The second annual in-season tournament, the NBA Cup, resumed Tuesday with six games in group play...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tournament, the NBA Cup, resumed Tuesday with six games in group play. For an explanation of how the tourney works, including the breakdown of the groups, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><p>To see what happened during last Friday's action, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3125531" href="https://thescore.com/news/3125531">here</a>.</p><h3>Tuesday's results</h3><ul>
<li>Cavaliers 117-120 <strong>Celtics</strong>
</li>
<li>Hornets 115-116 <strong>Nets</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Nuggets</strong> 122-110 Grizzlies</li>
<li>Pelicans 91-132 <strong>Mavericks</strong>
</li>
<li>Thunder 104-110 <strong>Spurs</strong>
</li>
<li>Jazz 118-124 <strong>Lakers</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>Jayson Tatum (Celtics):</strong> Tatum led the charge for the Boston Celtics as they delivered the Cleveland Cavaliers their first loss of the 2024-25 season. The 26-year-old scored 33 points, topping 30 for the ninth time this year. Tatum added 12 rebounds, seven assists, and two steals while going 6-of-10 from downtown. It was also the ninth time Tatum has hit five or more 3-pointers in a game this season, the most by any player in the Association.</p><p><strong>Cameron Johnson (Nets): </strong>Johnson erupted Tuesday for his highest-scoring outburst of the season as the Brooklyn Nets came out on top in a dogfight with the Charlotte Hornets. The North Carolina product poured in 34 points, four assists, five rebounds, and two blocks while shooting an efficient 11-for-20 from the field. The performance was Johnson's first scoring 30-plus points this season and third time as a member of the Nets. The 28-year-old also added six 3-pointers.</p><p><strong>Dalton Knecht (Lakers): </strong>On a team with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the rookie wing from Tennessee shined the brightest. Knecht scored a career-high 37 points on 9-of-12 shooting from deep, including 21 points in the third quarter. He led the Lakers in scoring, helping L.A. extend its winning streak to six games with a victory over the Jazz. The 23-year-old is quickly establishing himself as one of the important cogs on a veteran team.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><p>Charlotte Hornets guard Tre Mann was cleared for takeoff when he entered the lane against Brooklyn Nets big man Noah Clowney. One small step from Mann led to one giant leap over the Nets center. The aftermath from the dunk was so vicious that the 23-year-old was assessed a technical foul.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TRE MANN. PUT IT ON A POSTER. 😱 <a href="https://t.co/8sbmWdFIIz">pic.twitter.com/8sbmWdFIIz</a></p>— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1859063257304093013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Reporter: "Joe, why does the NBA Cup matter?"<br><br>Joe Mazzulla: "Who said that?"</p>— Marc D'Amico (@Marc_DAmico) <a href="https://twitter.com/Marc_DAmico/status/1858998772300407274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Well-known for his pointed quotes, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla can be effortlessly hilarious without even trying. Prior to his team's victory over the Cavaliers, Boston's bench boss questioned a reporter for asking why the NBA Cup matters. Is Mazzulla being serious or having a laugh? We'll never know.</p><h3>Stat of the night</h3><p>Russell Westbrook will go down as the best triple-double getter in NBA history. On Tuesday, he became the first player to record 200 triple-doubles, putting up 12 points, 10 rebounds, and 14 assists in the Denver Nuggets' win over the Memphis Grizzlies. Westbrook is 19 triple-doubles ahead of Oscar Robertson, who's No. 2 on the all-time list. The 36-year-old also has 64 more triple-doubles than Nikola Jokic - the closest active player to him in the top 10.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>The NBA Cup resumes Friday with eight games. Among the most notable is a playoff rematch between the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers, while Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks visit Jokic and the Denver Nuggets.</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>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - NOVEMBER 19: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics looks to pass against Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first quarter of the Emirates NBA Cup at TD Garden on November 19, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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NBA Cup roundup: Celtics end Cavs' hot start, Russ makes history

The Los Angeles Sparks hired Utah's Lynne Roberts as their new head coach, the team announced Tue...

<p>The Los Angeles Sparks hired Utah's Lynne Roberts as their new head coach, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>"Lynne is an outstanding coach and leader," Sparks governor and managing partner Eric Holoman said. "We are thrilled to bring her decades of winning coaching experience to our organization."</p><p>Roberts had been the head coach at Utah since 2015 and held a 165-116 record at the school. She led the Utes to a Pac-12 regular-season championship and a Sweet 16 appearance in 2023. Roberts also spent nine seasons in charge of Pacific, winning the Big West regular-season title in 2013.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"The Sparks have a talented roster with tremendous upside, and we will compete tirelessly for WNBA Championships," Roberts said.</p><p>L.A. parted ways with head coach Curt Miller shortly after the 2024 campaign following his second season with the team.</p><p>The club finished last in the WNBA with an 8-32 record. Cameron Brink, the 2024 No. 2 overall pick, appeared in only 15 games due to a knee injury.</p><p>The Sparks hold the No. 2 selection in the 2025 draft.</p>

SPOKANE, WASHINGTON - MARCH 25: Head coach Lynne Roberts of the Utah Utes looks on during the game against the Gonzaga Bulldogs during the second round of the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament held at McCarthey Athletic Center on March 25, 2024 in Spokane, Washington.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29100427/related

Sparks hire Utah's Lynne Roberts as new head coach

Memphis Grizzlies rookie Zach Edey is considered week-to-week due to a sprained ankle he sustaine...

