Golden State Warriors superstar Steph Curry’s 60 point performance wasn’t enough as his team fell in overtime to the hot-and-cold Atlanta Hawks, 141-134.
Curry scored 30 of his 60 in the fourth quarter and overtime, but despite the outburst, the Warriors were unable to contain the Atlanta back-court of Trae Young (35 points) and Dejounte Murray (19pts, 7 assists).
The shorthanded Hawks also had crucial contributions from emerging forward Jalen Johnson (21 points, 13 rebounds) and backup centre Onyeka Okongwu (22 points, 16 rebounds).
Curry hit 10 threes en route to 60 points, the second time he’s ever reached that mark. His career high is 62.
Unfortunately for the Warriors, their season and a potential postseason spot is slipping away with each loss.
Golden State are now 21-25 and 12th in the West. They are one game out of 10th spot.
With the trade deadline looming, it will be no surprise to see the Warriors try and make a move to try and save their season.
AUSSIE STAR’S BIG NIGHT
Australian Josh Green is in the midst of a purple patch of form, with the guard enjoying extended playing time due to the injury to Kyrie Irving.
Green scored 20 points on 7/12 shooting and grabbed nine rebounds in the Mavericks’ 129-117 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Green is averaging eight points for the season, but over the past five games, that figure has risen to just under 15.
For the Bucks, it was their first win since new coach Doc Rivers joined the team.
Milwaukee were down by 24 points at the end of the first quarter, but got that margin back to five by halftime thanks to a 40-point term.
Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 48 points and 10 assists while Damian Lillard added 30 as the Bucks improved to 33-16 on the season.
LAKERS SNAP KNICKS’ NINE-GAME STREAK
Jalen Brunson ultimately couldn’t will the undermanned Knicks to their 10th straight win, however, dropping a 113-105 decision to James and his Tinseltown team in a nationally televised showcase game at MSG.
Brunson scored a game-high 36 points with 10 assists — for his ninth game with 30 or more in his last 11 appearances — but the Knicks fell to 15-3 since Jan.1 and to 32-18 overall, dropping back to 1.5 games behind the victorious Bucks for the No.2 playoff position in the Eastern Conference.
Donte DiVincenzo buried six more 3-pointers on 16 attempts and finished with 26 points, while Josh Hart contributed 12 points and 11 rebounds for the Knicks, who played again without injured Julius Randle, OG Anunoby and Quentin Grimes.
James, who mostly was guarded by Precious Achiuwa, finished with 24 points, while fellow All-Star Anthony Davis had 11 wth 19 rebounds and four blocked shots for the Lakers (26-25) in their returns to the lineup after sitting out Thursday’s game in Boston.
Sacramento pair De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis were two of the unluckiest players in the Western Conference when the All-Star reserves were named ???, but they haven’t let the snub affect their play.
Fox poured in 41 points and Sabonis recorded another triple double as the Kings picked up their second win in a row with a 123-115 victory over the Chicago Bulls.
Sabonis has remarkably now recorded 31 straight double-doubles.
Trae Young, another All-Star snub, was also prolific in his team’s win against the Warriors.
Despite Young averaging 27 points and 11 assists (second most in NBA) this season, the point guard somehow didn’t earn a spot in the Eastern Conference reserves.
On Tuesday it was Joel Embiid and Karl-Anthony Towns.
On Saturday, it was Luka Doncic and Devin Booker’s turn to step up, marking just the fifth time in league history that two players have scored 60 points or more on the same day.
As was the case for Embiid and Towns, it was contrasting fortunes for Doncic and Booker’s teams with the Mavs making the most of their superstar’s historic night but the same wasn’t true for the Suns.
Doncic had 73 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists as Dallas outlasted Atlanta 148-143 while Booker scored 62 points in Phoenix’s 133-131 loss to Indiana.
Doncic joined Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant and David Thompson in the record books as just the fourth player to reach 73 points while he was the 10th to hit 70 points.
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While all eyes were understandably on Doncic it was also a big game for Australian Josh Green, who scored a season-high 21 points while Dante Exum had a few handy shots off the bench.
Doncic set a new franchise record for points in a single half, racking up 41 to pass Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki, who in 2009 had put up 34 points in the second half of a game.
It was also the third-most points by any NBA player in a half in the play-by-play era (since 1996-97), only sitting behind Karl-Anthony Towns (44 in 2024) and Kobe Bryant (42 in 03).
It was a highly efficient 41 points from Doncic too, who made 16 of 21 field goal attempts including five 3-pointers, to go with five rebounds and four assists.
While it had been the Doncic show in the opening half it wasn’t actually enough to give Dallas the lead, instead heading into the locker room level at 66-all with Atlanta.
Bogdan Bogdanovic, who has been the subject of trade speculation, was leading the way for the Hawks with 15 points, three rebounds and two assists.
Trae Young, meanwhile, had 11 points and six assists while Jalen Johnson, who is also believed to be untouchable ahead of the trade deadline, had 11 points.
Devin Harris, who spent nine of his 15 NBA seasons in Dallas, was surprised at the ease in which Doncic scored against the Atlanta defence given running mate Kyrie Irving was sidelined.
Luka Doncic was unstoppable. Todd Kirkland/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
“He followed up an All-Star nod with an All-Star type performance in that first half,” Harris said on Bally Sports Southwest.
“An efficient 16 from 21, only missing three 3s — just really taking it upon himself to really carry this team offensively in the first half. [The team] got off to a slow start, he did not and just started knocking down shots left and right.
“I’m sort of curious from the Hawks perspective with no Kai I expected more double teams and trying to take the ball out of his hands a little bit. He’s too gifted to allow him to play one-on-one and allow him to get in-rhythm shots and when you play him one-on-one he can dominate you in big stretches and we saw that in the first half.”
The expectation was that the Hawks would rectify that by double-teaming Doncic more in the third quarter to force other players to produce but instead the Slovenian superstar picked up where he left off, draining an early 3-pointer.
Doncic was getting some help, most notably from Green, who continues to flash much-improved confidence shooting corner 3s while also driving towards the rim with aggression, which has opened up his game as a whole.
Josh Green finishes through contact. Todd Kirkland/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
The highlight came midway through the first quarter breezed past Saddiq Bey, showing no hesitation as he attacked the rim and finished with an emphatic reverse jam.
“Josh Green has been that supporting cast you were looking for,” former Mavericks player Derek Harper said in commentary.
Green had an early 3-pointer to open the third quarter and added another bucket soon after before then dishing it out for Tim Hardaway Jr. to drain one from deep, which saw Dallas start to push away and open up a 83-76 lead.
Green had a pass picked off by Young and went back to the bench soon after but was reintroduced to the game minutes later and had an immediate impact on both sides of the floor.
First Green fought for a contested defensive rebound, tipping the ball forward and then showed tremendous court vision to find Jalen Hardy for the transition dunk.
That put the Mavs ahead 89-81 and while a Bogdanovic bucket saw the Hawks hit back right away it was only a matter of seconds before Doncic drained another 3-pointer to add to his personal tally.
“He’s making it look easy,” Harper said.
Doncic was fired up. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Dallas called a timeout at that point, leading 92-83 and that quickly became an 11-point buffer after a Green layup as the Australian built on one of his best games of the season.
Injuries and inconsistent minutes have at times limited Green’s confidence but the 23-year-old has been thriving lately, improving his 3-point shooting and general involvement across the board.
Speaking of injuries, Exum (heel) recently returned and scored the last five points of the third quarter for Dallas as Atlanta started to close the gap with Doncic going to the bench.
The Exum burst put the Mavs ahead 108-102 heading into the final quarter as Doncic returned to the action on 57 points.
Doncic was quick to get back to work as he scored Dallas’ first eight points of the period, including an extraordinary 3-pointer that at this rate looked ordinary for the Mavs superstar.
“They are seeing something that they will never forget, that we will never forget… let Luka Doncic cook,” Mark Followill said in commentary.
Even when Doncic wasn’t scoring he was attracting all kinds of attention from the Hawks, defence, passing to Green who then found a wide-open Hardaway Jr. for a 3-pointer.
Luka Doncic could do no wrong. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Doncic then aggressively finished through contact for an and-3 to bring up 70 points, letting out a roar as he seemingly had the Mavericks destined for victory.
His teammates though couldn’t finish the job, with a few missed buckets opening the door for the Hawks who rallied to get it to 137-133 with 90 seconds left on the clock.
A selfless Doncic later passed up a possible 3-pointer to add to his historic performance, instead finding Exum with a better look and the Australian made no mistake.
As had been the case late in the fourth, Atlanta refused to go away but the Mavs kept making buckets down the stretch too.
First a dialled-in Doncic once again aggressively drove towards the rim for the and-1 before Green capped off an impressive night with a 3-pointer to push the Dallas lead out to 146-138.
“Green has stepped up in a big way,” Harper said.
A late 3-pointer saw the Hawks get within three points with a few seconds on the clock but Hardaway Jr. made both free throws after he was fouled to leave the final score at 148-143.
BOOKER’S BIG NIGHT SOURED BY SUNS LOSS
Doncic’s masterclass slightly overshadowed another standout performance from Suns guard Booker, who erupted for 62 points in Phoenix’s 133-131 loss to the Indiana Pacers.
Booker, who has scores of 46 and 52 in his last five games, had a career-high 29 points in the opening quarter alone after shooting 10-for-14 from the field, including four 3-pointers.
It tied the most points in any quarter in the NBA this season after Joel Embiid put up 29 against the Wizards in the third quarter last November while it also marked the league’s highest-scoring first quarter since Kevin Love scored 34 against Portland in 2016.
Booker cooled down a bit in the second with eight points and an assist after getting a five-minute rest but the Suns superstar was quick to pile on more points in the third.
Devin Booker had a big night. Andy Lyons/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
Booker had 15 points in the period while also dishing out a few assists as the Suns took a 114-105 lead into the fourth, with the 27-year-old sitting to open the quarter as Kevin Durant entered the game.
Indiana was able to cut the deficit to six points before Booker was brought back into the game and made a driving layup to add to his tally, scoring six of Phoenix’s next nine points.
But after scoring 40 points in the first two quarters of the game, the Suns managed just 17 points in the fourth as the Pacers stormed home to snatch the win despite Booker’s heroics.
New addition Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 31 points, seven rebounds and two steals while Aaron Nesmith and Andrew Nembhard each had 22 points.
The Pacers also got plenty of production off the bench, with Obi Toppin scoring 23 points to go with 11 rebounds while Jalen Smith had 13 points and 10 boards.
We’ve just about hit the midway point of the marathon 82-game NBA season.
And so we’ve ran through all the 30 teams and graded them based on their performance in the first half of the campaign. Read on to see foxsports.com.au’s report card for every NBA side so far in the 2023/24 campaign.
*All stats accurate at time of writing on the 17th of January
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ATLANTA HAWKS (16-23) – D
Atlanta is seven games below .500 to sit outside the play-in in a season getting away from the franchise despite Jalen Johnson taking a big leap in year three. Dejounte Murray is reportedly on the trade block with several teams interested, and a move feels likely. Murray’s back-court pairing with Trae Young simply hasn’t worked – despite Atlanta giving up multiple first-round picks to land Murray – amid the team’s woes – particularly defensively despite scoring a bunch at the other end under the Young-led offence. It’ll be intriguing what avenue the Hawks take if Murray is traded given they’re currently built to contend for playoffs. And can we free Patty Mills, please?
BOSTON CELTICS (31-9) – A+
It couldn’t be going more according to script for Boston right now after its big off-season splash. The Celtics hold the best record in the NBA, are ranked top three in both offensive and defensive rating as the clear championship favourites and could have as many as four All-Stars. No matter what moves other teams make by the trade deadline, the Porzingis-Tatum-Brown-White-Holiday starting five is clearly the premier opening unit in the league. Perhaps the only concern is the fact that, given the Celtics are the clear No. 1 side, opposition sides have a whole season to pick them apart and try and decipher a way to beat them in the playoffs. Though it’s hard to see them losing a seven-game series to anyone as things stand.
The Celtics will look to go one better this season. Maddie Meyer/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
BROOKLYN NETS (16-23) – D+
After a promising start to the season where the Nets navigated a host of injures to stay around .500, the wheels are starting to come off – having dropped eight of their last nine games. Ben Simmons remains sidelined with a lower back injury that’s kept him off the court since early November in yet another tough setback for the Aussie and big blow for Brooklyn. You can’t help but ponder the impact an up-and-running Simmons would provide at both ends of the floor – particularly for the Nets’ 21st ranked defence. It feels like a team still searching for its identity after blowing up the Irving-Harden-Durant big three, while it has a host of role players that could appeal to teams ahead of the deadline.
