76ers take care of Magic, 125-113
The Philadelphia 76ers took down the Orlando Magic, 125-113, at Wells Fargo Center on Friday night.
The Magic (46-35) held their only lead of the game in the first quarter, but the 76ers (46-35) won the frame by 13 points. Orlando reduced the deficit in the second quarter to enter halftime down by seven points. Philadelphia took control in the second half, regaining their double-digit lead and pushed their cushion by as much as 17 points. While the Magic kept up in scoring in the fourth quarter, the lead was too much to overcome as they dropped to 18-23 on the road, while the 76ers improved to 24-16 at home.
Franz Wagner led the Magic with 23 points, six rebounds and three assists. Paolo Banchero recorded his 15th double-double of the season with 22 points, 15 rebounds and seven assists. Jalen Suggs added 20 points, four rebounds and two assists, while Moritz Wagner led the bench with 17 points, six rebounds and two assists.
Joel Embiid led the 76ers with 32 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists for his 30th double-double of the season. Tyrese Maxey contributed 28 points, two rebounds and three assists, while Kelly Oubre supplied 21 points, nine rebounds and two assists. Tobias Harris added 14 points, six rebounds, three assists, two blocks and two steals.
Both teams will wrap up their regular season schedules Sunday. The Magic host the Milwaukee Bucks, while the 76ers welcome in the Brooklyn Nets.
The Magic (46-35) held their only lead of the game in the first quarter, but the 76ers (46-35) won the frame by 13 points. Orlando reduced the deficit in the second quarter to enter halftime down by seven points. Philadelphia took control in the second half, regaining their double-digit lead and pushed their cushion by as much as 17 points. While the Magic kept up in scoring in the fourth quarter, the lead was too much to overcome as they dropped to 18-23 on the road, while the 76ers improved to 24-16 at home.
Franz Wagner led the Magic with 23 points, six rebounds and three assists. Paolo Banchero recorded his 15th double-double of the season with 22 points, 15 rebounds and seven assists. Jalen Suggs added 20 points, four rebounds and two assists, while Moritz Wagner led the bench with 17 points, six rebounds and two assists.
Joel Embiid led the 76ers with 32 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists for his 30th double-double of the season. Tyrese Maxey contributed 28 points, two rebounds and three assists, while Kelly Oubre supplied 21 points, nine rebounds and two assists. Tobias Harris added 14 points, six rebounds, three assists, two blocks and two steals.
Both teams will wrap up their regular season schedules Sunday. The Magic host the Milwaukee Bucks, while the 76ers welcome in the Brooklyn Nets.
Bulls outlast Wizards in Friday thriller
The Chicago Bulls survived the Washington Wizards, 129-127, at Capital One Arena on Friday night.
It was the home team Wizards (15-66) who got off to a strong start Friday, as they led by as much as 16 points in the first quarter. The Bulls (39-42) clawed the deficit to single digits and ended up winning the second frame, 32-22, to enter halftime up by three points. The teams exchanged buckets for much of the second half, with neither squad holding a large advantage over the other. Chicago was up by five with 37 seconds left, but Washington got the score within one point on a Corey Kispert three-point make. The Wizards had a chance to win the game, but Kispert missed a layup in the dying seconds as the Bulls came away with the win. Chicago improved to 19-21 on the road following Friday’s victory, while Washington dropped to 7-34 at home.
Javonte Green led the Bulls with 24 points, seven rebounds and two steals. Adama Sanoga led the bench with 22 points and a career-high 20 rebounds for his first double-double of the season. Jevon Carter added 20 points, two rebounds and 12 assists in reserve for his first double-double of the year. Coby White added 20 points, four rebounds and four assists, while Dalen Terry totaled 17 points, four rebounds, eight assists and two blocks.
Devi Avdija registered his 18th double-double of the season with 23 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists. Kispert added 23 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Patrick Baldwin acquired his second double-double of the season with 19 points, 12 rebounds and four assists. Tristan Vukcevic compiled 19 points, while Johnny Davis tallied 15 points, two rebounds and two assists.
Both teams will wrap up their regular-season schedules Sunday. The Bulls head to New York to take on the Knicks, while the Wizards visit the Boston Celtics.
It was the home team Wizards (15-66) who got off to a strong start Friday, as they led by as much as 16 points in the first quarter. The Bulls (39-42) clawed the deficit to single digits and ended up winning the second frame, 32-22, to enter halftime up by three points. The teams exchanged buckets for much of the second half, with neither squad holding a large advantage over the other. Chicago was up by five with 37 seconds left, but Washington got the score within one point on a Corey Kispert three-point make. The Wizards had a chance to win the game, but Kispert missed a layup in the dying seconds as the Bulls came away with the win. Chicago improved to 19-21 on the road following Friday’s victory, while Washington dropped to 7-34 at home.
Javonte Green led the Bulls with 24 points, seven rebounds and two steals. Adama Sanoga led the bench with 22 points and a career-high 20 rebounds for his first double-double of the season. Jevon Carter added 20 points, two rebounds and 12 assists in reserve for his first double-double of the year. Coby White added 20 points, four rebounds and four assists, while Dalen Terry totaled 17 points, four rebounds, eight assists and two blocks.
