Cleveland Cruises To Win Over Chicago
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Chicago Bulls, 115-92, at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Wednesday night.
The Cavaliers (14-12) delivered a dominant performance at home and managed to slow down one of the hottest teams in the Eastern Conference, the Bulls (17-9). Cleveland quickly grabbed control of the game and recorded a 29-24 lead following the first quarter. Aside from looking at the numbers, their performance was so dominant that they outscored their rivals in every single quarter on a separate basis. The score in the subsequent three quarters was 23-19, 30-23 and 33-26, respectively, and that allowed Cleveland to secure one of its biggest wins of the season considering the opponent they were facing.
Darius Garland led the way for the Cavaliers with 24 points and six assists, while Jarrett Allen posted a double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds while also adding three blocks. Lauri Markkanen had 14 points, and Evan Mobley finished with 16 points and nine rebounds. Both Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio chipped in with 11 points coming off the bench. The Cavaliers shot 55 percent from the field and 46.4 percent from three-point range.
Zach LaVine was the best player for the Bulls with 23 points and nine assists, while Lonzo Ball chipped in with 19 points and seven assists. Nikola Vucevic contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds, and Derrick Jones Jr. added 11 points with two rebounds. The Bulls shot 41.7 percent from the field and 26.9 percent from deep.
The Cavaliers (14-12) delivered a dominant performance at home and managed to slow down one of the hottest teams in the Eastern Conference, the Bulls (17-9). Cleveland quickly grabbed control of the game and recorded a 29-24 lead following the first quarter. Aside from looking at the numbers, their performance was so dominant that they outscored their rivals in every single quarter on a separate basis. The score in the subsequent three quarters was 23-19, 30-23 and 33-26, respectively, and that allowed Cleveland to secure one of its biggest wins of the season considering the opponent they were facing.
Darius Garland led the way for the Cavaliers with 24 points and six assists, while Jarrett Allen posted a double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds while also adding three blocks. Lauri Markkanen had 14 points, and Evan Mobley finished with 16 points and nine rebounds. Both Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio chipped in with 11 points coming off the bench. The Cavaliers shot 55 percent from the field and 46.4 percent from three-point range.
Zach LaVine was the best player for the Bulls with 23 points and nine assists, while Lonzo Ball chipped in with 19 points and seven assists. Nikola Vucevic contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds, and Derrick Jones Jr. added 11 points with two rebounds. The Bulls shot 41.7 percent from the field and 26.9 percent from deep.
Wizards Edge Pistons, 119-116, in Overtime
The Washington Wizards defeated the Detroit Pistons, 119-116, in overtime at Little Caesars Arena on Wednesday night.
The Pistons (4-20) didn't look like the underdog they came in as during the first half, as Detroit entered intermission with a 60-52 lead over the Wizards (15-11). However, Washington was able to erase its deficit altogether in the third quarter and enter the final period with a three-point advantage, but a 16-3 run by the hosts over the final 5:50 led to overtime. However, the visitors were able to break a 116-116 tie with 0.6 seconds left in the extra period on a Kyle Kuzma three-pointer for the victory.
Kuzma led the way for the Wizards with 26 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, four assists and one steal. Bradley Beal delivered 25 points, six boards, three assists and one steal. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope tallied 13 points, three boards, two assists and one steal. Spencer Dinwiddie registered 12 points, seven assists, six rebounds and two steals. Deni Avdija and Raul Neto generated matching 10-point contributions while recording six rebounds and five assists, respectively.
Jerami Grant paced the Pistons with 28 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. Cade Cunningham managed 21 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals. Frank Jackson compiled 19 points, while Hamidou Diallo provided 12 points, two rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Isaiah Stewart turned in an 11-point, 10-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block.
The Wizards return home to host the Utah Jazz on Saturday night, while the Pistons visit the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night.
The Pistons (4-20) didn't look like the underdog they came in as during the first half, as Detroit entered intermission with a 60-52 lead over the Wizards (15-11). However, Washington was able to erase its deficit altogether in the third quarter and enter the final period with a three-point advantage, but a 16-3 run by the hosts over the final 5:50 led to overtime. However, the visitors were able to break a 116-116 tie with 0.6 seconds left in the extra period on a Kyle Kuzma three-pointer for the victory.