<p>Memphis Grizzlies rookie Zach Edey is considered week-to-week due to a sprained ankle he sustained in Sunday's win over the Denver Nuggets, head coach Taylor Jenkins announced Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/MyMikeCheck/status/1859015270133887361">team reporter Michael Wallace</a>.</p><p>The two-time Naismith Player of the Year suffered the sprain in the third quarter while boxing out after a free throw. He had to be helped off the floor by his teammates and was ruled out for the remainder of the game.</p><p>The Purdue product is averaging 11.1 points and 6.9 rebounds while shooting 60% from the field.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Grizzlies are also without star point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a>, who has missed five games with a hip issue, as well as second-year wing GG Jackson after he underwent foot surgery in early September.</p><p>Memphis sits seventh in the Western Conference with an 8-6 record. The Grizzlies will take on the Nuggets in their second NBA Cup game of the season Tuesday night.</p>

MEMPHIS, TN - NOVEMBER 17: Zach Edey #14 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the Denver Nuggets on November 17, 2024 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29099380/related

Grizzlies' Edey week-to-week with sprained ankle

Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers received a $25,000 fine for publicly criticizing game offic...

<p>Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers received a $25,000 fine for publicly criticizing game officials following Saturday's 115-114 loss to the Charlotte Hornets, the NBA announced Sunday.</p><p>Rivers made his critical comments after referees called a foul on Bucks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> with 7.3 seconds remaining, rewarding Hornets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a> with the game-winning free throws.</p><p>"I thought the final play was the ref blowing a call," Rivers said postgame, per <a href="https://apnews.com/article/bucks-hornets-call-doc-rivers-38f761b8f8a45680252cb22626b63e17">Steve Reed of The Associated Press</a>. "This is back-to-back games now where on the final play there has been an incorrect call made."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">1. This is the second time in 4 days the refs have been making terrible calls on the bucks<br><br>Lamelo obviously trips right here, but it’s called a foul on Giannis.<br><br>Even the hornets announcers admitted to it<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/CeiFkDHGK9">pic.twitter.com/CeiFkDHGK9</a></p>— Crumbletakes (@Crumbletakes) <a href="https://twitter.com/Crumbletakes/status/1857914636072329344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The game's crew chief, Curtis Blair, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3130622" href="https://thescore.com/news/3130622">admitted</a> the refs made an error by calling a foul on Antetokounmpo.</p><p>"During live play we called illegal leg-to-leg contact," Blair said, according to <a href="https://x.com/rodboone/status/1857937740001595539">Rod Boone of the Charlotte Observer</a>. "During postgame review, when we looked at the play, there was no illegal contact on the play."</p><p>The NBA said in a recent last-two-minute report that officials also incorrectly called the Bucks for a foul with seconds remaining in a tied game against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday.</p><p>The Bucks sit 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 4-9 record.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 13: Doc Rivers head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts to a call during the first half of the game against the Detroit Pistons at Fiserv Forum on November 13, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Bucks' Rivers fined 25K for criticizing officials

Warning: Story contains offensive language  The NBA fined Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball $10...

<p><em>Warning: Story contains offensive language</em></p><p>The NBA fined Charlotte Hornets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a> $100,000 for making an offensive and derogatory comment following his team's 115-114 win against the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, the league announced.</p><p>Ball made the remark after being asked about how the Hornets defended Giannis Antetokounmpo when the Bucks star missed a pull-up jumper from the top of the key on the last play.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Yeah, we loaded up, no homo, but that's what we wanted," Ball <a href="https://x.com/dphoop2425/status/1858231900290052221">said</a> on the live broadcast. "Put the hand up and just live with the results."</p><p>Hornets head coach Charles Lee told reporters Sunday that he spoke with Ball and that the 23-year-old was "very apologetic," per <a href="https://x.com/rodboone/status/1858268994051924048">Rod Boone of the Charlotte Observer</a>.</p><p>"I look forward to seeing him grow from this moment, but I definitely did just want to start off by saying we apologize," Lee added.</p><p>Prior to Antetokounmpo's miss, Ball converted two free throws with 7.1 seconds left to put the Hornets up by a point. However, officiating crew chief Curtis Blair <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3130622" href="https://thescore.com/news/3130622">admitted</a> postgame that the referees incorrectly called illegal leg-to-leg contact against Giannis. Bucks coach Doc Rivers told reporters after the loss that he believed "the final play was the ref blowing a call."</p>

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 16: LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets reacts to a call during the first half of a basketball game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Spectrum Center on November 16, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29077534/related

