DALLAS — Caris LeVert’s late heroics, combined with Jarrett Allen’s dominant inside presence, lifted the Cleveland Cavaliers to a stunning 113-110 comeback victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night. The Cavaliers overcame a 20-point first-half deficit, showcasing their resilience even in the absence of star guard Donovan Mitchell.

LeVert, who ended the night with 29 points, nailed a crucial 3-pointer in the final quarter to put the Cavaliers ahead. Allen’s impressive performance included 24 points and 23 rebounds, just one shy of his career-best. Isaac Okoro contributed significantly with 22 points, as the Cavs improved to 3-1 during Mitchell’s four-game absence due to illness.

The Mavericks, missing All-Star Kyrie Irving due to a right heel injury, witnessed a nine-point fourth-quarter lead evaporate. Luka Doncic, despite scoring 39 points, couldn’t prevent Dallas from a five-minute scoring drought in the final quarter. Cleveland’s 15-0 run, which began as soon as Doncic returned to the court, was pivotal in securing their lead.

For Dallas, Seth Curry added a season-high 19 points, but he and Doncic combined for a mere 2 of 11 shooting in the fourth. The Mavericks’ offense struggled in the clutch moments, missing key shots that could have altered the game’s outcome.

The Cavaliers’ defense was instrumental in the comeback, particularly in containing Dallas in the crucial moments of the game. Despite trailing by six with only 21 seconds remaining, the Mavericks had a chance to tie the game in the final possession. However, a well-executed trap on Doncic near midcourt and a blocked desperation three by Strus sealed the win for Cleveland.

Niang chipped in with 16 points for the Cavs, while Craig Porter Jr. recorded nine points and 12 rebounds. Allen’s performance was especially noteworthy as he outplayed Mavericks’ rookie Dereck Lively II, also adding six assists to his impressive stat line.

The Cavaliers’ comeback win underlines their ability to compete and win games even without key players like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. They now look forward to hosting Milwaukee, while the Mavericks face Minnesota in their next game.

HOUSTON — Kevin Durant delivered an exceptional performance with a triple-double, scoring 27 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out a career-high 16 assists, to lead the Phoenix Suns to a convincing 129-113 victory over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night. This marked the Suns’ first road win since late November, improving their record to 15-15.

The game was also a notable return for Eric Gordon, who matched Durant’s 27 points against his former team. Gordon’s 17-point contribution in the Suns’ explosive 43-point second quarter was instrumental in establishing a dominant 73-55 lead at halftime. Devin Booker added 20 points, and Grayson Allen contributed 16 to the Suns’ effort.

Alperen Sengun was the top performer for the Rockets with 24 points, while Jalen Green added 23 points, including a season-high six 3-pointers. Despite Green’s strong performance, the Rockets’ overall record dropped to 15-14.

The Suns’ offensive efficiency was particularly notable in the second quarter, where they shot an impressive 76%, effectively distancing themselves from the Rockets. Durant’s aggressive play was pivotal, as he was involved in scoring or assisting on a substantial portion of the Suns’ baskets during this period.

Houston faced injury concerns, with Jabari Smith Jr. exiting in the third quarter due to a left ankle sprain. This injury came shortly after the Rockets lost Dillon Brooks to an oblique strain, marking his first missed game of the season.

The Suns are set to host Charlotte in their next game on Friday night, while the Rockets will face the Philadelphia 76ers at home on the same night.

OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams each delivered a remarkable performance, scoring 36 points apiece, to guide the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 129-120 victory over the New York Knicks. Williams played a crucial role in the fourth quarter, sinking key 3-pointers that sealed the win.

Chet Holmgren contributed significantly with 22 points, helping the Thunder (20-9) secure a win following their triumph over Western Conference leaders Minnesota the previous night. Oklahoma City’s effective rotation and minimal turnovers were pivotal in their success, as noted by Coach Mark Daigneault.

For the Knicks (17-13), Julius Randle led the scoring with 25 points, with Jalen Brunson adding 24. Immanuel Quickley provided a strong performance off the bench, contributing 22 points. Despite a decent shooting percentage and effective free-throw shooting, the Knicks were hindered by 18 turnovers, leading to 21 Thunder points.

