29.02.2024
Indiana Pacers 123 - 114 New Orleans Pelicans
The Indiana Pacers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 123-114 in a home-and-home set opener, led by Pascal Siakam's 24 points and 11 rebounds and Tyrese Haliburton's 17 points and 13 assists. Despite being down by 20 at one point, the Pelicans made a comeback and cut the deficit to three before Haliburton's late heroics sealed the win for the Pacers. Brandon Ingram had 30 points for the Pelicans in the losing effort. The game marked a key victory for Indiana in their playoff push, with coach Rick Carlisle emphasizing the importance of each game at this stage of the season.
Minnesota Timberwolves 110 - 101 Memphis Grizzlies
In a thrilling matchup, Anthony Edwards scored 34 points, including 17 in the third quarter, to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 110-101 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. The win propelled the Timberwolves into first place in the Western Conference, with Naz Reid contributing 19 points off the bench and Karl-Anthony Towns adding a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Despite trailing early in the game, the Timberwolves made a comeback and never looked back, securing their third consecutive win. Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 33 points and 13 rebounds in the losing effort. Edwards' stellar defensive effort on Jackson was also crucial in the victory, showcasing his two-way abilities. The Timberwolves now hold a one-half game lead over Oklahoma City in the West standings.
LA Clippers 112 - 116 Los Angeles Lakers
In a thrilling comeback, LeBron James scored 34 points, including 19 in the fourth quarter, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 116-112 win over the Los Angeles Clippers after overcoming a 21-point deficit. James' performance, where he hit five 3-pointers in the final period, was the highlight of the game as he either scored or assisted on 11 of the Lakers' 13 baskets in the fourth quarter. The victory solidified the Lakers' season series win over the Clippers, marking the first time they have done so since 2011-12, and ended the era of the Hallway Series rivalry in the shared arena as the Clippers prepare to move into their own arena.
Toronto Raptors 125 - 136 Dallas Mavericks
Luka Doncic celebrated his 25th birthday with his 11th triple-double of the season, leading the Dallas Mavericks to a 136-125 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Doncic had 30 points, 16 assists, and 11 rebounds, becoming the first player in NBA history to record a 30-point triple-double on his birthday. Kyrie Irving added 29 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter. The Mavericks snapped a two-game skid as they bounced back from a tough loss to Cleveland. Despite strong performances from Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and RJ Barrett, the Raptors were unable to secure their fourth straight win since the All-Star break. Doncic's impressive performance and the Mavericks' resilience in the game were key factors in the victory.
Denver Nuggets 117 - 96 Sacramento Kings
Jamal Murray scored 32 points and Nikola Jokic recorded his fourth straight triple-double as the Denver Nuggets used a big run to defeat the short-handed Sacramento Kings 117-96. The Nuggets avoided losing all four games to the Kings this season and improved to four straight wins since the All-Star break. Jokic had 14 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists in just three quarters, while Keegan Murray led the Kings with 21 points. Denver trailed by 15 early in the second quarter before outscoring the Kings 68-22 to take a commanding lead. The Nuggets remain two games behind Minnesota for the top seed in the Western Conference. Sacramento guard De'Aaron Fox was a late scratch due to a knee contusion.
Chicago Bulls 132 - 123 Cleveland Cavaliers
DeMar DeRozan scored 35 points and Andre Drummond grabbed 26 rebounds as the Chicago Bulls outlasted the Cleveland Cavaliers 132-123 in double overtime. DeRozan made key shots in both overtimes to lead the Bulls to victory after he missed a potential game-winner in regulation. Nikola Vucevic added 24 points and 13 rebounds for Chicago, while Evan Mobley led Cleveland with 25 points and 13 rebounds. The Bulls overcame an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter to force overtime and eventually pull out the win. Chicago set an NBA high this season with 74 rebounds in the game. The Bulls will next host the Milwaukee Bucks, while the Cavaliers will visit the Detroit Pistons.