Nets Edge Celtics, 112-107
The Brooklyn Nets defeated the Boston Celtics, 112-107, at Barclays Center on Friday afternoon.
The Nets (10-9) were looking for a bit of redemption and hoping to make a statement against one of the elite in their division in the Celtics (13-5), which had just toppled them Wednesday night. Brooklyn got off to an excellent start in that regard, establishing a 31-24 lead through one quarter before seeing Boston whittle down that advantage to four points by halftime. After the home squad managed to extend the edge back out to seven in the third, their 13-4 run during the first half of the final period helped establish more separation, and misses by Kemba Walker, Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown in one sequence during the final six seconds sealed the victory for the Nets.
Jayson Tatum led the way for the Celtics with 26 points, adding nine rebounds and four steals. Walker provided 17 points, six assists and five rebounds. Smart followed with 15 points, two rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Brad Wanamaker paced the bench with 11 points, eight boards, three assists and one block. Enes Kanter contributed 10 points, six rebounds, one assist and one block.
Spencer Dinwiddie paced the Nets with 32 points, supplementing them with 11 assists, five rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Taurean Prince delivered 16 points, four boards and one assist. Jarrett Allen generated a 14-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included one assist, one steal and one block. Joe Harris and Garrett Temple pitched in matching 12-point efforts, with Harris adding six rebounds, four assists and two steals and Temple dishing out seven dimes and pulling down five boards.
The Celtics remain in the Big Apple and tangle with the New York Knicks on Sunday afternoon, while the Nets will remain at home and tangle with the Miami Heat on Sunday afternoon.
The Nets (10-9) were looking for a bit of redemption and hoping to make a statement against one of the elite in their division in the Celtics (13-5), which had just toppled them Wednesday night. Brooklyn got off to an excellent start in that regard, establishing a 31-24 lead through one quarter before seeing Boston whittle down that advantage to four points by halftime. After the home squad managed to extend the edge back out to seven in the third, their 13-4 run during the first half of the final period helped establish more separation, and misses by Kemba Walker, Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown in one sequence during the final six seconds sealed the victory for the Nets.
Jayson Tatum led the way for the Celtics with 26 points, adding nine rebounds and four steals. Walker provided 17 points, six assists and five rebounds. Smart followed with 15 points, two rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Brad Wanamaker paced the bench with 11 points, eight boards, three assists and one block. Enes Kanter contributed 10 points, six rebounds, one assist and one block.
Spencer Dinwiddie paced the Nets with 32 points, supplementing them with 11 assists, five rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Taurean Prince delivered 16 points, four boards and one assist. Jarrett Allen generated a 14-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included one assist, one steal and one block. Joe Harris and Garrett Temple pitched in matching 12-point efforts, with Harris adding six rebounds, four assists and two steals and Temple dishing out seven dimes and pulling down five boards.
The Celtics remain in the Big Apple and tangle with the New York Knicks on Sunday afternoon, while the Nets will remain at home and tangle with the Miami Heat on Sunday afternoon.
Hornets Close Strong For Second Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the host Detroit Pistons, 110-107, at Little Caesars Arena on Friday evening.
The contest got out to a hot start as the Hornets held a 38-37 lead after a competitive first quarter. The second quarter featured multiple lead changes, but ultimately the Hornets outscored the Pistons by four points in the quarter, to take a 62-57 lead into halftime. Both teams came out strong in the third, but the Pistons managed to gain some ground and tied the game at 85, heading into the fourth. The Pistons kept up the momentum to start the fourth and pushed their lead to eight points, around the halfway point in the quarter. However, the Hornets closed the contest on a 15-4 run, to earn their second win in a row.
P.J. Washington came up big for Charlotte, with 26 points on 9-of-12 shooting, including 3-of-3 from long range, along with five rebounds, four steals and three assists, in 34 minutes. Terry Rozier followed up with 23 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Devonte' Graham and Miles Bridges added 16 points each.
Meanwhile, Derrick Rose led the Pistons with 23 points on 8-of-12 shooting, in 22 minutes off the bench. Andre Drummond totalled 15 points and 19 rebounds, while Luke Kennard finished with 21 points on 8-of-17 shooting. Blake Griffin added 17 points, four rebounds and three assists.
The Pistons (6-13) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Spurs on Sunday. The Hornets (8-12) take on the Bucks in Milwaukee on Saturday.