The Thunder established an early lead, shooting impressively in the first quarter to take a 38-25 lead. Their advantage extended to 17 in the second quarter, though the Knicks managed to reduce the gap to five points before halftime. Gilgeous-Alexander’s 19 first-half points helped the Thunder maintain a lead at the break.

In the third quarter, Randle spurred a comeback for the Knicks, tying the game at one point. However, Gilgeous-Alexander’s crucial plays kept the Thunder ahead going into the final quarter.

The fourth quarter saw Williams shine, scoring 17 points on 6-of-7 shooting, including two pivotal 3-pointers during a crucial 10-2 run. This surge helped Oklahoma City fend off a late Knicks rally and ultimately secure the victory.

The Knicks next face Orlando on Friday night, while the Thunder travel to Denver for their next matchup.

NEW YORK — The Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 32 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, secured a commanding 144-122 victory over a Brooklyn Nets team that approached the game with a heavily altered lineup. Khris Middleton also contributed significantly with 27 points and 10 assists.

The Nets, coming off a win against Detroit that extended the Pistons’ record-breaking losing streak, opted to rest key players, presenting the Bucks with unfamiliar faces on the court. Despite this, Antetokounmpo acknowledged the Nets’ competitive spirit, admitting he had to familiarize himself with many of the players during the game.

Brooklyn’s rotation, filled with rookies and two-way contract players, kept the game competitive for three quarters. However, the Bucks’ experience and skill prevailed in the fourth quarter, with Cameron Payne and Malik Beasley each hitting five 3-pointers. Payne finished with 18 points off the bench, and Beasley had 17 points.

For Brooklyn, rookie Jalen Wilson led with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Trendon Watford added 17 points. Dennis Smith Jr. and rookie Noah Clowney each contributed 14 points. The Nets rested key players such as Spencer Dinwiddie, Nic Claxton, Cam Johnson, and Dorian Finney-Smith, citing a heavy workload and the need to avoid putting them “in harm’s way.”

The Bucks capitalized on the Nets’ strategy, outscoring them 44-30 in the fourth quarter. Coach Adrian Griffin praised Nets coach Jacque Vaughn for his handling of the team but was pleased with his team’s ability to secure a win and prepare for their next matchup.

The victory improved the Bucks to 10-2 in December, bouncing back from a Christmas Day defeat to the Knicks. They finished their three-game holiday stint in New York with two wins.

The Bucks now look forward to their next game against Cleveland on Friday, while the Nets will face Washington on the same day.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Philadelphia 76ers, despite missing All-Star center Joel Embiid, showcased a formidable defensive performance to secure a 112-92 victory over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night. Tyrese Maxey led the Sixers with 23 points, while Tobias Harris and De’Anthony Melton each contributed 22 points in a collective effort that compensated for Embiid’s absence.

Paul Reed stepped up in Embiid’s place, contributing 15 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks. The Sixers have now won nine of their last 11 games, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability without the league’s leading scorer, who sat out with a sprained right ankle.

Coach Nick Nurse emphasized the importance of finding a different style of play in Embiid’s absence, focusing on giving the team a chance to win. This approach was evident in the Sixers’ defensive strategy, which disrupted the Magic’s offense throughout the game.

Franz Wagner was the top scorer for the Magic with 24 points, followed by Jalen Suggs with 20 points. Paolo Banchero added 19 points and nine rebounds, but Orlando struggled with their shooting, especially from the 3-point line, where they were just 9 for 33. The Magic’s total score of 92 points was a season low, reflecting the effectiveness of the Sixers’ defense.

Banchero had a tough night, going 6 for 21 from the field, as the Sixers’ defense successfully contained him. Despite getting some open looks, the Magic failed to capitalize on their 3-point attempts. Suggs, however, remained confident in their shot selection, expressing willingness to take similar shots in future games.

The Sixers pulled away in the third quarter with Harris scoring key points during a 9-0 run, establishing multiple 11-point leads. Although the Magic briefly narrowed the gap to three points in the fourth quarter, the Sixers responded decisively with Harris and Melton hitting crucial 3-pointers, sealing the victory.

Maxey, rebounding from a previous 4-for-20 shooting performance, stayed aggressive and let the game come to him, leading to a more efficient scoring night.