CHARLOTTE HORNETS (8-29) – F
Any hope the Hornets had of making a run for the play-in this season vanished when LaMelo Ball suffered yet another ankle setback in late November in another grim season for the franchise. Ball returned from his 20-game absence last week, and while there’s still a whole half of the campaign to go, even the star guard mightn’t be able to help this sinking ship. Charlotte has just one win from its last 17 games, and is ranked bottom four in offensive and defensive rating. As big a void as Ball leaves, the Hornets are a legitimate lottery team without him, which doesn’t bode well for their overall prospects. Sitting seven games outside the play-in, the team with the longest playoff drought dating back to 2016 looks set for that drought to continue.
CHICAGO BULLS (19-23) – C
Recovering from a slow start to the season, when they looked destined to blow up their roster, the Bulls are officially back in business. Along with a much-improved defence, Coby White has led the revival and given the team more flexibility with what direction is takes after the emerging guard stepped up in a big way when Zach LaVine was sidelined. Even with LaVine back in the mix, Chicago has won four of its last six games to sit a game and a half inside the play-in. Heck, the Bulls are now just three games behind Orlando in a wild turn in fortunes for both sides.
Will the Bulls be sellers at the deadline? (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (23-15) – A-
Sometimes, less is more. The Cavaliers have charged back into the season without both Darius Garland and Evan Mobley. Not that Cleveland was ever going that bad, but the team has suddenly won 10 of its past 12 games to climb into the fourth seed in the East. With the full frontcourt to himself, Jarrett Allen has gotten back to some of his absolute best form and been central to the Cavs’ sixth-ranked defence, while Donovan Mitchell continues to do Donovan Mitchell things. If they can seamlessly reintegrate Garland and Mobley without disrupting he current chemistry and keep up this level of play, look out.
DALLAS MAVERICKS (24-17) – B-
Any team with Luka Doncic running the show is going to be an offensive powerhouse, and that’s again been the case, however the Mavs have again struggled at the other end of the floor. Under the lead of Doncic and Kyrie Irving, the Mavs got off to a particularly hot start before sliding down the West standings in recent times while the pair have battled injuries, going 6-5 in their last 11 games. Doncic is putting together another MVP calibre season, but Dallas just hasn’t been good enough to make him a legit contender against the likes of Joel Embiid, Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jayson Tatum. Another fun story has been the revival of Aussie Dante Exum’s career, now playing alongside fellow countryman Josh Green as key pieces fir the Boomers moving forward.
DENVER NUGGETS (28-14) – A
The Nuggets are basically in ‘we won the title and are just cruising until late April’ mode while keeping the wins ticking over. Nikola Jokic has been a juggernaut yet again to sit firmly in contention for his third MVP, leading a starting five that can hang with any other in the NBA. Jamal Murray will however probably miss out on that elusive All-Star honour, for now at least, given the sheer amount of superstar guards in the league. The only concern around the Nuggets is their bench and depth as a whole – despite Peyton Watson showing promising signs in year two, specially in recent weeks – but any team that wins a championship tends to lose key role players, like Denver lost Bruce Brown and Jeff Green, and suffer as a result.
The Nuggets are contenders again. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
DETROIT PISTONS (4-36) – F
Fair to say it’s going to be a long season in Detroit. Owning the worst record in the NBA and having suffered a 28-game losing streak – the longest ever losing streak in a single season – there’s been problems everywhere. It includes the Pistons being a mess at both ends of the floor amid a lack of cohesion and chemistry, injuries, players struggling to fill certain roles and Monty Williams constantly juggling the rotation. The team will now just hope to take something away in the second half of the season, perhaps most importantly, establishing their rotation and the guys who are going to lead this team into the future. It’s also not a good season to be bad, with a draft class that isn’t believed to have a consensus top prospect like Victor Wembanyama and Paolo Banchero of recent years.
GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (18-22) – D-
It’s been a turbulent season in Golden State – largely due to Draymond Green and the franchise’s overall decline – as it stares down the potential end of its golden era. A loss to a Grizzlies side missing Ja Morant, Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart was a new low. There’s only so much Steph Curry can do, with his fellow veteran stars struggling to impact the way they have in recent years to see Golden State’s next wave of talent take on bigger roles. Four games below .500 and currently sitting outside the play-in, the Warriors have had major issues on the defensive end of the floor and loom as one of the big teams to watch ahead of the trade deadline to retool their roster and make one last run while Curry is in his prime.
The Warriors will likely make changes before the trade deadline. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
HOUSTON ROCKETS (19-20) – B+
One of the big improvers have proven themselves as a legitimate playoff threat. Behind the Rockets’ group of exciting youngsters including a true breakout season from Alperen Sengun, the lead of new head coach Ime Udoaka’s as well as valuable off-season additions Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, the Rockets have established a tougher identity and emerged as a serious basketball team. Though Houston has had issues offensively and is just 4-14 on the road – where it simply must improve – the Rockets have been one of the better defensive teams this season to show Udoka is really making his mark. Most importantly, the future is bright (though we’d like to see more Jock Landale right now please).
INDIANA PACERS (23-17) – A-
It’s been some sort of fun season in Indiana as one of the most watchable teams in the league. That’s correlated to wins too, with the Pacers sitting sixth in the East and of course making the In-Season Tournament Final. Tyrese Haliburton has evolved into a superstar before our eyes, leading Indiana’s powerhouse offence that’s ranked No. 1 in the NBA in shades of the Steve Nash-Phoenix Suns era. For this team to become more legit, it does need to tighten up defensively – where it’s ranked bottom five – while it also be curious to see if the Pacers make any moves by the deadline – and if they’re buyers or sellers.
LA CLIPPERS (26-14) – A-
The turnaround from a mockery to a legit contender in the James Harden era has been one of the most remarkable stories of the season. Yes, if you’re not on the Clippers bandwagon yet, it’s time to start believing. LA’s recent 18-3 run saw it climb into the fourth seed in the West, it’s ranked top six in offensive rating and has shown signs it can be a strong defensive unit. Following concerns that their stars would all need the ball to be effective, Russell Westbrook has selflessly embraced a move to the bench, while Harden has flourished as a facilitator and made Tyron Lue’s squad more polished and organised. It’s helped Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and the rest of the team be the best version of themselves – a team that’s deep and loaded with veterans. Leonard signing a reduced three-year extension mid-season tells you everything you need to know.
The Clippers have turned things around. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
LA LAKERS (20-21) – C-
It hasn’t been nearly as rosy in the other LA camp in a season fast going south after the Lakers’ In-Season Tournament triumph. Sure, they’ve battled injuries and thus have struggled with continuity of rotations. But both Anthony Davis, who’s been at the peak of his powers, and the evergreen LeBron James, who’s still dominant at age 39, have been healthy for virtually the entire season, and still, LA is alarmingly outside the play-in amid a grim 4-7 stretch. It’s the offensive end of the floor where the Lakers have really struggled, and you sense they’ll address that at the trade deadline in some shape or form. We’ve seen this story before, with the Lakers starting slow out of the gates last season before going on an epic run all the way to the conference finals in the second half of the campaign. They’ll need to get a move on though as pressure builds on Darvin Ham.
MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (15-25) – D-
Who walked under a bunch of ladders? It’s been a genuine season from hell for the Grizzlies ruined by injury. If Ja Morant missing the first 25 games of the season wasn’t bad enough, the superstar guard, after playing just nine games, underwent campaign-ending shoulder surgery. Then Marcus Smart and Desmond Bane were ruled out for at least six weeks with their own injury setbacks … yikes. At this point, Memphis just has to accept it’s going to be a wasted season. But in a silver lining, it should end up with a high draft pick to add to the rest of the returning cast next year – a squad that’s shown it can be a legit contender. For now though, the Griz face a long 42 games ahead – where they could be seller’s at the trade deadline – as Jaren Jackson Jr. and a bunch of role players and youngsters attempt to steer the ship in the right direction. We’re sparing them a fail given how brutal their injury luck has been.
MIAMI HEAT (24-16) – A-
There might be better teams in the NBA, but there’s arguably none with a better culture and overall professionalism than the Heat. Despite battling injuries to each of their big three superstars, Miami somehow still sits fifth in the East and is again well placed to make deep playoff run. Erik Spoelstra, who was recently rewarded with a lucrative eight-year extension, has again done a sensational job of getting the best out of his team, which is ranked top 10 in the NBA defensively, while rookie Jaime Jaques Jr. has made an instant impact as a key member of the rotation already in a great story. No one would want to come up against the Heat in the playoffs.
Can Jimmy Butler and the Heat do it again? Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
MILWAUKEE BUCKS (28-12) – A
Despite criticism around whether the Bucks are good enough defensively to win the championship, they’d be more than content with where things sit overall. Still figuring things out with a new rotation including the addition of Damian Lillard, the Bucks’ juggernaut offence led by the superstar guard and Giannis Antetokounmpo has carried it to the second seed in the East with the third-best record in the NBA. It includes a statement mauling over the Celtics last week, where you saw how dominant this Bucks side can be at its best. Antetokounmpo’s MVP-calibre season has in many ways gone under the radar, while Khris Middleton is back up and running and looking like the Middleton of old again after off-season surgery. If Milwaukee can sharpen up defensively, it’ll be a force to be reckoned with.
MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (28-11) – A+
The No. 1 seed in the West, yet somehow still something of a dark horse in the title race. The Rudy Gobert-Karl-Anthony Towns twin tower frontcourt is finally living up its immense defensive potential, with Minnesota having claim to the best defensive rating in the league. Anthony Edwards continues to get better as one of the most exciting rising superstars in the league, even if at times the Wolves’ offence relies too heavily on the forward. It’s the defensive end of the floor Chris Finch’s side can consistently hang its hat on that should take it far in the playoffs, particularly if Minnesota finishes top three in the West.
NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (24-17) – B
There’s a lot to like about what the Pelicans are doing in an overall promising season for a team on the rise. So much hinges on Zion Williamson, with the former No. 1 pick still struggling to consistently produce at a superstar level he’s capable of every game. Until Williamson fulfils his enormous potential, the Pelicans just aren’t in the same echelon as the West’s best teams – even if co-stars Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum are turning in big seasons and New Orleans has arguably the deepest team in the NBA. That includes exciting Aussie young gun Dyson Daniels, whose role continues to grow in Willie Green’s rotation.
NEW YORK KNICKS (23-17) – A-
Has the OG Anunoby trade turned the Knicks into a legit contender to come out of the East? While it might be too early to say, New York has certainly taken a big leap forward since the defensive stud’s arrival in the Big Apple – and it appears to be closer to the likes of Boston, Milwaukee and Philadelphia. Tom Thibodeau’s side is 6-2 since acquiring Anunoby – a stretch it’s been ranked first in the NBA defensively – including taking the scalps of the Timberwolves and 76ers. The trade has also helped simplify the Knicks’ offence around Jalen Brunson, the engine of this team, and Julius Randle, who deserves credit for turning around his season after a slow start.
OG Anunoby has made an immediate impact. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (27-1) –A+
Many predicted the Thunder would make a leap this season, but not many saw them becoming a genuine contender to win the whole thing. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is playing at an insanely high level as a legit MVP contender, Chet Holmgren has provided more than the Thunder could’ve dreamt of in his first year, and basically the rest of the supporting cast has gotten better including a big second-year leap from Jalen Williams. Josh Giddey still hasn’t quite hit his straps despite an uptick in form in recent weeks, but there’s plenty of time for the 21-year old to turn things around in what looms as an important second half of season for the Aussie. Sitting second in the West with the fourth-best record in the league and the second-best net rating, Mark Daigneault is a worthwhile Coach of the Year candidate.
ORLANDO MAGIC (22-18) – B+
Starting the season in such strong form including occupying the second seed in the East for a key stretch, the Magic, hampered by injuries, have lost their way in recent times. Orlando has dropped six of its last nine games to slide down to a play-in spot, currently sitting eighth in the East. Both Markelle Fultz and Joe Ingles recently returned from injury in a welcome boost, but Franz Wagner’s ongoing absence continues to hurt them. Producing an All-Star calibre season, Paolo Banchero needs more help, making the Magic an interesting team to keep an eye on as potential buyers at the trade deadline. Still, they have a top-three ranked defence and are one of the big improvers.
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS (26-13) – A
The Sixers are again one of the premier teams in the Eastern Conference, with Joel Embiid arguably the most dominant player in the league. Should Embiid play enough games, the superstar centre will be firmly in the mix to claim a second-straight MVP, having led the team at both ends of the floor – where it’s ranked top five both offensively and defensively. Running partner Tyrese Maxey has also been superb as the frontrunner for Most Improved Player of the Year, and the collection of players Philly got in the James Harden trade has helped round its roster with considerable depth. The big question is whether Darryl Morey thinks the current roster has enough to contend for the title, or if he looks to make another big move by the deadline. For as constructed, the Sixers would have space for another max contract in the off-season.
