Sixers Defeat Magic, 123-110
The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the visiting Orlando Magic, 123-110, at Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday.
While Orlando had a 57-47 halftime lead, Philadelphia rode a 47-23 third quarter to their blowout victory. In fact, that allowed the Sixers to grab a game-high 27-point lead with five minutes remaining. With that said, there were 15 lead changes before that massive swing. The Sixers shot 54 percent from the field and 85 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Magic to 44 percent from the field and 75 percent from the charity stripe. In addition, Philly outscored Orlando in the paint, 50-34.
The Magic (8-38) were led by Mo Bamba, tallying 32 points, four rebounds, two assists and three blocks. Jalen Suggs accrued 14 points, nine rebounds, five assists and two steals. Cole Anthony accrued 13 points, four rebounds and eight assists, while Franz Wagner amassed nine points, 11 rebounds and two assists. Chuma Okeke led the bench with 18 points and three boards.
The Sixers (26-18) were led by Joel Embiid and his 50 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and three blocks on 17-of-23 from the field. Tobias Harris had 21 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Tyrese Maxey generated 14 points, three rebounds and two assists, while Georges Niang led the bench with 10 points, three rebounds and three assists.
Both teams return to action on Friday, with Orlando returning home to face the Los Angeles Lakers and Philly remaining home to play the Los Angeles Clippers.
While Orlando had a 57-47 halftime lead, Philadelphia rode a 47-23 third quarter to their blowout victory. In fact, that allowed the Sixers to grab a game-high 27-point lead with five minutes remaining. With that said, there were 15 lead changes before that massive swing. The Sixers shot 54 percent from the field and 85 percent from the free-throw line while holding the Magic to 44 percent from the field and 75 percent from the charity stripe. In addition, Philly outscored Orlando in the paint, 50-34.
The Magic (8-38) were led by Mo Bamba, tallying 32 points, four rebounds, two assists and three blocks. Jalen Suggs accrued 14 points, nine rebounds, five assists and two steals. Cole Anthony accrued 13 points, four rebounds and eight assists, while Franz Wagner amassed nine points, 11 rebounds and two assists. Chuma Okeke led the bench with 18 points and three boards.
The Sixers (26-18) were led by Joel Embiid and his 50 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and three blocks on 17-of-23 from the field. Tobias Harris had 21 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Tyrese Maxey generated 14 points, three rebounds and two assists, while Georges Niang led the bench with 10 points, three rebounds and three assists.
Both teams return to action on Friday, with Orlando returning home to face the Los Angeles Lakers and Philly remaining home to play the Los Angeles Clippers.
Nets Barely Hold On In Washington
By Dan Bruno
The Brooklyn Nets defeated the host Washington Wizards, 119-118, at Capital One Arena on Wednesday evening.
The contest got out to a high-scoring start as the Nets led, 33-28, after one quarter. The visitors kept the upper hand in the second and outscored the Wizards, 41-34, in the quarter, to take a 12-point lead into the break. The game slowed down in the third and neither team could make much progress, as the Wizards trimmed it to an 11-point game heading into the final frame. The Wizards picked up some momentum in the fourth and cut it down to a two-point game, with 3:19 left. However, the Nets came up clutch in the final minutes to hold the line and secure the road win.
Kyrie Irving led the Nets with 30 points on 13-of-23 shooting, three rebounds, seven assists and a steal, in 38 minutes. LaMarcus Aldridge followed up with 27 points, six rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while James Harden totaled 18 points, eight rebounds and nine assists. The Nets shot 53 percent from the field, including 8-of-25 from deep.
Meanwhile, Bradley Beal led the Wizards with 23 points, four rebounds, nine assists, two steals and a block, in 37 minutes. Kyle Kuzma followed up with 16 points, six rebounds, a steal and a block, while Rui Hachimura and Montrezl Harrell chipped in 14 points each. The Wizards shot 48 percent from the field, including 10-of-29 from long range.
The Wizards (23-22) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Raptors on Friday. The Nets (28-16) take on the Spurs in San Antonio on Friday.
The contest got out to a high-scoring start as the Nets led, 33-28, after one quarter. The visitors kept the upper hand in the second and outscored the Wizards, 41-34, in the quarter, to take a 12-point lead into the break. The game slowed down in the third and neither team could make much progress, as the Wizards trimmed it to an 11-point game heading into the final frame. The Wizards picked up some momentum in the fourth and cut it down to a two-point game, with 3:19 left. However, the Nets came up clutch in the final minutes to hold the line and secure the road win.