Devi Avdija registered his 18th double-double of the season with 23 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists. Kispert added 23 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Patrick Baldwin acquired his second double-double of the season with 19 points, 12 rebounds and four assists. Tristan Vukcevic compiled 19 points, while Johnny Davis tallied 15 points, two rebounds and two assists.
Both teams will wrap up their regular-season schedules Sunday. The Bulls head to New York to take on the Knicks, while the Wizards visit the Boston Celtics.
Celtics Rout Hornets Despite Missing Starters
The Boston Celtics defeated the Charlotte Hornets, 131-98, at TD Garden on Friday.
The Celtics (63-18) bounced back after two losses and destroyed the Hornets (20-61) despite resting their “six” starters for this one. Boston was keen to turn things around after the recent losses and quickly raced to a 30-24 lead in the first quarter. However, they’d pull away for good and never look back in the second quarter after a 39-19 score, building a 26-point advantage at the break. Even though the Hornets won the third quarter by a 33-25 score, it was not enough to sniff a comeback. The Celtics would close things out with ease following a 37-22 score in the final 12 minutes. With the win, the Celtics moved to 36-4 at home, while the Hornets fell to 9-31 on the road.
Payton Pritchard led the Celtics with 31 points and 11 assists. Luke Kornet posted 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Sam Hauser also added 16 points while grabbing four boards and dishing out two assists. Jaden Springer recorded 11 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals. Neemias Queta posted 16 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals off the bench. The Celtics shot 51.9 percent from the field and 34.1 percent from three-point range in this win.
Tre Mann was the only Charlotte starter to score in double digits Friday, notching 19 points, eight assists and three rebounds. Brandon Miller had nine points over 14 minutes, Vasilije Micic notched five points and three assists across 16 minutes, and Miles Bridges chipped in with four points in just 15 minutes. Nick Smith Jr. had 15 points off the bench. The Hornets shot 42.1 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from deep.
The Celtics (63-18) bounced back after two losses and destroyed the Hornets (20-61) despite resting their “six” starters for this one. Boston was keen to turn things around after the recent losses and quickly raced to a 30-24 lead in the first quarter. However, they’d pull away for good and never look back in the second quarter after a 39-19 score, building a 26-point advantage at the break. Even though the Hornets won the third quarter by a 33-25 score, it was not enough to sniff a comeback. The Celtics would close things out with ease following a 37-22 score in the final 12 minutes. With the win, the Celtics moved to 36-4 at home, while the Hornets fell to 9-31 on the road.
Payton Pritchard led the Celtics with 31 points and 11 assists. Luke Kornet posted 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Sam Hauser also added 16 points while grabbing four boards and dishing out two assists. Jaden Springer recorded 11 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals. Neemias Queta posted 16 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals off the bench. The Celtics shot 51.9 percent from the field and 34.1 percent from three-point range in this win.
Tre Mann was the only Charlotte starter to score in double digits Friday, notching 19 points, eight assists and three rebounds. Brandon Miller had nine points over 14 minutes, Vasilije Micic notched five points and three assists across 16 minutes, and Miles Bridges chipped in with four points in just 15 minutes. Nick Smith Jr. had 15 points off the bench. The Hornets shot 42.1 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from deep.
Cavaliers Top Pacers In Tight Contest
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Indiana Pacers, 129-120, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Friday.
The Cavaliers (48-33) defeated the Pacers (46-35) in a huge matchup in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Cleveland looked far more comfortable in the support of nearly 20,000 fans in attendance and raced to a 35-26 lead in the first quarter, quickly setting the tone of the contest. The Cavs bolstered their advantage to double digits following a 35-33 score in the second quarter. Indiana responded with a 35-27 score in the third quarter, and the difference was just three points entering the final 12 minutes of action. However, the Pacers couldn’t keep the momentum down the stretch, and the Cavs responded by icing the game out. Cleveland won the final 12 minutes by a 32-26 score to secure the victory. With the win, the Cavaliers clinched a playoff berth officially and sit in fourth place in the East, while the Pacers will learn their seeding on the final day of the regular season Sunday.
Donovan Mitchell had 33 points, five assists, four rebounds and four steals for the Cavaliers. Jarrett Allen posted 29 points, 13 rebounds and three assists. Darius Garland notched 16 points, four assists and two boards. Evan Mobley had 12 points and five boards. Caris LeVert delivered 16 points coming off the bench. The Cavaliers shot 52.6 percent from the field and 40.6 percent from deep.
Tyrese Haliburton was the best player for the Pacers with 19 points, 12 assists and six rebounds. Myles Turner recorded 17 points, six rebounds and five assists. Pascal Siakam posted 19 points and six rebounds. Aaron Nesmith delivered 15 points and six boards. Andrew Nembhard had 10 points and five assists. T.J. McConnell added 16 points off the bench. The Pacers shot 51.7 percent from the field and 28.1 percent from deep.
