Chicago Bulls forward Patrick Williams was back in the lineup for Friday's 109-95 victory over th...

<p>Chicago Bulls forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93861" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93861">Patrick Williams</a> was back in the lineup for Friday's 109-95 victory over the Charlotte Hornets after missing 10 games with a foot injury.</p><p>Williams, 23, checked into the game near the end of the first quarter. He contributed four points, two rebounds, and two assists in 14 minutes of action. </p><p>He was on a minutes restriction, according to <a href="https://x.com/Will_Gottlieb/status/1867710449388859425">CHGO Sports' Will Gottlieb</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>All five of the Bulls starters and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53246" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53246">Lonzo Ball</a> off the bench scored in double-digits. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96051" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96051">Ayo Dosunmu</a> led the way with 19 points, two rebounds, and four assists. </p><p>The Hornets' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110250" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110250">Brandon Miller</a> put up a game-high 21 points while also adding six boards and three dimes in 38 minutes.</p><p>Williams was averaging 9.9 points, five rebounds, and 2.3 assists in his previous 15 games with Chicago this campaign.</p><p>The Florida State product hadn't played since Nov. 18 because of inflammation on his surgically repaired left foot. He underwent a procedure to fix an acute bone edema in February, ending his 2023-24 campaign.</p><p>Williams signed a five-year, $90-million deal with the Bulls over the offseason. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5094">Nikola Vucevic</a> was also unavailable with an illness while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102749" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102749">Dalen Terry</a> didn't play versus Charlotte because of a knee bruise, per <a href="https://x.com/KCJHoop/status/1867710875995713905">Chicago Sports Network's K.C. Johnson</a>.</p><p>The Bulls now sit at 11-15 after the victory. </p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - NOVEMBER 17: Patrick Williams #44 of the Chicago Bulls dribbles the ball against the Houston Rockets during the first quarter at the United Center on November 17, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Bulls' Williams returns in win over Hornets after 10-game absence

Jalen Green hit a pair of free throws with 3.5 seconds remaining to help the Houston Rockets topp...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a> hit a pair of free throws with 3.5 seconds remaining to help the Houston Rockets topple the Golden State Warriors for the first time since February 2020, winning their NBA Cup quarterfinal 91-90.</p><p>Warriors head coach Steve Kerr was furious about the foul that was called against forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a>, which sent Green to the charity stripe for the game-winning shots.</p><p>"I've never seen a loose-ball foul on a jump-ball situation 80 feet from the basket with the game on the line," the 59-year-old said postgame.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"That is unconscionable," he added.</p><p>After <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a> missed a 3-point attempt, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37868" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37868">Gary Payton II</a> tracked down the offensive rebound and tried to throw the ball to Curry while on the floor. Rockets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/25275" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/25275">Fred VanVleet</a> poked the ball away into the hands of a diving Green. Kuminga tried to wrestle the ball from Green but was called for a loose-ball infraction by veteran referee Bill Kennedy.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pure observations here:<br><br>Gary Payton II gets the loose ball, Fred VanVleet dives on his back and grabs his shoulder — no foul.<br><br>The ball gets loose again and Jalen Green gets it. Jonathan Kuminga dives on him and grabs his shoulder — foul.<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/KWNyCFNceD">pic.twitter.com/KWNyCFNceD</a></p>— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrettSiegelNBA/status/1867075512549458165?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"This is a billion-dollar industry. You've got people's jobs on the line. I am stunned," a flabbergasted Kerr said.</p><p>He added: "I feel for our guys. Our guys battled back, played their asses off, and deserved to win that game, or at least have a chance for one stop at the end to finish the game. And that was taken from us by a call that I don't think an elementary school referee would have made because that guy would have had feel."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96113" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96113">Alperen Sengun</a> tallied a game-high 26 points to help Houston snap its 15-game losing streak against the Warriors. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102778" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102778">Jabari Smith Jr.</a> added 15 points on 6-of-11 shooting from the field.</p><p>Golden State was held scoreless for the final 3:03 of the game and had 22 turnovers.</p><p>Warriors guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24735" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24735">Buddy Hield</a> surpassed 2,000 career 3-pointers after knocking down three triples in the game. He finished with 15 points. Kuminga scored a team-high 20 to go along with seven rebounds.</p><p>The 17-8 Rockets will head to Las Vegas to play the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday in the semifinals.</p><p>The Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks will face off in the other semifinal.</p><p>The 14-10 Warriors won't play again until Dec. 19 when they travel to Memphis to play the Grizzlies.</p><p> </p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 11: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors reacts during the second half of a quarterfinal game against the Houston Rockets in the NBA Emirates Cup at Toyota Center on December 11, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler's agent has indicated that the six-time All-Star would be willing to...