Kyrie Irving led the Nets with 30 points on 13-of-23 shooting, three rebounds, seven assists and a steal, in 38 minutes. LaMarcus Aldridge followed up with 27 points, six rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while James Harden totaled 18 points, eight rebounds and nine assists. The Nets shot 53 percent from the field, including 8-of-25 from deep.
Meanwhile, Bradley Beal led the Wizards with 23 points, four rebounds, nine assists, two steals and a block, in 37 minutes. Kyle Kuzma followed up with 16 points, six rebounds, a steal and a block, while Rui Hachimura and Montrezl Harrell chipped in 14 points each. The Wizards shot 48 percent from the field, including 10-of-29 from long range.
The Wizards (23-22) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Raptors on Friday. The Nets (28-16) take on the Spurs in San Antonio on Friday.
Hawks Defeat T'Wolves, 134-122
The Atlanta Hawks defeated the visiting Minnesota Timberwolves, 134-122, at State Farm Arena on Wednesday.
This was a true tale of two halves, with only one lead change in total. In fact, Minnesota got out to a 16-point lead in the second quarter but Atlanta responded with a 45-20 third quarter to take control of this game. That 35-point swing happened in 25 minutes of game action. Atlanta shot 52 percent from the field while holding Minnesota to 43 percent shooting. In addition, they out-assisted the Timberwolves, 34-21. The Hawks also tripled up the T'Wolves in blocks, 9-3.
The Timberwolves (22-23) were led by D'Angelo Russell and his 31 points, two rebounds, five assists and two steals. Anthony Edwards amassed 20 points and five rebounds before a third quarter ejection. Karl-Anthony Towns tallied 17 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Malik Beasley led the bench with 16 points and three rebounds.
The Hawks (19-25) were led by Trae Young and his 37 points, five rebounds and 14 assists. De'Andre Hunter accrued 22 points and five rebounds. John Collins compiled 17 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Onyeka Okungwu totaled 17 points, eight rebounds and five blocks, while Danilo Gallinari led the bench with 15 points and six rebounds.
On deck for Atlanta is a home matchup with the Miami Heat on Friday. As for Minnesota, they're off until Sunday when they play host to the Brooklyn Nets.
This was a true tale of two halves, with only one lead change in total. In fact, Minnesota got out to a 16-point lead in the second quarter but Atlanta responded with a 45-20 third quarter to take control of this game. That 35-point swing happened in 25 minutes of game action. Atlanta shot 52 percent from the field while holding Minnesota to 43 percent shooting. In addition, they out-assisted the Timberwolves, 34-21. The Hawks also tripled up the T'Wolves in blocks, 9-3.
The Timberwolves (22-23) were led by D'Angelo Russell and his 31 points, two rebounds, five assists and two steals. Anthony Edwards amassed 20 points and five rebounds before a third quarter ejection. Karl-Anthony Towns tallied 17 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Malik Beasley led the bench with 16 points and three rebounds.
The Hawks (19-25) were led by Trae Young and his 37 points, five rebounds and 14 assists. De'Andre Hunter accrued 22 points and five rebounds. John Collins compiled 17 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Onyeka Okungwu totaled 17 points, eight rebounds and five blocks, while Danilo Gallinari led the bench with 15 points and six rebounds.
On deck for Atlanta is a home matchup with the Miami Heat on Friday. As for Minnesota, they're off until Sunday when they play host to the Brooklyn Nets.
Hornets Topple Celtics, 111-102
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Boston Celtics, 111-102, at TD Garden on Wednesday night.
The Celtics (23-23) checked into the contest with plenty of momentum after prevailing in five of their previous six games, and they seemed to be on good footing to continue their success during a first quarter they emerged from with a 27-25 lead. However, the Hornets (25-20) would alter the dynamic of the contest from that point forward, outscoring Boston by a 61-47 margin during the middle periods. The home squad would make several runs during the fourth quarter, but Charlotte still won going away.