The Cavaliers (48-33) defeated the Pacers (46-35) in a huge matchup in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Cleveland looked far more comfortable in the support of nearly 20,000 fans in attendance and raced to a 35-26 lead in the first quarter, quickly setting the tone of the contest. The Cavs bolstered their advantage to double digits following a 35-33 score in the second quarter. Indiana responded with a 35-27 score in the third quarter, and the difference was just three points entering the final 12 minutes of action. However, the Pacers couldn’t keep the momentum down the stretch, and the Cavs responded by icing the game out. Cleveland won the final 12 minutes by a 32-26 score to secure the victory. With the win, the Cavaliers clinched a playoff berth officially and sit in fourth place in the East, while the Pacers will learn their seeding on the final day of the regular season Sunday.
Donovan Mitchell had 33 points, five assists, four rebounds and four steals for the Cavaliers. Jarrett Allen posted 29 points, 13 rebounds and three assists. Darius Garland notched 16 points, four assists and two boards. Evan Mobley had 12 points and five boards. Caris LeVert delivered 16 points coming off the bench. The Cavaliers shot 52.6 percent from the field and 40.6 percent from deep.
Tyrese Haliburton was the best player for the Pacers with 19 points, 12 assists and six rebounds. Myles Turner recorded 17 points, six rebounds and five assists. Pascal Siakam posted 19 points and six rebounds. Aaron Nesmith delivered 15 points and six boards. Andrew Nembhard had 10 points and five assists. T.J. McConnell added 16 points off the bench. The Pacers shot 51.7 percent from the field and 28.1 percent from deep.
Knicks Overcome Slow Start To Defeat Nets
The New York Knicks defeated the Brooklyn Nets, 111-107, at Madison Square Garden on Friday.
The Knicks (49-32) remain alive in the race for the second seed in the Eastern Conference with Friday’s win over the Nets (32-49) and the Bucks’ loss to the Thunder. New York endured a slow start, however, as the Nets jumped to an early 30-14 lead following the first quarter. The Knicks showed signs of life in the second quarter after a 40-33 score in the second quarter, but they’d flip the tables following a 30-13 score in the third quarter. The Nets tried to respond in the fourth quarter with a 31-27 score in the fourth, but this back-and-forth contest ended up going the Knicks’ way. The Knicks will decide their playoff seeding Sunday in the final game of the season, whereas the Nets are already eliminated from playoff contention.
Jalen Brunson paced the Knicks with 30 points and 11 assists. Josh Hart had 16 points, seven rebounds and three steals. OG Anunoby added 15 points, while Donte DiVincenzo delivered 14 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Mitchell Robinson contributed 15 points and eight rebounds off the bench. The Knicks shot 45.8 percent from the field and 46.7 percent from three-point range.
Cam Thomas posted 41 points and six assists to lead the Nets. Nic Claxton scored nine points but added 12 rebounds and two blocks. Trendon Watford recorded 17 points and 13 rebounds in a spot start. Lonnie Walker IV posted 15 points and four rebounds coming off the bench. The Nets shot 50 percent from the field and 34.4 percent from three-point range.
The Knicks (49-32) remain alive in the race for the second seed in the Eastern Conference with Friday’s win over the Nets (32-49) and the Bucks’ loss to the Thunder. New York endured a slow start, however, as the Nets jumped to an early 30-14 lead following the first quarter. The Knicks showed signs of life in the second quarter after a 40-33 score in the second quarter, but they’d flip the tables following a 30-13 score in the third quarter. The Nets tried to respond in the fourth quarter with a 31-27 score in the fourth, but this back-and-forth contest ended up going the Knicks’ way. The Knicks will decide their playoff seeding Sunday in the final game of the season, whereas the Nets are already eliminated from playoff contention.
Jalen Brunson paced the Knicks with 30 points and 11 assists. Josh Hart had 16 points, seven rebounds and three steals. OG Anunoby added 15 points, while Donte DiVincenzo delivered 14 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Mitchell Robinson contributed 15 points and eight rebounds off the bench. The Knicks shot 45.8 percent from the field and 46.7 percent from three-point range.
Cam Thomas posted 41 points and six assists to lead the Nets. Nic Claxton scored nine points but added 12 rebounds and two blocks. Trendon Watford recorded 17 points and 13 rebounds in a spot start. Lonnie Walker IV posted 15 points and four rebounds coming off the bench. The Nets shot 50 percent from the field and 34.4 percent from three-point range.
Heat Handles Raptors, 125-103
The Miami Heat defeated the Toronto Raptors, 125-103, at Kaseya Center on Friday night.
The Heat (45-36) came in looking to optimize their postseason positioning, and the difference between their incentive and that of the Raptors' (25-56) was evident early when Miami jumped out to a 66-50 halftime lead. Any thoughts of a second-half resurgence for Toronto was essentially wiped out when the hosts added another point to their advantage in the third quarter on the way to an easy victory.