Joel Embiid is an MVP candidate again. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
PHOENIX SUNS (22-18) – C-
While we don’t have a proper gauge on how good the Suns could be with their Durant-Booker-Beal big three on the court together amid constant injury setbacks, that’s becoming a concern at the midway point of the season for one of the most hyped teams going into the campaign – and rightfully so. This is a team too talented to only be sitting in the play-in right now. In saying that, Phoenix has looked much better recently, going 7-3 over its last 10 games, while the team is ranked 11th in offensive rating and 16th in defensive rating in areas of their game with clear upside with more continuity. Again, everything is predicated around their stars staying healthy, which has proven hard to trust. No matter, it’s a team you wouldn’t want to face in the post-season. Need to see more.
PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS (10-29) – D
The youth movement is in full effect at Portland, and at least you can see the vision, with Scoot Henderson recently getting greater opportunities as the starting point guard alongside Anferne Simons in the back-court. You sense that trend will only continue in the second half of the season, even when the Blazers get all their players back from injury, as the franchise commits to prioritising the development of their young guns and getting more high-end draft picks. Deandre Ayton’s absence has opened the door for Dup Reath to draw several starts at centre, with the 26-year old Aussie making the most of his opportunities in an impressive stretch.
SACRAMENTO KINGS (23-17) – B+
Another team that always seems to put on a show every game it plays, with De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis leading the way again for the Kings. Their high-octane offence has dipped slightly from last season – dropping from first to 14th – though it’s more a by-product of the rest of the league scoring more. Keegan Murray has meanwhile produced the best stretch of his career in recent weeks as a legit third option, and he should only get better and better from here on in. Sitting seventh in the West, you get the impression the Kings are a move away from being legit contenders in the stacked conference.
SAN ANTONIO SPURS (7-32) – D-
Outside of Victor Wembanyama, there hasn’t been a whole lot to get excited about for the Spurs, who sit dead last in the West in what’s been a dismal season for the once powerhouse franchise. It included San Antonio suffering a franchise record 17-game losing streak earlier this season, where it was clear how inexperienced and far behind this young team is. Gregg Popovich has officially given up on the Jeremy Sochan point guard experiment, with Tre Jones recently being reinstalled in the role. The only thing saving them from a fail has been the aforementioned Wembanyama, with the prodigal No. 1 draft pick as good as advertised, if not better, locked in a battle with Chet Holmgren for the Rookie of the Year award.
Victor Wembanyama has enormous potential. Alex Slitz/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
TORONTO RAPTORS (15-25) – D
A team that has the tools to be competitive has very much underwhelmed – a whole 10 games below .500 in the East’s 12th seed. And so the franchise has continued to retool its roster by sending OG Anunoby to the Knicks in exchange for RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley in a move that gives the Raptors two exciting young pieces to move forward with. Maybe Barrett can reach his potential, or at least become the best version of himself, in his home country, while Quickley shapes as the team’s long-time point guard. There’s still a potential Pascal Siakam trade to come at the trade deadline, with Toronto on blow it up watch.
UTAH JAZZ (22-20) – B
Here they come! The Jazz’s dire start to the season is now a distant memory, having won six games in a row including 12 of their last 14 to get above .500 and climb into the ninth seed in the West, currently sitting above Houston. Over its last 15 games, Utah ranks top 10 in both offensive and defensive rating and has the league’s fifth-best rating. Lauri Markkanen probably isn’t getting enough respect for backing up his epic All-Star season, while Colin Sexton has been outstanding since getting moved into the starting line-up. It wouldn’t be a shock if the Jazz sold one of their veterans, like Jordan Clarkson or Kelly Olynyk, to a contender at the deadline in the perfect sell-high moment to get Utah more long-term assets.
WASHINGTON WIZARDS (7-32) – F
The only bigger disappointment in the Eastern Conference than the Pistons has been the Wizards. While not many thought Washington would do much this season, it was hard to foresee it being this bad. For a team in tanking/rebuild mode, there hasn’t been many positives by the way of exciting young players, with Pick 7 Bilal Coulibaly having some bright moments but being held back at times. Heck, the Wizards would’ve probably been better off keeping Chris Paul and his expiring deal instead of effectively flipping him for Jordan Poole, who suddenly has one of the worst contracts in the NBA.
The NBA trade deadline is just under a month away and OG Anunoby is the first of several big names that could be dealt before then, with a Raptors teammate one of the more high-profile players to keep an eye on.
With that in mind, foxsports.com.au looks at 10 of the most intriguing teams to watch ahead of the deadline along with what the reporting from some of the league’s insiders suggest as to who could be on the move.
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CHICAGO BULLS
With the Raptors already trading away OG Anunoby, the Bulls shape as the team that really holds the key to just how busy this year’s trade deadline could be.
This is a team that has tried its best to stay competitive in recent seasons and, more importantly, convince themselves that they are competitive enough to stand pat.
But at the moment it looks like the Bulls are set for another middling season without making any real progress and the logical solution would be getting the most out of some of their trade assets now while building towards the future.
That starts with All-Star DeMar DeRozan, who is in the final year of his deal. DeRozan is the kind of player who could help any contending team and while the Bulls may not get quite the return they are after, it’d be better than losing him for nothing in free agency.
Of course, DeRozan’s teammate Zach LaVine appears the more likely candidate to be moved before the deadline, although his contract situation will make things challenging for the Bulls.
Zach LaVine could be traded. Michael Reaves/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
LaVine has four years and about $180 million ($A268m) left on his contract, something which has interested parties “reluctant” in striking a deal with the Bulls according to Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer.
Even the Lakers, who have been heavily linked to LaVine and would be as desperate as anyone for a roster shake-up, have “indicated a hesitancy to take on” the contract according to Fischer’s sources.
If there is one Bulls player who is expected to generate a lot of interest ahead of the deadline it is veteran Alex Caruso, the kind of plug-and-play, high-level defender who would be an immediate improvement to any contending roster.
However, NBA insider Marc Stein reported last month that the Bulls are “flat-out resistant” to moving Caruso before the deadline, which is consistent with reporting from Shams Charania at the same time that the team has “shut down” calls for Caruso.
That is despite league sources telling Charania that a “bevy of teams” had shown interest in trading for Caruso.
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TORONTO RAPTORS
The Raptors were the other obvious candidates to be sellers ahead of this year’s deadline and there is still a good chance they make more moves after trading OG Anunoby to the Knicks.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported in the immediate aftermath of the Anunoby trade that Toronto would continue to explore trade scenarios involving Pascal Siakam.
Complicating matters though, at least for any team that may be interested in Siakam (and there is said to be quite a few) is the fact he is in the final year of his deal and will become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
It means any team that may make a move for Siakam would only likely be willing to put some serious chips in if they were confident in re-signing the veteran after trading for him.
The Raptors could sign Siakam to a four-year contract extension worth more than $190 million ($A282m) through June 30, although they would be unable to trade him for six months if that happened.
Pascal Siakam is worth watching. Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
As for any potential trade partner, they could only offer him a two-year extension since the December 30 deadline has passed that the Raptors and Siakam’s side reportedly agreed on.
Although according to NBA insider Marc Stein it sounds like it is unlikely any team that traded for Siakam would be a realistic chance of extending him right away.
“Word is Siakam, if he’s dealt, is unlikely to sign off on a two-year extension and would prefer, again, to proceed to unrestricted free agency … meaning that any team that trades for him now must be daring enough to roll those dice,” Stein wrote in his Substack.
The Hawks, Pacers, Kings, Pistons, Grizzlies and even Mavericks have all been mentioned in the Siakam sweepstakes, although Stein reported one source told him Dallas’ interest was “overstated”.
LOS ANGELES LAKERS
Monday’s win eases the pressure but there is still little doubt the Lakers need to do something before the deadline, particularly given they have so far had plenty of luck on the injury front (knock on wood) with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
That starts with addressing the team’s offensive woes, most notably its poor 3-point shooting.
The Lakers made what, at least on the surface, looked like smart moves over the summer to add outside shooting around James and Davis but an injury to Gabe Vincent has left L.A. exposed on that front.
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The Lakers rank second-worst and worst in the league for 3-pointers made (10.7) and attempted (30.3) respectively while averaging 35.2 per cent from downtown, which puts them only ahead of five other teams.
Zach LaVine and Dejounte Murray are the two names that have been consistently linked to the Lakers ahead of the deadline according to beat writer Jovan Buha.
“I think they’re going to make another sizeable, at least mid-sized move, if not a big move,” Buha said on The Athletic NBA Show last week.
“It kind of depends on your definition. Is a big move an All-Star level player? I think they might be more on the fringes of that.
“But Zach LaVine and Dejounte Murray are the two names I continue to hear. Those are both Klutch clients, so there’s obviously a connection there.”
As already covered above, LaVine’s contract reportedly has the Lakers hesitant to pull the trigger. That is not the only reason for pause though according to Buha.
“There are a lot of question marks,” Buha said.
“Health, the shot selection, the defence, the contract. There are a lot of reasons to talk yourself out of it but the Lakers are in a win-now situation and LeBron is in year 21, he’s 39.
“I think something drastic has to happen with the way this team has been playing now for almost a month — be it Darvin Ham’s future or a big trade, I think something needs to change and not just a minor change [in] line-up or rotation. Something drastic needs to happen to turn this season around.”
LeBron James needs help. Meg Oliphant/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
NBA insider Marc Stein reported in his latest Substack that the “safest bet” according to one “well-placed” source is that the Lakers continue to “ride out the storm” with an eye towards capitalising on a stretch which sees them play eight of their next nine games in Los Angeles.
Monday’s win over the Clippers was a step in the right direction. Although as has already become clear this season, a string of losses could see things quickly change for a team that will never find itself outside of the spotlight as long as it has James on the roster.
Speaking of James, as for any potential trade demand from the Lakers superstar, Stein reported there is “no tangible evidence” he has even a “shred of interest” in doing that.
GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
The Warriors, like the Lakers, were supposed to be Western Conference contenders this season.
Instead, Golden State sits 11th in the West with a 17-19 record and with an ageing core, there has to be some sense of urgency to try make a move to give Steph Curry one last chance to compete for a title.
The problem for the Warriors though is the fact they aren’t simply one move away from contending, no matter how big it may be.
Of course, you can never count out Steph but the West is stacked with talent this season which will make it even harder for the Warriors to go deep into the playoffs, should they make it there in the first place.
If Golden State is to make any moves it would likely involve trading either Andrew Wiggins or Chris Paul. Potentially both.
Jordan Poole moved… will Andrew Wiggins? (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Paul was playing well running the second unit but his $30.8 million ($A45.8m) salary would put the Warriors in a position to chase another star player, should they decide that is their best chance of becoming a genuine title contender this season.
The fact that Paul is now set for a four-to-six-week stint on the sidelines with a fractured hand complicates things though.
As for Wiggins, Golden State line-ups with the 28-year-old and Jonathan Kuminga both on the floor have not performed well and it appears the veteran is more likely to be moved on.
“Given the limited success Golden State has found when pairing Kuminga with Andrew Wiggins, there is a rising belief among rival teams that the Warriors are increasingly open to the idea of trading Wiggins,” wrote NBA insider Marc Stein.
“… The Warriors are loathe to trade Kuminga, who is seen as a potential star who can help them win now and in the future.”
It doesn’t look like Golden State will be breaking up its superstar trio of Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green either, according to Monte Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area.
Poole wrote that multiple league sources have indicated that while the Warriors will “be active approaching the deadline, there has been nothing to indicate a move that would break up” the trio.
Anthony Slater of The Athletic also reported that he is expecting the Warriors to make some kind of move, although what exactly it looks like will largely depend on how the team performs in the next few weeks.
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“I think that they are using the next month, next three weeks, to really kind of assess which move needs to be made. I do think a move will be made,” Slater told 95.7 The Game’s ‘Steiny and Guru’.
“In past years, I’ve felt going into the deadline like, ‘No, there’s a decent chance they just don’t do anything.’
“Draymond Green is nearing a return at some point, and that adds another high-minute guy into the mix that’s going to take minutes away from others particularly, Kuminga is probably part of that mix we’re talking about.
“And I think they want to see the team with Draymond too, before they make the big decision… I think it will likely be an aggressive deadline for them.”
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
Thunder general manager Sam Presti has consistently preached patience.
Or, as he put it earlier this year before the season tipped off, “you can’t buy the paint for your house that you haven’t bought yet”.
But now this house that Presti has been so carefully building is starting to take shape and soon it may just need the finishing touches.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a genuine MVP candidate. Chet Holmgren is already proving a difference-maker on both ends of the court. Jalen Williams has quickly emerged as a secondary wing creator. Even rookie Cason Wallace looks to be another genius draft pick.
