07.01.2024
Houston Rockets 112 - 108 Milwaukee Bucks
Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo's 48 points and 17 rebounds, the Houston Rockets overcame the Milwaukee Bucks with a final score of 112-108. Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 21 points, while Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet also contributed to the win. The Bucks lost for the third time in four games, while the Rockets closed a seven-game homestand with a positive record of 3-4. The game highlighted the Rockets' ability to shut down other Bucks players and focus on limiting Antetokounmpo's impact. The Rockets now head on a six-game road trip against Eastern Conference opponents.
Indiana Pacers 101 - 118 Boston Celtics
In a dominant performance, Jayson Tatum scored 38 points and Jaylen Brown added 31 as the Boston Celtics defeated the Indiana Pacers 118-101, halting the Pacers' six-game winning streak. Tatum made a season-high eight 3-pointers and contributed 13 rebounds and six assists, while Brown and Tatum combined for 27 of the Celtics' 46 baskets. Boston's strong defense limited the Pacers to a season-low point total and outrebounded them 70-42. Despite a late push by Indiana in the third quarter, the Celtics maintained a comfortable lead and cruised to victory. The Pacers were led by Bennedict Mathurin with 20 points and All-Star Tyrese Haliburton with 17 points, seven assists, six rebounds, and five steals. Boston's win sets up a rematch between the two teams on Monday night.
Washington Wizards 105 - 121 New York Knicks
Julius Randle scored 39 points and Jalen Brunson had 33 to lead the New York Knicks to their fourth straight win, a 121-105 victory over the Washington Wizards. The Knicks dominated early in the game, building a substantial lead and maintaining control throughout. Randle's performance was just two points off his season high, and Isaiah Hartenstein contributed 19 rebounds. Despite a strong second half from the Wizards, the Knicks were able to close out the game decisively. Washington, who committed 20 turnovers, saw Kyle Kuzma score 27 points and Deni Avdija add 23. New York, now 14-1 against teams with losing records, will host Portland next, while the Wizards will face Oklahoma City.
Philadelphia 76ers 109 - 120 Utah Jazz
Lauri Markkanen and Collin Sexton led the Utah Jazz to a 120-109 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, who were without injured Joel Embiid. Markkanen had 33 points and 13 rebounds, while Sexton added 22 points and 10 assists. The Jazz dominated the paint, scoring 72 points inside. The Sixers struggled without Embiid and Tobias Harris, shooting poorly from the field and missing key defensive stops. With the win, the Jazz improve to their fourth win in five games overall. Embiid's absence raises concerns about his eligibility for major NBA awards due to the league's new collective bargaining agreement.