The contest got out to a hot start as the Hornets held a 38-37 lead after a competitive first quarter. The second quarter featured multiple lead changes, but ultimately the Hornets outscored the Pistons by four points in the quarter, to take a 62-57 lead into halftime. Both teams came out strong in the third, but the Pistons managed to gain some ground and tied the game at 85, heading into the fourth. The Pistons kept up the momentum to start the fourth and pushed their lead to eight points, around the halfway point in the quarter. However, the Hornets closed the contest on a 15-4 run, to earn their second win in a row.
P.J. Washington came up big for Charlotte, with 26 points on 9-of-12 shooting, including 3-of-3 from long range, along with five rebounds, four steals and three assists, in 34 minutes. Terry Rozier followed up with 23 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Devonte' Graham and Miles Bridges added 16 points each.
Meanwhile, Derrick Rose led the Pistons with 23 points on 8-of-12 shooting, in 22 minutes off the bench. Andre Drummond totalled 15 points and 19 rebounds, while Luke Kennard finished with 21 points on 8-of-17 shooting. Blake Griffin added 17 points, four rebounds and three assists.
The Pistons (6-13) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Spurs on Sunday. The Hornets (8-12) take on the Bucks in Milwaukee on Saturday.
Raptors Get Past Magic, 90-83
The Toronto Raptors defeated the Orlando Magic, 90-83, at Amway Center on Friday night.
The Raptors (14-4) got plenty of fight from the defensive-minded Magic (7-11), which came into the game with a solid 6-3 home mark and took 47-40 first-half lead. The dynamic of the game would turn in the third quarter, however, as Toronto limited Orlando to just 12 points during the period while posting 26 of their own to take a seven-point edge of their own into the fourth quarter. They managed to match their hosts bucket for bucket over the final 12 minutes, leading to the hard-fought home victory.
Norman Powell led the way for the Raptors with 33 points, adding one assist, two steals and one block. Fred VanVleet supplied 22 points, five rebounds, four assists and seven steals. Pascal Siakam generated a 10-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included five assists, one steal and one block. Chris Boucher led the bench with seven points.
Evan Fournier paced the Magic with 19 points, supplementing them with six assists, four rebounds and two steals. Markelle Fultz delivered 15 points, four boards, three assists, one steal and one block. Mo Bamba registered 11 points, seven boards and two blocks. Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac had matching eight-point tallies while pulling down eight and 10 rebounds, respectively.
The Raptors head back home and face the Utah Jazz on Sunday evening, while the Magic remains home and tangles with the Golden State Warriors on Sunday evening as well.
The Raptors (14-4) got plenty of fight from the defensive-minded Magic (7-11), which came into the game with a solid 6-3 home mark and took 47-40 first-half lead. The dynamic of the game would turn in the third quarter, however, as Toronto limited Orlando to just 12 points during the period while posting 26 of their own to take a seven-point edge of their own into the fourth quarter. They managed to match their hosts bucket for bucket over the final 12 minutes, leading to the hard-fought home victory.
Norman Powell led the way for the Raptors with 33 points, adding one assist, two steals and one block. Fred VanVleet supplied 22 points, five rebounds, four assists and seven steals. Pascal Siakam generated a 10-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included five assists, one steal and one block. Chris Boucher led the bench with seven points.
Evan Fournier paced the Magic with 19 points, supplementing them with six assists, four rebounds and two steals. Markelle Fultz delivered 15 points, four boards, three assists, one steal and one block. Mo Bamba registered 11 points, seven boards and two blocks. Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac had matching eight-point tallies while pulling down eight and 10 rebounds, respectively.
The Raptors head back home and face the Utah Jazz on Sunday evening, while the Magic remains home and tangles with the Golden State Warriors on Sunday evening as well.
Bucks Topple Cavaliers, 119-110
The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Friday night.
The Bucks (16-3) were heavy favorites coming into the contest and played like it in a prolific first half. Milwaukee held a 67-47 lead over the Cavaliers (5-14) at halftime, However, Cleveland made things interesting by outscoring their visitors, 42-32, in a wild third period. Nevertheless, the cushion the Bucks had established over the first two periods was enough for them to forge a nine-point road victory.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with a 33-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included two assists, two steals and two blocks. George Hill followed with 18 points, four assists and two rebounds. Khris Middleton provided 12 points, five assists and four rebounds. Donte DiVincenzo managed 11 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals. Eric Bledsoe and Ersan Ilyasova posted matching 10-point tallies.