Of course, that then brings us to Australian guard Josh Giddey, who has looked more confident and decisive on offence lately but still shapes as the likely odd man out and key trade chip in any major move the Thunder could make.
Don’t expect Giddey to be moved before the deadline. (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
OKC has been so meticulous with the way it has built this current roster, so making a significant move ahead of the deadline would be somewhat of a surprise.
Positional size, versatility, playmaking and a high basketball IQ have been consistent traits among the players OKC have drafted or acquired.
Any potential trade target for the Thunder would have to share those traits or otherwise risk disrupting the chemistry this team has so quickly developed to accelerate its development.
With all that in mind and the fact this version of the Thunder has yet to play a full playoff series yet, it makes sense to wait and see what potential weaknesses this team may have exposed in the post-season before making moves accordingly.
That extends to Giddey, who had the best game of his career in the play-in tournament win against the Pelicans last season.
Although at the same time, there are no guarantees in the NBA and so could the Thunder try pull something off before the deadline to capitalise on the team’s dominant position this season?
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Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports said rival executives are “prepared for that possibility”.
“I’ve heard several people say that’s (staying patient) the exact opposite of what they’re going to do,” he told SiriusXM NBA Radio in late December.
“They’re saying that publicly; they’re working behind the scenes. Who’s going to know for sure until the trade calls actually start to happen, this is all kind of the early preliminary stages. It’s hard to determine exactly right now how the Thunder are going to operate.
“I’ll tell you, every rival executive I’ve spoken to, they are 100 per cent prepared for the possibility for Oklahoma City to do that. Because they are second in the Western Conference right now. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a legitimate MVP candidate. Chet Holmgren, to me, is easily the Rookie of the Year.
“There’s too many people expecting the Thunder are going to sniff around — with all of their draft picks, there’s just such a great opportunity for them to add someone to this right now.”
SACRAMENTO KINGS
The Kings were the surprise packets of the 2022-23 and while they still sit fifth in the Western Conference, Sacramento hasn’t made the kind of jump it needed to this season yet to emerge as a genuine contender.
Could a big move before the deadline change things?
The Kings may need another scoring option to put alongside All-Star duo De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis and it looked like they were ready to make a serious push for Pascal Siakam.
In fact, just last weekend The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported the Raptors were ramping up talks with the Kings but hours later said that Sacramento had already pulled out.
“This deal needed to happen quickly and when it didn’t, I’m told Toronto was informed from Sacramento that they are out. They’re not involved right now,” Charania said on FanDuel’s ‘Run it Back’.
“But these things can be fluid. We’re a month out from the trade deadline and at this point, I’m told the only way it ignites is if Toronto comes back to Sacramento to re-engage.”
It seems like there are a few sticking points to a potential deal being done, starting with the fact they did not want to include young forward Keegan Murray in the package.
There are a few players Sacramento is willing to part ways with to facilitate a move before the deadline according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, who reported they have made Harrison Barnes, Kevin Huerter and Davion Mitchell available for trade.
The Kings had interest in Pascal Siakam. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
NEW YORK KNICKS
They already made a move for OG Anunoby and the fact they still have several first-round picks along with Evan Fournier’s expiring contract means the Knicks may not be done just yet.
ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, meanwhile, also reported after the Anunoby trade that league sources believe New York “will explore its options heading into the trade deadline in hopes of improving this team’s chances at a deep playoff run”.
The Knicks sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to the Raptors as part of the trade for Anunoby, leaving Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle as the team’s two clear leading scoring options.
Accordingly, they could do with a bit more juice on offence and have been linked to Atlanta’s Dejounte Murray, who is expected to be moved before the deadline as the Hawks look to build a new line-up around Trae Young.
Dejounte Murray is widely available. Todd Kirkland/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
Of course, Donovan Mitchell is the other big name to keep an eye on given New York’s interest in him dating back to his time with the Utah Jazz.
Marc Stein though reported earlier this month that “initial indications” are that the Knicks “do not intend to mount an all-out pursuit” of Mitchell while the Cavaliers themselves have indicated they aren’t going to “entertain Mitchell overtures anyway”.
Elsewhere, the loss of Mitchell Robinson leaves the Knicks in need of some reinforcements in the frontcourt, even if Isaiah Hartenstein continues to make a name for himself.
Andre Drummond and Clint Capela look like the best and most realistic options at this stage.
ATLANTA HAWKS
This current version of the Hawks clearly isn’t going anywhere, seemingly stuck in a never-ending cycle of being just good enough to be a yearly playoff contender but not good enough to go much deeper than the first round.
Atlanta’s front office seems to be aware of that reality too, cognisant of the fact that it can’t risk falling into the trap of settling for being just good enough with a 25-year-old All-Star in Trae Young still on the roster.
“Right now it sounds like the Hawks are truly considering the idea of being a real seller,” Jake Fischer said on the ‘No Cap Room’ podcast.
“Taking a step back and maybe even getting a couple extra lottery balls this year before next year’s pick goes unprotected to San Antonio, to the point where the Hawks had told multiple teams that only Trae Young and Jalen Johnson are untouchable in Atlanta.”
Trae Young is untouchable. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Again, that is consistent with reporting from NBA insider Marc Stein, who wrote in his Substack that the Hawks are determined to “as one source described it, build around Trae Young and Jalen Johnson going forward”.
Dejounte Murray is the obvious candidate who would need to be moved to make that happen, with Fischer reporting the Hawks have made it known he is “widely available” in a trade.
De’Andre Hunter and Clint Capela would also generate plenty of interest as would Bogdan Bogdanović, who is averaging 17.7 points per game while shooting 37.5 per cent from deep.
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Sixers general manager Daryl Morey was insistent before the team traded James Harden that they would only make the move if the team got either a “very good player” or something they could “turn into a very good player” in return.
With that in mind, the 76ers shaped as one of the more logical landing spots for the bigger names ahead of this year’s trade deadline.
Instead, it looks like Philadelphia is going to remain patient while potentially keeping an eye on making a splash in the off-season.
NBA insider Marc Stein wrote that the Sixers are “looking to be judicious with their future draft picks and projected salary-cap space this summer”.
That is consistent with comments from Morey late last year, when the 76ers GM said the team is after a solid two-way player to partner with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
The Sixers may look to add a two-way player to build around Joel Embiid (pictured) and Tyrese Maxey. Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
“As you get into the playoffs, it gets very hard for your top guys to be elite one way,” Morey said on the Rights to Ricky Sanchez podcast.
“It has worked; it’s very rare, though. The other thing would be, we probably need them to have a bit of playmaking, connector, ball-movement aspects. We are a little short on that, and it becomes more important in the playoffs.”
OG Anunoby would’ve made sense as the kind of two-way talent Philadelphia may target but with the Knicks snapping him up it leaves Dejounte Murray and Siakam as two options that are clearly available.
If that required the Sixers giving up too much, they could potentially look at more realistic targets like Kyle Kuzma and Delon Wright.
UTAH JAZZ
The Jazz are one of the more interesting teams to watch ahead of the deadline given the way they have been performing in the past month.
Utah was likely a leading candidate to be a seller at the deadline in the early stages of the season but the Jazz have now won eight of their last 10 games.
Health has been a big factor in that sudden turnaround and with that in mind, perhaps the Jazz will be more likely to stay put and remain competitive so that they convey their top-10 protected first-round pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder (via the Derrick Favors trade).
It isn’t really worth tanking and trying to get a high draft pick given the state of this year’s draft, where there isn’t much separation in talent at the top of the board.
Jake Fischer had reported in December that Lauri Markkanen was a “fascinating, albeit unlikely trade candidate” who was “no longer untouchable” in trade talks.
Lauri Markkanen is unlikely to be traded. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
“The Jazz are by no means expected to trade the 7-foot sharpshooter at this juncture,” Fischer crucially added.
“He has been a true favourite of Jazz officials, sources said.”
But if a team like the Thunder came calling with their boatload of draft picks, maybe that would incentivise the Jazz to listen?
A general manager told Yahoo Sports at the time that while they didn’t expect Markkanen to be traded they were hearing the Jazz are at least “willing to listen” to offers.
And that’s not just in relation to Markkanen.
“They are willing to listen to calls on everyone, but it’s a matter of meeting their price like Minnesota did for Rudy [Gobert],” the general manager added.
Fischer reported “everyone” includes Jordan Clarkson, Kelly Olynyk, John Collins, Collin Sexton and Talen Horton-Tucker but excludes rookie Keyonte George.
That report from Fischer was published on December 16. The Jazz were 8-16 at that point. They have won 10 games and dropped just four since, so things have changed.
Collins though is still one name to monitor ahead of the deadline, with NBA insider Marc Stein reporting league sources say “one definite” in Utah is that the Jazz “have continued to explore trade options for” the former Atlanta forward.
Zion Williamson and C.J. McCollum combined for 51 points as the New Orleans Pelicans upset the Western Conference-leading Minnesota Timberwolves 117-106.
Pelicans power forward Williamson led the scoring with 27 points while McCollum added 24 as New Orleans ground out an impressive victory on the road.
McCollum’s tally included four three-pointers while Brandon Ingram (19 points) and Herbert Jones (16) also chipped in with valuable contributions. Jones’ 16 points included four three-pointers from five attempts. Anthony Edwards led the Minnesota scoring with 35 points.
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Minnesota’s defeat came just two days after their New Year’s Day reverse to the New York Knicks, and marked the first time this season the Wolves (24-9) have suffered consecutive losses.
The Pelicans’ fourth straight win meanwhile leaves them in fifth place in the Western Conference as they bid to return to the playoffs this year after missing out in 2022-2023.
“They’re a really good team; they’re the best team defensively, and sound offensively, so to come in here and get a win against a talented, well-coached team like Minnesota is huge for us,” Pelicans coach Willie Green said.
“It was a good wire-to-win for us.”
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Elsewhere Thursday, the Indiana Pacers won the latest instalment of their simmering rivalry with the Milwaukee Bucks 142-130 to complete back-to-back victories over the 2021 NBA champions.
Point guard Tyrese Haliburton led the scoring for the Pacers with 31 points on a night when seven Indiana players posted double-digit tallies for the home side, who trailed by two at half-time before taking control of the contest with a 47-point third quarter.
“Winning is fun, and we’re having fun doing it right now – we’ve got to continue competing at a high level,” Haliburton said.
“If we keep getting good shots, good things will happen.”
The Bucks have won 24 games, but four of their 10 losses have come against Indiana.
Damian Lillard #0, Malik Beasley #5 and Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks sit on the bench in the final minute of the 142-130 loss to the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on January 03, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by ANDY LYONS / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)Source: AFP
Haliburton said defensive improvements had been the key to the Pacers’ game-changing third quarter display, which left Indiana leading by 16 points heading into the fourth quarter.
“We just had to lock in defensively – we’ve been scoring pretty well against those guys all year, so we had to figure out a way to get some stops, and we were able do that in the second half,” he said.
Recent encounters between the two sides have seen tempers boil over, and there was a flashpoint in the fourth quarter when Bennedict Mathurin drew a foul from Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo that triggered a scuffle between several players from both sides.
Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee’s scorers with 26 points while Damian Lillard added 23 and Khris Middleton 19.
Bucks coach Adrian Griffin meanwhile blamed his team’s turnover count – 13 in all – for letting the game slip away.
“We gave ourselves a chance but it’s hard when you turn the ball over,” Griffin said.
In Atlanta meanwhile, Jalen Johnson rattled in 28 points and Trae Young added 24 as the Hawks downed the in-form Oklahoma City Thunder 141-138.
Oklahoma City had arrived in Georgia on the back of five straight victories, a run of results which included an impressive home win over the Boston Celtics on Tuesday as well as a win over the NBA champion Denver Nuggets last week.
But despite another virtuoso performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished with 33 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists, the Thunder came up just short as Atlanta completed a wire-to-wire win.
As we reach the quarter-way mark of the NBA season, it’s the perfect time to hit the pause button and reflect on how all 30 teams have fared.
It’s been a campaign filled with epic match-ups, big breakouts, incredible superstar performances, drama and entertainment including the league’s inaugural In-Season Tournament, while a host of shock contenders have emerged and others have endured a tumultuous start.
Taking into account the expectations for every team, their front office decision-making and generally what each franchise is hoping to achieve this season, here’s how we’ve graded the entire league through the first quarter.
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Grades for all 30 teams at the quarter-way mark of the season.Source: FOX SPORTS
ATLANTA HAWKS (9-13) — C-
Contending for a Play-In spot and hovering around .500, the Hawks are pretty well on pace to what most expected, if not slightly underwhelming. One thing’s clear — Quin Snyder’s team is just a middle of the road team and not a contender to come out of the East as constructed. Atlanta will at least score a ton, however is ranked among the worst teams defensively. And what’s the splash move they can make without breaking up Trae Young and Dejounte Murray? Jalen Johnson was enjoying a breakout season prior to getting struck down with injury in an untimely setback for both the third-year forward and Hawks at large.