Terry Rozier paced the Hornets with 28 points, adding 10 assists and four rebounds. Miles Bridges delivered 22 points, seven boards and two assists. Kelly Oubre delivered 18 points, three boards, two steals and one block. LaMelo Ball contributed a 15-point, 10-rebound, 10-assist triple-double that included one block.
Dennis Schroder led the Celtics with 24 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, five assists and three steals. Jaylen Brown supplied 21 points, six boards, six assists and two steals. Al Horford generated a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double that included four assists. Jayson Tatum furnished 12 points, six boards, three assists and one steal. Romeo Langford and Josh Richardson posted 11 and 10 points, respectively.
The Hornets return home to host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night, while the Celtics remain home and host the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night as well.
The Celtics (23-23) checked into the contest with plenty of momentum after prevailing in five of their previous six games, and they seemed to be on good footing to continue their success during a first quarter they emerged from with a 27-25 lead. However, the Hornets (25-20) would alter the dynamic of the contest from that point forward, outscoring Boston by a 61-47 margin during the middle periods. The home squad would make several runs during the fourth quarter, but Charlotte still won going away.
Terry Rozier paced the Hornets with 28 points, adding 10 assists and four rebounds. Miles Bridges delivered 22 points, seven boards and two assists. Kelly Oubre delivered 18 points, three boards, two steals and one block. LaMelo Ball contributed a 15-point, 10-rebound, 10-assist triple-double that included one block.
Dennis Schroder led the Celtics with 24 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, five assists and three steals. Jaylen Brown supplied 21 points, six boards, six assists and two steals. Al Horford generated a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double that included four assists. Jayson Tatum furnished 12 points, six boards, three assists and one steal. Romeo Langford and Josh Richardson posted 11 and 10 points, respectively.
The Hornets return home to host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night, while the Celtics remain home and host the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night as well.
Heat Handles Trail Blazers, 104-92
The Miami Heat defeated the Portland Trail Blazers, 104-92, at FTX Arena on Wednesday night.
The short-handed Trail Blazers (18-26) came into the contest as heavy underdogs, but they had a hot hand early and held a 26-23 lead after one quarter. However, the Heat (29-16) fought back to eliminate its deficit and take a two-point advantage into halftime, despite losing Jimmy Butler to an ejection for a double technical late in the second quarter. Nevertheless, Portland was resilient coming out of intermission, regaining a two-point edge heading into final period. Then, Miami's subsequent 15-4 run between the 9:53 and 3:48 marks of the fourth quarter put the home squad back in control for good, leading to the double-digit win.
Anfernee Simons led the Trail Blazers with 27 points, adding seven assists, three rebounds, one steal and one block. CJ McCollum provided 24 points, four assists, three rebounds and two steals. Jusuf Nurkic generated an 18-point, 14-rebound double-double that included two assists, one steal and one block. Robert Covington totaled 11 points, 12 rebounds and one block.
Caleb Martin paced the Heat with 26 points, supplementing them with eight assists and two assists. Bam Adebayo posted a 20-point, 11-rebound double-double that included four assists, five steals and three blocks. Max Strus furnished 15 points, five rebounds, two assists and one block. Dewayne Dedmon totaled 12 points, eight boards, one assist and one steal. Gabe Vincent managed 11 points, seven assists, two rebounds, three steals and one block.
The Trail Blazers remain on the road and visit the Boston Celtics on Friday night, while the Heat head to Atlanta to tangle with the Hawks on Friday night as well.
The short-handed Trail Blazers (18-26) came into the contest as heavy underdogs, but they had a hot hand early and held a 26-23 lead after one quarter. However, the Heat (29-16) fought back to eliminate its deficit and take a two-point advantage into halftime, despite losing Jimmy Butler to an ejection for a double technical late in the second quarter. Nevertheless, Portland was resilient coming out of intermission, regaining a two-point edge heading into final period. Then, Miami's subsequent 15-4 run between the 9:53 and 3:48 marks of the fourth quarter put the home squad back in control for good, leading to the double-digit win.
Anfernee Simons led the Trail Blazers with 27 points, adding seven assists, three rebounds, one steal and one block. CJ McCollum provided 24 points, four assists, three rebounds and two steals. Jusuf Nurkic generated an 18-point, 14-rebound double-double that included two assists, one steal and one block. Robert Covington totaled 11 points, 12 rebounds and one block.