Darius Garland paced the Cavaliers with 21 points, complementing them with six assists and one rebound. Cedi Osman delivered 20 points, four assists, two rebounds and two steals. Larry Nance, Jr. totaled 18 points, nine rebounds, one assist and one block. Kevin Love and Collin Sexton contributed 16 points each, with Love also pulling down eight boards and dishing out seven assists. Tristan Thompson generated an 11-point, 13-rebound double-double.
The Bucks head back home and face the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday night, while the Cavaliers remain home and tangle with the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday evening.
The Bucks (16-3) were heavy favorites coming into the contest and played like it in a prolific first half. Milwaukee held a 67-47 lead over the Cavaliers (5-14) at halftime, However, Cleveland made things interesting by outscoring their visitors, 42-32, in a wild third period. Nevertheless, the cushion the Bucks had established over the first two periods was enough for them to forge a nine-point road victory.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with a 33-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included two assists, two steals and two blocks. George Hill followed with 18 points, four assists and two rebounds. Khris Middleton provided 12 points, five assists and four rebounds. Donte DiVincenzo managed 11 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals. Eric Bledsoe and Ersan Ilyasova posted matching 10-point tallies.
Darius Garland paced the Cavaliers with 21 points, complementing them with six assists and one rebound. Cedi Osman delivered 20 points, four assists, two rebounds and two steals. Larry Nance, Jr. totaled 18 points, nine rebounds, one assist and one block. Kevin Love and Collin Sexton contributed 16 points each, with Love also pulling down eight boards and dishing out seven assists. Tristan Thompson generated an 11-point, 13-rebound double-double.
The Bucks head back home and face the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday night, while the Cavaliers remain home and tangle with the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday evening.
Sixers Earn Second Straight Win
By Dan Bruno
The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the host New York Knicks, 101-95, at Madison Square Garden on Friday evening.
The Knicks got out to a great start at home, as they outscored the 76ers 31-18 through the first quarter. They pushed their lead to 16 in the second quarter and held strong to take a 51-39 lead into halftime. However, the Sixers flipped the script in the their, as they outscored the Knicks 31-17 in the quarter, to take a two-point lead heading into the final frame. The Sixers pushed their lead to six early in the quarter but the Knicks battled back to make it a one-point game with five minutes left. The Knicks pushed the visitors right until the final buzzer, but the 76ers came up clutch to earn their second straight win.
Joel Embiid led the 76ers with 27 points and 17 rebounds, in 35 minutes. Tobias Harris followed up with 19 points and six rebounds, while Ben Simmons tallied 15 points, eight assists, five rebounds and two steals. James Ennis III gave Philly a huge lift, with 20 points, off the bench.
Meanwhile, Julius Randle led the Knicks with 22 points, 10 rebounds and four assists, in 35 minutes. Marcus Morris followed up with 20 points and seven rebounds, while R.J. Barrett added 18 points on 8-of-13 shooting.
The Knicks (4-15) will look bounce back as they play host to the Celtics on Sunday. The 76ers (13-6) play host to the Pacers on Saturday.
The Knicks got out to a great start at home, as they outscored the 76ers 31-18 through the first quarter. They pushed their lead to 16 in the second quarter and held strong to take a 51-39 lead into halftime. However, the Sixers flipped the script in the their, as they outscored the Knicks 31-17 in the quarter, to take a two-point lead heading into the final frame. The Sixers pushed their lead to six early in the quarter but the Knicks battled back to make it a one-point game with five minutes left. The Knicks pushed the visitors right until the final buzzer, but the 76ers came up clutch to earn their second straight win.
Joel Embiid led the 76ers with 27 points and 17 rebounds, in 35 minutes. Tobias Harris followed up with 19 points and six rebounds, while Ben Simmons tallied 15 points, eight assists, five rebounds and two steals. James Ennis III gave Philly a huge lift, with 20 points, off the bench.
Meanwhile, Julius Randle led the Knicks with 22 points, 10 rebounds and four assists, in 35 minutes. Marcus Morris followed up with 20 points and seven rebounds, while R.J. Barrett added 18 points on 8-of-13 shooting.
