29.01.2024
Detroit Pistons 120 - 104 Oklahoma City Thunder
In a lopsided victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Detroit Pistons were led by Jalen Duren's first career 20-20 game with 22 points and 21 rebounds, ending the Thunder's five-game winning streak with a final score of 120-104. Missing their leading scorer Cade Cunningham, the Pistons still managed to dominate the game with strong performances from Jaden Ivey and Duren. The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, made a comeback attempt in the third quarter but ultimately fell short as the Pistons maintained their lead and secured the win. The victory marks a significant moment for the struggling Pistons in an otherwise tough season, showcasing their resiliency and potential for improvement.
Orlando Magic 113 - 98 Phoenix Suns
The Orlando Magic overcame Devin Booker's 44-point night to beat the Phoenix Suns 113-98, with Paolo Banchero scoring 26 points. The Magic's defensive lineup of massive players shut down the Suns in the fourth quarter, holding them to only four points in the last 10 minutes. Devin Booker had only two points in the fourth quarter, as the Magic's physical play disrupted the Suns' rhythm. Moritz Wagner came off the bench with 16 points and 12 rebounds, providing extra possessions for the Magic. The Suns, who shot 56% overall, were limited to only 14 threes, well below their season average. Kevin Durant had a quiet night with 15 points and seven turnovers. The Magic face the Dallas Mavericks next, while the Suns play the Miami Heat.
Indiana Pacers 116 - 110 Memphis Grizzlies
In a closely contested game, Bennedict Mathurin scored 24 points off the bench, leading the Indiana Pacers to a 116-110 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. Jalen Smith's go-ahead 3-pointer late in the fourth quarter proved to be crucial, securing the Pacers' third consecutive home win. Mathurin's aggressiveness going downhill and efficient shooting, along with Pascal Siakam's 19 points, kept the Pacers ahead. Despite missing key players, both teams battled hard, with Jaren Jackson Jr. leading the Grizzlies with 25 points. The Pacers closed the third quarter strong and never trailed again, ultimately securing the win.
Atlanta Hawks 126 - 125 Toronto Raptors
In a thrilling finish, Saddiq Bey's last-second dunk off Trae Young's miss lifted the Atlanta Hawks to a 126-125 win over the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors, who were short-handed and missing key players, suffered their fifth straight loss. Bey had a season-high 26 points and 13 rebounds, while Young recorded a double-double with 30 points and 12 assists. The Hawks, who shot just 22% from 3-point range, dominated in the paint and on the boards, outrebounding the Raptors 51-46. Jordan Nwora had a strong performance off the bench for Toronto with 24 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. The Hawks will now prepare to host the Lakers, while the Raptors will visit the Bulls in their next game.
Portland Trail Blazers 96 - 104 Chicago Bulls
DeMar DeRozan led the Chicago Bulls to a 104-96 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers with 20 points, snapping a two-game losing streak. Coby White added 15 points and 10 assists, while Andre Drummond scored 15 off the bench. The Bulls relied on defense and sealed the win with Ayo Dosunmu's late 3-pointer. Jerami Grant led the Blazers with 24 points, but Portland has now lost four of their last five games. The Bulls were without Patrick Williams. Chicago will host the Toronto Raptors next, while the Blazers will face the Philadelphia 76ers before Damian Lillard returns to Portland with the Milwaukee Bucks.