<p>Miami Heat star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>'s agent has indicated that the six-time All-Star would be willing to play for the Phoenix Suns as the Heat listen to potential trade offers, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1866990392870310018">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> on Wednesday.</p><p>The Suns have $234.5 million in cap allocations and are a second-apron team, meaning one of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a> would have to be involved in the trade, according to <a href="https://x.com/KeithSmithNBA/status/1866997706041749923">Spotrac's Keith Smith</a>. Beal also has a no-trade clause built into his contract.</p><p>The Heat are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3155840" href="https://thescore.com/news/3155840">reportedly</a> interested in moving Butler ahead of his 2025 free agency. The 35-year-old has a $52.4-million player option for the 2025-26 campaign but has hinted that he won't exercise the option so he can test the open market in search of a new contract. The former Most Improved Player would be eligible to sign a four-year, $243-million deal with Miami or a three-year, $171-million contract with another franchise.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>On Tuesday, Charania reported that Butler had included the Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, and his hometown Houston Rockets as acceptable trade candidates.</p><p>Butler's agent, Bernard Lee, took to social media Wednesday night to dispute Charania's reporting, claiming everything the ESPN insider has said about the Heat forward is "fabricated."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Alright listen. I gave you a pass yesterday because I was busy but if you don’t stop putting my name on your complete and utter made up bullshit because you know you normally arent worth my time to acknowledge.. (continued) <a href="https://t.co/1KOXza9kUI">https://t.co/1KOXza9kUI</a></p>— Bernard Lee (@BernieoLee) <a href="https://twitter.com/BernieoLee/status/1866994567653777774?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I don’t know what I’m going to do because I’m a middle aged dad but just know it would indicate severe dislike. World… all this is fabricated. I have never and honestly it wouldn’t help me or the position I represent to do anything that’s been reported by said “journalist” <a href="https://t.co/1KOXza9SKg">https://t.co/1KOXza9SKg</a></p>— Bernard Lee (@BernieoLee) <a href="https://twitter.com/BernieoLee/status/1866995114276733071?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Butler joined Miami through a sign-and-trade with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2019, agreeing to a four-year, $140-million contract. He inked a four-year extension in 2021 worth $184 million.</p><p>The Marquette product led the Heat to two NBA Finals appearances in his first four years with the club, losing to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020 and the Denver Nuggets in 2023.</p><p>Butler has admitted he isn't phased by being included in trade discussions.</p><p>"It doesn't bother me one bit, and I do appreciate it," Butler said, according to <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article296910939.html">Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald</a>.</p><p>Butler is averaging 19 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 17 games with the 12-10 Heat.</p><p>Miami has won seven of its past 10 games and sit fifth in the Eastern Conference. The team is scheduled to host the Toronto Raptors on Thursday night.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 29: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat reacts after making a basket against the Toronto Raptors during the second quarter of the Emirates NBA Cup at Kaseya Center on November 29, 2024 in Miami, Florida.

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LeBron James missed the Los Angeles Lakers' 107-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers due to...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> missed the Los Angeles Lakers' 107-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers due to left foot soreness.</p><p>Head coach JJ Redick said pregame that Monday could be a good opportunity for the 39-year-old to get some rest in between practices after James was downgraded from probable to doubtful earlier in the day, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/42863124/lakers-lebron-james-vs-trail-blazers-left-foot-soreness">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><p>L.A. has four days off before it faces the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>This was the first time the Lakers were without James this season. He's averaging 23 points, eight rebounds, and 9.1 assists in Year 22 in the Association.</p><p>The Lakers snapped a three-game losing streak to improve to 13-11 on the season.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 6: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the second quarter against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on December 6, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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LeBron misses win over Blazers due to foot soreness

Kentucky point guard Kerr Kriisa will be out indefinitely after sustaining a foot injury that wil...

<p>Kentucky point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/84155" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/84155">Kerr Kriisa</a> will be out indefinitely after sustaining a foot injury that will require surgery, the team <a href="https://ukathletics.com/news/2024/12/08/kerr-kriissa-out-indefinitely/">announced</a> Sunday.</p><p>The injury is not considered season-ending.</p><p>Kriisa hurt his foot during Kentucky's 90-89 overtime win Saturday night over No. 7 Gonzaga. The Estonian was making his first start of the season, which was also his first start as a Wildcat, scoring a season-high eight points to go along with four assists and three rebounds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kriisa is in his fifth season of college basketball, having had previous stops at Arizona and West Virginia. The 23-year-old eclipsed 1,000 career points Saturday.</p><p>A key piece for first-year Kentucky coach Mark Pope, Kriisa is averaging 4.4 points and 3.8 assists for his new squad.</p><p>The fourth-ranked Wildcats are 8-1, with their lone loss coming against Clemson in the ACC-SEC Challenge. Kentucky is scheduled to host Colgate on Wednesday night before facing in-state rival Louisville on Dec. 14.</p>

LEXINGTON, KY - OCTOBER 29: Kentucky Wildcats guard Kerr Kriisa (77) in a game between the Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks and the Kentucky Wildcats on October 29, 2024, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, KY.