LaMelo fined $100K for derogatory postgame comment

The second annual in-season tourney, the NBA Cup, resumed Friday with 12 games in group play. For...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tourney, the NBA Cup, resumed Friday with 12 games in group play. For an explanation of how the tourney works, including the breakdown of the groups, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><p>To see what happened when the tournament got underway Tuesday, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3125424" href="https://thescore.com/news/3125424">here</a>.</p><h3>Friday's results</h3><ul>
<li>Pacers 111-124 <strong>Heat</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Magic</strong> 98-86 76ers</li>
<li>Raptors 95-99 <strong>Pistons</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Hawks</strong> 129-117 Wizards</li>
<li>
<strong>Cavaliers</strong> 144-126 Bulls</li>
<li>
<strong>Knicks</strong> 124-122 Nets</li>
<li>Spurs 115-120 <strong>Lakers</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Rockets</strong> 125-104 Clippers</li>
<li>
<strong>Pelicans</strong> 101-94 Nuggets</li>
<li>
<strong>Thunder</strong> 99-83 Suns</li>
<li>
<strong>Warriors</strong> 123-118 Grizzlies</li>
<li>Kings 126-130 <strong>T-Wolves</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>Anthony Davis (Lakers):</strong> Davis put on a show Friday night against San Antonio, outdueling Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama. The Kentucky product dropped a season-high 40 points to go along with 12 rebounds and two blocks. Davis is the first Laker to start a season with 11 consecutive 20-point games since Shaquille O'Neal accomplished the feat in the 1998-99 campaign.</p><p><strong>Cam Thomas (Nets): </strong>The Nets may have come up short tonight, but that was not for a lack of trying on Thomas' part. The fourth-year guard erupted in the first quarter for 19 points while going 5-for-5 from three and 7-for-7 from the floor. He finished the first half with 27 points and added another 16 in the second to finish the game with 43. He also put up three assists, two rebounds, one steal, and one block while tying his career high with seven 3-pointers. Thomas is the fifth visiting player ever with multiple 40-plus-point games at Madison Square Garden before turning 24 years old. He dropped 41 points, six assists, and splashed four threes in his previous visit to MSG last season.</p><p><strong>Bam Adebayo (Heat): </strong>Adebayo tallied 30 points, 11 boards, seven assists, and five steals to help the Heat bounce back from a brutal loss in their NBA Cup opener. Adebayo joined LeBron James and Eddie Jones as the only players in franchise history to produce such a stat line, according to <a href="https://x.com/statmuse/status/1857609725849788659">StatMuse</a>. The Kentucky product scored 17 points in the fourth quarter to help Miami pull away from the Pacers.</p><p><strong>De'Aaron Fox (Kings):</strong> Fox went nuclear in the fourth quarter of Sacramento's overtime loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, leading the charge - without DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk - as the Kings put together a 19-2 run at the beginning of the final frame. The 26-year-old dropped a franchise-record 60 points to help eradicate a 20-point second-half deficit. The last player to score 50 or more in a Kings uniform was DeMarcus Cousins in 2016-17. Fox added seven assists and three steals to his record-breaking performance.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><p>The Knicks and Nets were in a dogfight down the stretch. Dennis Schroder seemed to give Brooklyn the edge when he splashed a three from the corner to give his team a one-point lead with 11.5 seconds remaining. That's when Jalen Brunson took matters into his own hands, draining the game-winning 3-pointer over former teammate Dorian Finney-Smith. Schroder attempted to take it the other way for the tie but was blocked at the rim by Mikal Bridges. An electric finish brought to you by former Villanova Wildcats.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 JALEN BRUNSON WINS IT FOR NEW YORK 🚨 <a href="https://t.co/09RSbhs3Qj">pic.twitter.com/09RSbhs3Qj</a></p>— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1857626747144917058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><p>The Pistons have had the worst record in the NBA for two straight seasons, haven't made the postseason since 2019, and haven't finished above .500 since the 2015-16 campaign. In its inaugural year, the NBA Cup provided a stage for a young Pacers squad, giving them the confidence to make an Eastern Conference finals run. Could Detroit replicate that success? It's too early to say, but this competition is giving Detroit fans meaningful basketball for the first time in nearly a decade.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">PUT IT IN THE RAFTERS!!!!!! <a href="https://t.co/5kHLYF6pGm">pic.twitter.com/5kHLYF6pGm</a></p>— Kofie (@Kofie) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kofie/status/1857613312462029146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the night</h3><p>Chris Paul continues to drop dimes at age 39. The veteran floor general joined John Stockton and Jason Kidd as the only players in NBA history to tally 12,000 assists. Paul finished Friday's contest against the Los Angeles Lakers with 11 assists, including a lob to Wembanyama to reach the elusive milestone. Paul is now only 83 dimes away from passing Kidd for second on the NBA's all-time list.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>The NBA Cup continues Tuesday with six games, and all eyes should be on Boston as Jayson Tatum and the Celtics welcome Donovan Mitchell and the first-place Cleveland Cavaliers.</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 YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 15: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks celebrates victory over the Brooklyn Nets at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2024 in New York City.

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NBA Cup roundup: Brunson's heroics help Knicks top rival Nets

Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball will be unavailable for at least another week as he continues to r...

<p>Chicago Bulls guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53246" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53246">Lonzo Ball</a> will be unavailable for at least another week as he continues to recover from a wrist injury, head coach Billy Donovan told <a href="https://x.com/KCJHoop/status/1857561048187892080">K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network</a> on Friday.</p><p>The team had originally targeted Sunday against the Houston Rockets as a possible return date. Ball has missed Chicago's previous eight contests due to the injury.</p><p>The situation remains fluid, and doctors have told the team the timeline for Ball's recovery could vary from two-to-six weeks, Donovan added, according to <a href="https://x.com/KCJHoop/status/1857561519975784595">Johnson</a>. The UCLA product has been able to dribble and shoot but struggles to catch passes without pain and has yet to play against a live defense.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ball returned on opening night after missing two-and-a-half years with recurring knee problems, which included three separate surgeries. He's participated in three games and is averaging 4.7 points, 3.7 assists, and 2.7 rebounds.</p><p>The 5-7 Bulls sit sixth in the Eastern Conference and will play the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers in NBA Cup action Friday night.</p>

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - OCTOBER 28: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Chicago Bulls looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on October 28, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29039954/related

Lonzo out at least another week due to wrist injury

San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama became the fourth-youngest player in NBA history to re...