Caleb Martin paced the Heat with 26 points, supplementing them with eight assists and two assists. Bam Adebayo posted a 20-point, 11-rebound double-double that included four assists, five steals and three blocks. Max Strus furnished 15 points, five rebounds, two assists and one block. Dewayne Dedmon totaled 12 points, eight boards, one assist and one steal. Gabe Vincent managed 11 points, seven assists, two rebounds, three steals and one block.
The Trail Blazers remain on the road and visit the Boston Celtics on Friday night, while the Heat head to Atlanta to tangle with the Hawks on Friday night as well.
Bulls Surprise Cavaliers, 117-104
The Chicago Bulls defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers, 117-104, at United Center on Wednesday night.
The Bulls (28-15) had a steep challenge in front of them coming in, considering the recent success of the Cavaliers (27-19) and the fact both Lonzo Ball and Zach LaVine were out with knee injuries. It therefore wasn't surprising when Cleveland emerged from the first quarter with a 29-24 lead, but Chicago sprung to life in the second and was able to take a nine-point advantage into halftime. Each squad matched each other bucket for bucket in the third, and when the visitors got within one point with 4:18 remaining, the hosts finished on a 14-2 run in the final 4:07 to seal the double-digit victory.
Lauri Markkanen led the Cavaliers with 28 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, one steal and one block. Darius Garland generated a 20-point, 12-assist double-double that included five rebounds. Evan Mobley delivered 18 points, five boards, two assists, two blocks and one steal. Kevin Love supplied 13 points, eight rebounds and four assists.
DeMar DeRozan paced the Bulls with 30 points, complementing them with seven assists, two rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Nikola Vucevic generated a 24-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists and one block. Ayo Dosunmu managed 18 points, eight assists, three rebounds and two steals. Coby White tallied 16 points, four rebounds, three assists and four steals.
The Cavaliers return home and host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday night, while the Bulls visit the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night.
The Bulls (28-15) had a steep challenge in front of them coming in, considering the recent success of the Cavaliers (27-19) and the fact both Lonzo Ball and Zach LaVine were out with knee injuries. It therefore wasn't surprising when Cleveland emerged from the first quarter with a 29-24 lead, but Chicago sprung to life in the second and was able to take a nine-point advantage into halftime. Each squad matched each other bucket for bucket in the third, and when the visitors got within one point with 4:18 remaining, the hosts finished on a 14-2 run in the final 4:07 to seal the double-digit victory.
Lauri Markkanen led the Cavaliers with 28 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, one steal and one block. Darius Garland generated a 20-point, 12-assist double-double that included five rebounds. Evan Mobley delivered 18 points, five boards, two assists, two blocks and one steal. Kevin Love supplied 13 points, eight rebounds and four assists.
DeMar DeRozan paced the Bulls with 30 points, complementing them with seven assists, two rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Nikola Vucevic generated a 24-point, 12-rebound double-double that included three assists and one block. Ayo Dosunmu managed 18 points, eight assists, three rebounds and two steals. Coby White tallied 16 points, four rebounds, three assists and four steals.
The Cavaliers return home and host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday night, while the Bulls visit the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night.
Bucks Hold On For Home Win
By Dan Bruno
The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the visiting Memphis Grizzlies, 126-114, at Fiserv Forum on Wednesday evening.
The contest got out to a high-scoring start as the Bucks led, 36-30, after one quarter. They kept the pressure on in the second and outscored the visitors by eight points in the quarter, to make it a 14-point game by halftime. The Grizzlies came out stronger and poured in 40 points in the third, which was enough to cut it back down to a nine-point game, heading into the final frame. However, the Bucks kept the upper hand through the fourth and held off a late push by the Grizzlies, to close out the home win.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 33 points, 15 rebonds, seven assists, two steals and a block, in 31 minutes. Khris Middleton followed up with 27 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and a block, while Bobby Portis and George Hill chipped in 14 points each. The Bucks shot 48 percent from the field, including 13-of-37 from long range.
Meanwhile, Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 33 points, eight rebounds and 14 assists, in 39 minutes. Jaren Jackson followed up with 29 points, nine rebounds and four blocks, while Brandon Clarke chipped in 14 points, four rebounds, two steals and two blocks. The Grizzlies shot 41.5 percent from the field, including 9-of-40 from deep.