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Kentucky's Kriisa out indefinitely due to foot injury

Toronto Raptors big man Kelly Olynyk made his season debut in Saturday's 125-118 loss to the Dall...

<p>Toronto Raptors big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2041" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2041">Kelly Olynyk</a> made his season debut in Saturday's 125-118 loss to the Dallas Mavericks after missing the first 23 games of the season with a back injury.</p><p>The 33-year-old Canadian had 13 points and four rebounds in 14 minutes off the bench.</p><p>Olynyk averaged 12.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in 28 games with the Raptors last season. He was acquired from the Utah Jazz at the trade deadline and inked a two-year, $26.25-million extension in March, the maximum extension available to him.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37800" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37800">Jakob Poeltl</a> was in the starting lineup after not being available for Toronto's 129-92 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday with an illness. The Austrian finished with 20 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists.</p><p>Mavericks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> tallied his 79th career triple-double, passing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a> and Wilt Chamberlain for sole possession of seventh on the league's all-time list. Doncic poured in a game-high 30 points to go along with 13 rebounds and 11 assists. Mavs guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> added 29.</p><p>The 7-17 Raptors are 12th in the Eastern Conference after the loss. Toronto will host the New York Knicks on Monday night.</p><p>Dallas improved to 16-8 and will play the Oklahoma City Thunder in the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup on Tuesday.</p>

MONTREAL, CANADA - OCTOBER 06: Kelly Olynyk #41 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball during the first half in a preseason NBA game against the Washington Wizards at the Bell Centre on October 6, 2024 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Toronto Raptors defeated the Washington Wizards 125-98.

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Boston Celtics wing Jaylen Brown knows he'll be receiving a call from the NBA after making a thro...

<p>Boston Celtics wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> knows he'll be receiving a call from the NBA after making a throat-slashing gesture toward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93867" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93867">Isaiah Stewart</a> during their 130-120 win against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night.</p><p>Brown drove into the paint at the end of the first quarter and put Stewart on a poster with an impressive two-handed slam. The 28-year-old then celebrated by simulating a knife across his throat with his thumb while staring at Stewart.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jaylen Brown caught another body! He posterized Isaiah Stewart, and I think did a throat slit celebration? <a href="https://t.co/fZXfdzZcM8">pic.twitter.com/fZXfdzZcM8</a></p>— Danielle Hobeika (@DanielleHobeika) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielleHobeika/status/1864478549068894539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I just (got) caught up in the moment, I guess," Brown said in his postgame press conference, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/JustinmTurpin/status/1864516811129045154">WEEI 93.7 FM's Justin Turpin</a>. "I think that the NBA and the PA are sensitive about the gestures and things like that. So, you've gotta be mindful of that."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>When asked if he expected to hear from the league about the incident, Brown responded: "Oh yeah."</p><p>The NBA <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/dwyane-wade-fined-25000-throat-slashing-gesture-0">punished</a> NBA legend Dwyane Wade for making a similar gesture while he a member of the Chicago Bulls in 2016, fining the Hall of Famer $25,000.</p><p>Brown tallied 28 points, six rebounds, and nine assists as the Celtics captured their ninth win in 10 games.</p><p>Boston will host the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday.</p>

BOSTON, MA - DECEMBER 2: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the game against the Miami Heat on December 2, 2024 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Brown expects to hear from NBA after throat-slashing gesture

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick got straight to the point after the team's 134-93 Wednesd...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick got straight to the point after the team's 134-93 Wednesday night loss to the Miami Heat.</p><p>"I'm embarrassed. We're all embarrassed," Redick said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/DanWoikeSports/status/1864514716468490570">Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times</a>. "It's not a game that I thought we had the right fight, the right professionalism. Not sure what was lost in translation. There has to be some ownership on the court and I'll take ownership in the world."</p><p>Redick added: "I'm not blaming the players. ... I own this, but (I'm) going to need some ownership on the court as well. ... There's not a sense from me that we're together right now."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Redick says he intends to meet with his coaching staff, the team, and individual players to prevent the group from splintering further, per <a href="https://x.com/jovanbuha/status/1864505528275096054">The Athletic's Jovan Buha</a>.</p><p>There were a number of poor-effort plays and major mental lapses on the defensive end of the floor during Wednesday's defeat.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">JJ Reddick needs to eviscerate these guys in the postgame presser.<br><br>This is one of the most embarrassing efforts I’ve ever seen in an NBA game. <a href="https://t.co/vaVBq8FXSx">pic.twitter.com/vaVBq8FXSx</a></p>— Jason Timpf (@_JasonLT) <a href="https://twitter.com/_JasonLT/status/1864489539659813103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Lakers have lost six of their last eight contests by an average of 21.8 points, according to the <a href="https://x.com/DanWoikeSports/status/1864502624822657301">Los Angeles Times' Dan Woike</a>, and they lost by 29 to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday.</p><p>Miami's 24 made threes tied the team's franchise record and are the third-most triples allowed in a single game in Lakers history. The Heat also set a franchise record with 42 assists.</p><p>Miami guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> knocked down seven consecutive 3-pointers in the third quarter, pouring in 21 points in the frame.</p><p>Lakers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> finished the game with 29 points, five rebounds, and eight assists, and he echoed his coach's sentiments.</p><p>"I agree with everything JJ said," James told the media, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/EthanJSkolnick/status/1864507272585470127">Ethan Skolnick of 5 Reasons Sports</a>. "It sucks for sure to get your ass whooped like that twice in a row."</p><p>"It's not on the coaches. It's definitely on us, for sure," James added, per <a href="https://x.com/jovanbuha/status/1864506914068943277">Buva</a>.</p><p>James passed Kyle Korver for seventh all time in made triples with his 2,451st career make. He had missed his previous 20 attempted threes over the course of five games.</p><p>All-Star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> followed up his season-low 12-point performance against the Timberwolves with just eight points on 3-of-14 from the field versus Miami.</p><p>"I personally think it starts with me. If I play better, then guys will play better," Davis said, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1864508953226326377">McMenamin</a>.</p><p>The 12-10 Lakers are ninth in the West and will finish their four-game road trip against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 04: JJ Redick head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Miami Heat during the second half at Kaseya Center on December 04, 2024 in Miami, Florida.

