23.12.2024
Toronto Raptors 110 - 114 Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets ended a long-standing drought in Toronto by defeating the Raptors 114-110, marking their first win in the city since December 2019. Dillon Brooks led the Rockets with 27 points, while Jalen Green contributed 22. Fred VanVleet, a former Raptors player, returned as a Rocket and managed eight rebounds and five assists despite a rough shooting night where he scored only in the final minute. Alperen Sengun showcased his skill with 17 points and 10 rebounds, including a highlight alley-oop pass to Cam Whitmore. Despite Ja’Kobe Walter’s standout performance scoring a career-high 27 points for the Raptors, Toronto's struggles continued, extending their home losing streak to six games. Both teams will continue on the road Monday, with Houston facing Charlotte and Toronto visiting New York.
Sacramento Kings 95 - 122 Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers delivered a commanding second-half performance to defeat the Sacramento Kings 122-95, marking their fourth consecutive win. Leading by Pascal Siakam's 19 points and 10 rebounds, the Pacers surged ahead after a tied first half, outscoring the Kings 70-43. Myles Turner and Ben Sheppard contributed 15 and 14 points respectively, while Tyrese Haliburton, a former King, added 14 points. Indiana's sharp shooting was evident as they connected on 58% of their field goals, including 17 three-pointers, and distributed 35 assists on 50 made shots. The Pacers’ depth was on full display with seven players reaching double figures. The Kings, enduring their fourth loss in a row, were led by De’Aaron Fox with 23 points and Domantas Sabonis, who recorded a double-double with 17 points and 21 rebounds. Following their third-quarter dominance, the Pacers extended their lead in the fourth, igniting an 8-0 run facilitated by Sheppard’s consecutive three-pointers. The Kings struggled offensively, shooting just 36.5% from the field, resulting in boos from their home crowd as Sacramento fell to a season-low four games under .500.
New Orleans Pelicans 129 - 132 Denver Nuggets
In an exhilarating matchup, the Denver Nuggets edged out the New Orleans Pelicans 132-129 in overtime, spearheaded by Nikola Jokic's ninth triple-double of the season. Jokic, who initially struggled to score, ended the night with 27 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, turning the game around with crucial plays. Jamal Murray also contributed significantly, adding 27 points, including the final five in overtime, after tying the game with a basket in the last seconds of regulation. The Pelicans had a strong lead late in the fourth quarter, but Denver executed a 15-2 run to seize the momentum. Despite CJ McCollum's efforts, including a late 3-pointer, his airball at the buzzer prevented New Orleans from clinching the win. Coach Mike Malone emphasized the importance of intensity as the Nuggets navigate a demanding schedule, while the Pelicans, despite the loss, notched a season-high 37 assists. Denver will face Phoenix next, and New Orleans is set to host Houston.