<p>San Antonio Spurs center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> became the fourth-youngest player in NBA history to record a 50-point game in Wednesday's 139-130 win against the Washington Wizards.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A HISTORIC night for Wemby. <br><br>🔥 Career-high 50 PTS<br>🔥 Career-high 8 3PM<br>🔥 Fourth-youngest player to score 50<br>🔥 First Spurs player with 50+ PTS and 5+ 3PM <a href="https://t.co/mCSSssKWPQ">pic.twitter.com/mCSSssKWPQ</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1856907062489362896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Total</th>
<th>Years</th>
<th>Days</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Brandon Jennings</td>
<td>55</td>
<td>20 Years</td>
<td>52 Days</td>
<td>Bucks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>56</td>
<td>20 Years</td>
<td>80 Days</td>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devin Booker</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>20 Years</td>
<td>145 Days</td>
<td>Suns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Victor Wembanyama</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>20 Years</td>
<td>314 Days</td>
<td>Spurs</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The 20-year-old hit the milestone (and finished there) with over eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, on 18-of-29 shooting. He's the eighth Spur to reach the 50-point mark in a game, joining David Robinson, George Gervin, LaMarcus Aldridge, Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, Terry Cummings, and Larry Kenon.</p><p>The only other players to score at least 50 points this season are the Orlando Magic's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102767" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102767">Paolo Banchero</a> and Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The French phenom also made a career-high eight 3-pointers in the contest. It's the third consecutive game in which Wembanyama's made at least six triples. He added six rebounds and three blocks. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93907" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93907">Devin Vassell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102806" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102806">Julian Champagnie</a> added 17 and 12 points, respectively.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60514" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60514">Jordan Poole</a>'s 42 points led the way for Washington.</p><p>The Spurs improved to 6-6 and will host the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Cup on Friday. </p><p>The Wizards sit 13th in the Eastern Conference at 2-7 and will play their opening in-season tourney contest against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TX - NOVEMBER 13: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs passes the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards on November 13, 2024 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photos byGarrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Wemby becomes 4th-youngest player with 50-point game in win over Wizards

The second annual in-season tourney, the NBA Cup, began Tuesday with eight games in group play. F...

<p><em>The second annual in-season tourney, the NBA Cup, began Tuesday with eight games in group play. For an explanation of how the tourney works, including the breakdown of the groups, tap <a href="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-cup-101">here</a>.</em></p><h3>Tuesday's results</h3><ul>
<li>Celtics 116-117 <strong>Hawks</strong> (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127054" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127054">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Pistons</strong> 123-121 Heat (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127068" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127068">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Magic</strong> 114-89 Hornets (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127061" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127061">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>76ers 99-111 <strong>Knicks</strong> (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127093" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127093">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Bucks</strong> 99-85 Raptors (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127118" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127118">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>Jazz 112-120 <strong>Suns</strong> (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127150" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127150">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Warriors</strong> 120-117 Mavs (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127221" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127221">Recap</a>)</li>
<li>
<strong>Blazers</strong> 122-108 T-Wolves (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127209" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127209">Recap</a>)</li>
</ul><h3>Top performers</h3><p><strong>Tyler Herro (Heat): </strong>Herro's efforts nearly lifted Miami to a dramatic comeback win over the Detroit Pistons. The Heat guard finished with a season-high 40 points, including six triples in the fourth quarter to erase a 14-point deficit and force overtime. He knocked down 10 threes overall to set a new single-game franchise record. Herro's contested basket with 1.8 seconds remaining in the extra frame would've been the game-winner had Miami made one more defensive stand.</p><p><strong>Dyson Daniels (Hawks): </strong>Daniels stepped up in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60633" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60633">Trae Young</a>'s absence, posting a career-high 28 points, seven assists, six steals, and three boards to lead the Hawks to a stunning road win over the Boston Celtics. The third-year guard is the first NBA player to register at least 35 steals through their first 10 appearances of the season since Baron Davis and Allen Iverson in 2003-04.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Steph Curry (Warriors): </strong>Curry spoiled <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5334" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5334">Klay Thompson</a>'s Bay Area homecoming. The two-time MVP dropped 37 points - including a personal 12-3 fourth-quarter run - on 14-of-27 shooting from the field to go along with his nine assists and six rebounds. Curry embraced his former Splash Bro, who recorded a season-high 22 points, after the final whistle blew.</p><h3>Highlight of the night</h3><p>Toronto Raptors center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62057" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62057">Bruno Fernando</a> uncorked a wicked poster over Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a>. The journeyman center also had his best game in a Raptors uniform, recording season highs in points (eight), rebounds (13), and blocks (two).</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">OH MY GOODNESS BRUNO 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/6E9MT4vv5s">pic.twitter.com/6E9MT4vv5s</a></p>— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raptors/status/1856528928715755589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Tweet of the night</h3><p>Hundreds of Golden State Warriors employees were waiting for Thompson to arrive at the Chase Center for his first game against the Warriors since he joined the Dallas Mavericks. The staff members were sporting sailor hats in homage to Thompson's well-known hobby of boating.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Must watch video 🚨 🚨🚨 Salute to Captain Klay, hundreds of <a href="https://twitter.com/warriors?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@warriors</a> team employees greeted Klay Thompson as he entered the arena. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubNation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubNation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubsOn7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubsOn7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/abc7newsbayarea?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abc7newsbayarea</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/espn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@espn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ESPNNBA</a> <a href="https://t.co/eZt1mtb8Wt">pic.twitter.com/eZt1mtb8Wt</a></p>— Chris Alvarez (@CAlvarezABC7) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAlvarezABC7/status/1856492962999591088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the night</h3><p>You've got to love shooting variance. The Portland Trail Blazers picked up a crucial 122-108 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, knocking down 18-of-32 (56%) of their attempts from deep. Portland shot just 4-of-42 (9%) from the land beyond in its previous game, managing just 89 points in a 45-point loss.</p><h3>What's next</h3><p>The NBA Cup resumes Friday with a dozen matchups, highlighted by a West Group B clash in South-Central Texas between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> and the Los Angeles Lakers and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> and the San Antonio Spurs.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 12: Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks guards former teammate Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on November 12, 2024 in San Francisco, California. This is Thompson's first game back in Golden State after he was traded to Dallas after last season. 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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NBA Cup roundup: Curry spoils Klay's return to Golden State