Kuzma led the way for the Wizards with 26 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, four assists and one steal. Bradley Beal delivered 25 points, six boards, three assists and one steal. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope tallied 13 points, three boards, two assists and one steal. Spencer Dinwiddie registered 12 points, seven assists, six rebounds and two steals. Deni Avdija and Raul Neto generated matching 10-point contributions while recording six rebounds and five assists, respectively.
Jerami Grant paced the Pistons with 28 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. Cade Cunningham managed 21 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals. Frank Jackson compiled 19 points, while Hamidou Diallo provided 12 points, two rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Isaiah Stewart turned in an 11-point, 10-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block.
The Wizards return home to host the Utah Jazz on Saturday night, while the Pistons visit the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night.
Pacers In Control At Home
By Dan Bruno
The Indiana Pacers defeated the visiting New York Knicks, 122-102, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday evening.
The Pacers got out to a strong start at home with a, 36-29, lead after one quarter and kept the pressure on to make it a 13-point game at halftime. The Knicks had no answers in the second half, as they saw the deficit grow to 20, after three quarters and to a game-high 27 points, early in the fourth. This marks the second straight win for the Pacers.
Three players topped 20 points for the Pacers, led by Chris Duarte, with 23 points, three rebounds, six assists and a steal, in 30 minutes of action. Myles Turner followed up with 22 points, four rebounds, two blocks and a steal, while Domantas Sabonis totaled 21 points, 11 rebounds, five assists and a block. The Pacers shot 53 percent from the field, including 10-of-27 from long range.
Meanwhile, R.J. Barrett led the Knicks with 19 points, two rebounds and three assists, in 35 minutes. Julius Randle followed up with 18 points, eight rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block, while Alec Burks chipped in 15 points on 5-of-11 shooting. The Knicks shot 42 percent, including 9-of-30 from deep.
The Knicks (12-13) will look to bounce back as they take on the Raptors in Toronto on Friday. The Pacers (11-16) play host to the Mavericks on Friday.
The Pacers got out to a strong start at home with a, 36-29, lead after one quarter and kept the pressure on to make it a 13-point game at halftime. The Knicks had no answers in the second half, as they saw the deficit grow to 20, after three quarters and to a game-high 27 points, early in the fourth. This marks the second straight win for the Pacers.
Three players topped 20 points for the Pacers, led by Chris Duarte, with 23 points, three rebounds, six assists and a steal, in 30 minutes of action. Myles Turner followed up with 22 points, four rebounds, two blocks and a steal, while Domantas Sabonis totaled 21 points, 11 rebounds, five assists and a block. The Pacers shot 53 percent from the field, including 10-of-27 from long range.
Meanwhile, R.J. Barrett led the Knicks with 19 points, two rebounds and three assists, in 35 minutes. Julius Randle followed up with 18 points, eight rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block, while Alec Burks chipped in 15 points on 5-of-11 shooting. The Knicks shot 42 percent, including 9-of-30 from deep.
The Knicks (12-13) will look to bounce back as they take on the Raptors in Toronto on Friday. The Pacers (11-16) play host to the Mavericks on Friday.
Sixers Hold On For Third Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the host Charlotte Hornets, 110-106, at Spectrum Center on Wednesday evening.
The contest got out to a tight start and was tied at 26, after one quarter. The Sixers pushed to a game-high nine point lead in the second, but the Hornets cut it to a two-point game by halftime. It stayed neck-and-neck through the third, but the Sixers managed to grab a one-point edge heading into the final frame. The hosts reclaimed a brief lead in the fourth, but the 76ers used a, 10-1, run to take an eight-point lead with 44 seconds left, which was enough to close out their third straight win.
Joel Embiid led the Sixers with 32 points on 8-of-17 shooting, eight rebounds, four assists and a steal. Seth Curry followed up with 23 points, four rebounds, eight assists and a steal, while Tobias Harris was the only other player to score in double digits for the visitors, as he added 18 points and six rebounds. The 76ers shot 48 percent from the field, including 13-of-34 from long range.
Meanwhile, Gordon Hayward led the Hornets with 31 points on 10-of-18 shooting, five rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a block. Kelly Oubre followed up with 22 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two steals, while Miles Bridges totaled 20 pointes, five rebounds and five assists. The Hornets shot 49 percent from the field, including 10-of-29 from deep.