The Knicks (4-15) will look bounce back as they play host to the Celtics on Sunday. The 76ers (13-6) play host to the Pacers on Saturday.
Pacers Edge Hawks In OT Thriller
By Dan Bruno
The Indiana Pacers defeated the visiting Atlanta Hawks, 105-104, at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Friday evening.
The contest was tight right from the start, with the Hawks holding a one-point lead after one quarter. The Hawks created some separation through the second, where they outscored the host by 10 points, to take a 54-43 lead into halftime. However, the Pacers responded in the third quarter, as they came out on fire and outscored the visitors by 18 points in the quarter, to take a seven-point lead into the fourth. The Hawks rallied back early in the fourth and took a one-point lead, with eight minutes to go. The teams went back-and-forth through the final minutes, with the Hawks tying it at 94, with 11 seconds left in regulation, forcing overtime. The Pacers took control in the overtime period, with a quick 5-0 run and managed to hold the edge the rest of the way. This marks the fifth straight win for the Pacers and the ninth straight loss for the Hawks.
Jeremy Lamb led the Pacers with 20 points on 9-of-15 shooting, in 40 minutes of action. Domantas Sabonis and Myles Turner added 17 points each, while Malcolm Brogdon totalled 16 points, seven assists, six rebounds, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, Trae Young had an incredible outing, with 49 points on 16-of-28 shooting, in 42 minutes. DeAndre' Bembry and Alex Len were the only other players to score in double digits for the Hawks, with 15 points each.
The Hawks (4-15) will look to bounce back as they take on the Rockets in Houston on Saturday. The Pacers (12-6) head to Philly to take on the 76ers on Saturday.
The contest was tight right from the start, with the Hawks holding a one-point lead after one quarter. The Hawks created some separation through the second, where they outscored the host by 10 points, to take a 54-43 lead into halftime. However, the Pacers responded in the third quarter, as they came out on fire and outscored the visitors by 18 points in the quarter, to take a seven-point lead into the fourth. The Hawks rallied back early in the fourth and took a one-point lead, with eight minutes to go. The teams went back-and-forth through the final minutes, with the Hawks tying it at 94, with 11 seconds left in regulation, forcing overtime. The Pacers took control in the overtime period, with a quick 5-0 run and managed to hold the edge the rest of the way. This marks the fifth straight win for the Pacers and the ninth straight loss for the Hawks.
Jeremy Lamb led the Pacers with 20 points on 9-of-15 shooting, in 40 minutes of action. Domantas Sabonis and Myles Turner added 17 points each, while Malcolm Brogdon totalled 16 points, seven assists, six rebounds, a steal and a block.
Meanwhile, Trae Young had an incredible outing, with 49 points on 16-of-28 shooting, in 42 minutes. DeAndre' Bembry and Alex Len were the only other players to score in double digits for the Hawks, with 15 points each.
The Hawks (4-15) will look to bounce back as they take on the Rockets in Houston on Saturday. The Pacers (12-6) head to Philly to take on the 76ers on Saturday.
Heat Throttles Warriors, 122-105
The Miami Heat defeated the Golden State Warriors, 122-105, at American Airlines Arena on Friday night.
The Heat (13-5) were looking to keep their home record unblemished with an eighth straight win at AA Arena to open the campaign, and they got off to a sensational start in that regard Friday. Miami outscored the Warriors (4-16) by a 41-21 margin through the first 12 minutes, setting the tone for what would be another double-digit home win. Golden State added managed to put a seven-point deficit into their deficit by halftime, but the home squad outscored them by a 51-47 margin over the third and four quarters for the comfortable victory.
Jordan Poole led the way for the Warriors with 20 points, adding one rebound and one assist. Eric Paschall provided 17 points, one rebound and one assist. Alec Burks poured in 16 points and also posted one assist, one rebound and two steals. Willie Cauley-Stein turned in 14 points, six boards and one block. Omari Spellman registered 12 points, four rebounds, two steals and one block.
Goran Dragic paced the Heat with 20 points, adding five rebounds, four assists and one steal. Tyler Herro turned in 19 points and five boards. Duncan Robinson poured in 17 points and also managed two rebounds and one assist. Jimmy Butler delivered 16 points, six assists, five rebounds and two steals. Kris Nunn and Kelly Olynyk pitched in matching 15-point tallies while pulling down four and two rebounds, respectively.