The 76ers will look to continue their strong form as they visit Houston on Friday, while the Magic will aim to bounce back against New York on the same day.

WASHINGTON — The Toronto Raptors decisively ended their three-game losing streak with a dominant 132-102 victory over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night. OG Anunoby led the way with 26 points, while Pascal Siakam contributed a double-double of 22 points and 11 assists, guiding the Raptors to an emphatic win.

Scottie Barnes added a substantial double-double of his own with 20 points and 12 rebounds. The victory was particularly satisfying for the Raptors, as it also ended their five-game losing streak on the road. It marked the beginning of a challenging stretch with nine of their next ten games away from home.

Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic praised his team for capitalizing on facing the Wizards on the second night of a back-to-back. He noted that the win should serve as a positive start to their road trip. Toronto’s shooting was exceptional, hitting 57.1% from the floor and 39.5% from beyond the arc.

Rajakovic’s strategic lineup change, starting Gary Trent Jr. over Dennis Schroder, paid dividends, as the Raptors nearly matched their franchise record for assists, set earlier this season. Schroder, coming off the bench, contributed significantly with 10 assists and nine points.

Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole each scored 14 points for Washington, but their efforts weren’t enough to prevent the Wizards’ third consecutive loss. Corey Kispert added 13 points from the bench. The loss deepened Washington’s struggles, marking their 30-game start as the second-worst in franchise history.

Washington’s defense continued to falter, conceding over 130 points for the 14th time this season. Coach Wes Unseld Jr. acknowledged the team’s size disadvantage and emphasized the need for a stronger mindset, particularly in rebounding, where they lag behind as the league’s worst.

The Raptors established their control with a decisive 19-1 run bridging the first and second quarters. Anunoby’s transition layup off Trent’s feed was pivotal in giving Toronto its first lead. The Wizards went without a field goal for over 7 minutes, a dry spell that Anunoby attributed to the Raptors’ improved communication and defensive effort.

Toronto’s lead swelled to 13 points in the second quarter and was 59-50 at halftime, thanks to Kispert’s buzzer-beating layup. The Raptors only extended their lead after the break, cruising to their largest margin of victory this season.

The Raptors will next face the Boston Celtics on Friday, while the Wizards are set to host the Atlanta Hawks on the same day.

LOS ANGELES — James Harden’s explosive first-half performance, scoring 20 of his 29 points, fueled the Los Angeles Clippers’ comeback for a 113-104 win over the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday night, snapping their two-game losing streak. Paul George contributed significantly with 25 points, while Ivica Zubac dominated inside, adding 18 points and 14 rebounds.

The victory marked a much-needed rebound for the Clippers, who had been struggling without Kawhi Leonard, sidelined with a left hip contusion. The team had previously enjoyed a nine-game winning streak before facing two consecutive defeats, including a heavy loss against the Boston Celtics.

Russell Westbrook stepped up in Leonard’s absence, providing a dynamic presence off the bench with 14 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists in 28 minutes. Coach Tyronn Lue commended the team’s defensive effort and praised the collective response in Leonard’s absence.

The Hornets, stuck in a tough eight-game losing streak and a disappointing December, saw Miles Bridges lead their effort with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Terry Rozier and P.J. Washington each added 18 points, but the absence of LaMelo Ball due to an ankle injury since late November continued to impact their performance.

Despite Charlotte’s energetic third-quarter play, which included a significant 26-9 run, the Clippers regained control in the final quarter. Key three-pointers during a decisive 19-2 run helped them establish a commanding lead, with Zubac scoring critical points.

George’s consistent outside shooting, including five three-pointers, and Harden’s overall scoring prowess were instrumental in securing the win. The Clippers demonstrated their depth and adaptability, emphasizing their “next man up” mentality.

Looking ahead, the Hornets will face the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday, while the Clippers are set to host the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, aiming to maintain their momentum.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Anfernee Simons’ stellar 29-point performance propelled the Portland Trail Blazers to a convincing 130-113 win over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night. Duop Reath’s career-high 25 points and nine rebounds off the bench played a crucial role in Portland’s victory, especially with key players Deandre Ayton and Shaedon Sharpe sidelined due to injuries.