RJ Barrett led the Raptors with 35 points, complementing them with 11 rebounds and three assists. Immanuel Quickley furnished 15 points, five assists and four rebounds. Bruce Brown delivered 14 points, four boards and four assists.
Nikola Jovic paced the Heat with 22 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, two assists and one steal. Jaime Jaquez supplied 20 points, nine assists, four rebounds, two steals and one block. Bam Adebayo managed 19 points, six rebounds and three assists. Tyler Herro registered 17 points, five assists and three rebounds. Jimmy Butler turned in 14 points, seven assists and three rebounds. Kevin Love matched Butler's scoring and added eight boards, two assists and one steal.
The two teams reconvene for a rematch in the regular-season finale Sunday afternoon at Kaseya Center.
The Heat (45-36) came in looking to optimize their postseason positioning, and the difference between their incentive and that of the Raptors' (25-56) was evident early when Miami jumped out to a 66-50 halftime lead. Any thoughts of a second-half resurgence for Toronto was essentially wiped out when the hosts added another point to their advantage in the third quarter on the way to an easy victory.
RJ Barrett led the Raptors with 35 points, complementing them with 11 rebounds and three assists. Immanuel Quickley furnished 15 points, five assists and four rebounds. Bruce Brown delivered 14 points, four boards and four assists.
Nikola Jovic paced the Heat with 22 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, two assists and one steal. Jaime Jaquez supplied 20 points, nine assists, four rebounds, two steals and one block. Bam Adebayo managed 19 points, six rebounds and three assists. Tyler Herro registered 17 points, five assists and three rebounds. Jimmy Butler turned in 14 points, seven assists and three rebounds. Kevin Love matched Butler's scoring and added eight boards, two assists and one steal.
The two teams reconvene for a rematch in the regular-season finale Sunday afternoon at Kaseya Center.
Timberwolves Edge Hawks, 109-106
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Atlanta Hawks, 109-106, at Target Center on Friday night.
The Timberwolves (56-25) came into the night looking to keep their hopes for a No. 1 seed in the Western Conference alive, knowing they'd have to record a victory. However, matters didn't get off to an encouraging start in that regard Friday, as the Hawks (36-45) emerged from the first quarter with a 27-25 lead. Minnesota roared back in the second to wipe out its deficit altogether and build a nine-point halftime advantage, but Atlanta managed to knot the score up again during the third quarter. Ultimately, after the visitors got to within one with 21.1 seconds remaining, a pair of free throws apiece from Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert sealed the close victory for the hosts.
Trae Young led the Hawks with 19 points, supplementing them with seven assists, two rebounds and one steal. Bogdan Bogdanovic furnished 17 points, two boards and two assists. De'Andre Hunter delivered 15 points, two rebounds and one assist. Bruno Fernando supplied 14 points, five rebounds and two assists. Clint Capela generated a 13-point, 11-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block. Dejounte Murray finished with 12 points, five boards and four assists.
Rudy Gobert paced the Timberwolves with a 25-point, 19-rebound double-double that included five blocks and one steal. Naz Reid recorded 19 points, three rebounds, two assists and one block. Edwards totaled 14 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Mike Conley posted 13 points, 10 assists, six rebounds and two steals. Nickeil Alexander-Walker netted 12 points, while the returning Karl-Anthony Towns and Jaden McDaniels contributed 11 points apiece. Towns added eight assists, five rebounds and one block.
The Hawks close out the regular season on the road against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday afternoon, while the Timberwolves host the Phoenix Suns in their regular-season finale on Sunday afternoon as well.
The Timberwolves (56-25) came into the night looking to keep their hopes for a No. 1 seed in the Western Conference alive, knowing they'd have to record a victory. However, matters didn't get off to an encouraging start in that regard Friday, as the Hawks (36-45) emerged from the first quarter with a 27-25 lead. Minnesota roared back in the second to wipe out its deficit altogether and build a nine-point halftime advantage, but Atlanta managed to knot the score up again during the third quarter. Ultimately, after the visitors got to within one with 21.1 seconds remaining, a pair of free throws apiece from Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert sealed the close victory for the hosts.
Trae Young led the Hawks with 19 points, supplementing them with seven assists, two rebounds and one steal. Bogdan Bogdanovic furnished 17 points, two boards and two assists. De'Andre Hunter delivered 15 points, two rebounds and one assist. Bruno Fernando supplied 14 points, five rebounds and two assists. Clint Capela generated a 13-point, 11-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block. Dejounte Murray finished with 12 points, five boards and four assists.
Rudy Gobert paced the Timberwolves with a 25-point, 19-rebound double-double that included five blocks and one steal. Naz Reid recorded 19 points, three rebounds, two assists and one block. Edwards totaled 14 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Mike Conley posted 13 points, 10 assists, six rebounds and two steals. Nickeil Alexander-Walker netted 12 points, while the returning Karl-Anthony Towns and Jaden McDaniels contributed 11 points apiece. Towns added eight assists, five rebounds and one block.
The Hawks close out the regular season on the road against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday afternoon, while the Timberwolves host the Phoenix Suns in their regular-season finale on Sunday afternoon as well.