The Warriors remain on the road and in Florida, tangling next with the Orlando Magic on Sunday evening. The Heat hit the road and face the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday afternoon.
The Heat (13-5) were looking to keep their home record unblemished with an eighth straight win at AA Arena to open the campaign, and they got off to a sensational start in that regard Friday. Miami outscored the Warriors (4-16) by a 41-21 margin through the first 12 minutes, setting the tone for what would be another double-digit home win. Golden State added managed to put a seven-point deficit into their deficit by halftime, but the home squad outscored them by a 51-47 margin over the third and four quarters for the comfortable victory.
Jordan Poole led the way for the Warriors with 20 points, adding one rebound and one assist. Eric Paschall provided 17 points, one rebound and one assist. Alec Burks poured in 16 points and also posted one assist, one rebound and two steals. Willie Cauley-Stein turned in 14 points, six boards and one block. Omari Spellman registered 12 points, four rebounds, two steals and one block.
Goran Dragic paced the Heat with 20 points, adding five rebounds, four assists and one steal. Tyler Herro turned in 19 points and five boards. Duncan Robinson poured in 17 points and also managed two rebounds and one assist. Jimmy Butler delivered 16 points, six assists, five rebounds and two steals. Kris Nunn and Kelly Olynyk pitched in matching 15-point tallies while pulling down four and two rebounds, respectively.
The Warriors remain on the road and in Florida, tangling next with the Orlando Magic on Sunday evening. The Heat hit the road and face the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday afternoon.
Thunder Take First Game Of Home-And-Home
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the visiting New Orleans Pelicans, 109-104, at Chesapeake Energy Arena on Friday evening.
The Thunder got out to a great start at home, with a 12-point lead early on, before taking a 34-26 lead into the second quarter. They pushed their lead to 16 points mid way through the second, but the Pelicans trimmed it to a nine-point game by halftime. The Pelicans carried the momentum into the third quarter, where they outscored the hosts by 14, to take a five-point lead into the final frame. The Pelicans led by two points with just over four minutes left in the contest, but the Thunder outscored the visitors 9-2 in the final minutes to secure their sixth home win of the season. This marks the fourth straight loss for the Pelicans.
Dennis Schroder led the Thunder with 25 points and seven assists, in 32 minutes off the bench. Danilo Gallinari added 17 points, seven rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block, while Steven Adams totalled 14 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, two blocks and a steal. Abdel Nader added 19 points, in 22 minutes off the bench.
Meanwhile, Brandon Ingram led the Pelicans with 26 points, eight rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, in 36 minutes. J.J. Redick followed up with 16 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Jrue Holiday and Jahlil Okafor tallied 14 points each.
The Pelicans (6-13) will look to for revenge as they play host to the Thunder (7-11) in the second half of their home-and-home series on Sunday.
The Thunder got out to a great start at home, with a 12-point lead early on, before taking a 34-26 lead into the second quarter. They pushed their lead to 16 points mid way through the second, but the Pelicans trimmed it to a nine-point game by halftime. The Pelicans carried the momentum into the third quarter, where they outscored the hosts by 14, to take a five-point lead into the final frame. The Pelicans led by two points with just over four minutes left in the contest, but the Thunder outscored the visitors 9-2 in the final minutes to secure their sixth home win of the season. This marks the fourth straight loss for the Pelicans.
Dennis Schroder led the Thunder with 25 points and seven assists, in 32 minutes off the bench. Danilo Gallinari added 17 points, seven rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block, while Steven Adams totalled 14 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, two blocks and a steal. Abdel Nader added 19 points, in 22 minutes off the bench.
Meanwhile, Brandon Ingram led the Pelicans with 26 points, eight rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, in 36 minutes. J.J. Redick followed up with 16 points, five rebounds and three assists, while Jrue Holiday and Jahlil Okafor tallied 14 points each.
The Pelicans (6-13) will look to for revenge as they play host to the Thunder (7-11) in the second half of their home-and-home series on Sunday.
Jazz Hand Grizzlies Sixth Straight Loss
By Dan Bruno
The Utah Jazz defeated the host Memphis Grizzlies, 103-94, at FedEx Forum on Friday evening.