The Trail Blazers, who aimed for a strong start and improved home play, achieved their goal under Coach Chauncey Billups’ guidance. Malcolm Brogdon added 19 points, while Scoot Henderson and Jabari Walker each contributed 17 points off the bench.

Henderson’s playmaking was particularly noteworthy, as he dished out a career-high 11 assists with only one turnover, showcasing his unselfish style and playmaking abilities.

Despite a heroic effort from De’Aaron Fox, who scored 43 points, and Domantas Sabonis with 34 points, the Kings struggled as they lacked other significant contributors. Coach Mike Brown expressed concern over Sacramento’s defensive performance, highlighting it as a persistent issue.

Looking ahead, the Trail Blazers face back-to-back home games against the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday and Friday. The Kings, on the other hand, will travel to Atlanta for their next game on Friday, looking to bounce back from the defeat.

CHICAGO — The Chicago Bulls, led by DeMar DeRozan’s 25 points and Andre Drummond’s impressive double-double, secured a 118-113 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. Drummond, in his first start of the season, posted season-highs with 24 points and 25 rebounds.

The Bulls managed to contain Hawks’ star Trae Young, who finished with 21 points and 13 assists, ending his streak of seven consecutive games with at least 30 points and 10 assists. Chicago’s win comes despite missing key players Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic due to injuries.

DeRozan’s second-half performance, where he scored 21 of his 25 points, was pivotal for the Bulls. His 11 points in the fourth quarter, including crucial baskets in the last three minutes, were instrumental in sealing the win. DeRozan expressed his thrill in delivering in clutch moments, likening it to his childhood dreams.

Drummond, who replaced the injured Vucevic, made a significant impact, shooting 11 of 13 and playing 39 minutes. He expressed his belief in still being a starter-quality player in the league.

Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu each contributed 19 points for Chicago. Despite struggling from the three-point line, the Bulls executed well enough to overcome their loss to Cleveland in the previous game.

For Atlanta, Bogdan Bogdanovic led the scoring with 22 points, while Dejounte Murray added 17 points, breaking his streak of consecutive 20-point games.

The game saw its fair share of lead changes and was tied at 106 before Alex Caruso’s three-pointer gave the Bulls a crucial edge. DeRozan’s key baskets in the closing stages helped Chicago maintain their lead.

Jalen Johnson returned for Atlanta after missing several games due to a wrist injury, contributing 10 points in his first game since late November.

With Vucevic sidelined due to a groin injury and LaVine still recovering, the Bulls could be facing a challenging period ahead. Vucevic’s timeline for return remains uncertain after an MRI, and LaVine has started light cutting as part of his recovery process.

Looking ahead, the Hawks will host Sacramento on Friday, while the Bulls face Indiana on Thursday.

HOUSTON — Tyrese Haliburton’s standout performance, featuring 33 points and 10 assists, led the Indiana Pacers to a 123-117 victory over the Houston Rockets on Tuesday night. Haliburton’s go-ahead three-pointer in the final minute was pivotal in snapping the Pacers’ three-game losing streak and securing their first road win since December 7.

Haliburton, who went 13 of 21 from the field, including 7 of 13 from beyond the arc, emphasized the game’s significance, labeling it a ‘must-win.’ Pacers coach Rick Carlisle praised the highly competitive nature of the game, which saw 15 lead changes and six ties.

Alperen Sengun was a bright spot for the Rockets, contributing 30 points and 16 rebounds, following up on his career-high 37 points in Houston’s recent win over New Orleans. Sengun also added five assists and four steals but acknowledged the Pacers’ offensive strength and clutch shooting.

Fred VanVleet’s layup gave Houston a brief lead late in the game, but Haliburton’s shooting prowess ultimately prevailed. VanVleet finished with 18 points and nine assists.

The Pacers’ third-quarter performance was crucial, with Haliburton’s trio of three-pointers sparking a 12-2 run. Despite being outscored 74-44 in the paint, Indiana capitalized on three-point shooting, making 19 of 43 attempts.

The Rockets had the upper hand at halftime, leading 67-64, bolstered by Tari Eason’s aggressive play, including a steal and dunk to end the first quarter. Eason contributed 16 points and eight rebounds off the bench.