The Hornets (14-13) play host to the Kings on Friday. The Sixers (14-11) play host to the Jazz on Thursday.
The contest got out to a tight start and was tied at 26, after one quarter. The Sixers pushed to a game-high nine point lead in the second, but the Hornets cut it to a two-point game by halftime. It stayed neck-and-neck through the third, but the Sixers managed to grab a one-point edge heading into the final frame. The hosts reclaimed a brief lead in the fourth, but the 76ers used a, 10-1, run to take an eight-point lead with 44 seconds left, which was enough to close out their third straight win.
Joel Embiid led the Sixers with 32 points on 8-of-17 shooting, eight rebounds, four assists and a steal. Seth Curry followed up with 23 points, four rebounds, eight assists and a steal, while Tobias Harris was the only other player to score in double digits for the visitors, as he added 18 points and six rebounds. The 76ers shot 48 percent from the field, including 13-of-34 from long range.
Meanwhile, Gordon Hayward led the Hornets with 31 points on 10-of-18 shooting, five rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a block. Kelly Oubre followed up with 22 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two steals, while Miles Bridges totaled 20 pointes, five rebounds and five assists. The Hornets shot 49 percent from the field, including 10-of-29 from deep.
The Hornets (14-13) play host to the Kings on Friday. The Sixers (14-11) play host to the Jazz on Thursday.
Heat Secure Comeback Win Over Bucks
The Miami Heat defeated the Milwaukee Bucks, 113-104, at FTX Arena on Wednesday night.
The Heat (15-11) avenged what happened with the Bucks (16-10) in some previous playoff series and secured a big win over the reigning NBA champions. Milwaukee got off to a strong start and led following the first quarter by a 26-24 score, and they actually bolstered that advantage following a 25-20 score. It seemed the Bucks were in cruise control while leading by seven points, but the Heat responded with a huge 39-26 score in the third quarter and that allowed them to take control of the matchup. The final 12 minutes also ended with a 30-27 score for the Heat, so they ended winning the game rather comfortably despite their slow start. The Heat shot 51.9 percent from the field, while the Bucks made 42.4 percent of their attempts.
Caleb Martin looked impressive for the Heat and finished with a team-high 28 points while adding eight rebounds and three assists, while Kyle Lowry contributed 22 points and 13 assists. P.J. Tucker filled the stat sheet and recorded 15 points, eight assists, seven rebounds and two steals. Max Strus had 16 points off the bench, while KZ Okpala notched 10 points, nine rebounds and two blocks.
Jrue Holiday was the top scorer for the Bucks with 27 points, and he also added four rebounds and four assists. Khris Middleton posted 20 points, six boards and four dimes, while Bobby Portis recorded 18 points and eight boards. Giannis Antetokounmpo struggled and finished with 15 points, six boards, four assists, a steal and a block. No other Milwaukee player scored in double digits in this one.
The Heat (15-11) avenged what happened with the Bucks (16-10) in some previous playoff series and secured a big win over the reigning NBA champions. Milwaukee got off to a strong start and led following the first quarter by a 26-24 score, and they actually bolstered that advantage following a 25-20 score. It seemed the Bucks were in cruise control while leading by seven points, but the Heat responded with a huge 39-26 score in the third quarter and that allowed them to take control of the matchup. The final 12 minutes also ended with a 30-27 score for the Heat, so they ended winning the game rather comfortably despite their slow start. The Heat shot 51.9 percent from the field, while the Bucks made 42.4 percent of their attempts.
Caleb Martin looked impressive for the Heat and finished with a team-high 28 points while adding eight rebounds and three assists, while Kyle Lowry contributed 22 points and 13 assists. P.J. Tucker filled the stat sheet and recorded 15 points, eight assists, seven rebounds and two steals. Max Strus had 16 points off the bench, while KZ Okpala notched 10 points, nine rebounds and two blocks.
Jrue Holiday was the top scorer for the Bucks with 27 points, and he also added four rebounds and four assists. Khris Middleton posted 20 points, six boards and four dimes, while Bobby Portis recorded 18 points and eight boards. Giannis Antetokounmpo struggled and finished with 15 points, six boards, four assists, a steal and a block. No other Milwaukee player scored in double digits in this one.