The Grizzlies (31-16) will look to bounce back as they take on the Nuggets in Denver on Friday. The Bucks (28-19) play host to the Bulls on Friday.
The contest got out to a high-scoring start as the Bucks led, 36-30, after one quarter. They kept the pressure on in the second and outscored the visitors by eight points in the quarter, to make it a 14-point game by halftime. The Grizzlies came out stronger and poured in 40 points in the third, which was enough to cut it back down to a nine-point game, heading into the final frame. However, the Bucks kept the upper hand through the fourth and held off a late push by the Grizzlies, to close out the home win.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 33 points, 15 rebonds, seven assists, two steals and a block, in 31 minutes. Khris Middleton followed up with 27 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and a block, while Bobby Portis and George Hill chipped in 14 points each. The Bucks shot 48 percent from the field, including 13-of-37 from long range.
Meanwhile, Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 33 points, eight rebounds and 14 assists, in 39 minutes. Jaren Jackson followed up with 29 points, nine rebounds and four blocks, while Brandon Clarke chipped in 14 points, four rebounds, two steals and two blocks. The Grizzlies shot 41.5 percent from the field, including 9-of-40 from deep.
The Grizzlies (31-16) will look to bounce back as they take on the Nuggets in Denver on Friday. The Bucks (28-19) play host to the Bulls on Friday.
Mavericks Edge Raptors, 102-98
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the Toronto Raptors, 102-98, at American Airlines Center on Wednesday night.
The Raptors (21-21) were road underdogs against their hot-handed hosts coming in, but it was Toronto that emerged from the first quarter with a 31-27 lead. However, the Mavericks (26-19) would spring to life at that point, outscoring the visitors by a 56-45 margin in the second and third quarters to take a seven-point edge into the final period. The Raptors would actually take a one-point advantage with 1:55 remaining, but Dallas finished on a 7-2 run to secure the victory.
Pascal Siakam led the Raptors with 20 points, complementing them with eight rebounds, three assists and three steals. OG Anunoby delivered 19 points, eight boards, two assists and three steals. Fred VanVleet generated an 18-point, 12-assist double-double that included two rebounds. Chris Boucher contributed 15 points, 12 boards and three steals. Precious Achiuwa and Scottie Barnes netted 12 and 11 points, respectively, while pulling down five rebounds each.
Luka Doncic paced the Mavericks with 41 points, supplementing them with 14 rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Kristaps Porzingis supplied 18 points, seven rebounds, two assists and one steal. Tim Hardaway registered 16 points, two boards and one assist. Dorian Finney-Smith finished with nine points, six rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The Raptors remain on the road and visit the Washington Wizards on Friday night, while the Mavericks remain home and host the Phoenix Suns on Thursday night.
The Raptors (21-21) were road underdogs against their hot-handed hosts coming in, but it was Toronto that emerged from the first quarter with a 31-27 lead. However, the Mavericks (26-19) would spring to life at that point, outscoring the visitors by a 56-45 margin in the second and third quarters to take a seven-point edge into the final period. The Raptors would actually take a one-point advantage with 1:55 remaining, but Dallas finished on a 7-2 run to secure the victory.
Pascal Siakam led the Raptors with 20 points, complementing them with eight rebounds, three assists and three steals. OG Anunoby delivered 19 points, eight boards, two assists and three steals. Fred VanVleet generated an 18-point, 12-assist double-double that included two rebounds. Chris Boucher contributed 15 points, 12 boards and three steals. Precious Achiuwa and Scottie Barnes netted 12 and 11 points, respectively, while pulling down five rebounds each.
Luka Doncic paced the Mavericks with 41 points, supplementing them with 14 rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Kristaps Porzingis supplied 18 points, seven rebounds, two assists and one steal. Tim Hardaway registered 16 points, two boards and one assist. Dorian Finney-Smith finished with nine points, six rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The Raptors remain on the road and visit the Washington Wizards on Friday night, while the Mavericks remain home and host the Phoenix Suns on Thursday night.
Spurs Blowout Thunder In San Antonio
By Dan Bruno
The San Antonio Spurs defeated the visiting Oklahoma City Thunder, 118-96, at AT&T Center on Wednesday evening.