Injuries played a role, with Rockets forward Dillon Brooks exiting in the third quarter with an abdominal strain. The Pacers were without Reggie Bullock Jr. and Bruce Brown due to illness and injury, respectively.

The Pacers next face the Chicago Bulls on Thursday night, while the Rockets host the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday.

NEW ORLEANS — Ja Morant continued his impressive comeback, scoring 31 points to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a thrilling 116-115 overtime victory against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night. Since Morant’s return, the Grizzlies have gone 4-0, marking a significant turnaround from their 6-19 record during his absence.

Desmond Bane played a crucial role, scoring 27 points, including a critical three-pointer in the final minute of regulation that helped the Grizzlies erase a 15-point second-half deficit. Bane’s free throw in the closing seconds of overtime proved decisive, putting Memphis up by four points.

Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed 19 points, recovering from a missed free throw at the end of regulation with key baskets in overtime to secure the lead for Memphis.

Morant, named the Western Conference Player of the Week, has been averaging 28.8 points since returning from a 25-game suspension related to his conduct on social media. His resurgence began with a 34-point game against New Orleans on December 19, including a game-winning shot.

For the Pelicans, Zion Williamson had 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Brandon Ingram added 24 points and four blocks. Jonas Valanciunas contributed a double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds, and CJ McCollum scored 16 points. However, the Pelicans’ efforts weren’t enough to prevent their second consecutive home loss.

The game’s climax came in a dramatic last few seconds, filled with video reviews and foul calls. Morant’s near-miss shot led to a defensive foul being overturned upon review. A subsequent jump ball and foul call against Valanciunas on Jackson led to Jackson’s free throws, tying the game at 103. Jackson missed the second free throw, sending the game into overtime.

Marcus Smart, returning from injury, added 13 points for Memphis, including a key transition layup in overtime. His defensive prowess was on display with five steals.

Looking forward, the Grizzlies will face Denver on Thursday night, while the Pelicans will host Utah on the same day.

OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s impressive 34-point outing, paired with Jalen Williams’ 21 points, propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder to a commanding 129-106 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night. The Thunder’s efficient shooting from beyond the arc was a key factor, making 18 of their 39 three-point attempts.

Chet Holmgren and Lu Dort each contributed 20 points for the Thunder (19-9), who excelled in their three-point shooting, posting a 46.2% success rate. Their defensive effort was equally notable, forcing 24 Minnesota turnovers, which led to 23 points.

Gilgeous-Alexander, who was 14 of 19 from the field and led with nine assists, emphasized the team’s cohesive play. Dort’s 5-of-6 shooting from the three-point line was a highlight, as the Thunder shot an impressive 60.5% from the field and led by as much as 25 in the second half.

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised the team’s intelligent approach against a tough Minnesota defense.

Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves (22-7) with 25 points, while Mike Conley added 17 and Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 16. Towns, returning from a missed game due to knee soreness, couldn’t help Minnesota overcome the Thunder’s offensive onslaught.

Josh Giddey made a successful return to the Thunder’s starting lineup after missing a game with an ankle sprain, recording 10 points and seven assists.

Despite Holmgren’s fourth foul and Giddey’s foul trouble, the Thunder extended their lead, highlighted by Dort’s fifth three-pointer of the game. Minnesota attempted a comeback, narrowing the gap to nine points, but couldn’t sustain the momentum.

Daigneault noted the team’s intensity and the turnovers as key factors in their win. Williams’ back-to-back three-pointers in the fourth quarter further solidified the Thunder’s dominant position.

The game was competitive in the first half, with both teams showing proficiency from the three-point line. The Thunder led 66-60 at halftime, bolstered by Gilgeous-Alexander’s 16 points and Williams’ 15.

Looking ahead, the Timberwolves will host the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday, while the Thunder welcome the New York Knicks on Wednesday.

SAN ANTONIO — Lauri Markkanen’s commanding performance of 31 points and 12 rebounds propelled the Utah Jazz to a 130-118 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night. The Jazz managed to turn around a slow start and secure the win, with significant contributions from Jordan Clarkson and Collin Sexton.

Clarkson added 24 points and eight assists, while Sexton contributed 20 points, including an impressive self-assisted 360-degree dunk early in the second half. The dunk, a result of Sexton’s spontaneity, was both praised and seen as a risky move by Utah coach Will Hardy.