Thunder Edge Raptors, 110-109
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Toronto Raptors, 110-109, at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday night.
The Thunder (8-16) opened the game looking every bit the underdog, as they were trailing by a 36-26 margin after one quarter. However, after ensuring their deficit didn't worsen before halftime, Oklahoma City then changed the tide of the game by outscoring the Raptors (11-14) by a 33-12 margin in the third quarter to take an 11-point lead into the final period. Toronto would go on to take a 109-107 lead with just 18 seconds remaining, but a Mike Muscala 27-footer and a Justin Champagnie tip-in of a desperation Fred VanVleet bucket that just missed beating the buzzer combined to give the visitors the heart-stopping victory.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander paced the Thunder with 26 points, adding nine assists, two rebounds and one steal. Luguentz Dort furnished 22 points, six rebounds, three assists and one block. Darius Bazley supplied 15 points, five rebounds, two steals and one block. Josh Giddey delivered 13 points, eight assists, four rebounds and one block.
Gary Trent led the Raptors with 24 points, supplementing them with four rebounds, three assists and two steals. Pascal Siakam generated a 23-point, 11-rebound double-double that included five assists. VanVleet finished with 19 points, nine assists, eight rebounds and one steal. Scottie Barnes registered 18 points, eight rebounds, five assists, two blocks and one steal. Chris Boucher posted 11 points and seven rebounds.
The Thunder return home to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, while the Raptors remain home and host the New York Knicks on Friday night as well.
The Thunder (8-16) opened the game looking every bit the underdog, as they were trailing by a 36-26 margin after one quarter. However, after ensuring their deficit didn't worsen before halftime, Oklahoma City then changed the tide of the game by outscoring the Raptors (11-14) by a 33-12 margin in the third quarter to take an 11-point lead into the final period. Toronto would go on to take a 109-107 lead with just 18 seconds remaining, but a Mike Muscala 27-footer and a Justin Champagnie tip-in of a desperation Fred VanVleet bucket that just missed beating the buzzer combined to give the visitors the heart-stopping victory.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander paced the Thunder with 26 points, adding nine assists, two rebounds and one steal. Luguentz Dort furnished 22 points, six rebounds, three assists and one block. Darius Bazley supplied 15 points, five rebounds, two steals and one block. Josh Giddey delivered 13 points, eight assists, four rebounds and one block.
Gary Trent led the Raptors with 24 points, supplementing them with four rebounds, three assists and two steals. Pascal Siakam generated a 23-point, 11-rebound double-double that included five assists. VanVleet finished with 19 points, nine assists, eight rebounds and one steal. Scottie Barnes registered 18 points, eight rebounds, five assists, two blocks and one steal. Chris Boucher posted 11 points and seven rebounds.
The Thunder return home to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, while the Raptors remain home and host the New York Knicks on Friday night as well.
Nuggets Come Out On Top In Overtime
By Dan Bruno
The Denver Nuggets defeated the host New Orleans Pelicans, 120-114, at Smoothie King Center on Wednesday evening.
The contest got out to a high-scoring start, as the Nuggets led, 35-33, after one quarter. The visitors rallied to a game-high 12-point lead in the second and held on to a seven-point lead at halftime. The Pelicans came out strong in the third and grabbed to a brief lead, but the Nuggets reclaimed a three-point edge heading into the final quarter. The score stayed close through the fourth, where Jonas Valanciunas scored with 5.2 seconds left to tie the game and force overtime. The Nuggets took control in overtime, where they outscored the hosts by six close out the road win.
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 39 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists and a steal, in 37 minutes. Will Barton followed up with 20 points, three rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block, while Aaron Gordon and JaMychal Green chipped in 10 points each. The Nuggets shot 51 percent from the field, including 9-of-32 from deep.
Meanwhile, Jonas Valanciunas led the Pelicans with 27 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and three blocks, in 39 minutes. Herbert Jones followed up with 19 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two blocks and a steal, while Brandon Ingram finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, five assists and four steals. The Pelicans shot 52 percent from the field, including 11-of-30 from long range.