Spurs Shock Nuggets, 121-120
The San Antonio Spurs defeated the Denver Nuggets, 121-120, at Frost Bank Center on Friday night.
The Nuggets (56-25) came into the night knowing they needed to simply win to keep their grip on the top seed in the Western Conference, which makes the ultimate outcome of the game all the more surprising. There were early signs the Spurs (21-60) had come to play when San Antonio forged a 32-31 lead through one, but Denver appeared to regain firm control during a second quarter in which they outscored their hosts by a 37-18 margin. The Spurs made only a five-point dent in their deficit during the third, and the defending champions opened their edge back out to 17 points with just above 10 minutes left in the final period. However, Gregg Popovich's club would finish the game on a jaw-dropping 31-13 run over the final 9:35, capping off the comeback victory with a Devonte' Graham five-foot floating jumper with 0.2 seconds left.
Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 35 points, complementing them with five rebounds, four assists and one steal. Nikola Jokic generated a 22-point, 12-assist double-double that included seven rebounds, two steals and one block. Michael Porter Jr. registered 14 points and three rebounds. Aaron Gordon supplied 13 points, four boards, four assists and one steal. Christian Braun furnished 11 points, three rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
Victor Wembanyama paced the Spurs with a 34-point, 12-rebound double-double that included five assists, two blocks and one steal. Sandro Mamukelashvili turned in a 21-point, 12-rebound double-double that included two assists and one block. Zach Collins posted 15 points, six rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Tre Jones and Justin Champagnie produced matching 14-point efforts while tallying 10 assists and five rebounds, respectively. Graham recorded 11 points, five assists and four rebounds.
The Nuggets close out the regular season with a visit to the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday afternoon, while the Spurs host the Pistons in their finale on Sunday afternoon as well.
The Nuggets (56-25) came into the night knowing they needed to simply win to keep their grip on the top seed in the Western Conference, which makes the ultimate outcome of the game all the more surprising. There were early signs the Spurs (21-60) had come to play when San Antonio forged a 32-31 lead through one, but Denver appeared to regain firm control during a second quarter in which they outscored their hosts by a 37-18 margin. The Spurs made only a five-point dent in their deficit during the third, and the defending champions opened their edge back out to 17 points with just above 10 minutes left in the final period. However, Gregg Popovich's club would finish the game on a jaw-dropping 31-13 run over the final 9:35, capping off the comeback victory with a Devonte' Graham five-foot floating jumper with 0.2 seconds left.
Jamal Murray led the Nuggets with 35 points, complementing them with five rebounds, four assists and one steal. Nikola Jokic generated a 22-point, 12-assist double-double that included seven rebounds, two steals and one block. Michael Porter Jr. registered 14 points and three rebounds. Aaron Gordon supplied 13 points, four boards, four assists and one steal. Christian Braun furnished 11 points, three rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
Victor Wembanyama paced the Spurs with a 34-point, 12-rebound double-double that included five assists, two blocks and one steal. Sandro Mamukelashvili turned in a 21-point, 12-rebound double-double that included two assists and one block. Zach Collins posted 15 points, six rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Tre Jones and Justin Champagnie produced matching 14-point efforts while tallying 10 assists and five rebounds, respectively. Graham recorded 11 points, five assists and four rebounds.
The Nuggets close out the regular season with a visit to the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday afternoon, while the Spurs host the Pistons in their finale on Sunday afternoon as well.
Thunder Lock In Fourth Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the visiting Milwaukee Bucks, 125-107, at Paycom Center on Friday evening.
The Thunder took advantage as the Bucks were without Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) and Damian Lillard (groin), as they jumped out to a strong start and led, 41-34, after one quarter. The hosts kept the pressure on and added another 10 points to their advantage, taking a 17-point cushion into the break. The Bucks picked up their play in the third but could only trim it to a 12-point difference entering the final quarter. The Thunder reclaimed control in the fourth and confidently closed out their fourth straight win.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 23 points, seven rebounds, three assists and a block, in 29 minutes. Chet Holmgren followed up with 22 points, nine rebounds, three assists, a steal and three blocks, while Jalen Williams logged 17 points, two rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton totaled 18 points each to lead the Bucks. Malik Beasley added 17 points, two rebounds and two assists, while Bobby Portis finished with four points, eight rebounds, three assists and a blocks.
The Bucks (49-32) will look to bounce back as they take on the Magic in Orlando on Sunday. The Thunder (56-25) play host to the Mavs on Sunday.
The Thunder took advantage as the Bucks were without Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) and Damian Lillard (groin), as they jumped out to a strong start and led, 41-34, after one quarter. The hosts kept the pressure on and added another 10 points to their advantage, taking a 17-point cushion into the break. The Bucks picked up their play in the third but could only trim it to a 12-point difference entering the final quarter. The Thunder reclaimed control in the fourth and confidently closed out their fourth straight win.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 23 points, seven rebounds, three assists and a block, in 29 minutes. Chet Holmgren followed up with 22 points, nine rebounds, three assists, a steal and three blocks, while Jalen Williams logged 17 points, two rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton totaled 18 points each to lead the Bucks. Malik Beasley added 17 points, two rebounds and two assists, while Bobby Portis finished with four points, eight rebounds, three assists and a blocks.