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra had an epic gaffe in the closing moments of Miami's 123-121 ...

<p>Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra had an epic gaffe in the closing moments of Miami's 123-121 overtime loss to the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night.</p><p>The Heat had a two-point lead with 1.8 seconds remaining in the extra frame. Miami gave up a wide-open, game-tying alley-oop dunk to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102754" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102754">Jalen Duren</a> after rushing to remove a sixth player from the floor. Spoelstra proceeded to attempt to call a timeout despite not having any left. Detroit was awarded a technical foul free throw as a result and veteran guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44947" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44947">Malik Beasley</a> calmly knocked down the eventual winner.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">What a disaster for the Heat. <br><br>-Had six guys on the floor for the last possession. Barely got one guy off. <br>-Then they give up a lob dunk to allow the Pistons to tie. <br>-Spo calls a timeout he doesn't have<br>-Pistons make the technical FT to win the game. <a href="https://t.co/cpmeJ0HDTz">pic.twitter.com/cpmeJ0HDTz</a></p>— Steph Noh (@StephNoh) <a href="https://twitter.com/StephNoh/status/1856529750686101897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Pistons were also awarded the ball with 1.1 seconds remaining due to the excessive timeout call.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"J.B. (Bickerstaff) just drew up a great play. We didn't have the backside protected. It was just a really well-executed play," Spoelstra told the media in his postgame interview, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/WorldWideWob/status/1856535752500277320">SiriusXNBA's Rob Perez</a>.</p><p>"I just made a serious mental error there at the end," he continued. "That's on me. I feel horrible about it. There's really no excuse for that. I'm 17 years in. ... I knew we didn't have anything. I just got emotional and reactive on that and I just made a horrendous mistake there at the end."</p><p>Miami was able to claw back from a 14-point deficit thanks to six fourth-quarter triples from guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a>. The Kentucky product finished the game with a season-high 40 points, including a franchise-record 10 made 3-pointers.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> led the way for Detroit, tallying 21 points and nine assists.</p><p>The Heat fall to 4-6 (0-1 in NBA Cup play) while Detroit vaults them in the standings, improving to 5-7 (1-0 in Cup action).</p><p>The Heat continue NBA Cup action next, facing the Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis on Friday night. The Pistons will take on the 3-8 Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday.</p>

DETROIT, MI - NOOVEMBER 12: Miami Heat Head Coach Erik Spoelstra looks on during the Emirates NBA Cup game on November 12, 2024 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. 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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Spoelstra's blunder gifts Pistons OT win in NBA Cup opener

The Indiana Pacers announced Sunday that point guard Andrew Nembhard will miss the next two weeks...

<p>The Indiana Pacers announced Sunday that point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102757" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102757">Andrew Nembhard</a> will miss the next two weeks with a sore knee, and wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93847" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93847">Aaron Nesmith</a> won't be back until at least December due to an ankle sprain.</p><p>Nembhard's sore knee has been a recurring issue, keeping him out of two of the last four Pacers games.</p><p>The Canadian signed a three-year, $59-million extension with the club over the summer. Nembhard's averaging 7.3 points and 4.7 assists while shooting 38.5% from the field this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Nesmith has missed three consecutive contests since suffering an ankle sprain in the Pacers' loss to the New Orleans Pelicans last week. The 25-year-old is averaging 9.2 points and shooting 54.5% from deep.</p><p>Indiana inserted third-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102759" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102759">Bennedict Mathurin</a> into the starting lineup the previous four games to cover the absences of Nembhard and Nesmith.</p><p>"There's a great opportunity here for our younger guys to step up," head coach Rick Carlisle told <a href="https://x.com/Pacers/status/1855718493448007898">Pacers sideline reporter Jeremiah Johnson</a> Sunday.</p><p>The Pacers have already lost 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> for the season, with both tearing their Achilles tendons. Indiana also ruled out forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93853" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93853">Obi Toppin</a> from Sunday's clash against the New York Knicks due to an ankle injury.</p><p>The 4-5 Pacers sit fifth in the Eastern Conference.</p>

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 28: Andrew Nembhard #2 of the Indiana Pacers dribbles the ball against against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Kia Center on October 28, 2024 in Orlando, Florida.