Keldon Johnson led the scoring for the Spurs with 26 points, supported by Devin Vassell with 22, Jeremy Sochan with 19, and Victor Wembanyama with 15. The Spurs, now at 4-25, are still trying to find consistency after ending an 18-game losing streak, their worst in franchise history.

The Jazz, at 13-18, have seen a resurgence with three consecutive wins and six in their last eight games after an initial 2-7 start to the season.

Wembanyama, a key player for the Spurs, returned after missing two of the past three games with a right ankle injury. He had a well-rounded performance with seven rebounds, five blocks, and four assists in 25 minutes, despite the earlier injury concerns.

San Antonio initially led by 15 points in the first quarter, thanks to a strategic change of bringing Johnson off the bench. Julian Champagnie, starting in Johnson’s place, added a quick eight points early in the game. He finished with 16 points, leaving a strong impression on coach Gregg Popovich.

The Spurs opened the game with sharp shooting, especially from the three-point line, but Utah responded with a 23-9 run that bridged the first and second quarters. Markkanen and Clarkson combined for 18 points in the second quarter, shifting the momentum in Utah’s favor.

Clarkson’s performance was particularly noteworthy as he continued his trend of strong outings against the Spurs, averaging 16.7 points in 26 games against them. Coach Hardy commended Clarkson’s evolution into a more versatile player, particularly in his playmaking abilities.

The Spurs are currently struggling with the Western Conference’s worst record and are second only to the Detroit Pistons in the NBA standings.

Looking ahead, the Jazz will play against New Orleans on Thursday, while the Spurs will face Portland on the same day.

DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons etched their name in the NBA record books for an undesirable reason, losing their 27th consecutive game, a 118-112 defeat to the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night. This loss surpasses the previous single-season record held by the 2010-11 Cleveland Cavaliers and 2013-14 Philadelphia 76ers.

Despite a valiant 41-point effort from Cade Cunningham, the Pistons (2-28) couldn’t avoid setting the record. Cunningham’s second-half performance, scoring 37 points, was a highlight for Detroit, but he lacked sufficient support from his teammates. Bojan Bogdanovic was the only other Piston to score more than 15 points, with the rest of the team shooting just 36.2%.

Pistons coach Monty Williams acknowledged the challenging situation, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with coaching.

For the Nets, Cam Johnson led with 24 points, and Mikal Bridges contributed 21. Nic Claxton and Day’Ron Sharpe added double-doubles, helping the Nets secure their second consecutive win against the Pistons.

Nets coach Jacque Vaughn expressed his concerns about the challenge of back-to-back wins against the same opponent.

A pivotal moment came when Dorian Finney-Smith’s three-pointer capped a 13-0 Nets run in the final quarter. Despite Cunningham’s efforts to close the gap, Finney-Smith’s crucial baseline three-pointer in the last minute helped seal the victory for Brooklyn.

The game saw an energetic start from Detroit, who opened with a 22-8 run, but the Nets outscored them 53-32 for the rest of the first half. Williams pinpointed the second quarter as a turning point, citing turnovers as a persistent issue for the Pistons.

Fans expressed their frustration with chants urging the team’s sale, reflecting the growing discontent amid the Pistons’ historic losing streak.

Looking ahead, the Nets will host Milwaukee on Wednesday, while the Pistons face a tough matchup against Boston on Thursday.

WASHINGTON — Franz Wagner’s all-around performance and rookie Anthony Black’s career night powered the Orlando Magic to a 127-119 win against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday. Wagner finished with 28 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds, while Black scored a career-high 23 points.

Black, focusing on consistent improvement, played a key role in Orlando’s success. Paolo Banchero, despite a slow start, contributed 24 points and eight assists. Jalen Suggs, returning from injury, added 11 points, impressing coach Jamahl Mosley with his play after a two-game absence.

Jordan Poole led the Wizards with 30 points, but it wasn’t enough to prevent their fourth loss in five games. Tyus Jones contributed 22 points in the effort.

The Wizards initially struggled, trailing by as much as eight, but their bench contributed 12 points in the first quarter, helping to tie the game at 33. Orlando then went on a 7-0 run in the second quarter, leading to a Wizards timeout.