The Bucks (49-32) will look to bounce back as they take on the Magic in Orlando on Sunday. The Thunder (56-25) play host to the Mavs on Sunday.
Lakers Hold Off Grizzlies In Memphis
By Dan Bruno
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the host Memphis Grizzlies, 123-120, at FedEx Forum on Friday evening.
The game got out to a competitive start, before the Lakers rallied to take an eight-point lead into the second. The visitors stayed in front through most of the quarter, but the Grizzlies closed the half on a, 12-8, run to cut it to a four-point game at the break. The hosts kept up the fight in the third and after a couple of lead changes, the Lakers held on to a one-point edge entering the final frame. The Lakers took control again in the fourth and came up clutch in the final minutes to fend off a comeback attempt by the Grizzlies. This marks the end of a two-game slide for the Lakers, and the fourth straight loss for the Grizzlies.
LeBron James led the Lakers with 37 points, nine rebounds, five assists and two steals, in 41 minutes. Anthony Davis followed up with 36 points, 14 rebounds, five assists, a steal and two blocks, while D'Angelo Russell totaled four points, three rebounds, 10 assists, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, GG Jackson led the Grizzlies with 31 points on 12-for-23 shooting, in 40 minutes. Scotty Pippen and Jake LaRavia poured in 28 points each, while Jordan Goodwin logged 23 points, 17 rebounds, three assists and four steals.
The Grizzlies (27-54) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Nuggets on Sunday. The Lakers (46-35) take on the Pelicans in New Orleans on Sunday.
The game got out to a competitive start, before the Lakers rallied to take an eight-point lead into the second. The visitors stayed in front through most of the quarter, but the Grizzlies closed the half on a, 12-8, run to cut it to a four-point game at the break. The hosts kept up the fight in the third and after a couple of lead changes, the Lakers held on to a one-point edge entering the final frame. The Lakers took control again in the fourth and came up clutch in the final minutes to fend off a comeback attempt by the Grizzlies. This marks the end of a two-game slide for the Lakers, and the fourth straight loss for the Grizzlies.
LeBron James led the Lakers with 37 points, nine rebounds, five assists and two steals, in 41 minutes. Anthony Davis followed up with 36 points, 14 rebounds, five assists, a steal and two blocks, while D'Angelo Russell totaled four points, three rebounds, 10 assists, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, GG Jackson led the Grizzlies with 31 points on 12-for-23 shooting, in 40 minutes. Scotty Pippen and Jake LaRavia poured in 28 points each, while Jordan Goodwin logged 23 points, 17 rebounds, three assists and four steals.
The Grizzlies (27-54) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Nuggets on Sunday. The Lakers (46-35) take on the Pelicans in New Orleans on Sunday.
Pistons Topple Shorthanded Mavs
By Dan Bruno
The Detroit Pistons defeated the host Dallas Mavericks, 107-89, at American Airlines Center on Friday evening.
In the absence of Luka Doncic (ankle) and Kyrie Irving (hamstring), the Pistons got out to a strong start and led, 27-21, after one quarter. The Mavs rallied to a brief lead in the second, but the visitors reclaimed momentum and took a seven-point lead into the break. The visitors kept the pressure on in the third and pushed their advantage up to 12 points, entering the final frame. The Mavs had no answers in the fourth, while the Pistons charged to the road win, ending a six-game slide. This also marks the end of a five-game win streak for the Mavericks.
Marcus Sasser led the Pistons with 24 points, three rebounds, three assists and a steal, in 32 minutes. Chimezie Metu followed up with 18 points, eight rebounds, two assists and two steals, while James Wiseman logged 10 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
Meanwhile, Jaden Hardy led the Mavericks with 25 points, seven rebounds, two assists and a steal, in 29 minutes off the bench. Olivier-Maxence Prosper followed up with 16 points, six rebounds, two steals and a block, while P.J. Washington added nine points, three rebounds and a steal.
The Mavs (50-31) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Thunder in OKC on Sunday. The Pistons (14-67) take on the Spurs in San Antonio on Sunday.
In the absence of Luka Doncic (ankle) and Kyrie Irving (hamstring), the Pistons got out to a strong start and led, 27-21, after one quarter. The Mavs rallied to a brief lead in the second, but the visitors reclaimed momentum and took a seven-point lead into the break. The visitors kept the pressure on in the third and pushed their advantage up to 12 points, entering the final frame. The Mavs had no answers in the fourth, while the Pistons charged to the road win, ending a six-game slide. This also marks the end of a five-game win streak for the Mavericks.
Marcus Sasser led the Pistons with 24 points, three rebounds, three assists and a steal, in 32 minutes. Chimezie Metu followed up with 18 points, eight rebounds, two assists and two steals, while James Wiseman logged 10 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
Meanwhile, Jaden Hardy led the Mavericks with 25 points, seven rebounds, two assists and a steal, in 29 minutes off the bench. Olivier-Maxence Prosper followed up with 16 points, six rebounds, two steals and a block, while P.J. Washington added nine points, three rebounds and a steal.
