from three-point range and 92 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Spurs to 43 percent from the field, 36 percent from long range and 80 percent from the charity stripe. In addition, they outscored Atlanta in fastbreak points, 11-5.
The Hawks (10-9) were led by Trae Young, tallying 31 points, seven rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Bogdan Bogdanovic amassed 18 points, five rebounds, three assists and two blocks. John Collins totaled 15 points and five rebounds, while Clint Capela collected 11 points, 13 rebounds, five steals and three blocks.
The Spurs (4-13) were led by Dejounte Murray and his 22 points, eight rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Jakob Poeltl accrued 15 points and 10 rebounds. Keldon Johnson had 15 points and four rebounds, while Bryn Forbes led the bench with 23 points and three rebounds.
Both teams return to action on Friday in inter-conference games, with Atlanta traveling to face the Memphis Grizzlies and San Antonio remaining home to play the Boston Celtics.
Warriors Defeat Sixers, 116-96
The Golden State Warriors defeated the visiting Philadelphia 76ers, 116-96, at Chase Center on Wednesday.
The 20-point final margin is unfair to Philadelphia in this game, leading by 19 points midway through the third quarter. That can be attributed to the Warriors outscoring the Sixers in the second half, 64-35, grabbing their first double-digit lead in the final five minutes. Despite the massive swing, there were still nine ties and nine lead changes in total. The Warriors shot 53 percent from the field and 40 percent from three-point range while holding the Sixers to 43 percent from the field and 29 percent from long range. In addition, Golden State out-assisted Philly, 32-17.
The Sixers (10-9) were led by Seth Curry, dropping 24 points. Tyrese Maxey tallied 19 points, three rebounds and five assists. Andre Drummond missed all five of his shots but led the team with 12 rebounds. Danny Green led the bench with 10 points, two rebounds and four steals.
The Warriors (16-2) were led by Stephen Curry, collecting 25 points, four rebounds and 10 assists. Andrew Wiggins accrued 19 points and six rebounds. Jordan Poole totaled 17 points, five rebounds and six assists. Draymond Green accumulated 10 points, nine rebounds and seven assists, while Juan Toscano-Anderson led the bench with 13 points, six rebounds and six assists.
Both teams return to action this weekend, with Golden State remaining home to play the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday and Philadelphia playing host to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday.
The 20-point final margin is unfair to Philadelphia in this game, leading by 19 points midway through the third quarter. That can be attributed to the Warriors outscoring the Sixers in the second half, 64-35, grabbing their first double-digit lead in the final five minutes. Despite the massive swing, there were still nine ties and nine lead changes in total. The Warriors shot 53 percent from the field and 40 percent from three-point range while holding the Sixers to 43 percent from the field and 29 percent from long range. In addition, Golden State out-assisted Philly, 32-17.
The Sixers (10-9) were led by Seth Curry, dropping 24 points. Tyrese Maxey tallied 19 points, three rebounds and five assists. Andre Drummond missed all five of his shots but led the team with 12 rebounds. Danny Green led the bench with 10 points, two rebounds and four steals.
The Warriors (16-2) were led by Stephen Curry, collecting 25 points, four rebounds and 10 assists. Andrew Wiggins accrued 19 points and six rebounds. Jordan Poole totaled 17 points, five rebounds and six assists. Draymond Green accumulated 10 points, nine rebounds and seven assists, while Juan Toscano-Anderson led the bench with 13 points, six rebounds and six assists.
Both teams return to action this weekend, with Golden State remaining home to play the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday and Philadelphia playing host to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday.
Kings Defeat Trail Blazers, 125-121
The Sacramento Kings defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 125-121, at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday.
It took 11 ties and 10 lead changes to determine a winner in this game, with neither team leading by more than 10 points. With that said, Sacramento outscored Portland in each of the final three quarters, riding an 11-3 run in the middle of the fourth quarter to take control. Sacramento shot 52 percent from the field and 36 percent from three-point range while holding Portland to 47 percent from the field and 32 percent from long range. The Kings bench also outscored the Trail Blazers bench, 61-26.
The Trail Blazers (10-9) were led by Damian Lillard, tallying 31 points, six rebounds and 10 assists. Jusuf Nurkic collected 28 points, 17 rebounds and five assists before fouling out. Norman Powell amassed 22 points, two rebounds and two steals. C.J. McCollum accrued 13 points, five rebounds and six assists, while Nassir Little led the bench with 16 points.
The Kings (7-12) were led by De'Aaron Fox, accumulating 21 points, two rebounds and six assists before a fourth-quarter ejection. Harrison Barnes had 13 points and three rebounds. Mo Harkless and Alex Len scored 12 points apiece in spot starts. Buddy Hield led the bench with 22 points and four rebounds, while Davion Mitchell provided 16 points, two rebounds and three assists.
On deck for Portland is a road matchup with the Golden State Warriors on Friday. Sacramento also returns to action on Friday, traveling to face the Los Angeles Lakers.
It took 11 ties and 10 lead changes to determine a winner in this game, with neither team leading by more than 10 points. With that said, Sacramento outscored Portland in each of the final three quarters, riding an 11-3 run in the middle of the fourth quarter to take control. Sacramento shot 52 percent from the field and 36 percent from three-point range while holding Portland to 47 percent from the field and 32 percent from long range. The Kings bench also outscored the Trail Blazers bench, 61-26.
The Trail Blazers (10-9) were led by Damian Lillard, tallying 31 points, six rebounds and 10 assists. Jusuf Nurkic collected 28 points, 17 rebounds and five assists before fouling out. Norman Powell amassed 22 points, two rebounds and two steals. C.J. McCollum accrued 13 points, five rebounds and six assists, while Nassir Little led the bench with 16 points.
The Kings (7-12) were led by De'Aaron Fox, accumulating 21 points, two rebounds and six assists before a fourth-quarter ejection. Harrison Barnes had 13 points and three rebounds. Mo Harkless and Alex Len scored 12 points apiece in spot starts. Buddy Hield led the bench with 22 points and four rebounds, while Davion Mitchell provided 16 points, two rebounds and three assists.
On deck for Portland is a road matchup with the Golden State Warriors on Friday. Sacramento also returns to action on Friday, traveling to face the Los Angeles Lakers.