Corey Kispert’s 15 first-half points off the bench kept Washington in the game, trailing just 63-60 at halftime. The Magic maintained their lead in the third quarter, with Banchero’s left-handed layup extending their advantage to 98-88 entering the fourth.

Washington attempted a comeback in the fourth, cutting a 17-point deficit down to four points on two occasions, but Orlando held on. Wagner attributed the win to the team’s togetherness and communication, especially when under pressure.

Orlando dominated with 70 points in the paint and forced 21 turnovers, winning the first three games of their four-game regular season series against the Wizards.

Wizards coach Wes Unseld Jr. acknowledged the need to address turnovers and transition opportunities. Daniel Gafford had a double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds, while Kyle Kuzma added 17 points, though he struggled with efficiency and turnovers.

Reflecting on his performance, Kuzma felt his lack of rhythm impacted the game’s outcome.

Looking ahead, the Magic will host Philadelphia on Wednesday night, while the Wizards will face Toronto on the same day.

Dallas, December 26, 2023 — In a dazzling Christmas display, Luka Doncic, the Dallas Mavericks’ star guard, etched his name in the annals of NBA history by surpassing 10,000 career points. The milestone was achieved in a dramatic fashion with a deep 3-pointer in the Mavericks’ victory over the Phoenix Suns.

Playing in his 358th career game, Doncic tied with Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo for the seventh-fewest games needed to reach this remarkable feat. This elite list is topped by Wilt Chamberlain, who reached 10,000 points in just 236 games, followed by legends like Michael Jordan, Elgin Baylor, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Oscar Robertson, and George Gervin.

Entering the game just 11 points shy of the 10,000 mark, Doncic wasted no time in making history. Within the first 7 minutes, he dazzled the crowd with a 34-foot 3-pointer, crossing the coveted threshold and sending the fans into a frenzy.

At 24 years and 300 days old, Doncic is now the sixth-youngest player to achieve this milestone. This places him in the company of basketball greats such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, and Tracy McGrady, who all reached 10,000 points at a young age.

Doncic’s historic night didn’t end there. He went on to score 50 points on 15-for-25 shooting, leading the Mavericks to a 128-114 triumph over the Suns. This extraordinary performance makes him only the fourth player in NBA history to score 50 or more points in a Christmas Day game. The exclusive club also includes Bernard King, Wilt Chamberlain, and Rick Barry.

This achievement not only highlights Doncic’s scoring prowess but also cements his status as one of the brightest young talents in the league. His ability to perform at the highest level in key games has become a hallmark of his career, much to the delight of Mavericks fans and basketball enthusiasts worldwide.

As the NBA season continues, all eyes will be on Doncic to see how he builds on this remarkable achievement and leads his team through the challenges ahead.

PHOENIX — Luka Doncic delivered an exceptional 50-point performance, along with 14 assists, guiding the Dallas Mavericks to a 128-114 win over the Phoenix Suns on Monday night. Doncic’s display capped off a day full of NBA Christmas games, with his shooting prowess on full display, going 8 of 16 from 3-point range and perfect from the free-throw line.

Doncic’s achievement was highlighted by surpassing 10,000 career points in the first quarter, reaching this milestone in just 358 career games, making him the seventh fastest in NBA history.

Dereck Lively II returned from an ankle sprain to contribute 20 points and 10 rebounds for Dallas, and Tim Hardaway Jr. added 18 points. The Mavericks have been navigating games without Kyrie Irving, who has missed nine consecutive games due to a heel injury.

For the Suns, Chimezie Metu and Grayson Allen stepped up, particularly from the bench. Allen had a remarkable third quarter, scoring 19 of his 32 points and hitting 8 of 17 from beyond the arc. Metu added 23 points and a career-high 19 rebounds, filling in the gap left by Jusuf Nurkic, who was absent due to personal reasons.

The Mavericks pulled away in the fourth quarter with a 17-4 run, compounding the Suns’ struggles, who have now lost nine of their last 12 games.

Doncic’s scintillating performance was evident from the start as he set up Lively for easy baskets and then focused on scoring himself, tallying 17 points in the first quarter. His playmaking continued in the second quarter, leading Dallas to a 64-54 halftime advantage.