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<p>Los Angeles Clippers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44950" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44950">Terance Mann</a> is scheduled to have surgery Thursday to fix a broken middle finger on his left hand and will be out for at least three weeks, the team announced, according to <a href="https://x.com/BA_Turner/status/1864486554510471177">Brad Turner of the Los Angeles Times</a>.</p><p>Mann, 28, is averaging 6.3 points and 3.1 rebounds through 23 games.</p><p>L.A. has yet to be at full strength this season. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> has missed the entire campaign so far as he continues to deal with lingering knee issues. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12144" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12144">Norman Powell</a>, the team's leading scorer, recently returned from a six-game absence due to a hamstring injury.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 14-9 Clippers sit fifth in the Western Conference and are riding a two-game winning streak. They'll play the Timberwolves on Wednesday.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 01: Terance Mann #14 of the LA Clippers after making a three-point shot against the Denver Nuggets in the second half at Intuit Dome on December 01, 2024 in Inglewood, California.

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The second annual in-season tournament resumed Tuesday with 11 games as group play came to a clos...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tournament resumed Tuesday with 11 games as group play came to a close. For an explanation on how the tourney works, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><p>To see what happened during Friday's action, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3125554" href="https://thescore.com/news/3125554">here</a>.</p><h3>Tuesday's results</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>76ers</strong> 110-104 Hornets</li>
<li>Wizards 87-118 <strong>Cavaliers</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Bucks </strong>128-107 Pistons</li>
<li>Magic 106-121 <strong>Knicks</strong>
</li>
<li>Pacers 111-122 <strong>Raptors</strong>
</li>
<li>Jazz 106-133 <strong>Thunder</strong>
</li>
<li>Grizzlies 116-121 <strong>Mavericks</strong>
</li>
<li>Spurs 93-104 <strong>Suns</strong>
</li>
<li>Warriors 115-119 <strong>Nuggets</strong>
</li>
<li>Rockets 111-120 <strong>Kings</strong>
</li>
<li>Blazers 105-127 <strong>Clippers</strong>
</li>
</ul><p>Check out our <a href="thescore:///nba/scores">NBA scores page</a> for box score recaps for each game, and the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for group standings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Top performers</h3><p><strong>Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks):</strong> The Bucks capped off a dominant group stage sweep with a blowout win over the Detroit Pistons thanks in no small part to Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freak scored "just" 28 points but was an absolute menace around the paint, missing just one of 11 shots - all but two of which were from inside 15 feet. Add in eight assists, seven rebounds, and a block, and Antetokounmpo has the Bucks looking dangerous again with seven straight wins.</p><p><strong>Scottie Barnes (Raptors): </strong>Goggles Scottie continues to impress. The 23-year-old dropped a career-high 35 points in Toronto's win over the Pacers. This is the second time he's scored over 30 points since returning from a right orbital bone fracture in mid-November. Barnes also added nine assists and six rebounds, becoming the first Raptors player to post these numbers - while shooting at least 60% - since Vince Carter in 2004, per <a href="https://x.com/statmuse/status/1864143499605553664">StatMuse</a>.</p><p><strong>Luka Doncic (Mavericks): </strong>Doncic led Dallas to an improbable fourth-quarter comeback win against the Grizzlies, tallying 37 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, and four steals in the victory. This is the fourth time the Slovenian has had at least 35 points, 10 rebounds, and four steals in a game, more than every other Mavericks player combined.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">DERECK LIVELY II OVER THE TOP!<br><br>🏆 MEM, DAL in the Wild Card hunt<br>🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmiratesNBACup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmiratesNBACup</a> on NBA League Pass<br>🏆 <a href="https://t.co/5cqvoV4BuY">https://t.co/5cqvoV4BuY</a> <a href="https://t.co/MVTbpV9OZV">pic.twitter.com/MVTbpV9OZV</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1864132127257747583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Mavs big man Dereck Lively II returned from a knee injury to finish this Doncic lob in style. The second-year pro put Jaren Jackson Jr, the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, on a poster with a ferocious two-handed slam.</p><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Josh Hart, who never has a dull moment, says he’d buy a watch with his NBA Cup winnings.<br><br>“I don’t really care about the end (of bench) guys getting the money. I just care about me,” he said.<br><br>Jalen Brunson then cut him off, shouting at Hart from his locker, “You’re an asshole.”