The contest got out to a competitive start, as the Grizzlies held a 24-22 lead after one quarter. The Grizzlies turned it up in the second and outscored the visitors by 13 points in the quarter, to push their lead to 55-40, by halftime. However, the Jazz turned the tables in the third, as they came rushing out to outscore the hosts by 17 points in the quarter, to take a two-point lead, heading into the final frame. The Jazz held strong and maintained the edge for most of the fourth quarter and pushed their lead to seven, with a minute left. The Jazz held on to earn their fifth road win of the season. This marks the sixth straight loss for Memphis.
Bojan Bogdanovic led the Jazz with 33 points on 12-of-20 shooting, eight rebounds, two assists and a steal, in 34 minutes. Donovan Mitchell followed up with 20 points, five rebounds, three assists, and three steals, while Rudy Gobert tallied 13 points, 13 rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
Meanwhile, Jonas Valanciunas had a big night, with 22 points, 17 rebounds, three blocks and two assists, in 32 minutes. Brandon Clarke added 13 points, five rebounds, two assists and a block, while Dillon Brooks and Ja Morant tallied 11 points each.
The Grizzlies (5-13) will look to bounce back as they take on the Timberwolves in Minnesota on Sunday. The Jazz (12-7) take on the Raptors in Toronto on Sunday.
The contest got out to a competitive start, as the Grizzlies held a 24-22 lead after one quarter. The Grizzlies turned it up in the second and outscored the visitors by 13 points in the quarter, to push their lead to 55-40, by halftime. However, the Jazz turned the tables in the third, as they came rushing out to outscore the hosts by 17 points in the quarter, to take a two-point lead, heading into the final frame. The Jazz held strong and maintained the edge for most of the fourth quarter and pushed their lead to seven, with a minute left. The Jazz held on to earn their fifth road win of the season. This marks the sixth straight loss for Memphis.
Bojan Bogdanovic led the Jazz with 33 points on 12-of-20 shooting, eight rebounds, two assists and a steal, in 34 minutes. Donovan Mitchell followed up with 20 points, five rebounds, three assists, and three steals, while Rudy Gobert tallied 13 points, 13 rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
Meanwhile, Jonas Valanciunas had a big night, with 22 points, 17 rebounds, three blocks and two assists, in 32 minutes. Brandon Clarke added 13 points, five rebounds, two assists and a block, while Dillon Brooks and Ja Morant tallied 11 points each.
The Grizzlies (5-13) will look to bounce back as they take on the Timberwolves in Minnesota on Sunday. The Jazz (12-7) take on the Raptors in Toronto on Sunday.
Spurs Surprise Clippers, 107-97
The San Antonio Spurs defeated the visiting Los Angeles Clippers, 107-97, at AT&T Center on Friday.
While Los Angeles came into this matchup as a heavy favorite, San Antonio won by double figures. The third quarter was key, with the Spurs outscoring the Clippers, 29-18, leading by double-digits for most of the fourth quarter. With that said, there were seven ties and 13 lead changes in total before that monster run. San Antonio held Los Angeles to just 39 percent from the field and 36 percent from three-point range. The Spurs also won the fastbreak scoring battle, 22-7, while winning the turnover differential. 15-9.
The Clippers (14-6) were led by Kawhi Leonard, who tallied 19 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and two steals in his return to San Antonio. Paul George had a game to forget, collecting five points, eight rebounds and three assists on 2-of-11 from the field. JaMychal Green led the bench with 16 points and eight boards. Lou Williams amassed seven points and seven assists off the bench as well.
The Spurs (7-13) were led by LaMarcus Aldridge, who generated 17 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and four blocks. Derrick White totaled 17 points, three rebounds and three assists. DeMar DeRozan accumulated 15 points, nine rebounds, five assists and three steals while Patty Mills led the bench with 13 points.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with San Antonio traveling to face the Detroit Pistons and Los Angeles returning home to host the Washington Wizards.
While Los Angeles came into this matchup as a heavy favorite, San Antonio won by double figures. The third quarter was key, with the Spurs outscoring the Clippers, 29-18, leading by double-digits for most of the fourth quarter. With that said, there were seven ties and 13 lead changes in total before that monster run. San Antonio held Los Angeles to just 39 percent from the field and 36 percent from three-point range. The Spurs also won the fastbreak scoring battle, 22-7, while winning the turnover differential. 15-9.