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Pacers' Nembhard out 2 weeks; Nesmith unavailable until December

Sixers All-Star Paul George is staying optimistic despite the team's dreadful 1-7 start to the 20...

<p>Sixers All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> is staying optimistic despite the team's dreadful 1-7 start to the 2024-25 campaign.</p><p>"You just (have to) remain positive," George said after Philadelphia's 116-106 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, according to <a href="https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/sixers-injuries-joel-embiid-tyrese-maxey-paul-george-record-20241110.html?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_campaign=edit_social_share_twitter_traffic&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_term=&amp;int_promo=">Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer</a>.</p><p>The nine-time All-Star had nine points on 4-of-13 shooting from the field in just his third game with the team.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We have one of the best big men in the game coming back to join us soon," George continued. "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese (Maxey)</a> will get healthy, and then we'll finally be a complete team that can start to build and figure (out) who we really are at that point."</p><p>He added: "(The) ship hasn't sunk. ... We're still showing up trying to get prepared to win games with just a little more focus, a little more attention to detail and just continue to grow with confidence."</p><p>The Sixers have been battered by injuries - and off-court drama - this season. </p><p>George joined Philly in the summer, inking a four-year, $212-million deal with the club. He was unable to play in the opening five games of the campaign after suffering a hyperextended knee in preseason action.</p><p>Former MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> has yet to play this campaign as he continues to rehab his left knee. Philadelphia was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3112410" href="https://thescore.com/news/3112410">fined</a> $100,000 for public statements by team officials that were "inconsistent" with Embiid's health status.</p><p>The 30-year-old Embiid was also given a three-game suspension for shoving a Philadelphia columnist. He is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3119527" href="https://thescore.com/news/3119527">reportedly</a> targeting the Sixers' first NBA Cup game on Nov. 12 against the New York Knicks for his season debut.</p><p>Meanwhile, Maxey - who also signed a massive deal with Philadelphia during the offseason - will be out approximately two weeks after an MRI confirmed a right hamstring strain Thursday. The Sixers have only had two of their three All-Stars available for two contests through the first eight games of the year.</p><p>"It's hard to be super excited and happy," Sixers rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121672" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121672">Jared McCain</a> told Pompey. "But for this group, we have a lot of vets, and they've all been here, done that. ... We're going to continue to work, and we're going to get over this hump."</p><p>Philadelphia is currently on a five-game losing streak and is the only team in the NBA with less than two wins. The Sixers host the 4-5 Charlotte Hornets on Sunday night.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 08: Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts after a 76ers foul during a 116-106 Los Angeles Lakers win at Crypto.com Arena on November 08, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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George: The 'ship hasn't sunk' after Sixers' 1-7 start

Devin Vassell made his season debut off the bench Saturday during the San Antonio Spurs' 111-110 ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93907" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93907">Devin Vassell</a> made his season debut off the bench Saturday during the San Antonio Spurs' 111-110 loss to the Utah Jazz.</p><p>Vassell checked in at the 5:35 mark of the first quarter. He finished the game with 21 points, two assists, and a rebound in 22 minutes.</p><p>The 24-year-old had yet to play this campaign as he recovered from offseason foot surgery. Vassell made his last appearance March 29 of last season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Florida State product will provide San Antonio more wing depth after forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102789" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102789">Jeremy Sochan</a> was sidelined indefinitely following surgery to repair a fractured thumb.</p><p>Vassell averaged career highs in points (19.5), assists (4.1), and field-goal percentage (47.2%) in 68 games last season. The former lottery pick inked a five-year, $146-million extension with the Spurs last October.</p><p>The Spurs have been playing without legendary head coach Gregg Popovich since Nov. 2 as he recovers from an unspecified health issue.</p><p>San Antonio fell to 4-7 with the defeat.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TX - NOVEMBER 9: Devin Vassell #24 of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles the ball during the game against the Utah Jazz on November 9, 2024 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photos by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Spurs' Vassell makes season debut vs. Jazz

New Orleans Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III is eyeing Monday against the Brooklyn Nets for his pote...

<p>New Orleans Pelicans wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96120">Trey Murphy III</a> is eyeing Monday against the Brooklyn Nets for his potential return to the lineup, according to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1855284334347092386">NBA Insider Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>The Virginia product injured his hamstring during training camp and has not yet played in the 2024-25 campaign.</p><p>Murphy, 24, inked his rookie-scale extension worth $112 million over four years during the offseason. He averaged a career-best 14.8 points to go along with 4.9 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting 38% from deep in 2023-24.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>New Orleans is off to a 3-7 start and has dealt with a multitude of injuries. The Pelicans have played ruled out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46143" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46143">Dejounte Murray</a> (hand), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2562" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2562">CJ McCollum</a> (adductor), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herbert Jones</a> (shoulder), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110274" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110274">Jordan Hawkins</a> (back) for multiple weeks. All-Star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a> missed Friday's loss to the Orlando Magic with a hamstring issue.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - APRIL 16: Trey Murphy III #25 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives with the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers during a play-in tournament game at the Smoothie King Center on April 16, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Report: Pelicans' Murphy targeting Monday for season debut