The Spurs got out to a great start at home with a 10-point lead after one quarter. They stayed in control through the second and rallied to an 18-point advantage by halftime. The Thunder had no answers in the fourth, as the hosts charged ahead, adding another 10 points to their lead to make it a 28-point game heading into the fourth. The Spurs cruised the rest of the way to close out the home win, while this marks the third straight loss for the the Thunder.
Dejounte Murray led the way for the Spurs, with 23 points, 10 rebounds, 14 assists and three steals, in 30 minutes. Doug McDermott followed up with 20 points on 7-of-12 shooting, while Devin Vassell added 19 points, eight rebounds, two steals and two blocks, off the bench. The Spurs shot 49 percent from the field, including 15-of-40 from deep.
Meanwhile, Aaron Wiggins led the Thunder with 19 points, eight rebounds, a steal and a block, in 24 minutes. Luguentz Dort followed up with 15 points on 4-of-13 shooting, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander totaled 13 points, three rebounds, seven assists and two steals. The Thunder shot 39 percent from the field, including 8-of-31 from long range.
The Thunder (14-29) will look to bounce back as they take on the Hornets in Charlotte on Friday. The Spurs (17-28) play host to the Nets on Friday.
The Spurs got out to a great start at home with a 10-point lead after one quarter. They stayed in control through the second and rallied to an 18-point advantage by halftime. The Thunder had no answers in the fourth, as the hosts charged ahead, adding another 10 points to their lead to make it a 28-point game heading into the fourth. The Spurs cruised the rest of the way to close out the home win, while this marks the third straight loss for the the Thunder.
Dejounte Murray led the way for the Spurs, with 23 points, 10 rebounds, 14 assists and three steals, in 30 minutes. Doug McDermott followed up with 20 points on 7-of-12 shooting, while Devin Vassell added 19 points, eight rebounds, two steals and two blocks, off the bench. The Spurs shot 49 percent from the field, including 15-of-40 from deep.
Meanwhile, Aaron Wiggins led the Thunder with 19 points, eight rebounds, a steal and a block, in 24 minutes. Luguentz Dort followed up with 15 points on 4-of-13 shooting, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander totaled 13 points, three rebounds, seven assists and two steals. The Thunder shot 39 percent from the field, including 8-of-31 from long range.
The Thunder (14-29) will look to bounce back as they take on the Hornets in Charlotte on Friday. The Spurs (17-28) play host to the Nets on Friday.
Rockets Top Jazz For Second Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Houston Rockets defeated the host Utah Jazz, 116-111, at Vivint Arena on Wednesday evening.
The Rockets jumped out to a great start with a, 36-27, lead after one quarter. The Jazz responded in the second and outscored the visitors, 35-21, in the quarter, to take a five-point lead by halftime. The Rockets came out stronger again in the third and pushed ahead for a two-point edge heading into the final frame. Both teams picked up the pace in the fourth, but the Rockets kept the upper hand, as they held on to secure their second straight win. This marks the second consecutive loss for the Jazz.
Garrison Mathews led the Rockets with 23 points on 5-of-10 shooting, in 30 minutes, off the bench. Jae'Sean Tate followed up with 18 points, five rebounds and two assists, while Eric Gordon tallied 16 points on 6-of-10 shooting. The Rockets shot 43 percent from the field, but they were on fire from three-point range, as they shot 22-of-45 from deep.
Meanwhile, Bojan Bogdanovic led the Jazz with 29 points on 11-of-27 shooting, in 37 minutes. Rudy Gobert followed up with 23 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks, while Jordan Clarkson finished with 19 points, four rebounds, four assists and a block, off the bench. The Jazz shot 47 percent from the field, including 10-of-38 from long range.
The Jazz (29-16) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pistons on Friday. The Rockets (14-32) take on the Warriors in Golden State on Friday.
The Rockets jumped out to a great start with a, 36-27, lead after one quarter. The Jazz responded in the second and outscored the visitors, 35-21, in the quarter, to take a five-point lead by halftime. The Rockets came out stronger again in the third and pushed ahead for a two-point edge heading into the final frame. Both teams picked up the pace in the fourth, but the Rockets kept the upper hand, as they held on to secure their second straight win. This marks the second consecutive loss for the Jazz.