</p>— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) <a href="https://twitter.com/FredKatz/status/1864152693851242798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>We all need that one friend who isn't afraid to tell it like it is, but bonus points if they do it in a crowded professional locker room in the vicinity of several journalists.</p><h3>Stat of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A season-high 23 triples tonight. <a href="https://t.co/lyatcFwCfe">pic.twitter.com/lyatcFwCfe</a></p>— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bucks/status/1864136955698794707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>While Antetokounmpo was unstoppable inside the perimeter, the rest of the Bucks were lethal outside of it. Milwaukee converted on a season-high 23 triples in their win over Detroit to secure its passage to the knockout stage. It's a simple marker but one as strong as any that Doc Rivers' squad has turned the corner after a brutal start to the year.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>As group winners, the Bucks, Knicks, and Hawks will be joined in the quarterfinals by the Magic, whose blowout loss to New York was just within the margins to send them through in the wild-card spot above the Celtics. Milwaukee will host Orlando in the first quarterfinal at 7 p.m. ET on Dec. 10, while Atlanta will travel to Madison Square Garden to face New York on Dec. 11, also at 7 pm ET.</p><p>In the West, the Thunder, Rockets, and Warriors finished as the top three group winners, in that order. Oklahoma City will host the Mavericks, who secured the conference's wild card, at 9:30 p.m. ET on Dec. 10 following Magic-Bucks. Golden State will meet the Rockets in Houston at the same time on Dec. 11, following the conclusion of the Hawks-Knicks clash.</p><p>The four winners then head to Las Vegas for the semifinals Dec. 14 in hopes of earning a spot in the Dec. 17 final at T-Mobile Arena.</p><p><em>Tap the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for the latest group standings.</em></p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - DECEMBER 3: Isaiah Joe #11 and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrate a made basket during the second half against the Utah Jazz at Paycom Center on December 3, 2024 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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NBA Cup roundup: Bucks, Thunder move on as top seeds

Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers thought the team's growth was on display after dispatching ...

<p>Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers thought the team's growth was on display after dispatching the Washington Wizards 124-114 Saturday night.</p><p>"I didn't think we started the game out right. We just kind of came out and played, and then we got into the game," Rivers said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/eric_nehm/status/1863069531217793227">The Athletic's Eric Nehm</a>. "But you take the wins like this because these are the games early in the season we would have lost."</p><p>He added: "These games are good teachers for us."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Milwaukee has turned things around after starting the year with a disastrous 2-8 record, winning eight of its next nine contests. The Bucks now have a record better than .500 for the first time since starting the season 1-0.</p><p>The most glaring change for Milwaukee has been on the defensive end of the floor. The Bucks were ranked 22nd in defense in their opening 10 contests, allowing 115.7 points per game. Over their previous nine games, however, Milwaukee has had the league's eighth-stingiest defense with a defensive rating of 109.3.</p><p>Another major reason for the turnaround is the outstanding performances by Bucks superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>.</p><p>Antetokounmpo is averaging 34.5 points, 11 rebounds, and 8.3 assists over Milwaukee's last nine games. The former MVP recorded a 40-point triple-double Saturday night against the Wizards, his third triple-double of the campaign.</p><p>The former MVP also credited his growing chemistry with point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> for the team's improved play.</p><p>"Now we're going into our second year playing together, and our chemistry has been incredible so far," Antetokounmpo said after the Wizards game, per <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5959764/2024/12/01/milwaukee-bucks-giannis-antetokounmpo-damian-lillard/">Nehm</a>. "I think we trust one another. We definitely trust way more one another's decision-making and we give one another space to operate." </p><p>Milwaukee sits sixth in the Eastern Conference and will have an opportunity to capture its seventh consecutive win Tuesday against the Detroit Pistons.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - OCTOBER 25: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks speaks with head coach Doc Rivers during the second half of a game against the Chicago Bulls at Fiserv Forum on October 25, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Rivers: Bucks learning to win after 6th straight victory

Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball has been diagnosed with a left calf strain and will miss appro...