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick made a bold decision when he removed former All-Star guar...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick made a bold decision when he removed former All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37752" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37752">D'Angelo Russell</a> from the starting lineup in Friday's 116-106 win over the Philadelphia 76ers.</p><p>Russell, who tallied 18 points and three assists in the game, wasn't bothered by the move. "I'm egoless. I just want to win," he said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1855128332288794967">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><p>The 28-year-old added he left his "baggage at the door" when Redick was hired over the summer.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Russell had started every game under the new coaching regime and hadn't come off the bench for L.A. since Jan. 11, 2024 - a 127-109 loss to the Sixers.</p><p>Redick was pleased with Russell's professionalism, crediting him for giving the second unit an offensive "<a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/1855126048859468284">pop</a>." Russell's 18 points were tied for the most a bench player has scored for the Lakers this season.</p><p>The bench boss also repeatedly said the starting lineup will remain "fluid" throughout the season, according to <a href="https://x.com/DanWoikeSports/status/1855125499292287336">Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times</a>.</p><p>Russell has struggled to find his All-Star form this season, averaging a career-low 12.7 points while shooting a dismal 30.8% from deep and just 40% from the field. Friday's contest was only the third time this campaign he's had a field-goal percentage above 50%.</p><p>The Lakers improved to 5-4 and currently sit eighth in the Western Conference. They'll host the Toronto Raptors on Sunday night.</p>

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - NOVEMBER 06: D'Angelo Russell #1 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on November 06, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee.

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Lakers' Russell: 'I'm egoless' after coming off bench

New Orleans Pelicans guard Jordan Hawkins will miss approximately one-to-two weeks after being di...

<p>New Orleans Pelicans guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110274" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110274">Jordan Hawkins</a> will miss approximately one-to-two weeks after being diagnosed with a low back strain, the team announced Friday.</p><p>The 22-year-old sat out New Orleans' loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday with a back injury but returned to play 18 minutes against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday.</p><p>Hawkins has made a big second-year jump in production. He's averaging 16.3 points and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 36.5% from deep through his first eight games of the 2024-25 campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>New Orleans is suffering through an injury bug, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46143" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46143">Dejounte Murray</a> (hand), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2562" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2562">CJ McCollum</a> (adductor), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herbert Jones</a> (shoulder) ruled out for multiple weeks. Former All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a> has already missed three contests due to illness and a hamstring issue. He's listed as questionable on the injury report.</p><p>The Pelicans are on a three-game losing streak and sit 14th in the Western Conference with a 3-6 record. They face the Magic in Orlando on Friday.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - NOVEMBER 06: Jordan Hawkins #24 of the New Orleans Pelicans passes the ball during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Smoothie King Center on November 06, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Pelicans' Hawkins out 1-2 weeks with back strain

Minnesota star Anthony Edwards needed to go nuclear in the second half of Thursday's 135-119 win ...

<p>Minnesota star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> needed to go nuclear in the second half of Thursday's 135-119 win over the Chicago Bulls, scoring 20 of his 33 points in the final two frames to help the Timberwolves overcome a nine-point halftime deficit.</p><p>"We ain't taking no pride in stopping nobody right now early in the game," Edwards said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5907903/2024/11/08/anthony-edwards-timberwolves-bulls-nba/?source=emp_shared_article">Darnell Mayberry of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>"That's troubling. That's scary. We've got to figure that part out. We're terrible until we get down. When we get down, that's when everybody wants to play defense."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Minnesota's 45-point fourth quarter against Chicago helped hide some of the Timberwolves' first-half issues. They've allowed 60 or more points in four of their eight first halves and their defensive rating drops from 115.9 to 109.8 after the intermission.</p><p>The Bulls' 24-point fourth quarter was the only frame in which they scored fewer than 30 on Thursday.</p><p>"That's what's ideal. F--k the offense," Edwards said. "They had 60-something points (65) at halftime. We can't win a basketball game like that, not if we're a defensive team."</p><p>On Monday, Minnesota head coach Chris Finch called out wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93891" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93891">Jaden McDaniels</a>' defense.</p><p>"It's not been good. He's got to be way better. ... Defensively, all the way around, we don't have that competitiveness to the level that we've shown or normally had," Finch said, according to the <a href="https://x.com/ChristopherHine/status/1853595351841997115">Minnesota Star Tribune's Chris Hine</a>.</p><p>"It's not just Jaden, but he's got to go back to the level of All-Defensive team that he can play. That's important for us in our success," Finch continued, per <a href="https://x.com/ChristopherHine/status/1853595353372614892">Hine</a>.</p><p>Minnesota improved to 5-3 with the victory and will play host to the 3-6 Portland Trail Blazers on Friday.</p>

CHICAGO, IL - NOVEMBER 07: Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) posts up against Chicago Bulls forward Dalen Terry (25) during the second half on November 7, 2024 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

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Edwards: T-Wolves need to step up defense early in games

Barring any setbacks in his recovery from a knee injury, All-Star forward Paul George is expected...