The Pelicans (7-20) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pistons on Friday. The Nuggets (12-12) take on the Spurs in San Antonio on Thursday.
The contest got out to a high-scoring start, as the Nuggets led, 35-33, after one quarter. The visitors rallied to a game-high 12-point lead in the second and held on to a seven-point lead at halftime. The Pelicans came out strong in the third and grabbed to a brief lead, but the Nuggets reclaimed a three-point edge heading into the final quarter. The score stayed close through the fourth, where Jonas Valanciunas scored with 5.2 seconds left to tie the game and force overtime. The Nuggets took control in overtime, where they outscored the hosts by six close out the road win.
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 39 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists and a steal, in 37 minutes. Will Barton followed up with 20 points, three rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block, while Aaron Gordon and JaMychal Green chipped in 10 points each. The Nuggets shot 51 percent from the field, including 9-of-32 from deep.
Meanwhile, Jonas Valanciunas led the Pelicans with 27 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and three blocks, in 39 minutes. Herbert Jones followed up with 19 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two blocks and a steal, while Brandon Ingram finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, five assists and four steals. The Pelicans shot 52 percent from the field, including 11-of-30 from long range.
The Pelicans (7-20) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pistons on Friday. The Nuggets (12-12) take on the Spurs in San Antonio on Thursday.
Rockets Pull Huge Upset With Win Over Nets
The Houston Rockets defeated the Brooklyn Nets, 114-104, at Toyota Center on Wednesday night.
The Rockets (7-16) recorded what will probably end up as one of their biggest wins of the season Wednesday when they delivered an impressive performance against the Nets (17-7) in front of their own crowd. Houston quickly grabbed control of the contest and recorded a 30-23 lead following the first quarter, but they pulled away for good in the second quarter after a 37-29 score. Houston didn’t step the foot off the gas and won the third quarter by a 23-21 score as well, meaning the game was all but over with 12 minutes left on the clock thanks to a 17-point lead. Brooklyn won the fourth quarter by a 31-24 score, but it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback and the Rockets secured a massive victory.
Eric Gordon was the leading scorer for the Rockets with 21 points, while Garrison Mathews notched 19 points and three steals. Christian Wood had a massive double-double of 12 points and 15 rebounds while also adding three blocks, and Armoni Brooks ended with 14 points, five rebounds and four assists. Jae’sean Tate posted 10 points and five assists. Houston shot 49.4 percent from the field.
James Harden finished with 25 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists and two steals, but he also committed eight turnovers. Patty Mills had 12 points, and those two were the only Brooklyn starters that scored in double digits. Cam Thomas had 18 points off the bench, while Paul Millsap contributed 10 points, six rebounds and three assists off the bench too. The Nets shot 39.3 percent from the field.
The Rockets (7-16) recorded what will probably end up as one of their biggest wins of the season Wednesday when they delivered an impressive performance against the Nets (17-7) in front of their own crowd. Houston quickly grabbed control of the contest and recorded a 30-23 lead following the first quarter, but they pulled away for good in the second quarter after a 37-29 score. Houston didn’t step the foot off the gas and won the third quarter by a 23-21 score as well, meaning the game was all but over with 12 minutes left on the clock thanks to a 17-point lead. Brooklyn won the fourth quarter by a 31-24 score, but it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback and the Rockets secured a massive victory.
Eric Gordon was the leading scorer for the Rockets with 21 points, while Garrison Mathews notched 19 points and three steals. Christian Wood had a massive double-double of 12 points and 15 rebounds while also adding three blocks, and Armoni Brooks ended with 14 points, five rebounds and four assists. Jae’sean Tate posted 10 points and five assists. Houston shot 49.4 percent from the field.
James Harden finished with 25 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists and two steals, but he also committed eight turnovers. Patty Mills had 12 points, and those two were the only Brooklyn starters that scored in double digits. Cam Thomas had 18 points off the bench, while Paul Millsap contributed 10 points, six rebounds and three assists off the bench too. The Nets shot 39.3 percent from the field.
Jazz Blasts Timberwolves, 136-104
The Utah Jazz defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves, 136-104, at Target Center on Wednesday night.