<p>Charlotte Hornets star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a> has been diagnosed with a left calf strain and will miss approximately two weeks, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>Ball sustained the injury in the fourth quarter of Charlotte's 98-94 loss to the Miami Heat on Wednesday and was unavailable for the team's Friday loss to the New York Knicks.</p><p>The 23-year-old is the NBA's second-leading scorer at 31.1 points per game - a career best - to go along with 8.4 assists and 6.4 rebounds per contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hornets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96130" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96130">Tre Mann</a> is also sidelined with a lower back injury and will be re-evaluated in two weeks, the team announced.</p><p>The absence of Ball and Mann will give more on-ball reps to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93898" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93898">Josh Green</a>, who was acquired from the Dallas Mavericks in the offseason. Green is averaging 6.9 points and 1.7 assists while shooting 48.1% from deep in his 17 games this campaign.</p><p>Charlotte is currently riding a four-game losing streak, placing them 12th in the East with a 6-13 record. The Hornets will host the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night.</p>

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 27: LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets reacts during the second half of the game against the Miami Heat at Spectrum Center on November 27, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Hornets' Ball out at least 2 weeks due to calf strain

Los Angeles Lakers backup center Jaxson Hayes re-sprained his right ankle and will miss two-to-th...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers backup center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70968" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70968">Jaxson Hayes</a> re-sprained his right ankle and will miss two-to-three weeks, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1862891781404151853">ESPN's Shams Charania and Dave McMenamin</a> Saturday.</p><p>Hayes initially sprained his ankle during a practice in early November and was sidelined six games due to the injury. He returned in Tuesday's 127-100 NBA Cup loss against the Phoenix Suns but missed the following two contests.</p><p>The 24-year-old is averaging 6.4 points and 4.5 rebounds while shooting a career-high 72.2% from the field in 11 games this campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hayes is in the final season of his two-year, $4.6-million deal.</p><p>The 11-8 Lakers sit sixth in the Western Conference and take on the Utah Jazz on Sunday night.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 26: Jaxson Hayes #11 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on October 26, 2024 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Report: Lakers' Hayes will miss 2-3 weeks due to ankle sprain

The NBA fined Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook $35,000 for making an obscene gesture in the...

<p>The NBA fined Denver Nuggets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> $35,000 for making an obscene gesture in the fourth quarter of Denver's 145-118 loss to the New York Knicks on Monday, the league announced Friday.</p><p>Westbrook hit a corner three with under six minutes left and then gave the Knicks' bench the middle finger.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The NBA has fined Russell Westbrook $35K for flipping off the Knicks bench in Nuggets’ loss on Monday.<br><br>(via <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAPR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBAPR</a>) <a href="https://t.co/odNYcSAyD9">pic.twitter.com/odNYcSAyD9</a></p>— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/LegionHoops/status/1862542690006835288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Westbrook tallied 29 points, three assists, and three rebounds on 9-of-16 shooting from the field in the loss.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The league fined Westbrook $25,000 in 2019 while he was a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder after he directed profanity toward a fan during a game against the Utah Jazz in 2019.</p><p>The 36-year-old signed a two-year deal with Denver over the offseason that's worth $6.8 million and includes a player option for the second season. He is averaging 12.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.9 assists in 17 games with the Nuggets.</p><p>The Nuggets are 10-7 and sit seventh in the Western Conference. They'll take on the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday night.</p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - WEDNESDAY 27: Russell Westbrook #4 of the Denver Nuggets defends during the game against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday 27, 2024 at vivint.SmartHome Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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NBA fines Westbrook $35K for obscene gesture

Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas will be out at least three weeks after sustaining a left hamstring...

<p>Brooklyn Nets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96032" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96032">Cam Thomas</a> will be out at least three weeks after sustaining a left hamstring strain, the team announced Wednesday.</p><p>Thomas, 23, is the Association's 14th-leading scorer, averaging a career-best 24.7 points in 17 games. The LSU product is also shooting career highs from the field (46.1%) and from three (38.9%).</p><p>Thomas' absence will provide more minutes for second-year wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110223">Jalen Wilson</a>, who's averaging a career-high 9.4 points while shooting 45.2% from the field and 34.8% from downtown.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110224" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110224">Noah Clowney</a> was also diagnosed with a left ankle sprain sustained in Sunday's win versus the Sacramento Kings. He'll be re-evaluated in approximately two weeks.</p><p>The 8-10 Nets are on a two-game winning streak. They sit eighth in the East and are 1-2 in NBA Cup action. Brooklyn will take on the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday night.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 25: Cam Thomas #24 of the Brooklyn Nets dribbles the ball against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on November 25, 2024 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Nets' Thomas out at least 3 weeks due to hamstring injury

Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet expects punishment from the league after he blew up at the of...