The Mavs (50-31) will look to bounce back as they clash with the Thunder in OKC on Sunday. The Pistons (14-67) take on the Spurs in San Antonio on Sunday.
Pelicans Hang On In Golden State
By Dan Bruno
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the host Golden State Warriors, 114-109, at Chase Center on Friday evening.
The Warriors got out to a strong start and led by nine points after one quarter. The Pelicans turned their play up a couple notches in the second and outscored the hosts, 45-22, to claim a 14-point lead at the break. Both sides came out evenly matched in the third, as the visitors maintained a 13-point cushion entering the final frame. The Warriors continued to fight and cut it down to a three-point game, but the Pelicans kept the upper hand and closed out their fourth straight win. This also marks the end of a three-game win streak for the Warriors.
CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 28 points, five rebounds, five assists and two blocks, in 38 minutes. Zion Williamson followed up with 26 points, three rebounds, three assists, six steals and a block, while Trey Murphy logged 24 points, eight rebounds, two assists and a steal.
Meanwhile, Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 33 points, four rebounds, five assists and a steal, in 32 minutes. Klay Thompson followed up with 19 points, six rebounds, a steal and two blocks, while Andrew Wiggins turned in 18 points and four rebounds.
The Warriors (45-36) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Jazz on Sunday. The Pelicans (49-32) play host to the Lakers on Sunday.
The Warriors got out to a strong start and led by nine points after one quarter. The Pelicans turned their play up a couple notches in the second and outscored the hosts, 45-22, to claim a 14-point lead at the break. Both sides came out evenly matched in the third, as the visitors maintained a 13-point cushion entering the final frame. The Warriors continued to fight and cut it down to a three-point game, but the Pelicans kept the upper hand and closed out their fourth straight win. This also marks the end of a three-game win streak for the Warriors.
CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 28 points, five rebounds, five assists and two blocks, in 38 minutes. Zion Williamson followed up with 26 points, three rebounds, three assists, six steals and a block, while Trey Murphy logged 24 points, eight rebounds, two assists and a steal.
Meanwhile, Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 33 points, four rebounds, five assists and a steal, in 32 minutes. Klay Thompson followed up with 19 points, six rebounds, a steal and two blocks, while Andrew Wiggins turned in 18 points and four rebounds.
The Warriors (45-36) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Jazz on Sunday. The Pelicans (49-32) play host to the Lakers on Sunday.
Rockets Defeat Blazers, 116-107
The Houston Rockets defeated the host Portland Trail Blazers, 116-107, at Moda Center on Friday.
The only lead change in this game was early in the second quarter, with Houston outscoring Portland in that frame, 31-16. They never relinquished the lead after that lopsided quarter, leading by at least seven points for the closing 30 minutes. The Rockets shot 48 percent from the field and 85 percent from the free-throw line, while the Trail Blazers shot 39 percent from the field and 72 percent from the charity stripe. Houston also outscored Portland in the paint, 48-40.
The Rockets (40-41) were led by Jalen Green, generating 26 points and nine rebounds. Jock Landale amassed 20 points, four rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Amen Thompson totaled 17 points, 15 rebounds and six assists, while Aaron Holiday led the bench with 18 points, two rebounds and two assists.
The Trail Blazers (21-60) were led by Scoot Henderson, finishing with 30 points, five rebounds and seven assists. Kris Murray generated 10 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Dalano Banton led the bench with 28 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Jabari Walker and Deandre Ayton both left with injuries.
Both of these teams will close their season on Sunday, with Portland traveling to play the Sacramento Kings and Houston staying on the road to face the Los Angeles Clippers.
The only lead change in this game was early in the second quarter, with Houston outscoring Portland in that frame, 31-16. They never relinquished the lead after that lopsided quarter, leading by at least seven points for the closing 30 minutes. The Rockets shot 48 percent from the field and 85 percent from the free-throw line, while the Trail Blazers shot 39 percent from the field and 72 percent from the charity stripe. Houston also outscored Portland in the paint, 48-40.
The Rockets (40-41) were led by Jalen Green, generating 26 points and nine rebounds. Jock Landale amassed 20 points, four rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Amen Thompson totaled 17 points, 15 rebounds and six assists, while Aaron Holiday led the bench with 18 points, two rebounds and two assists.
The Trail Blazers (21-60) were led by Scoot Henderson, finishing with 30 points, five rebounds and seven assists. Kris Murray generated 10 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Dalano Banton led the bench with 28 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Jabari Walker and Deandre Ayton both left with injuries.
Both of these teams will close their season on Sunday, with Portland traveling to play the Sacramento Kings and Houston staying on the road to face the Los Angeles Clippers.
Jazz Defeat Clippers, 110-109
The Utah Jazz defeated the host Los Angeles Clippers, 110-109, at Crypto.com Arena on Friday.
