17.12.2024
Detroit Pistons 125 - 124 Miami Heat
In an electrifying game, the Detroit Pistons triumphed over the Miami Heat 125-124 in overtime, breaking Miami's four-game winning streak. Tim Hardaway Jr. was instrumental in OT, hitting three crucial 3-pointers, including the go-ahead shot with 1:35 remaining. Cade Cunningham achieved his sixth triple-double of the season with 20 points, a career-high 18 assists, and 11 rebounds. Malik Beasley led Detroit's scoring with 28 points, shooting an impressive seven of 13 from beyond the arc. Despite Jimmy Butler's remarkable performance for Miami, earning 35 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists, the Heat's rally from a 19-point second-half deficit fell just short. Tyler Herro had a difficult night, making only four of 17 attempts from long range, though he maintained his streak of 58 consecutive games with at least one 3-pointer. The Pistons bounced back from a stretch where they lost four of five games, notably excelling with a 50% shooting rate from 3-point range.
Charlotte Hornets 108 - 121 Philadelphia 76ers
In an impressive performance, Tyrese Maxey scored 40 points and Paul George added 33, leading the Philadelphia 76ers to a 121-108 victory over the Charlotte Hornets in Charlotte. The dynamic duo was exceptional from beyond the arc, combining for 12 of 21 on three-pointers, and they played a crucial role in Joel Embiid's absence due to a sinus fracture. Despite LaMelo Ball's return from a calf strain, contributing 15 points and 11 assists, the Hornets struggled to sync their lineup, finally having their projected starting five together for the first time this season. However, Charlotte's momentum was disrupted when rookie Brandon Miller sprained his ankle late in the game. The Hornets' shooting woes, including an 11 of 19 performance from the foul line, further hampered their efforts. Philadelphia, propelled by the strong start from Maxey and George, maintained control throughout the game, with George’s critical 3-point play extending their lead when it mattered. The 76ers will face the Hornets again on Friday night, while the Hornets have an upcoming game against the Wizards on Thursday.
Toronto Raptors 121 - 122 Chicago Bulls
In a thrilling game, the Chicago Bulls narrowly defeated the Toronto Raptors 122-121, marking their fourth victory in six games. Nikola Vucevic led the Bulls with 24 points, and despite Lonzo Ball’s early struggles with his 3-point shots, he made a crucial one in the fourth quarter. Seven Bulls players scored in double figures, but they faced setbacks as guard Josh Giddey left the game with an ankle injury. RJ Barrett’s impressive 32 points and Gradey Dick’s 27 points helped the Raptors nearly overcome a 16-point deficit. However, Toronto’s misfortune continued with key absences, including Scottie Barnes for a second game, and Jamal Shead’s buzzer-beater 3-pointer wasn’t enough to clinch a win. The Raptors have yet to win a game this season when trailing at halftime, and injuries to Jakob Poeltl further dented their lineup. Both teams will return to action on Thursday, with Chicago meeting Boston and Toronto facing Brooklyn.
Brooklyn Nets 101 - 130 Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers secured a dominant 130-101 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, spearheaded by Evan Mobley's 21 points and Caris LeVert's 19. Cleveland's Donovan Mitchell also contributed with 18 points and five assists, while Georges Niang added 17 points and nine rebounds. The Cavaliers, with a remarkable shooting performance of 53.1% from the field, extended their strong form by winning their sixth game in seven outings, and in a testament to their offensive prowess, they achieved a franchise milestone of scoring at least 130 points in seven games this season. Despite Cameron Johnson's efforts with 22 points for the Nets, Brooklyn suffered their third straight defeat and struggled offensively, managing only 40 points in the first half after trading guard Dennis Schroder to Golden State. Notably, the matchup marked Kenny Atkinson's return to Brooklyn, where he previously coached the Nets for four seasons, now leading the Cavaliers to another commanding win.
Sacramento Kings 129 - 130 Denver Nuggets
In a closely contested matchup, the Denver Nuggets denied the Sacramento Kings a comeback in a game between two in-form teams. Both the Nuggets and Kings came into the game on winning streaks, with Denver having won two in a row and Sacramento three, leveling their record to .500. The game highlighted a showdown between notable triple-double leaders, as Nikola Jokic sought to reclaim his title from Kings' Domantas Sabonis. Jokic, who had recently passed Magic Johnson for third on the all-time triple-double list, has nine this season but hadn't added to his tally in recent games despite impressive performances. Meanwhile, Russell Westbrook, recently joined Denver, contributed effectively off the bench and demonstrated a strong on-court chemistry with Jokic. Kings coach Mike Brown's decision to insert Malik Monk into the starting lineup has been a strategic move, although Sabonis has yet to achieve a triple-double since Monk's promotion. However, Sabonis played a key role in their recent victory over the Pelicans with an outstanding performance. The game exemplifies the dynamic tactics both teams are employing as they work through lineup changes and player roles.
LA Clippers 144 - 107 Utah Jazz
In a pivotal NBA matchup, the Los Angeles Clippers secured a 116-105 victory over the Utah Jazz, highlighted by James Harden's impressive milestone as he moved past Ray Allen to become second on the all-time 3-point shooting list, closing in on Stephen Curry. Harden's efforts are crucial for the Clippers, especially with star Kawhi Leonard still sidelined due to knee issues, although Leonard is making strides in his recovery, having returned to practice. Norman Powell has also stepped up, averaging a team-leading 23.2 points per game. While the Clippers have struggled recently, enduring a three-game losing streak, they are eager for Leonard's return to enhance their offensive dynamics. Meanwhile, the Jazz, struggling defensively, have lost three of their last four games, often yielding high point totals. Despite Jordan Clarkson's strong performance upon his return from injury, and a solid shooting display against the Phoenix Suns, Utah fell short, facing defensive challenges highlighted by their league-low ranking in points allowed per game.