<p>Houston Rockets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/25275" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/25275">Fred VanVleet</a> expects punishment from the league after he blew up at the officials and got ejected in the last seconds of Saturday's 104-98 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.</p><p>"I think I'm in enough trouble as it is tonight, so I probably don't need to discuss too much officiating with you guys," he told <a href="https://x.com/KellyIko/status/1860533819444507030">The Athletic's Kelly Iko</a> postgame.</p><p>"Heat of the moment, you always feel right - I know the refs aren't trying to be wrong, but we disagreed quite a bit tonight."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>VanVleet was furious over a non-call in the dying moments of the game after he tried to draw a foul at the 3-point line with Houston down three.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Even if it is contact the refs aren’t calling a foul. That is a bad play by VanVleet. No way around it. <a href="https://t.co/osNT0XJEKB">pic.twitter.com/osNT0XJEKB</a></p>— Lachard Binkley (@BinkleyHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/BinkleyHoops/status/1860528409757044978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 30-year-old pointed at several referees and shared some choice words before putting a finger in one official's face without making contact.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fred VanVleet is going to be suspended for a lot of games <a href="https://t.co/x6cQSyG65V">pic.twitter.com/x6cQSyG65V</a></p>— Fastbreak Breakfast (@fastbreakbreak) <a href="https://twitter.com/fastbreakbreak/status/1860528851652067598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Wichita State product was ejected from the game partway through his tirade.</p><p>Crew chief Courtney Kirkland <a href="https://official.nba.com/pool-report-on-the-double-technical-fouls-issued-to-houstons-dillon-brooks-and-portlands-anfernee-simons-and-technical-foul-and-ejection-of-houstons-fred-vanvleet-in-the-fourth-quarter-of-tonig/">said</a> postgame that video review showed VanVleet had been fouled on the play, but he wouldn't have been awarded free throws if the foul was called.</p><p>VanVleet tallied eight points, five rebounds, and five assists on 4-of-13 shooting from the field in Saturday's loss.</p><p>The Rockets fell to 12-6. They face the Minnesota Timberwolves in an NBA Cup game Tuesday.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 20: Fred VanVleet #5 of the Houston Rockets dribbles against the Indiana Pacers during the second half at Toyota Center on November 20, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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VanVleet tossed for outburst at refs: 'We disagreed quite a bit'

Detroit Pistons wing Ausar Thompson was cleared to return but did not play in his team's 111-100 ...

<p>Detroit Pistons wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110235" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110235">Ausar Thompson</a> was cleared to return but did not play in his team's 111-100 defeat by the Orlando Magic on Saturday.</p><p>Thompson has been working on his conditioning since the NBA's fitness-to-play panel cleared him to return to action in early November. The 21-year-old has been out since March with a blood clot issue, missing the final 19 contests of his rookie campaign and the entire 2024-25 season thus far.</p><p>The 2023 fifth overall pick averaged 8.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.1 steals in his first year in the NBA.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Meanwhile, Pistons star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> was ruled out of Saturday's tilt due to a lower back injury.</p><p>Cunningham took a hard fall while driving to the rim late in the fourth quarter of Thursday's 123-121 overtime loss to the Charlotte Hornets. He left the game and didn't return.</p><p>The Oklahoma State product leads Detroit in points (23.5), assists (8.9), and steals (0.9).</p><p>With Saturday's loss, the Pistons fell to 7-11 on the campaign.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 30: Cade Cunningham #2 and Ausar Thompson #9 of the Detroit Pistons pose for a portrait during NBA Media Day at Little Caesars Arena on September 30, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Pistons' Thompson sits out loss to Magic despite being cleared