The Jazz (17-7) found the Timberwolves (11-14) to be a feisty opponent during the first half, as Utah owned just a one-point lead at halftime. However, the tenor of the contest changed for good in the third quarter, when the visitors extended their lead to 14. The Jazz saved their best play for last, racking up 41 points over the final 12 minutes to forge the lopsided victory.
Donovan Mitchell paced the Jazz with 36 points, complementing them with five rebounds, two assists and one block. Bojan Bogdanovic turned in 21 points and five boards. Jordan Clarkson supplied 18 points, three rebounds, one assist and one block. Rudy Gobert generated a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double that included one block. Joe Ingles furnished 11 points, seven assists and four rebounds.
Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves with 22 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, five assists and one block. Anthony Edwards registered 18 points, five assists, two rebounds and one block. Patrick Beverley turned in 16 points, while Malik Beasley delivered 14 points, four rebounds and two assists.
The Jazz remain on the road and visit the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night, while the Timberwolves remain home and host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night.
The Jazz (17-7) found the Timberwolves (11-14) to be a feisty opponent during the first half, as Utah owned just a one-point lead at halftime. However, the tenor of the contest changed for good in the third quarter, when the visitors extended their lead to 14. The Jazz saved their best play for last, racking up 41 points over the final 12 minutes to forge the lopsided victory.
Donovan Mitchell paced the Jazz with 36 points, complementing them with five rebounds, two assists and one block. Bojan Bogdanovic turned in 21 points and five boards. Jordan Clarkson supplied 18 points, three rebounds, one assist and one block. Rudy Gobert generated a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double that included one block. Joe Ingles furnished 11 points, seven assists and four rebounds.
Karl-Anthony Towns led the Timberwolves with 22 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, five assists and one block. Anthony Edwards registered 18 points, five assists, two rebounds and one block. Patrick Beverley turned in 16 points, while Malik Beasley delivered 14 points, four rebounds and two assists.
The Jazz remain on the road and visit the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night, while the Timberwolves remain home and host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night.
Mavericks Defeat Grizzlies, 104-96
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the host Memphis Grizzlies, 104-96, at FedEx Forum on Wednesday.
It took 10 ties and nine lead changes to determine a winner in this game, with Dallas outscoring Memphis, 56-44, in the second half. That allowed the Mavericks to overcome a 12-point second-quarter deficit to take a game-high 14-point lead in the final moments. Dallas shot 48 percent from the field, 36 percent from three-point range and 78 percent from the free-throw line while holding Memphis to 40 percent from the field, 29 percent from long range and 60 percent from the charity stripe. The Mavericks also out-rebounded the Grizzlies. 47-40, while outscoring them in the paint, 50-36.
The Mavericks (12-12) were led by Luka Doncic, tallying 26 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Kristaps Porzingis amassed 19 points and four rebounds. Reggie Bullock registered 15 points, two rebounds and four assists, while Jalen Brunson led the bench with 10 points, five rebounds and seven assists.
The Grizzlies (14-11) were led by Jaren Jackson Jr and his 26 points, seven rebounds and two blocks. Dillon Brooks collected 15 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Desmond Bane accrued 14 points, two rebounds, three assists and two steals, while De'Anthony Melton led the bench with 13 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals.
Memphis has to play the second half of a back-to-back set on Thursday, playing host to the Los Angeles Lakers. As for Dallas, they return to action on Friday in a road matchup with the Indiana Pacers.
It took 10 ties and nine lead changes to determine a winner in this game, with Dallas outscoring Memphis, 56-44, in the second half. That allowed the Mavericks to overcome a 12-point second-quarter deficit to take a game-high 14-point lead in the final moments. Dallas shot 48 percent from the field, 36 percent from three-point range and 78 percent from the free-throw line while holding Memphis to 40 percent from the field, 29 percent from long range and 60 percent from the charity stripe. The Mavericks also out-rebounded the Grizzlies. 47-40, while outscoring them in the paint, 50-36.
The Mavericks (12-12) were led by Luka Doncic, tallying 26 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Kristaps Porzingis amassed 19 points and four rebounds. Reggie Bullock registered 15 points, two rebounds and four assists, while Jalen Brunson led the bench with 10 points, five rebounds and seven assists.