BOSTON CELTICS (16-5) — A+
The clear frontrunner in the title race. It’s been a hot start to the season for a Celtics powerhouse that has gotten even stronger after the additions of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis — even if their true worth will be determined at the business end of the season – to boast the clear best starting five in the NBA. The early signs couldn’t be much better, with Porzingis in particular helping take Joe Mazulla’s team to another level at both ends of the floor as a rim protecting shot blocker and floor stretching five. Boston has the best record in the league, No. 4 defensive rating and No. 7 offensive rating. Full marks.
BROOKLYN NETS (12-10) – C+
Despite arguably battling the worst injury toll of any side in the league, the Nets sit just a game behind the sixth-seeded Cavaliers, and when healthy, have shown they can be a real handful. It’s largely been built around Brooklyn’s high-octane offence – ranked eighth in the league – as Cam Thomas has shined in a bigger role and Mikal Bridges has flourished as the true leader of the team. Ben Simmons’ ongoing back issue is however getting alarming. The Aussie could help the Nets improve offensively to give them a more well-rounded game. But when, or if, Simmons returns remains very much up in the air.
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CHARLOTTE HORNETS (7-14) – D+
Yes, the Hornets sit third-last in the East, but there’s a few things to factor in, largely their injury situation. Charlotte was without Miles Bridges for the first 10 games due to his suspension, while Terry Rozier also missed a key stretch. Since the aforementioned duo returned, LaMelo Ball suffered a nasty ankle injury, so we haven’t gotten a proper look at this Hornets team as constructed at full strength — a core that had the potential to contend for a Play-In spot. In saying all this, the Hornets have been a mess on the defensive end and have the fifth-worst net rating in the league, so they have a ways to improve, and injuries can’t be solely to blame for a team with the longest active playoff drought in the league dating back to 2016.
CHICAGO BULLS (9-15) – D
Are the Bulls … better without Zach LaVine? After a really grim start to the season, Chicago has curiously improved to 4-1 since LaVine was struck down with injury … time for a trade? You’d think Chicago has to pull the trigger on a move for either (or a collection of) LaVine, DeMar DeRozan or Nikola Vucevic at some stage to bring in long-term assets and continue to expose the likes of Coby White and Patrick Williams to bigger roles, as they have in recent times. Because what they have right now is the profile of a near enough lottery team despite being built to win now, so it desperately needs a reboot as the franchise arguably in the worst position of any. A big few months ahead for the front office.
CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (13-10) – C+
The Cavaliers have been simply solid this season. But for whatever reason, something has been off, while they haven’t had the same spark as last campaign and continue to struggle offensively. As good as Donovan Mitchell has been, just about every other Cleveland player bar Max Strus has struggled to take a step forward … plus is the Jarrett Allen/Evan Mobley froncourt viable long term? A team that was considered to be on the rise with a ton of potential has underwhelmed, even if its 13-10 record is far from disappointing. It comes in a particular crucial period with the franchise hoping to convince Mitchell to re-sign.
Aussie Exum POPS OFF for 7 x threes | 01:40
DALLAS MAVERICKS (14-8) – B
Another team that has probably surpassed expectations, sitting fourth in the West as an offensive powerhouse, even if the Mavs have struggled defensively. Luka Doncic has done Luka Doncic things, but beyond the Slovenian superstar and Kyrie Irving, the Mavs lack consistent production from the rest of their squad and have really struggled on the defensive end — even with exciting rookie Derek Lively providing a real presence as a centre. And how much do we trust Irving to stay healthy and/or to not act up? It’s been an overall positive season, but until they fix their defensive issues, Jason Kidd’s side can’t be considered a true contender to come out of the West.
DENVER NUGGETS (15-9) – A-
The defending champs are in cruise control, though Nikoka Jokic has somehow gotten better to really cement himself as the consensus best player in the league/world. With Jokic running the show in the Mile High City, it’ll always be a dominant force, but they’ve at times been too reliant on him, particularly when Jamal Murray was sidelined despite Reggie Jackson stepping up in a starting role. Of course, prioritising health and peaking come May and June is the prime concern for Mike Malone’s squad as opposed to regular season wins and finishing as high as possible, with things ticking along just fine despite a recent three-game skid and some question marks about their bench and depth as a whole following the departures of Bruce Brown and Jeff Green.
Shades of the King – Bronny makes debut | 01:15
DETROIT PISTONS (2-21) – F
A season from hell. Things can’t get much worse than what they are right now for the Pistons … can they? They’ve dropped a franchise record 20 games on the trot and have a league-worst 2-21 record. Monty Williams is constantly changing the line-up in hopes of finding a spark – but that in itself has been a problem as nothing has felt settled or stable. The sporadicness of Jaden Ivey – both the guard’s form and how he’s being used by Williams – has personified the team’s struggles. And while Bojan Bogdanovic recently returned to give them some veteran leadership, it’ll take more than that to turn things around.
GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (10-12) – D+
Is the dynasty Warriors era finally over? It certainly appears to be amid a rough stretch with just four wins from their last 14 outings. Steph Curry is doing everything he possibly can right now, but where’s the help? And what would happen if he got injured? Veterans Klay Thompson and Draymond Green have underperformed and Chris Paul already suffered his first injury setback, while Andrew Wiggins looks a shadow of the star that helped guide the team to the 2022 championship. Meanwhile Jonathan Kuminga has struggled to evolve into the player the team would’ve hoped for, and their other youngsters don’t appear capable to take on bigger roles – or at least Steve Kerr hasn’t been willing to give it to them – so there’s more issues than answers right now. A shake-up could be coming, either to the rotation or via trade.
HOUSTON ROCKETS (11-9) – B+
There’s been some hiccups along the way, but it’s been an overall promising season for the West’s seven seed. Ime Udoka has brought an intensity, defensive focus (ranked second in the NBA) and professionalism to the team we haven’t seen in years — boosted by the additions of Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks as well as Alperen Sengun taking his game to another level. Some cracks started to appear over the last month or so and it felt like things could fall apart, but the Rockets have since steadied the ship in signs of genuine maturation. Houston does need to replicate its home form on the road, with just one away win so far (over reigning champ Denver), but there’s so much to like overall at the moment.
Davis dominates in mid season title win | 02:31
INDIANA PACERS (13-8) – A
That In-Season tournament run felt massive including taking down Eastern Conference powerhouses Boston and Milwaukee en route to the championship game. Even if they didn’t raise the trophy, the Pacers would’ve gained a ton of confidence and respect. Plus, not only did it give Indiana playoff-like atmosphere experience against some of the best teams in the league, it was the coming out of a superstar in Tyrese Haliburton under the bright lights. Can we finally admit the Pacers won the Sabonis trade? There’s simply a ton of excitement surrounding Indiana right now as one of the most fun teams to watch and best stories of the first quarter of the season that current sits fifth in the East. It’s largely been because of the Pacers’ potent No. 1 rated offence, though they’ve leaked points on the other end.
LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (12-1o) – B-
Should the league be officially on notice? The Clippers are two games above .500 after winning nine of their last 12. The slow start in the James Harden era is a thing of the past as Tyrone Lu’s side is figuring things out and looking a genuine threat with a new starting line-up after Russell Westbrook’s move to the bench. We’re also seeing all of their big three, Harden, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, playing well in the same games more consistently, while the Clippers have the NBA’s No. 8 defensive rating and No. 8 net rating. It comes in a crucial season for the franchise, having gone all-in with this roster ahead of the opening of its new stadium next year. You still can’t help but think, as quickly as things have come together, they could again fall apart, with the health of their injury-prone stars key.
LOS ANGELES LAKERS (14-9) – A-
They have to get extra marks for winning the In-Season Tournament, even if it ultimately counts for nothing from a bigger picture perspective. It’s otherwise been a similar-looking Lakers to last season — a robust defence but lacklustre offence and need for more consistent scoring alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, with Austin Reaves struggling to step up in a bigger role and having more success as a sixth man. Through it all, LA is still 14-9 and getting close to full strength, with the likes of Jared Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent missing key time, while Cam Reddish has been a solid addition. The evergreen and soon-to-be 39-year old James is ageing like a fine wine and doing straight up freakish things at his age. Between James and Davis, who’s having one of his best defensive seasons, this team will always be a threat, plus you sense this Lakers team has room to grow with more continuity and could go on a run at some stage like last season.
MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (6-16) – D-
Operation keep their head above water until Ja Morant returns next week has been a fail for the Grizzlies, who’s also been without Marcus Smart and lost Steven Adams on the eve of the season to leave a bunch of key voids. Tyus Jones’ departure also can’t be understated as a guy who knew their system so well and how to run it whenever Morant was out. With that in mind, you can’t be too harsh on Taylor Jenkins’ crew. Morant will clearly provide a much-needed boost on the offensive end, but they also can’t expect him to return and magically solve all their problems. Not many lesser Memphis players have otherwise really stepped up with extra responsibilities, while Jackson Jr. hasn’t looked like the same defender without Adams there. The Griz have at least showed better signs in recent times to creep closer to having a somewhat respectful record and look capable of turning around its season with Morant and Smart back in the fold.
MIAMI HEAT (13-10) – B
You can be glass half full or half empty on the Heat depending on what your expectations are. But never sleep on Erik Spoelstra and company — and this season has proven no different despite Miami being without Tyler Herro for a key chunk of the season (though it’s becoming increasingly hard to trust the team to ever be consistently healthy). Miami just finds useful pieces to surround Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo with including draftee Jaime Jaquez Jr., while Duncan Robinson has enjoyed a bounce back season and the returning Josh Richardson has been a useful addition. There’s still a few question marks, with the Heat rated average on both ends of the floor amid a stretch of five losses from their last eight, but they’re in a good spot when Herro and now Adebayo return from injury all things considered.
Silver breaks silence on Giddey drama | 00:43
MILWAUKEE BUCKS (16-7) – A-
It’s all kind of just going according to script for any team that lands a superstar in the off-season. Sure, the Bucks still have to improve significantly to just become an OK defensive team as they adjust to life with Damian Lillard. But through what’s felt like a slow start to the season under new coach Adrian Griffin, Milwaukee sits equal second in Eastern Conference and just a game behind Boston with the equal-third best record in the entire league. Not only are the Bucks figuring out how to best integrate Lillard with the rest of the team — most importantly, alongside star teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo — as well as other new pieces, but Khris Middleton is still (very slowly) being ramped up to full minutes. Reports of locker room drama involving Bobby Portis and Griffin is also a worry so early in the campaign. In some ways, all the apparent concerns make their .696 winning percentage even more impressive, but it’s very much is championship or bust season in Milwaukee, so expectations are rightfully high.
MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (17-5) – A+
Ticks all around for the team with the fourth-best net rating in the league. Seemingly the most improved team in the NBA this season, or at least, the team that’s made the jump from a playoff side to a true contender. Indeed, what the Timberwolves are doing feels real, built around the league’s No. 1 ranked defence led by Rudy Gobert getting back to some of his best form at that end of the floor. Minnesota has elite size otherwise that’s really worried opposition teams, while Karl-Anthony Towns is playing at a high level to function effectively alongside Gobert in the frontcourt, while Anthony Edwards just keeps getting better and better. And all of this despite Jaden McDaniels only appearing in roughly half their games due to injury.
NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (13-11) – B-
Are they good or not? The opinion on this team seems to flip-flop quicker than any either — and the Pelicans are an enigma of sorts. But when they’ve been at full strength, there’s an argument the Pelicans can compete with anyone in the Western Conference. The Pels have in recent times shown what they can do with all their pieces on the court together including winning seven of their last 11 games. Willie Green’s side has weapons at both ends of the floor and is deep, while Zion Williamson has looked fantastic at times despite some queries around his overall professionalism and commitment to his craft. Though a blowout loss at the hands of the red-hot Lakers in the In-Season Tournament semis was a misstep, there’s reason to be bullish about how far New Orleans could go this season if things click.
NEW YORK KNICKS (13-9) – B
It’s been a solid, but unspectacular start to the season for the Knicks, who have struggled against the best teams but are rated top 10 in all three of offensive, defensive and net rating. Despite this, New York still appears to be a move away from being a true contender that’s capable of hanging with the likes of Boston, Milwaukee and Philadelphia out East. Mitch Robinson being ruled out for at least the next two months after ankle surgery is clearly a big blow, while the wing/guard rotation feels crowded after New York brought in Donte DiVincenzo. Quintin Grimes even expressed frustration over his role given so much of the team’s offence is predicated around Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle and RJ Barrett. How far can a team go that leans so heavily on those three on the offensive end?