While there were only three ties and four lead changes, this game wasn't decided until the final shot. Utah took command with a 34-22 second quarter, holding the lead for all but one minute in the second half. Los Angeles did have a chance late but missed a game-winning attempt at the buzzer. The Jazz shot 47 percent from the field while holding the Clippers below 45 percent. Utah also out-assisted Los Angeles, 26-23.
The Jazz (31-50) were led by Kenneth Lofton Jr, providing 27 points, nine rebounds and eight assists off the bench. Keyonte George led the starters with 14 points and two assists. Johnny Juzang amassed 12 points, two assists and two steals, while Talen Horton-Tucker and Darius Bazley scored 12 points apiece off the bench.
The Clippers (51-30) sat most of their starters after the first quarter, with Bones Hyland leading the way with 20 points, five rebounds, six assists and three steals. Ivica Zubac and Paul George led the starters with 10 points apiece. Amir Coffey collected 16 points and six rebounds, while Daniel Theis totaled 14 points, seven rebounds and two blocks.
Both teams complete their season on Sunday, with Los Angeles remaining home to play the Houston Rockets and Utah staying on the road to face the Utah Jazz.
While there were only three ties and four lead changes, this game wasn't decided until the final shot. Utah took command with a 34-22 second quarter, holding the lead for all but one minute in the second half. Los Angeles did have a chance late but missed a game-winning attempt at the buzzer. The Jazz shot 47 percent from the field while holding the Clippers below 45 percent. Utah also out-assisted Los Angeles, 26-23.
The Jazz (31-50) were led by Kenneth Lofton Jr, providing 27 points, nine rebounds and eight assists off the bench. Keyonte George led the starters with 14 points and two assists. Johnny Juzang amassed 12 points, two assists and two steals, while Talen Horton-Tucker and Darius Bazley scored 12 points apiece off the bench.
The Clippers (51-30) sat most of their starters after the first quarter, with Bones Hyland leading the way with 20 points, five rebounds, six assists and three steals. Ivica Zubac and Paul George led the starters with 10 points apiece. Amir Coffey collected 16 points and six rebounds, while Daniel Theis totaled 14 points, seven rebounds and two blocks.
Both teams complete their season on Sunday, with Los Angeles remaining home to play the Houston Rockets and Utah staying on the road to face the Utah Jazz.
Suns Defeat Kings, 108-107
The Phoenix Suns defeated the host Sacramento Kings, 108-107, at Golden One Center on Friday.
There were six ties and eight lead changes in this game, with Sacramento holding the lead for all but 8.7 seconds over the closing 30 minutes. That was the final 8.7 seconds, with Phoenix finishing the game on a 9-2 run over the closing 3:17 to prevail. That capped off a 30-22 fourth quarter comeback victory. The Suns shot 53 percent from the field while holding the Kings to 44 percent shooting. Phoenix also out-rebounded Sacramento, 49-40, while out-blocking them, 4-1.
The Suns (48-33) were led by Kevin Durant, collecting 28 points, five rebounds and three assists. Devin Booker amassed 21 points, four rebounds and six assists. Bradley Beal accrued 20 points, nine rebounds, four assists and two steals, while Grayson Allen accumulated 19 points, three rebounds and four assists. Jusuf Nurkic had 10 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
The Kings (45-36) were led by Domantas Sabonis, finishing with 25 points, 12 rebounds, nine assists and two steals. De'Aaron Fox tallied 23 points, five rebounds, six assists and four steais. Keegan Murray totaled 23 points, seven rebounds and three steals, while Keon Ellis provided 17 points, three rebounds and two steals.
Both teams close their season on Sunday, with Phoenix traveling to face the Minnesota Timberwolves and Sacramento staying home to play the Portland Trail Blazers.
There were six ties and eight lead changes in this game, with Sacramento holding the lead for all but 8.7 seconds over the closing 30 minutes. That was the final 8.7 seconds, with Phoenix finishing the game on a 9-2 run over the closing 3:17 to prevail. That capped off a 30-22 fourth quarter comeback victory. The Suns shot 53 percent from the field while holding the Kings to 44 percent shooting. Phoenix also out-rebounded Sacramento, 49-40, while out-blocking them, 4-1.
The Suns (48-33) were led by Kevin Durant, collecting 28 points, five rebounds and three assists. Devin Booker amassed 21 points, four rebounds and six assists. Bradley Beal accrued 20 points, nine rebounds, four assists and two steals, while Grayson Allen accumulated 19 points, three rebounds and four assists. Jusuf Nurkic had 10 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
The Kings (45-36) were led by Domantas Sabonis, finishing with 25 points, 12 rebounds, nine assists and two steals. De'Aaron Fox tallied 23 points, five rebounds, six assists and four steais. Keegan Murray totaled 23 points, seven rebounds and three steals, while Keon Ellis provided 17 points, three rebounds and two steals.
Both teams close their season on Sunday, with Phoenix traveling to face the Minnesota Timberwolves and Sacramento staying home to play the Portland Trail Blazers.