The Grizzlies (14-11) were led by Jaren Jackson Jr and his 26 points, seven rebounds and two blocks. Dillon Brooks collected 15 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Desmond Bane accrued 14 points, two rebounds, three assists and two steals, while De'Anthony Melton led the bench with 13 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals.
Memphis has to play the second half of a back-to-back set on Thursday, playing host to the Los Angeles Lakers. As for Dallas, they return to action on Friday in a road matchup with the Indiana Pacers.
Warriors Defeat Trail Blazers, 104-94
The Golden State Warriors defeated the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, 104-94, at Chase Center on Wednesday.
While Golden State never led by more than 10 points until the final quarter, they won this game in wire-to-wire fashion. In fact, Portland never even tied the game after it was 0-0, with Golden State getting their lead up to 16 points at times in the fourth quarter. The Warriors out-rebounded the Trail Blazers, 47-43, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 16-7. Golden State shot 14-of-46 from three-point range while Portland hit just 8-of-30. The Warriors also recorded nine steals while the Blazers had just five.
The Trail Blazers (11-15) were led by Norman Powell, providing 26 points and five assists. Nassir Little got injured in the third quarter but had 18 points and six rebounds. Jusuf Nurkic tallied 12 points, 13 rebounds and six assists, while Dennis Smith Jr generated 12 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Ben McLemore led the bench with 12 points and three boards.
The Warriors (21-4) were led by Stephen Curry, collecting 22 points, two rebounds and two assists. Jordan Poole compiled 20 points, three rebounds, two assists and three steals. Andrew Wiggins amassed 14 points, four rebounds and two assists, while Draymond Green had five points, 10 rebounds and eight assists. Otto Porter Jr led the bench with 15 points and six rebounds.
On deck for Golden State is a road matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday. As for Portland, they're off until Sunday when they play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
While Golden State never led by more than 10 points until the final quarter, they won this game in wire-to-wire fashion. In fact, Portland never even tied the game after it was 0-0, with Golden State getting their lead up to 16 points at times in the fourth quarter. The Warriors out-rebounded the Trail Blazers, 47-43, while outscoring them in second-chance points, 16-7. Golden State shot 14-of-46 from three-point range while Portland hit just 8-of-30. The Warriors also recorded nine steals while the Blazers had just five.
The Trail Blazers (11-15) were led by Norman Powell, providing 26 points and five assists. Nassir Little got injured in the third quarter but had 18 points and six rebounds. Jusuf Nurkic tallied 12 points, 13 rebounds and six assists, while Dennis Smith Jr generated 12 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Ben McLemore led the bench with 12 points and three boards.
The Warriors (21-4) were led by Stephen Curry, collecting 22 points, two rebounds and two assists. Jordan Poole compiled 20 points, three rebounds, two assists and three steals. Andrew Wiggins amassed 14 points, four rebounds and two assists, while Draymond Green had five points, 10 rebounds and eight assists. Otto Porter Jr led the bench with 15 points and six rebounds.
On deck for Golden State is a road matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday. As for Portland, they're off until Sunday when they play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Kings Defeat Magic, 142-130
The Sacramento Kings defeated the visiting Orlando Magic, 142-130, at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday.
Sacramento won or tied all four individual quarters in this game, riding a 34-25 third quarter to their victory. That gave them a 14-point lead going into the final frame, leading by at least seven points for the final 15 minutes. With that said, there were six ties and 12 lead changes through the first 30 minutes. The Kings shot 55 percent from the field while holding the Magic below 50 percent shooting. In addition, Sacramento recorded seven blocks and eight steals to Orlando's five blocks and two steals, winning the turnover battle, 12-8. They also outscored them in fastbreak points, 9-2.
The Magic (5-21) were led by Cole Anthony, tallying 33 points, four rebounds and eight assists. Wendell Carter Jr amassed 19 points, 10 rebounds and six assists. Franz Wagner generated 19 points, six rebounds and four assists. Terrence Ross led the bench with 17 points, two rebounds and four assists.
The Kings (11-14) were led by De'Aaron Fox and his 33 points and three rebounds. Tyrese Haliburton collected 18 points, three rebounds, 11 assists, three steals and two blocks. Harrison Barnes and Terence Davis both finished with 16 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Davion Mitchell led the bench with 18 points, three rebounds and four assists.