Curry tops Wemby in battle of the stars | 01:11
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (15-7) – A+
The rebuild couldn’t be going much better. In fact, could the Thunder be sneaky contenders in the West? They’ve exceeded expectations this season to surge ahead of their time as the third-youngest team in the NBA. OKC is the only team in the NBA with a top six offensive and defensive rating, while it’s third in net rating. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a legit MVP contender, Chet Holmgren has been Rookie of the Year good to provide another dimension to Mark Daigneault’s squad and Jalen Williams has taken a leap forward in his second season. Plus, whoever Daigneault puts on the court, which can at times be fluid, always competes hard and buys in on the defensive end. All of this with a mountain of draft picks at their disposal to further upgrade their roster, there’s perhaps no team better positioned overall. The only real negative has been Josh Giddey’s underwhelming form on the court — not helped by the off-court investigation — as the Aussie struggles to find his role in an altered system.
ORLANDO MAGIC (16-7) – A+
The unexpected dark horse in the Eastern Conference behind it’s No. 2 rated defence and budding young guns. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are blossoming into stars, leading a team with killer instinct that’s taken several big scalps including the Nuggets and Celtics – arguably the best two teams in the NBA. It’s been all the more impressive considering Marklette Fultz has been limited to only five games due to an ongoing knee injury, though the guard’s absence has at least opened up more opportunities for the likes of Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony to really take their games to the next level. Meanwhile Joe Ingles has added an invaluable veteran presence off the bench.
Embiid passes Barkley in stellar fashion | 01:23
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS (15-7) – A
You’ve got to respect the way the Sixers consistently remain in the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference, particularly after overcoming the James Harden drama that was. With Joel Embiid leading the charge in another MVP-calibre season and Tyrese Maxey emerging as a superstar, anything feels possible with these Nick Nurse-led Sixers. A faster-paced offence (ranked second in the NBA) and still rock solid defence (ranked ninth) under Nurse’s system has so far equated to the best net rating in the league. Veterans Nicholas Batum and Robert Covington have meanwhile been valuable additions on the wing from the Harden trade and provided better depth — plus Philly has a bounty of draft picks it can use to further bolster its roster. Should again be one of the key contenders to come out of the East, if not go a step further.
PHOENIX SUNS (12-10) – B-
It’s hard to get a proper read on Frank Vogel’s Suns given their new big three is still yet to share the court together this season. That was set to change this week with Bradley Beal’s imminent return, but now Kevin Durant is out, so the trio staying healthy will always be a concern. But Beal’s absence doesn’t completely let Phoenix off for a near .500 start given the franchise has gone all-in on a title with this roster, particularly given the defensive concerns have so far been validated. While it hasn’t been all smooth sailing, the Suns have still managed to stay in touch with the top teams in the Western Conference and shown they can compete with anyone. Though Durant has wound back the clock, this team will go as far as Devin Booker takes it in a new point guard role, while their role players have stepped up to fill voids.
Celtics reign top of the East | 00:59
PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS (6-16) – D+
To no great surprise, it’s been tough goings for the new-look Blazers this season as they move into rebuild mode after trading away Damian Lillard – but still have a blend of veterans in key roles. That slow start has been exasperated by Anferne Simons being sidelined for most of the season to date due to injury, while a host of other key names have also missed time. Portland has actually been solid on the defensive end, however is ranked second-last offensively in an area Simons will improve it. It feels like it’s only a matter of time before Scoot Henderson is handed the keys as the starting point guard role, with the Pick 3 draftee, Simons and Shaedon Sharpe the future of this franchise.
SACRAMENTO KINGS (13-8) – B+
After a slow start to the season, the still heavily offensive-focused Kings have gotten a roll in recent times with five wins from their last seven to make a charge in the Western Conference standings. De’Aaron Fox just keeps getting better and better, in the best form of his career and playing at an MVP level with a much-improved three-point stroke, while Malik Monk might be the most underrated player in the NBA as a sneaky Sixth Man of the Year candidate. The issues on the defensive end remain a problem though and have halted Sacramento from making the jump from being a fun – but potent – team last season to a legit West contender to be taken more seriously.
SAN ANTONIO SPURS (3-19) – D-
Expectations recalibrated. A team some thought was capable of making a run for the Play-In with the addition of Victor Wembanyama has been a mile off and is in contention for having the worst record in the league. They’ve dropped a franchise record 17 straight games and … well, look like a young team still figuring things out and their identity as a whole. The Spurs have been a mess at both ends of the floor – rankled dead last offensively and sixth-last defensively for the league’s worst overall net rating. The Jeremy Sochan point guard experiment has been abandoned, and right now, outside of Wembanyama, there’s not a heap to be bullish about on the roster for the future (though Wembanyama might be more than enough). But again, this is a team that was always going to suffer from some type of growing pains and can at least say they planned for such pain by committing to a rebuild — even if they weren’t expected to be this bad. Hard to give a team a fail that just landed a generational talent, who’s looked as a good as advertised.
‘Not who we are!’ Pop BURNS home crowd | 00:30
TORONTO RAPTORS (9-14) – C-
A contender for most confusing team in the NBA in terms of what it’s trying to accomplish, currently sitting outside the Play-In qualification. The Raptors have dropped four in a row amid struggles at both ends of the floor under new coach Darko Rajaković. If they can’t get things together soon, a trade involving Pascal Siakam and/or OG Anunoby by the deadline seems likely given both can become free agents at the end of the season. It very much feels like Scottie Barnes’ team now in a brilliant third season from the forward as the franchise cornerstone they should build around, while every other Raptor feels expandable.
UTAH JAZZ (7-16) – D
How long until the Jazz commit to all-out rebuild mode? Despite having a surplus of draft picks from the Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell trades, Utah has attempted to regenerate its roster on the run and stay competitive in the always loaded West — evident by its off-season move for John Collins. However the team has really struggled this season compared to last. While the absence of Lauri Markannen in recent times hasn’t helped and Walker Kessler has also missed a key chunk of the season, the Jazz have dropped five of their last six games and are plummeting quickly in the West standings in campaign getting away from it. Given Utah owes OKC a top-10 protected pick, don’t be surprised if Will Hardy shakes things up soon and puts his younger players into bigger roles, while the Jazz could also be sellers ahead of the trade deadline to ensure the franchise takes something away from this season.
WASHINGTON WIZARDS (3-19) – F
It’s been bad. The Wizards have just one win from their last 15 games to remain anchored in a bottom two seed with Detroit in the East. While it’s been by design after Washington off-loaded Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis in the off-season for long-term assets, there hasn’t been much get excited about by the way of young players impressing. And so there’s not many positive takeaways for this season outside of the Wizards potentially ending up with a top draft pick. This year’s Pick 7 Bilal Coulibaly figures to move into a bigger role as the season goes on, while Washington’s other high-end draftees look like misses that haven’t warranted increased opportunities. Jordan Poole has been a big disappointment, while the ex-Warrior and/or Tyus Jones could find themselves in another jersey by the deadline.
Chet Holmgren stepped up in crunch time and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 38 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder edged out the Golden State Warriors 138-136 in an overtime classic on Saturday (all times AEDT).
After what’d been a quiet performance from Steph Curry, who’d been well held by Lu Dort all contest, the sharpshooter got hot late in the fourth – scoring 10 points inside the last five minutes including a huge go-ahead triple with 19 seconds remaining.
However a careless Draymond Green foul on Holmgren’s three-point shot put the Thunder big man to the line as he calmly made three crucial free throws before Curry’s deep miss at the other end sent the game into the extra period.
Holmgren would sink a decisive triple in OT to extend the Thunder’s lead to 130-121 followed by a huge and-one play that he celebrated hard to stretch their advantage out to double digits.
But during the frantic extra period at Paycom Centre, Golden State kept coming, with Jonathan Kuminga scoring six quick points to make it a 133-129 Thunder lead with a minute remaining.
A Curry three got the Warriors within two points with 30 seconds to play, but Dort hit an important layup on Holmgren’s assist that ultimately sealed the win for OKC.
“Another classic between these teams,” Thunder commentator Chris Fisher said as the home side improved to 14-7 on the season to consolidate the West’s two seed.
“We have enough to win a championship. I believe that. But if we are just going to throw the ball to the other team and foul over and over, then we’re going to lose,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said post-game.
Gilgeous-Alexander shot 15-of-30 from the field for his game-high 38 points, adding five rebounds, five assists and five steals in a full line.
Holmgren (21 points, seven rebounds, three blocks) and Jalen Williams (28 points, three steals) also had big games, while Josh Giddey had nine points, nine rebounds, four assists and three steals but didn’t play down the stretch of the fourth quarter or in OT.
Curry led the Warriors with 34 points on a perfect 8-of-8 shooting from the line with six triples and six rebound and Kuminga added 24 points and 12 boards off the bench. Golden State fell to 10-12.
EXUM’S BEST GAME IN YEARS
Turns out all Dante Exum needed to raise his game was to become a father.
The Aussie, whose daughter Daria was born on December 1, got the start with Kyrie Irving out and had 20 points through just three quarters as Dallas went on to beat Portland 125-112.
Exum finished with 23 on 9-of-15 shooting plus seven assists and six rebounds, while Luka Doncic led the way with 32 points and 10 assists.
It was Exum’s first 20+ point game since January 5, 2020, when he had 28 for the Cavaliers in a loss to the Wolves.
MILLS SIGHTING IN SEASON-HIGH MINUTES
We had another Patty Mills sighting!
The Aussie veteran got an extended run in the Atlanta Hawks’ 114-125 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday (all times AEDT).
Mills played a season-high 17 minutes off the bench, scoring three points with two assists and a steal, while he was the only Hawk in the second unit with a positive plus/minus at +1.
“That’s the Patty Mills we know,” Hawks commentator Dominique Wilkins said after Mills’ three-pointer in the second quarter.
It came as Atlanta was missing two starters in Trae Young and Jalen Johnson as its losing streak extended to three games and its record fell to 9-12.
Mills, 35, has endured a difficult season, his first campaign in Atlanta since being traded multiple times in the off-season.
He’s played in just one other regular season game, scoring three points in five minutes in a match against Washington last month.
De’Andre Hunter’s 24 points led all Hawks starters in double figures, while Joel Embiid had 38 points, 14 rebounds and four blocks in another dominant showing from the star centre and Tyrese Maxey added 30 points and seven assists.
ELSEWHERE …
Though the San Antonio Spurs suffered a 16th-straight loss in a 121-112 defeat to the Chicago Bulls, Victor Wembanyama reminded the NBA world how dominant he can be.
The No. 1 pick racked up 21 points, 20 rebounds, four assists and four blocks in 31 minutes. According to StatMuse, Wembanyama became the first rookie to record such numbers since Shaquille O’Neal and the youngest player in NBA history with a 20-20 game.
It comes after OKC’s Chet Holmgren has taken over as the favourite for Rookie of the Year in recent weeks in a hot stretch, but Wembanyama again staked his claim in what looms as one of the most entertaining races for the major award.
Coby White (24 points, six assists), Nikola Vucevic (21 points, 16 boards), DeMar DeRozan (20 points, 10 rebounds) and Pat Williams (20 points) also had big performances as Chicago won a fourth-straight game without Zach LaVine to improve to 9-14.
What are the Power Rankings? This is our attempt to rank every NBA team from best to worst. We take wins and losses into account, but also the quality of opposition faced and whether teams are likely to get healthier or improve going forward. It’s a little bit ‘who’s hot and who’s not’; part predictive, part analysis of what’s happened. If Team A is above Team B, we’d probably tip A to beat B at a neutral venue.
Every NBA team analysed in our Power Rankings.Source: FOX SPORTS
1. BOSTON CELTICS (14-4)
Who else but? Continuing on from last campaign’s dominant regular season, the Celtics appear to have gotten even stronger with the additions of Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday. Integrating such key pieces to a rotation can take time for teams to adjust, but not Boston, having posted a top eight offensive rating and top three defensive rating. Still undefeated at home, the Celtics’ +9.6 point differential is the best in the league. Not only do they have top-line stars, most notably Jayson Tatum, who’s having another MVP-calibre season, but Joe Mazulla’s rotation is arguably the deepest and most talented in the NBA. It’ll help them mitigate injuries (provided they don’t come at the business end of the season). Can anyone stop them? The clear best team in the league right now.
