28.02.2025
Orlando Magic 115 - 121 Golden State Warriors
In a thrilling showdown, Stephen Curry delivered an electrifying performance by scoring a season-high 56 points to lead the Golden State Warriors to a 121-115 comeback victory over the Orlando Magic. Curry was in sublime form, hitting 12 of 19 shots from beyond the arc, and amassed 22 points just in the third quarter, where the Warriors rallied from a 14-point deficit to take a five-point lead. His stellar play featured an NBA-record 26th career game with at least 10 three-pointers, and he went a perfect 12-for-12 from the free-throw line, marking Golden State's fifth consecutive win. Meanwhile, Orlando's Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner put up 41 and 27 points, respectively, but were outpaced as the Magic succumbed to their 14th loss in 20 games, hampered by 18 crucial turnovers. A pivotal moment came as Quinten Post contributed 18 points off the bench for the Warriors, who also capitalized on a defensive stretch that held the Magic scoreless for the opening minutes of the fourth quarter. Draymond Green's double-double and Jimmy Butler's seven assists, since his acquisition, added depth to the victory. Curry's standout feat of nailing a halfcourt shot at the halftime buzzer exemplified his sheer dominance and edged the Warriors closer before they finished off in control.
Milwaukee Bucks 121 - 112 Denver Nuggets
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Milwaukee Bucks to a 121-112 victory over the Denver Nuggets with an impressive 28-point performance, complemented by a season-high 19 rebounds and seven assists. In a thrilling showdown between two multiple-MVP winners, Nikola Jokic also delivered an outstanding game for Denver, with 32 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists, marking his 27th triple-double in 53 games this season. Despite trailing by 12 late in the game, the Nuggets narrowed the gap to five before ultimately falling short. Milwaukee's balanced attack saw crucial contributions from Brook Lopez, Damian Lillard, Kyle Kuzma, and Gary Trent Jr., while A.J. Green's key 3-pointers helped the Bucks pull away in the final quarter. Additionally, the Bucks significantly outperformed the Nuggets at the free-throw line, converting 23 of 28 attempts compared to Denver's 9 of 11. This triumph is part of Milwaukee's recent surge, having won five of their last six games.
Dallas Mavericks 103 - 96 Charlotte Hornets
The Dallas Mavericks secured a 103-96 win over the Charlotte Hornets, powered by Kyrie Irving's 18-point second-half surge and nine rebounds. In a notable performance, Moses Brown, nearing the end of his 10-day contract, contributed 20 points and 11 rebounds in his first start for Dallas. Despite Mark Williams' standout 26 points and 16 rebounds for the Hornets, the team faced their fifth consecutive loss and a troubling 1-21 record without LaMelo Ball, who missed the game due to an ankle injury. This matchup highlighted Charlotte's struggles, including their 1-8 record from a lengthy nine-game road trip. For the Mavericks, this victory placed them ninth in the Western Conference, just one game away from a desired playoff berth. Additionally, Brown's scoring was his highest since his Oklahoma City days, and Irving's crucial tip-out to Klay Thompson, leading to a significant 3-pointer, helped seal the game. The teams will face new challenges soon, with Charlotte hosting Washington and Dallas taking on Milwaukee.
Phoenix Suns 116 - 124 New Orleans Pelicans
In Phoenix, Zion Williamson achieved his first career triple-double, leading the New Orleans Pelicans to a 124-116 victory over the struggling Phoenix Suns. Williamson tallied 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists, contributing significantly in the fourth quarter to secure the win. The victory marked New Orleans' third consecutive win and tied their best winning streak of the season. Despite a 91-88 lead for Phoenix after three quarters, the Pelicans took charge in the final period, assisted by standout performances from CJ McCollum, Trey Murphy III, Karlo Matkovic, and Yves Missi. Meanwhile, Phoenix's Devin Booker scored 36 points, and Kevin Durant added 28, but the fading Suns, battling injury issues, have now lost seven of their last eight games, struggling offensively, especially in the fourth quarter. Both teams are scheduled to face off again the following night.
Los Angeles Lakers 103 - 96 Minnesota Timberwolves
In a thrilling lead-up to their game against the Lakers, the Minnesota Timberwolves pulled off an impressive 131-128 overtime victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, overcoming a 25-point deficit to tie their franchise record for the biggest comeback. Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid stood out with strong performances, while Anthony Edwards contributed despite playing through a calf strain. The Timberwolves showcased resilience, making key free throws down the stretch even as they struggled from the floor in overtime. Meanwhile, the Lakers have been revitalized by a 13-3 run since late January and the recent addition of Luka Doncic. Doncic, acquired from the Mavericks, has already made significant contributions, including a triple-double against his former team. LeBron James, at 40, remains a pivotal player for the Lakers, consistently performing at an elite level defensively and offensively. The upcoming matchup promises to be an exciting clash between two teams battling for position in the tight Western Conference standings.