<p>Barring any setbacks in his recovery from a knee injury, All-Star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> is expected to make his Philadelphia 76ers debut Monday night against the Phoenix Suns, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1853226425286844802">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>George said Monday that there's a 90-95% chance that he'll play, according to <a href="https://x.com/PompeyOnSixers/status/1853508493699113175">Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer</a>.</p><p>George missed the season's first five games while recovering from a bone bruise in his left knee that he sustained in an exhibition game against the Atlanta Hawks on Oct. 14. The 34-year-old is listed as questionable on the Sixers' injury report.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid </a>also has yet to play for Philadelphia this campaign as he deals with lingering knee issues.</p><p>George averaged 22.6 points, 3.5 assists, and 5.2 rebounds last season as a member of the Los Angeles Clippers.</p><p>The nine-time All-Star inked a four-year, $212-million deal with Philadelphia over the summer.</p><p>The Sixers are off to a rocky start this season, winning just one of their opening five games.</p><p>After playing the Suns on Monday, the Sixers will continue their West Coast road trip by visiting the Clippers on Wednesday and the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 14: Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers attempts a shot against Clint Capela #15 of the Atlanta Hawks during the first quarter at State Farm Arena on October 14, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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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Report: George expected to make Sixers debut vs. Suns

The NBA opened an investigation following reports that All-Star Joel Embiid shoved a columnist af...

<p>The NBA opened an investigation following reports that All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> shoved a columnist after the Philadelphia 76ers' loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday night.</p><p>"We are aware of reports of an incident in the Sixers locker room this evening and are commencing an investigation," an NBA spokesperson told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1852915878884426107">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Embiid was upset with Philadelphia Inquirer's Marcus Hayes for a story that questioned the star's professionalism and referenced his son and late brother, who died in a car accident, according to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/9sT9l1NiYIA">PHLY Sports' Kyle Neubeck</a>. Since initially publishing the article, the Inquirer has removed the paragraph mentioning Embiid's son and brother.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Embiid spotted Hayes in the locker room after Saturday's loss and had a heated exchange with the columnist, Neubeck adds. The former MVP reportedly told Hayes he could write about him as a basketball player but never to mention his family in an article.</p><p>"The next time you bring up my dead brother and my son again, you are going to see what I'm going to do to you, and I'm going to have to ... live with the consequences," Embiid told Hayes, per <a href="https://apnews.com/article/joel-embiid-reporter-confrontation-ecab32915ca971c998ecbc1021dcd848">Kevin Cooney of The Associated Press</a>.</p><p>Approximately 90 seconds after the argument, Embiid shoved Hayes before team security stepped in, Neubeck added.</p><p>On Friday, Embiid had a profanity-filled rant in response to Hayes' column, calling the article "bullshit," per <a href="https://x.com/KyleNeubeck/status/1852401978061844953">Neubeck</a>.</p><p>"That dude, he's not here, Marcus, I've done way too much for this f-----g city to be treated like this," Embiid said Friday.</p><p>Embiid has yet to play in a game for the Sixers this season as he deals with lingering knee issues. He was a full participant at Friday's practice but wasn't ready for Saturday's contest.</p><p>The NBA <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3112410" href="https://thescore.com/news/3112410">fined</a> Philadelphia $100,000 on Tuesday for public statements inconsistent with Embiid's health status. The league also announced that Embiid hadn't violated its player participation policy.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 25: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on from the bench during the fourth quarter of the game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on December 25, 2022 in New York City.

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NBA investigating reported altercation between Embiid, columnist

NBA commissioner Adam Silver wants to make changes to the 2025 NBA All-Star Game.  The league is ...

<p>NBA commissioner Adam Silver wants to make changes to the 2025 NBA All-Star Game.</p><p>The league is currently exploring "other formats" and has formed a committee to come up with new ideas that make the event more exciting, Silver said Saturday at his press conference for the NBA Global Games in Mexico City, according to <a href="https://x.com/Rachel__Nichols/status/1852885511049757126">NBA Insider Rachel Nichols</a>.</p><p>"We want to do something that will excite the fans and excite the players," Silver said, per Nichols.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Eastern Conference won last year's event 211-186. It was the first time in the 73 years of the game that a squad scored more than 200 points. The 397 total points was also an All-Star Game record.</p><p>"I think there's no doubt that the players were disappointed as well in last year's All-Star Game. We want to do a better job providing competition and entertainment for our fans," Silver said, per <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nba-all-star-game-47ce7fd639ffe138d0d6445f5029043a">The Associated Press' Tim Reynolds</a>.</p><p>Silver has tinkered with the All-Star Game before. The league instituted the Elam Ending - using a target score instead of a game clock - from 2020 to 2023, attempted to have an All-Star draft instead of the traditional East-versus-West format, and has tried to have several different special events during the weekend.</p><p>In 2024, the league put on a shooting contest between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> and WNBA star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55066" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55066">Sabrina Ionescu</a>.</p><p>Silver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2875687" href="https://thescore.com/news/2875687">previously</a> mentioned scrapping the East-versus-West format in favor of a game between Team World and Team USA, which he believes would create a competitive atmosphere. The last six MVP trophies were awarded to foreign-born players. All-Star Weekend previously had a rookie game between US and foreign-born players.</p><p>The 2025 All-Star Game will be held in San Francisco on Feb. 16.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 18: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Eastern Conference dribbles the ball during the game during the NBA All-Star Game as part of NBA All-Star Weekend on Sunday, February 18, 2024 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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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Silver: NBA looking at 'other formats' for 2025 ASG

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Donald Higney

Basketball News Editor

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News Editor

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