2. DENVER NUGGETS (13-6)
The reigning champs have been in cruise control in the early parts of the season, while Jamal Murray has been limited to eight games due to a hamstring injury … yet they still sit second in the West standings at 13-6 and have a top 10 offensive and defensive rating. It included a particularly strong start to the season before the Nuggets hit a lean patch, dropping four of five games as their less experience and depth compared to last season showed. But a road win over the Clippers on the second half of a back-to-back without Murray, Nikola Jokic and Aaron Gordon displayed championship DNA at its finest and would build huge belief in the second unit and team as a whole. Jokic remains out-of-this-world good as the current frontrunner for the MVP in what’d be his third overall. Oh and they’re also the only other team still unbeaten at home.
‘Wait a minute!’ Smith blasts ‘idiots’ | 02:01
3. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (13-4)
One of the big surprise packages so far, Minnesota is emerging as a legitimate contender before our eyes. In fact, it’s the Wolves we thought we were getting last season after three-time Defensive Player of the Year winner Rudy Gobert joined the team, as his twin tower frontcourt pairing with Karl Anthony-Towns is starting to flourish. Sitting first in the West with the best defensive rating in the entire NBA – built around Gobert, and great size and flexibility that’s really troubled opposition – the Wolves have taken the leap into the top tier of teams. Then there’s the Anthony Edwards piece, with the star guard evolving into a MVP-level superstar that plays both ends of the floor and has a certain dog and killer instinct about him that reminds you of some of the game’s all-time greats.
4. MILWAUKEE BUCKS (13-5)
The new-look Bucks are starting to figure things out – and that’s a scary prospect for the rest of the NBA. After a slow start, Milwaukee has won eight of its last nine games and is beginning to live up to the hype after recruiting Damian Lillard to join forces with Giannis Antetokounmpo and create one of the most dominant one-two offensive punches in the NBA. Though the Bucks have the fourth-best offence in the league, there’s still issues at the other end of the floor, with a bottom 10 defensive rating. Brook Lopez is starting to rediscover his dominant defensive form from last season, but misses having Jrue Holiday out on the perimeter, while Khris Middleton is still ramping up to full health after off-season knee surgery. If they can make improvements on the defensive end to at least be middle of the road, the Nuggets showed last season you don’t necessarily need to have an elite defence to win it all. Could they simply score their way to a title?
5. PHILADLEPHIA 76ERS (12-6)
Couldn’t have navigated the James Harden trade saga much better. It was addition by subtraction for the Sixers, with Harden’s departure paving the way for Tyrese Maxey to evolve into a superstar – even if he’s cooled off from his epic early-season heights – while Joel Embiid continues to do Joel Embiid things. The star centre has also improved as a facilitator, averaging a career-best 6.6 assists per game. Philly also added a host of handy role players in the Harden trade plus assets it could use to recruit another star by the trade deadline. They sit top four in the East and have the second-best points differential (+8.7) in the NBA, having shown a ruthlessness to really crush teams. Nick Nurse’s team has the second-best offence – playing with more movement and freedom than last season – to go with a top 10 defence. A team with all the tools to make another deep playoff run.
6. ORLANDO MAGIC (13-5)
The other shock riser – and this one has been even more unexpected – including riding a current seven-game winning streak. Orlando was seen as a fun, budding team on the rise, but not many could’ve predicted Jamahl Mosley’s side would be this good, this fast. The Magic have the third-best record in the East and their improvement has largely come behind a more robust defence – currently the second-best in the league. They simply have guys who compete hard every game like Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony, while Paolo Banchero has taken his game to new heights alongside co-star Franz Wagner, an elite running partner who’s still somehow underrated. Joe Ingles has also provide invaluable leadership and stability off the bench. The Magic, who’ve taken down arguably the best two teams in the NBA in Boston and Denver, have done all of this with Markelle Fultz missing most of the season with a knee injury!
Booker torches the Garden with dagger 3 | 00:37
7. PHOENIX SUNS (11-6)
The Suns are coming. Despite Bradley Beal being restricted to three games due to a back issue and Devin Booker also battling injury, they’re still sitting in the upper echelon of the always competitive West. Kevin Durant has wound the clock back to look like… well, prime Kevin Durant, while Booker too has had some monster performances top really ascend his status to the top-line superstars. What’s also been encouraging is how recruits Eric Gordon and Grayson Allen have stepped up with more opportunities and Jusuf Nurkic might have found his perfect landing spot. It’s the defensive end of the floor where there’s still some issues, but sitting 11-6 despite their new big three having never played together yet and there’s huge reason for optimism in the Valley of the Sun.
Giddey starts for OKC amid investigation | 00:50
8. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (11-6)
Another big improver and team that looks genuinely ready to contend, perhaps slightly ahead of its time. OKC is ranked top seven both offensively and defensively and doesn’t seem to fear anyone. The impact of former Pick 2 Chet Holmgren has been significant, with the gun big man emerging as the unlikely frontrunner for Rookie of the Year over Victor Wembanyama, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to be crazy good to back up his breakout 2022/23 season. Mark Daigneault is generally getting better production across the board from the likes of Jalen Williams and Isaiah Joe, allowing him to be more flexible with his line-ups. The hovering allegations about Josh Giddey have been the only real downside amid an indifferent start to the season for the Aussie, but there’s so much to like about what the Thunder are doing. And all of this with a mountain of draft picks at their disposal to upgrade the roster when they see fit. Look out.
9. DALLAS MAVERICKS (11-6)
The forgotten contender in the arms race following last season’s big disappointment, even after they acquired Kyrie Irving. But Luka Doncic looks like a man on a mission – with a better roster around him including a barrage of three-point shooters. It’s the offensive end of the floor where Dallas has really excelled – boasting the No.3 offensive rating – while they do have a ways to improve defensively to be taken more seriously as a legit contender. But the Doncic-Irving duo has proven to be a real handful, plus in Dereck Lively II the Mavericks have a promising big man for the first time in several years. It’d be nice to see more consistency from Josh Green, though the Aussie remains an important member of the rotation and has had some bright moments.
Kings topple Warriors for Group C throne | 00:57
10. SACRAMENTO KINGS (10-7)
The beam is starting to come alight. After a 2-4 start to the campaign where the Kings looked like a big regression contender, they’ve rediscovered their spark, going 8-2 over their last 10 games including 4-2 over a recent road trip. The offence from last season is starting to come back too, led by De’Aaron Fox amid a spectacular start to the season from the star guard, who’s averaged a career-best 3.1 three-pointers per game. And Mike Brown’s team has improved at the other end of the floor to become middle-of-the-road defensively. Keegan Murray hasn’t quite taken the second-year leap in what could really propel the Kings to another level, which might be more likely to come in the forward’s third season.
11. LA LAKERS (11-8)
It’s been an up and down start to the season for the Lakers — and perhaps they’re ultimately not the contenders we thought they were amid a host of other Western Conference sides improving. While it’s still early days, LA has had issues at both ends of the floor — mainly the offensive end (ranked bottom three in three-point shooting) — as Darvin Ham works through finding his best line-ups after a few off-season changes to the roster. They’ve also been affected by injury and have struggled on the road (3-6). Beyond Anthony Davis and LeBron James, who’s still freakishly good at near age 39, there’s a lack of other consistent production, even if D’Angelo Russell has bounced back from a disappointing playoff series, while Austin Reaves hasn’t had the breakout season come expected in year three and has been moved to the bench.
LeBron suffers WORST loss in NBA career | 00:51
12. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (10-8)
The Cavs have overcome a slow start to the season to get on a roll in recent times, having won six of their last eight games. We frankly haven’t seen Cleveland at full strength enough yet this season to get a real grasp of where this team is at – a team that finished top four in the East last season. The core remains as talented as some of the top sides and the addition of Max Strus has been a big win to add much-needed three-point shooting on the wing. The Caves don’t really want for anything, though there’s question marks of whether the Even Mobley-Jarrett Allen frontcourt is viable long-term given the spacing issues. It comes in an important juncture and season at large for the franchise as it’ll be hoping to convince Donovan Mitchell to stick around long-term, in one of the potential trade narratives to keep an eye on.
13. NEW YORK KNICKS (10-7)
When it’s all clicking for the Knicks, they’re a strong unit. Jalen Brunson proved last season was no aberration, backing up his breakout campaign to again lead this team, while Julius Randle and RJ Barrett haven’t been quite as consistent even though the latter has shown an improved three-point stroke. New York does have a top-five ranked defence and the 11th-best offence, but Tom Thibodeau’s squad has struggled against the best teams in the league. From that perspective, how far can a Brunson-Randle-Barrett trio go — even with an improved roster around them? Might be one big move away from seriously contending.
Knicks stun Heat with comeback in NY | 01:16
14. INDIANA PACERS (9-7)
With Tyrese Haliburton in this kind of form, anything might be possible. Haliburton is putting together an All-NBA level season, averaging stupidly good numbers across the board (25.9 points on 51 per cent shooting, 3.8 triples and 11.9 assists per game). It’s been key to the team’s promising 9-7 start to the season, with claim to the league’s No.1 offensive rating while averaging 127 points per game. It’s completely opened the Pacers up defensively though …and where’s Haliburton’s help coming from? Myles Turner’s minutes are down, while Rick Carlisle seemingly can’t decide if he wants to develop Benedict Mathurin as a starter or just play veteran sharpshooter Buddy Hield heavy minutes, with the latter more of a win-now move. Bruce Brown has been a handy addition, but he’s more a role player than anything. Another team to watch ahead of the trade deadline.
15. MIAMI HEAT (10-8)
Another team that’s hard to figure out, albeit hampered by injuries, As if coming off an NBA Finals appearance as the eighth seed didn’t already make it tricky enough! The Heat have at least navigated the majority of the opening weeks without star guard Tyler Herro, who looked set for a huge breakout season as Miami’s leading scorer, and they’ve clearly missed his offence. The good has been good — including a seven-game winning streak and Bam Adebayo rolling in a career-best season to take on the mantle as Miami’s alpha. But the bad has been bad — opening the campaign 1-4 and currently in the midst of a three-game losing streak, while there’s question marks of the team’s depth.
16. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (10-9)
One of the biggest enigmas in the NBA … are still an enigma? There’s been some good and some bad — including a five-game losing streak — and they’ve all-round just been an average side. It’s a somewhat disappointing return for a franchise that spent parts of last season as the No.1 seed in the West and could be so much more with Zion Williamson. But the former No.1 pick hasn’t yet lived up to expectations and has appeared frustrated at times with how the team is going and his role. Frankly, we haven’t seen Williamson, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum on the court together enough to get a proper gauge of how good they can be. McCollum’s lung injury did open the door for Dyson Daniels to play more minutes though and show a glimpse of the Aussie young gun’s promising future.
17. LA CLIPPERS (8-9)
Still adjusting to life with James Harden, the Clippers might’ve worked things out. After starting the Harden era 0-5, Tyronn Lue’s side has since won five of its last seven games as it starts to move up the West standings. There were always to be growing pains with Harden and a need to fine-tune rotations, which has ultimately seen Russell Westbrook move to the bench. Well, over their last six games, the Clippers have the best defensive rating in the league, while Harden is coming off his best game yet as a Clipper with a season-high 26 points, five triples and five steals. Paul George’s hot start to the season hasn’t been talked about enough too amid the team’s struggles.
18. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (8-10)
It’s hard to know what to make of Golden State at times and how much we judge Steve Kerr’s team on reputation. Some predicted the addition of Chris Paul would take the Warriors to the next level, but right now they’re sitting just inside the Play-In qualification. It’s been the same story as last season — they rely too much on Steph Curry, Klay Thompson has been inconsistent and unreliable, Draymond Green has been engulfed in drama and the young players haven’t stepped up (but haven’t necessarily had opportunities to). Andrew Wiggins has meanwhile fallen off a cliff to leave a big scoring void, but Kerr doesn’t quite seem prepared yet to pass the baton to the next crop. They’ve gone 2-8 in their last 10 games and Paul has already suffered his first injury setback of the season.
Curry tops Wemby in battle of the stars | 01:11
19. HOUSTON ROCKETS (8-8)
Ime Uodka has done some sort of job in his first 16 games as Rockets coach. A team considered a potential improver looks like a genuine playoff team. It’s been a bit of a seesaw — with revolving winning and losing streaks — but this team is highly disciplined defensively, helped by the addition of Dillon Brooks, is deep and has beaten reigning champion Denver twice. Having an established point guard in Fred VanVleet has provided more overall structure and Alpereen Sengun looks like a mini Jokic in a brilliant breakout season from the 21-year old centre. And to think the Rockets tried — and failed — to land Brook Lopez in the off-season in what would’ve almost certainly prevented Sengun from doing what he’s doing now. A really impressive start in H-Town in a big tick overall. Now just to replicate their home form (8-1) on the road (0-7) — and more Jock Landale too please!