Garrison Mathews led the Rockets with 23 points on 5-of-10 shooting, in 30 minutes, off the bench. Jae'Sean Tate followed up with 18 points, five rebounds and two assists, while Eric Gordon tallied 16 points on 6-of-10 shooting. The Rockets shot 43 percent from the field, but they were on fire from three-point range, as they shot 22-of-45 from deep.
Meanwhile, Bojan Bogdanovic led the Jazz with 29 points on 11-of-27 shooting, in 37 minutes. Rudy Gobert followed up with 23 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks, while Jordan Clarkson finished with 19 points, four rebounds, four assists and a block, off the bench. The Jazz shot 47 percent from the field, including 10-of-38 from long range.
The Jazz (29-16) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Pistons on Friday. The Rockets (14-32) take on the Warriors in Golden State on Friday.
Nuggets Defeat Clippers in OT, 130-128
The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Los Angeles Clippers in overtime, 130-128, at Ball Arena on Wednesday.
There were 10 ties and 16 lead changes in this game, taking an overtime session to determine a winner. In fact, four of those came in the extra session, with Aaron Gordon knocking down a game-winning three with 2.2 seconds remaining. The Nuggets shot 21-of-25 from the free-throw line while holding the Clippers to 9-of-12. In addition, Denver outscored Los Angeles in fastbreak points, 24-11. The Nuggets starters really dominated the Clippers starters, outscoring them, 115-82.
The Clippers (22-24) got a career-high 32 points from Ivica Zubac, providing 10 rebounds and three assists on 15-of-19 from the field. Reggie Jackson registered 28 points, three rebounds and 12 assists. No other starter reached double figures in scoring. Brandon Boston led the bench with 16 points, four rebounds and two assists.
The Nuggets (23-20) were led by Nikola Jokic, tallying 49 points, 14 rebounds, 10 assists and three steals. Gordon amassed 28 points, four rebounds and three assists. Monte Morris accumulated 19 points, nine rebounds, nine assists and two steals. Jeff Green generated 12 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals.
Both teams return to action on Friday against tough teams, with Los Angeles traveling to face the Philadelphia 76ers and Denver staying home to play the Memphis Grizzlies.
There were 10 ties and 16 lead changes in this game, taking an overtime session to determine a winner. In fact, four of those came in the extra session, with Aaron Gordon knocking down a game-winning three with 2.2 seconds remaining. The Nuggets shot 21-of-25 from the free-throw line while holding the Clippers to 9-of-12. In addition, Denver outscored Los Angeles in fastbreak points, 24-11. The Nuggets starters really dominated the Clippers starters, outscoring them, 115-82.
The Clippers (22-24) got a career-high 32 points from Ivica Zubac, providing 10 rebounds and three assists on 15-of-19 from the field. Reggie Jackson registered 28 points, three rebounds and 12 assists. No other starter reached double figures in scoring. Brandon Boston led the bench with 16 points, four rebounds and two assists.
The Nuggets (23-20) were led by Nikola Jokic, tallying 49 points, 14 rebounds, 10 assists and three steals. Gordon amassed 28 points, four rebounds and three assists. Monte Morris accumulated 19 points, nine rebounds, nine assists and two steals. Jeff Green generated 12 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals.
Both teams return to action on Friday against tough teams, with Los Angeles traveling to face the Philadelphia 76ers and Denver staying home to play the Memphis Grizzlies.
Pistons Defeat Kings, 133-131
The Detroit Pistons defeated the host Sacramento Kings, 133-131, at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday.
There were 12 ties and 13 lead changes in this game, with neither team leading by more than 12 points. With that said, Sacramento led by 131-122 with 2:10 remaining but Detroit finished on an 11-0 run to complete their comeback. Free-throw shooting was critical, with the Pistons hitting 87 percent of theirs while the Kings connected on just 71 percent. In addition, Detroit out-assisted Sacramento, 27-22, while out-rebounding them, 41-35. They also outscored them in second-chance points, 24-16.
The Pistons (11-38) were led by Saddiq Bey and his 30 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Cory Joseph amassed 19 points, four rebounds and nine assists. Cade Cuningham had 13 points in 20 foul-riddled minutes. Kelly Olynyk led the bench with 22 points, nine rebounds and five assists.