On deck for Sacramento is a road matchup with the Charlotte Hornets on Friday. As for Orlando, they return to action on Saturday when they travel to face the Los Angeles Clippers.
Sacramento won or tied all four individual quarters in this game, riding a 34-25 third quarter to their victory. That gave them a 14-point lead going into the final frame, leading by at least seven points for the final 15 minutes. With that said, there were six ties and 12 lead changes through the first 30 minutes. The Kings shot 55 percent from the field while holding the Magic below 50 percent shooting. In addition, Sacramento recorded seven blocks and eight steals to Orlando's five blocks and two steals, winning the turnover battle, 12-8. They also outscored them in fastbreak points, 9-2.
The Magic (5-21) were led by Cole Anthony, tallying 33 points, four rebounds and eight assists. Wendell Carter Jr amassed 19 points, 10 rebounds and six assists. Franz Wagner generated 19 points, six rebounds and four assists. Terrence Ross led the bench with 17 points, two rebounds and four assists.
The Kings (11-14) were led by De'Aaron Fox and his 33 points and three rebounds. Tyrese Haliburton collected 18 points, three rebounds, 11 assists, three steals and two blocks. Harrison Barnes and Terence Davis both finished with 16 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Davion Mitchell led the bench with 18 points, three rebounds and four assists.
On deck for Sacramento is a road matchup with the Charlotte Hornets on Friday. As for Orlando, they return to action on Saturday when they travel to face the Los Angeles Clippers.
Clippers Defeat Celtics, 114-111
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the visiting Boston Celtics, 114-111, at Staples Center on Wednesday.
While there were five ties and eight lead changes through the first 20 minutes, Los Angeles rode a 39-23 second quarter to their victory. That allowed the Clippers to hold the lead for the entirety of the second half, getting their lead up to 21 points at times. With that said, Boston made a late run to get it down to a one-point margin in the final minute but never took a shot to tie the game. Los Angeles recorded 13 steals and seven blocks while Boston had just 11 steals and three blocks, allowing them to win the turnover battle, 22-20. The Clippers also hit 14-of-32 from three-point range while holding the Celtics to 10-of-32.
The Celtics (13-13) were led by Jayson Tatum, tallying 29 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals. Dennis Schroder collected 19 points, four rebounds and eight assists. Marcus Smart amassed 16 points, seven rebounds, six assists and four steals, while Al Horford amassed 11 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Josh Richardson led the bench with 17 points.
The Clippers (14-12) were led by Brandon Boston, dropping a career-best 27 points off of the bench. Marcus Morris led the starters with 20 points, four rebounds and two assists. Reggie Jackson registered 17 points, three rebounds and seven assists. Ivica Zubac had 10 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks while Terance Mann compiled 10 points and 10 rebounds as well.
Boston's next game will be on Friday, traveling to face the Phoenix Suns. As for Los Angeles, they're off until Saturday when they play host to the struggling Orlando Magic.
While there were five ties and eight lead changes through the first 20 minutes, Los Angeles rode a 39-23 second quarter to their victory. That allowed the Clippers to hold the lead for the entirety of the second half, getting their lead up to 21 points at times. With that said, Boston made a late run to get it down to a one-point margin in the final minute but never took a shot to tie the game. Los Angeles recorded 13 steals and seven blocks while Boston had just 11 steals and three blocks, allowing them to win the turnover battle, 22-20. The Clippers also hit 14-of-32 from three-point range while holding the Celtics to 10-of-32.
The Celtics (13-13) were led by Jayson Tatum, tallying 29 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals. Dennis Schroder collected 19 points, four rebounds and eight assists. Marcus Smart amassed 16 points, seven rebounds, six assists and four steals, while Al Horford amassed 11 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Josh Richardson led the bench with 17 points.
The Clippers (14-12) were led by Brandon Boston, dropping a career-best 27 points off of the bench. Marcus Morris led the starters with 20 points, four rebounds and two assists. Reggie Jackson registered 17 points, three rebounds and seven assists. Ivica Zubac had 10 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks while Terance Mann compiled 10 points and 10 rebounds as well.
Boston's next game will be on Friday, traveling to face the Phoenix Suns. As for Los Angeles, they're off until Saturday when they play host to the struggling Orlando Magic.