The Clippers (14-6) were led by Kawhi Leonard, who tallied 19 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and two steals in his return to San Antonio. Paul George had a game to forget, collecting five points, eight rebounds and three assists on 2-of-11 from the field. JaMychal Green led the bench with 16 points and eight boards. Lou Williams amassed seven points and seven assists off the bench as well.
The Spurs (7-13) were led by LaMarcus Aldridge, who generated 17 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and four blocks. Derrick White totaled 17 points, three rebounds and three assists. DeMar DeRozan accumulated 15 points, nine rebounds, five assists and three steals while Patty Mills led the bench with 13 points.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with San Antonio traveling to face the Detroit Pistons and Los Angeles returning home to host the Washington Wizards.
Mavericks Defeat Suns, 120-113
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the host Phoenix Suns, 120-113, at Talking Stick Resort Arena on Friday.
While the Suns led 97-96 with eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, Dallas rolled from there. In fact, they went on an 11-0 run to give them a 10-point lead and Phoenix never tied or grabbed the lead after that run. In total, there were 11 ties and 15 lead changes. with Dallas outscoring Phoenix in the fourth quarter, 31-24. Ball movement was critical, with the Mavericks out-assisting the Suns, 29-20 while committing fewer turnovers. In addition, Dallas' bench outscored Phoenix bench, 39-26.
The Mavericks (12-6) got another magical performance from Luka Doncic, who matched a career-best 42 points with nine rebounds and 11 assists. Kristaps Porzingis went 0-of-8 from the field but still amassed two points, 13 rebounds, two steals and three blocks. Tim Hardaway Jr generated 26 points, three rebounds and two steals.
The Suns (8-10) were led by Kelly Oubre Jr, who tallied 22 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Ricky Rubio totaled 21 points and nine assists. Devin Booker accrued 18 points, five rebounds and eight assists while Aron Baynes collected 17 points and seven boards. Dario Saric finished with nine points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
On deck for Dallas is a road matchup versus the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday. As for Phoenix, they travel to face the Charlotte Hornets on Monday for their next fixture.
While the Suns led 97-96 with eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, Dallas rolled from there. In fact, they went on an 11-0 run to give them a 10-point lead and Phoenix never tied or grabbed the lead after that run. In total, there were 11 ties and 15 lead changes. with Dallas outscoring Phoenix in the fourth quarter, 31-24. Ball movement was critical, with the Mavericks out-assisting the Suns, 29-20 while committing fewer turnovers. In addition, Dallas' bench outscored Phoenix bench, 39-26.
The Mavericks (12-6) got another magical performance from Luka Doncic, who matched a career-best 42 points with nine rebounds and 11 assists. Kristaps Porzingis went 0-of-8 from the field but still amassed two points, 13 rebounds, two steals and three blocks. Tim Hardaway Jr generated 26 points, three rebounds and two steals.
The Suns (8-10) were led by Kelly Oubre Jr, who tallied 22 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Ricky Rubio totaled 21 points and nine assists. Devin Booker accrued 18 points, five rebounds and eight assists while Aron Baynes collected 17 points and seven boards. Dario Saric finished with nine points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
On deck for Dallas is a road matchup versus the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday. As for Phoenix, they travel to face the Charlotte Hornets on Monday for their next fixture.
Trail Blazers Defeat Bulls, 107-103
The Portland Trail Blazers defeated the visiting Chicago Bulls, 107-103, at Moda Center on Friday.
While there were only two ties and seven lead changes in this game, it stayed within a 10-point margin for all but a handful of minutes. With that said, the Trail Blazers led for the final 10 minutes of play. Portland's defense was critical, holding Chicago to 38 percent from the field and 37 percent from three-point range. In addition, the Trail Blazers recorded 11 blocks to the Bulls two while winning the points off turnover battle, 18-3. The Portland starters outscored the Chicago starters by 20 points as well.
The Bulls (6-14) were led by Zach LaVine, who tallied 28 points, six rebounds and five assists. Wendell Carter Jr amassed 16 points and nine boards. Lauri Markkanen accrued 13 points, seven rebounds and three assists while Tomas Satoransky collected 12 points, three rebounds and eight assists. Coby White led the bench with 13 points and four boards.