The second annual in-season tournament resumed Friday with eight games in group play. For an expl...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tournament resumed Friday with eight games in group play. For an explanation on how the tourney works, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><p>To see what happened during Tuesday's action, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3125551" href="https://thescore.com/news/3125551">here</a>.</p><h3>Friday's results</h3><ul>
<li>Nets 98-113 <strong>76ers</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Celtics</strong> 108-96 Wizards</li>
<li>Pacers 117-129 <strong>Bucks</strong>
</li>
<li>Hawks 122-136 <strong>Bulls</strong>
</li>
<li>Blazers 88-116 <strong>Rockets</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Warriors</strong> 112-108 Pelicans</li>
<li>
<strong>Mavericks</strong> 123-120 Nuggets</li>
<li>Kings 88-104 <strong>Clippers</strong>
</li>
</ul><p>Check out our <a href="thescore:///nba/scores">NBA scores page</a> for box score recaps for each game, and the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for group standings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Top performers</h3><p><strong>Jared McCain (Sixers):</strong> The Philadelphia 76ers rookie continues to step up in the absence of Joel Embiid and Paul George. McCain poured in a team-high 30 points against the Brooklyn Nets on 11-of-20 shooting. The Duke product was just four points shy of matching a career high and topped 20 points for a seventh straight game. Only one rookie in NBA history has averaged more points as a starter than McCain's 26 per game: Michael Jordan.</p><p><strong>Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks): </strong>The Greek Freak recorded his 47th career triple-double in a dominant performance against the Indiana Pacers. The 29-year-old recorded 37 points, 10 assists, 11 rebounds, and two steals while shooting 66.6% from the field. Antetokounmpo is now tied with Larry Bird and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar with seven 35-point triple-doubles.</p><p><strong>Nikola Jokic (Nuggets): </strong>The three-time MVP returned with another staggering performance after missing the Denver Nuggets' previous three games due to the birth of his second child. In the Nuggets' loss to the Dallas Mavericks, Jokic recorded his seventh triple-double of the season, tallying 33 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Giannis Antetokounmpo is a MONSTER 😱 <a href="https://t.co/EUoaGHRT5M">pic.twitter.com/EUoaGHRT5M</a></p>— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1860160972821868946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>While Reed Sheppard had an outstanding behind-the-back <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1860156577178927279">pass</a> to assist Tari Eason's transition dunk, the Greek Freak takes the cake for his hustle on both ends - denying Bennedict Mathurin's layup before running the lane and bringing home an alley-oop pass off the backboard from Gary Trent Jr.</p><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">You made learning fun thank you for taking a picture with me 🐐 <a href="https://t.co/CWgeEhmhNg">https://t.co/CWgeEhmhNg</a> <a href="https://t.co/EYcvaXOl5J">pic.twitter.com/EYcvaXOl5J</a></p>— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCHWPO/status/1860168494198980817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Jaylen Brown the Science Guy? The Boston Celtics wing was able to meet Bill Nye, the legendary television show host, after his team beat Nye's hometown Washington Wizards. Brown tweeted in November that he wanted to meet Nye, <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1860170161418023014">calling</a> it an "honor" to shake his hand after he influenced his educational journey - which led him to play basketball at Cal.</p><h3>Stat of the night</h3><p>The Houston Rockets have been one of the pleasant surprises of the young NBA season, improving to 12-5 with a dominant 28-point victory over the lowly Portland Trail Blazers. Dillon Brooks recorded 28 points and six rebounds and was plus-13, putting him just <a href="https://x.com/statmuse/status/1860157849722323430">behind</a> fellow Canadian Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the NBA's highest plus-minus this season.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>The Golden State Warriors are the only team to secure a knockout-round spot via Friday's results courtesy of their win over the New Orleans Pelicans and the Nuggets' loss to the Mavericks.</p><p>The NBA Cup picks up again Tuesday with a five-game slate including a matchup between the red-hot Rockets and slumping Minnesota Timberwolves, while LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers visit the Phoenix Suns.</p><p><em>Tap the NBA Cup tab on our <a href="thescore:///nba/standings/">NBA standings page</a> for the latest group standings.</em></p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - NOVEMBER 22: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors takes a shot in front of New Orleans Pelicans guard Elfrid Payton #22 during the second half of an Emirates NBA Cup game at Smoothie King Center on November 22, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton is working through the worst slump of his young career whi...

<p>Indiana Pacers guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> is working through the worst slump of his young career while also trying to lead a floundering 6-10 Indiana Pacers squad.</p><p>"I've got to be better," he <a href="https://x.com/DustinDopirak/status/1860176512621904358">told Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star</a> after Friday night's 129-117 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. "We've got a lot of young guys playing hard, trying their best. ... I've got to figure out."</p><p>The Iowa State product scored recorded 18 points, nine assists, and only one turnover in the loss.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's part of basketball," Haliburton told reporters when asked about working through his slump, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/TonyREast/status/1860171085762977967">WTHR.com's Tony East</a>. "I just gotta keep trusting myself, working hard, trusting my teammates and I'll figure it out."</p><p>Haliburton's production has fallen off a cliff this season, averaging just 15.3 points and 8.5 assists while shooting 37.5% from the field and only 28.4% from three. It represents quite a drop-off from his previous two seasons with the Pacers: he averaged over 20 points and 10 assists both years, received two All-Star nods, and made the All-NBA third team for the 2023-24 campaign.</p><p>His numbers on the road are even more dire - the former All-Star is averaging 12.3 points and is shooting 31.8% from the field in his 10 games away from Indiana.</p><p>His play has had a massive effect on Indiana's offense: The team ranks 17th in the Association with an offensive rating of 120, slightly ahead of the 4-12 Toronto Raptors.</p><p>As a result, the Pacers are on a three-game losing skid and sit 11th in the East. </p><p>Indiana has been decimated by injuries early in the year, losing both backup centers - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93886" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93886">James Wiseman</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96062" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96062">Isaiah Jackson</a> - to season-ending Achilles injuries. Meanwhile, guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102757" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102757">Andrew Nembhard</a> - who received a three-year, $59-million extension in the offseason - has only appeared in seven games this year because of a recurring knee problem. Two-way wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93847" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93847">Aaron Nesmith</a> has also missed 10 consecutive contests with an ankle issue.</p><p>The Pacers will try and get back into winning habits on Sunday when they host the 2-12 Washington Wizards.</p>

TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 18: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers looks on against the Toronto Raptors during the second half of their basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on November 18, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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