The Suns, who had an offensively disjointed first half, improved their ball movement in the third quarter, briefly taking the lead on an Allen 3-pointer. However, the Mavericks regained control in the fourth quarter, extending their lead and sealing the victory with Doncic’s impressive runner in the closing seconds.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks will host Cleveland on Wednesday, while the Suns face a road game against Houston on the same day.

MIAMI — Miami Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. delivered a memorable Christmas performance, scoring 31 points and securing his first double-double in a 119-113 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. Jaquez’s excitement about playing on Christmas was evident in his outstanding play.

Bam Adebayo supported Jaquez’s efforts with 26 points and 15 rebounds. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra made history, improving to a perfect 9-0 record on Christmas Day, the best record for head coaches in NBA history on the holiday.

The 76ers were without Joel Embiid due to an ankle sprain. Tobias Harris led Philadelphia with 27 points, and Kelly Oubre Jr. added 25. Mo Bamba and De’Anthony Melton contributed with 18 and 15 points, respectively, while Tyrese Maxey struggled, shooting 4 for 20 from the floor.

Tyler Herro added 22 points for the Heat, Duncan Robinson contributed 16, and Kyle Lowry had 12, marking his first Christmas win. Jaquez also pulled down 10 rebounds, helping Miami dominate the boards with a 56-36 advantage.

The Heat overcame several absences, including Jimmy Butler, Josh Richardson, and Haywood Highsmith. They also lost Caleb Martin in the first half to an ankle sprain.

The game was tied at 86 after three quarters, despite a rollercoaster of leads. Philadelphia began strongly, but Miami responded with a 21-1 run in the first half, helped by Philadelphia’s 14 consecutive missed shots. The 76ers then managed to erase a 21-point deficit in the third quarter.

In the fourth quarter, Jaquez and Adebayo each scored 10 points to secure the win for Miami. Jaquez’s performance placed him among a select group of rookies who have scored significantly in their first Christmas games, joining the ranks of Wilt Chamberlain, Walt Bellamy, LeBron James, Bill Cartwright, Patrick Ewing, and Oscar Robertson.

76ers coach Nick Nurse praised Jaquez’s performance, acknowledging his crucial role in the Heat’s victory.

Looking ahead, the 76ers will face Orlando on Wednesday, while the Heat will travel to play Golden State on Thursday.

LOS ANGELES — In a display of exceptional teamwork, the Boston Celtics, led by Kristaps Porzingis, defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 126-115 on Christmas Day. Porzingis tallied 28 points and 11 rebounds, with all Celtics starters scoring at least 18 points.

Jayson Tatum contributed 25 points, while Jaylen Brown and Derrick White added 19 and 18 points, respectively. White also dished out 11 assists. Jrue Holiday’s 18 points and seven assists further exemplified Boston’s cohesive play, which has led them to win 12 of their last 14 games.

Anthony Davis was the standout for the Lakers, scoring a game-high 40 points along with 13 rebounds. LeBron James added 16 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. Despite Davis’ efforts, the Lakers have struggled lately, losing six of their last eight games since their In-Season Tournament victory.

James acknowledged the Lakers’ current health and performance issues, emphasizing the need for improvement to compete with top teams.

This game marked the third Christmas Day meeting between the two iconic franchises, with the Lakers winning in 2008 and the Minneapolis Lakers triumphing in 1951.

The Celtics set the tone early, scoring the first 12 points of the game and leading by as many as 18 in the first quarter. Boston regained the lead swiftly in the third quarter after briefly trailing, and effectively maintained their advantage in the final quarter.

Porzingis noted that despite the win, the Celtics could have been even more dominant with better shooting from beyond the arc, finishing 13 of 42 (31%) on three-point attempts.

Lakers coach Darvin Ham pointed out various areas of concern, including transition defense, rebounding, and turnovers. Davis reflected on the small mistakes, like his missed free throw in the third quarter, which he felt had a significant impact on the game’s outcome.

Both teams experienced a scare when Brown and James collided in the second quarter, but both players returned to continue the game.

Looking ahead, the Celtics will host Detroit on Thursday, while the Lakers will welcome Charlotte on the same day.