The Kings (18-29) were led by Terence Davis, scoring a career-high 35 points to go along with six rebounds and three assists. De'Aaron Fox accrued 27 points, six rebounds and eight assists. Harrison Barnes generated 20 points and two rebounds, while Marvin Bagley totaled 17 points and nine rebounds. Davion Mitchell led the bench with 13 points and four assists.
On deck for Detroit, they travel to face the Utah Jazz on Friday. As for Sacramento, they return to action on Saturday in a road matchup with the Milwaukee Bucks.
There were 12 ties and 13 lead changes in this game, with neither team leading by more than 12 points. With that said, Sacramento led by 131-122 with 2:10 remaining but Detroit finished on an 11-0 run to complete their comeback. Free-throw shooting was critical, with the Pistons hitting 87 percent of theirs while the Kings connected on just 71 percent. In addition, Detroit out-assisted Sacramento, 27-22, while out-rebounding them, 41-35. They also outscored them in second-chance points, 24-16.
The Pistons (11-38) were led by Saddiq Bey and his 30 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Cory Joseph amassed 19 points, four rebounds and nine assists. Cade Cuningham had 13 points in 20 foul-riddled minutes. Kelly Olynyk led the bench with 22 points, nine rebounds and five assists.
The Kings (18-29) were led by Terence Davis, scoring a career-high 35 points to go along with six rebounds and three assists. De'Aaron Fox accrued 27 points, six rebounds and eight assists. Harrison Barnes generated 20 points and two rebounds, while Marvin Bagley totaled 17 points and nine rebounds. Davion Mitchell led the bench with 13 points and four assists.
On deck for Detroit, they travel to face the Utah Jazz on Friday. As for Sacramento, they return to action on Saturday in a road matchup with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Pacers Defeat Lakers, 111-104
The Indiana Pacers defeated the host Los Angeles Lakers, 111-104, at Crypto Center on Wednesday.
While Los Angeles led 32-23 after the first quarter, Indiana outscored them in each of the final three quarters, riding a 35-24 fourth quarter to their comeback win. They actually grabbed their first lead late in the third quarter and got their lead up to 11 points late in the final frame. The Pacers shot 49 percent from the field and 37 percent from three-point range while holding the Lakers to 44 percent from the field and 32 percent from long range. In addition, Indiana out-rebounded Los Angeles, 48-40, while out-assisting them, 28-23.
The Pacers (16-29) were led by Caris LeVert and his 30 points, eight rebounds and two assists on 12-of-16 from the field. Domantas Sabonis amassed 20 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Malcolm Brogdon accrued 19 points, four rebounds and six assists. Torrey Craig totaled five points, 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
The Lakers (22-23) were led by LeBron James, tallying 30 points, 12 rebounds, five assists and two steals. Russell Westbrook registered 14 points, two rebounds and three assists. The other three starters combined for 10 points. Talen Horton-Tucker led the bench with 20 points, two rebounds, seven assists and two steals while Carmelo Anthony had 14 points, seven rebounds and two blocks.
On deck for Los Angeles is a road matchup with the Orlando Magic on Friday. As for Indiana, they return to action on Thursday in a road matchup with the Golden State Warriors.
While Los Angeles led 32-23 after the first quarter, Indiana outscored them in each of the final three quarters, riding a 35-24 fourth quarter to their comeback win. They actually grabbed their first lead late in the third quarter and got their lead up to 11 points late in the final frame. The Pacers shot 49 percent from the field and 37 percent from three-point range while holding the Lakers to 44 percent from the field and 32 percent from long range. In addition, Indiana out-rebounded Los Angeles, 48-40, while out-assisting them, 28-23.
The Pacers (16-29) were led by Caris LeVert and his 30 points, eight rebounds and two assists on 12-of-16 from the field. Domantas Sabonis amassed 20 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Malcolm Brogdon accrued 19 points, four rebounds and six assists. Torrey Craig totaled five points, 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
The Lakers (22-23) were led by LeBron James, tallying 30 points, 12 rebounds, five assists and two steals. Russell Westbrook registered 14 points, two rebounds and three assists. The other three starters combined for 10 points. Talen Horton-Tucker led the bench with 20 points, two rebounds, seven assists and two steals while Carmelo Anthony had 14 points, seven rebounds and two blocks.
On deck for Los Angeles is a road matchup with the Orlando Magic on Friday. As for Indiana, they return to action on Thursday in a road matchup with the Golden State Warriors.