20. ATLANTA HAWKS (8-9)
One thing you can count on with Atlanta — it’s going to score in bunches. The Hawks have the No. 5 offensive rating this season while averaging 122.5 points per game — trailing only Indiana — driven by Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. Jalen Johnson’s emergence has offset John Collins’ departure, and so the forward’s injury leaves a big hole in Quin Snyder’s streamlined rotation — that has featured Patty Mills for all of five total minutes this season. After a promising start to the season, the Hawks have gone 2-5 over their last seven games, so they have a few things to figure out ahead of tough upcoming schedule including playing Milwaukee, Philadelphia and Denver in their next five games. Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu remain locked in a minutes split at centre, but you sense it’s only a matter of time before Okongwu is given full rein.
21. BROOKLYN NETS (9-8)
The Nets have managed to keep their head above water despite battling a host of injuries to the likes of Ben Simmons, Nic Claxton, Cameron Johnson and Cam Thomas. Considering the amount of changes to the line-up, Brooklyn would be happy to currently be sitting ninth in the East including currently riding a three-game winning streak. The team has also had the sixth-toughest schedule in the league, according to ESPN’s Basketball Power Index, while Mikal Bridges hasn’t quite had the breakout season some anticipated yet. With all that in mind, there’s a fair bit of upside when — or if — the Nets get fully healthy.
22. TORONTO RAPTORS (9-10)
Offence has been the main concern for the Raptors — in particular their bottom-five ranked three-point shooting. As good as Scottie Barnes has been in a breakout season from the forward, it’s hard to get a grasp of this team’s identity. One game it’s Barnes leading the charge, the next it’s Pascal Siakam, while OG Anunoby has struggled amongst it all and Jakob Poeltl has been used sparingly despite costing the team a first-round pick and getting a juicy contract extension. Could they be sellers at the deadline? Dennis Schroder has at least enjoyed a strong season as the team’s new point guard to get back to some of his best form of years past.
23. UTAH JAZZ (6-12)
Lauri Markkanen is doing everything he can, but fair to say this season hasn’t started nearly well as last for the young Jazz. You could see it going either way in Utah — but it’s been tough goings for Will Hardy and company. After struggling in the opening games before getting injured, Walker Kessler now finds himself coming off the bench, though that should change soon, while Keyonte George has moved into the starting line-up in Hardy’s bid for more playmaking and movement in that opening five. The Jazz however still have major issues at both ends of the floor, and at some stage, they’ll need to commit to a path of either competing for the playoffs or rebuilding, as right now it feels like they’re trying do both but failing to achieve anything.
24. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (5-11)
Just when the Hornets were starting to turn their season around, the near worst possible thing happened – LaMelo Ball suffered another setback to his troublesome ankle that required surgery earlier this year. At full strength, Charlotte has a solid roster that could contend for the playoffs, but it hasn’t had all its key pieces on the floor together at once, with Ball central to everything. Controversial forward Miles Bridges has taken no time to get up to speed since returning from suspension, and now he and Terry Rozier in particular will need to take on a much bigger load with the Hornets’ franchise superstar sidelined for the next several weeks.
25. CHICAGO BULLS (5-14)
If it wasn’t already clear, it’s time to blow it up. Things are a mess for the Bulls right now — a team built to win now is a ways off and is sitting all the way down as the Eastern Conference 13th seed amid a five-game losing streak — including dropping eight of their last nine. If Chicago’s situation doesn’t improve, which, right now, it’s hard to see how it does, expect one — or both — of Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan to be wearing a different jersey by the trade deadline. At least then Chicago can start building with a new nucleus, because the current one is stuck in NBA purgatory — where no team wants to be.
26. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS (5-12)
Going according to script after the Damian Lillard trade as the Blazers prioritise developing their emerging crop of youngsters including Shaedon Sharpe and Scoot Henderson, who should eventually take over the starting point guard job. Portland recently snapped an eight-game losing streak, with its offence the key area letting it down. Anfernee Simons having only played one game due to a thumb injury clearly hasn’t helped. Elsewhere, Aussie duo Matisse Thybulle and Duop Reath are getting more opportunities in the rotation to show their worth, with the former’s defensive prowess again proving valuable.
27. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (4-13)
When is Ja Morant free to return again? It’s the question the Grizzlies would be repeatedly asking themselves amid a grim 4-13 start to the season as perhaps the most disappointing team. Because sure, having no Morant for over a quarter of the season is significant, but the Grizzlies have looked like a lottery team without him. It includes the Griz being ranked dead last in three-point shooting with the second-worst rated offence. Unlike Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr. has struggled to step up with extra offensive opportunities. And as if it couldn’t get any worse, Marcus Smart is now sidelined for the next several weeks after suffering a nasty ankle injury. They did finally end their 0-8 winless drought at home — the last team to do so — after beating Utah on Thursday.
28. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (3-14)
The Spurs are probably lucky they’re not even lower (not that there’s much scope). But it’s been the very definition of growing pains and teething issues for the rebuilding team in welcoming Victor Wembanyama into its young core despite the No.1 pick’s sensational start to his career. San Antonio is in the midst of a 12-game losing streak to sit dead last in the West, while its -12.9 point difference is the worst in the NBA. Maybe expectations were simply set too high amid the hype around ‘Wemby’ — but just because they’re not playing well doesn’t mean their future isn’t bright. The Spurs are simply in experiment and trial and error mode — so even a Play-In appearance feels unlikely right now. Devin Vassell missing five games due to an adductor injury hasn’t helped their cause.
Spurs fall short despite Wemby heroics | 00:51
29. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (3-15)
Not that the Wizards were expected to be any good this season, but it’s probably been even worse than imagined, with Kyle Kuzma the sole shining light. It took for Washington to play the Pistons to end a nine-game losing streak and pick up its fifth overall win nearing the quarter-way mark of the season. Jordan Poole and Tyus Jones have underwhelmed, though neither have played big minutes amid some curious rotation decisions from Wes Unseld Jr. Ranked bottom 10 at both ends of the floor, the Wizards are officially in all-out tank mode and could be sellers ahead of the trade deadline.
30. DETROIT PISTONS (2-16)
Perhaps the most alarming thing is that the Pistons started the season 2-1 and looked like a sneaky improver! Well, they’ve since lost 15 on the trot to hold the worst record in the NBA, with the eighth-worst defence and fourth-west offence. This is a team some thought could start climbing the standings after spending years going to the draft. But Detroit is still behind newer rebuilding teams like Portland, San Antonio and Washington, while Monty Williams can barely figure out his rotation and which players will help take this franchise forward. Having Cade Cunningham back has been important and rookie Ausar Thompson and second-year centre Jalen Duren have both impressed, but it looks set to be another long season in the Motor City — even if Bojan Bogdanovic’s imminent return will help.
But if Sunday (all times AEDT) was a measuring stick — the second night of a back-to-back, minus three starters against the league’s best team — there were positives to be taken.
The Nets ran out of gas late in a 124-114 loss to Boston before a sellout crowd of 17,983 at Barclays Centre, as usual with a healthy dose of Celtic green on hand.
Minus starters Ben Simmons, Nic Claxton and Cam Johnson, the Nets were down just 96-95 with 7:28 to play.
But that’s when Boston — the NBA’s championship favourite and only unbeaten team left this season — reeled off an 11-2 run to finally put Brooklyn away.
The absence of Simmons — whom the team insists was merely taking a prearranged night off to manage his well-documented back injury — was felt acutely.
Bucks outlast Knicks in tight finish | 00:44
With him went their prodigious fast break, and much of their offensive identity.
“I’m excited about seeing if we can continue conceptual basketball, how we want to play without [Simmons] being there,” coach Jacque Vaughn had said. “The other night we shot 45 3s, and a big part of that was Ben’s ability to, after makes and misses, push [the] tempo for us. So could our other guards do that as well will be a challenge for us.
“I’d love to shoot 45 more 3s if we could versus [the Celtics]. But I think you’ll definitely miss Ben’s ability to grab rebounds, start our break, guard multiple positions but hopefully conceptually, the way we play, someone else can slide into that slot.”
It didn’t happen.
Cam Thomas poured in a team-high 27 points, but the Nets hit just 43 per cent from the floor and 17 of 52 from deep, getting bogged down in the halfcourt by Boston.
Mikal Bridges had 19 but struggled through a 7-for-20 shooting night.
The Nets had run off at least 20 fast-break points in every single game this season, their longest such streak since the stat started being tracked back in 1996-97.
They came into the night averaging a league-high 23.4 fast-break points, but mustered just seven in the loss.
The Nets trailed early, down 24-15 after Jrue Holiday found Jaylen Brown (23 points) for a mid-range jumper.
But they closed the first quarter on a 19-10 run to even the score going into the second.
‘That’s a goaltend!’ Controversial end | 00:43
The Nets clawed ahead, with forward Dorian Finney-Smith — starting a fifth straight game at centre for injured starter Nic Claxton — hitting a 3-pointer off a Spencer Dinwiddie feed.
It gave the Nets a 41-36 edge with 9:43 left in the half. But it was short-lived.
A 9-0 Celtics blitz over the next two minutes left the Nets in a five-point hole, capped by a floater by Jayson Tatum (game-high 32 points).
The Nets were still down just 62-58 after a put back dunk by Day’Ron Sharpe with 1:10 left in the second quarter.
But they allowed the Celtics to score the last eight points of the half, capped by a Tatum 27-footer with just 0.3 seconds left.
The Nets trailed 70-58 at the break, and never led again.
They almost immediately made a run and climbed back into the game, but could never quite get over the hump.
Thomas’ hook shot made it 87-86 with 2:25 remaining in the third, but the Nets never could pull ahead.
Down 96-90, they pulled within one again on a 3-pointer by Dennis Smith Jr.
But Tatum responded with one of his own, sparking an 11-2 run.
Boston opened the lead to double digits and the game was over.
Simmons’ absence was pronounced, but the Nets almost immediately went to reassurance mode, comforting their fans that there was nothing amiss.
“The Ben piece is just injury maintenance for us,” Vaughn said. “Overall, just assessing where we are this time of the season, with the back-to-back — not saying this will continue — but the maintenance is a part of his progression right now for this part of the season.”
Simmons was managed by the Nets (Michael Reaves/Getty Images/AFP)Source: AFP
CHAMPS CRUISE AS LAKERS SMASHED
Defending champion Denver seized the Western Conference lead, improving to 6-1 by defeating Chicago 123-101.
Nikola Jokic had 28 points, 16 rebounds and nine assists to lead the host Nuggets while Michael Porter added 27 points and Aaron Gordon had 15 points and 12 rebounds for Denver.
German forward Franz Wagner scored 26 points and Paolo Banchero added 25 points and a career-high 10 assists to spark host Orlando over the Los Angeles Lakers 120-101.
“I’m feeling good,” Banchero said. “I’ve put in a lot of work. It was a long summer. I can’t be more happy than I am to be back.
“You can score the ball, make the plays but making others better is what I love to do,” he said of his 10 assists. “I went out there and tried to keep the defence honest.”
Anthony Davis had 28 points, 13 rebounds and seven blocked shots and LeBron James added 24 points, nine rebounds, five assists and three steals for the Lakers, who began a four-game road trip.
SIXERS ROLL PAST SUNS
Keeping pace one game behind the Celtics were the Philadelphia 76ers as Joel Embiid scored 26 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead the Sixers over visiting Phoenix 112-100.
Kelly Oubre added 25 points, Tobias Harris had 18 points and 10 rebounds and Tyrese Maxey contributed 22 points, and 10 assists on his 23rd birthday to spark the 76ers (4-1).
“I was trying to be aggressive, whether I was making the right read, getting the assist or scoring the ball,” Maxey said.
“I’m trying to pick my spots when to be ultra aggressive and when to get to the paint to get Joel a shot, get Kelly a shot, get them in the right spots. I think I’m doing a solid job of it right now.”
Wemby drops career high 38 against Suns | 00:58
Maxey has shown a spark in replacing veteran James Harden, who was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers.
“Coach, Joel, Tobias, they trust me out there to see what I read out there on the court. Trust has been great and I appreciate them for that,” Maxey said.
“I know what my role is so it has been great.” Kevin Durant scored a game-high 31 points for the Suns with eight rebounds in a losing cause.
WOLVES, ROCKETS WIN
Anthony Edwards scored 31 points and Karl-Anthony Towns had 25 to spark the host Minnesota Timberwolves over Utah 123-95.
Dillion Brooks scored 26 points while Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith each added 21 for Houston in a 107-89 triumph over Sacramento.
Charlotte’s Mark Williams scored 27 points and Gordon Hayward added 23 to power the Hornets over host Indiana 125-124. Tyrese Haliburton scored 43 points, matching a career high, and added 12 assists for the Pacers.
Trae Young had 22 points and 12 assists while Jalen Johnson added 21 points and 11 rebounds to lead Atlanta over New Orleans 123-105 despite Zion Williamson’s game-high 25 points for the Pelicans.