The Trail Blazers (8-12) got a near triple-double from Hassan Whiteside, who accumulated eight points, 15 rebounds and 10 blocks. Damian Lillard led the team in scoring, amassing 28 points, two rebounds and six assists. C.J. McCollum totaled 20 points, seven rebounds and two assists while Carmelo Anthony generated 23 points, 11 rebounds and four assists.
Chicago returns to action on Monday, staying on the road to face the Sacramento Kings. As for Portland, they're off until Tuesday when they face the Los Angeles Clippers on the road.
While there were only two ties and seven lead changes in this game, it stayed within a 10-point margin for all but a handful of minutes. With that said, the Trail Blazers led for the final 10 minutes of play. Portland's defense was critical, holding Chicago to 38 percent from the field and 37 percent from three-point range. In addition, the Trail Blazers recorded 11 blocks to the Bulls two while winning the points off turnover battle, 18-3. The Portland starters outscored the Chicago starters by 20 points as well.
The Bulls (6-14) were led by Zach LaVine, who tallied 28 points, six rebounds and five assists. Wendell Carter Jr amassed 16 points and nine boards. Lauri Markkanen accrued 13 points, seven rebounds and three assists while Tomas Satoransky collected 12 points, three rebounds and eight assists. Coby White led the bench with 13 points and four boards.
The Trail Blazers (8-12) got a near triple-double from Hassan Whiteside, who accumulated eight points, 15 rebounds and 10 blocks. Damian Lillard led the team in scoring, amassing 28 points, two rebounds and six assists. C.J. McCollum totaled 20 points, seven rebounds and two assists while Carmelo Anthony generated 23 points, 11 rebounds and four assists.
Chicago returns to action on Monday, staying on the road to face the Sacramento Kings. As for Portland, they're off until Tuesday when they face the Los Angeles Clippers on the road.
Lakers Defeat Wizards, 125-103
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the visiting Washington Wizards, 125-103 at Staples Center on Friday.
While Washington did grab an 11-point lead in the first five minutes, that was the only time this game stayed competitive. In fact, the Lakers outscored the Wizards in that quarter, 37-23, leading by 21 points headed into the half. Washington never got the game within 20 after that. Los Angeles shot 52 percent from the field and 44 percent from three-point range while holding Washington to 40 percent from the field and 27 percent from long range. In addition, the Lakers won the fastbreak scoring battle, 28-12, while outscoring the Wizards in the paint, 56-36.
The Wizards (6-11) were led by Bradley Beal, who tallied 18 points, three rebounds, nine assists and two steals. Rui Hachimura amassed 16 points and eight boards. Ish Smith led the 13 points, three rebounds and three assists. Jordan McRae accumulated 13 points, five rebounds and four assists off the bench as well.
The Lakers (17-2) were led by Anthony Davis, who tallied 26 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and three blocks. LeBron James collected 23 points, three rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Neither player stepped on the court in the fourth quarter. JaVale McGee amassed 15 points and 11 boards while Rajon Rondo led the bench with 13 points and four assists. Quinn Cook provided 17 points off the bench as well.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Washington remaining in Los Angeles to face the Clippers while Los Angeles plays host to Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks.
While Washington did grab an 11-point lead in the first five minutes, that was the only time this game stayed competitive. In fact, the Lakers outscored the Wizards in that quarter, 37-23, leading by 21 points headed into the half. Washington never got the game within 20 after that. Los Angeles shot 52 percent from the field and 44 percent from three-point range while holding Washington to 40 percent from the field and 27 percent from long range. In addition, the Lakers won the fastbreak scoring battle, 28-12, while outscoring the Wizards in the paint, 56-36.
The Wizards (6-11) were led by Bradley Beal, who tallied 18 points, three rebounds, nine assists and two steals. Rui Hachimura amassed 16 points and eight boards. Ish Smith led the 13 points, three rebounds and three assists. Jordan McRae accumulated 13 points, five rebounds and four assists off the bench as well.
The Lakers (17-2) were led by Anthony Davis, who tallied 26 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and three blocks. LeBron James collected 23 points, three rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Neither player stepped on the court in the fourth quarter. JaVale McGee amassed 15 points and 11 boards while Rajon Rondo led the bench with 13 points and four assists. Quinn Cook provided 17 points off the bench as well.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, with Washington remaining in Los Angeles to face the Clippers while Los Angeles plays host to Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks.