Atlanta Hawks forward Zaccharie Risacher will have his left adductor strain re-evaluated in one w...

<p>Atlanta Hawks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121714" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121714">Zaccharie Risacher</a> will have his left adductor strain re-evaluated in one week, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>The injury forced the No. 1 pick to miss the Hawks' last three games. Atlanta said it would update Risacher's status as he progresses in his rehab.</p><p>The 19-year-old French wing has shown flashes of talent as a rookie but has struggled to find consistency as a scorer.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Risacher is averaging 10.5 points but shooting 40.3% from the floor, including a 28.1% clip from distance. He failed to score more than 10 points in five of his last 10 games. Risacher has eclipsed 20 points just once this campaign, scoring a season-high 33 in a win against the New York Knicks on Nov. 6.</p><p>The Hawks, which have won three of their last four have five games in their next seven days, though four are at home. They host the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday before facing the Toronto Raptors in consecutive home matchups Thursday and Saturday. Their one road contest, Monday against the Minnesota Timberwolves, is the first game in a back-to-back, which concludes Tuesday in Atlanta against the Houston Rockets.</p>

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 14: Zaccharie Risacher #10 of the Atlanta Hawks looks on during the game against the Phoenix Suns on January 14, 2025 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Risacher out at least 1 more week with strained adductor

The Chicago Bulls are ready to part ways with Patrick Williams.  Arturas Karnisovas, the Bulls' e...

<p>The Chicago Bulls are ready to part ways with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93861" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93861">Patrick Williams</a>.</p><p>Arturas Karnisovas, the Bulls' executive vice president of basketball operations, is open to trading the former fourth overall pick amid the forward's fifth season in Chicago, a source told <a href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/bulls/2025/01/18/according-to-a-source-add-patrick-williams-to-bulls-trade-block">Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times</a>.</p><p>Bulls coaches are reportedly frustrated with Williams' refusal to buy into what he's being asked to do.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 23-year-old's development has stalled since 2020-21, when he averaged 9.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 71 starts as a rookie. He hasn't averaged more than 10.2 points in the four campaigns since, and his 3.8 rebounds per game this season are a career low.</p><p>Williams is one of just two players with at least 30 starts in 2024-25 and a 2-point field-goal percentage lower than 40%, according to <a href="https://stathead.com/basketball/player-season-finder.cgi?request=1&amp;order_by=fg_pct&amp;year_min=2025&amp;year_max=2025&amp;ccomp%5B1%5D=gt&amp;cval%5B1%5D=30&amp;cstat%5B1%5D=games_started&amp;ccomp%5B3%5D=lt&amp;cval%5B3%5D=40&amp;cstat%5B3%5D=fg2_pct">Stathead</a>. The other is Minnesota Timberwolves guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/227" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/227">Mike Conley</a>.</p><p>Injuries have also hindered the 6-foot-7 forward's early career: He missed all but 17 contests in Year 2 after dislocating his wrist in the fifth game of the season, and his 2023-24 campaign was cut short in January due to a stress reaction in his left foot.</p><p>However, offloading Williams may be easier said than done for the Bulls, who re-signed the Florida State product to a five-year, $90-million contract in July. That deal contains an $18-million player option in 2028-29, its final season.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 14: Patrick Williams #44 of the Chicago Bulls looks on during the first half against the New Orleans Pelicans at the United Center on January 14, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Bulls open to trading former No. 4 pick Patrick Williams

Former second overall pick Brandon Miller has a torn scapholunate ligament in his right wrist and...

<p>Former second overall pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110250" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110250">Brandon Miller</a> has a torn scapholunate ligament in his right wrist and will be sidelined indefinitely, the Charlotte Hornets announced Friday.</p><p>The 22-year-old got hurt in Charlotte's 117-112 win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, though he didn't ever exit the contest. </p><p>The ex-Alabama star is scoring 21 points per game in his second season, second on the Hornets only to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a>. He's also averaging 4.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.1 steals.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Miller's injury is the latest blow in a difficult season for Charlotte. Friday's win over the Chicago Bulls - which Miller missed - was Ball's fifth game back after he missed three straight with ankle and wrist soreness. The 23-year-old guard missed 11 of 15 contests over a month-long stretch beginning in late November, during which the Hornets went 1-14.</p><p>Charlotte has also been without fellow starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53740" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53740">Miles Bridges</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102765" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102765">Mark Williams</a> for extended stints this season.</p><p>Despite the win, Charlotte (10-28) remains six games back of Chicago for the Eastern Conference's final play-in berth.</p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - JANUARY 15: Brandon Miller #24 of the Charlotte Hornets in action during the first half of a game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on January 15, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Hornets' Miller out indefinitely with torn wrist ligament

The NBA handed Indiana Pacers wing Bennedict Mathurin a one-game suspension Wednesday for verball...

<p>The NBA handed Indiana Pacers wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102759" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102759">Bennedict Mathurin</a> a one-game suspension Wednesday for verbally abusing and making inappropriate contact with a referee during Tuesday's 127-117 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.</p><p>Mathurin took issue with a foul called against him when he brought down Cavaliers big man Evan Mobley with 3:58 to play in the fourth quarter. While expressing his disagreement with referee Natalie Sago, the Pacers guard clapped his hands by the official's head before bumping into her to earn two technical fouls in quick succession and an immediate ejection.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/fXdnIaMOqz">pic.twitter.com/fXdnIaMOqz</a></p>— Sports Vids (@magicvibesio) <a href="https://twitter.com/magicvibesio/status/1879353922814673246?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Mathurin will miss Indiana's game against the Detroit Pistons on Thursday. Detroit has won 10 of its last 12 contests and trails the sixth-place Pacers by half a game in the Eastern Conference.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The suspension is the first of the 22-year-old's career.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JANUARY 14: Bennedict Mathurin #00 of the Indiana Pacers drives to the basket during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 14, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Pacers' Mathurin suspended 1 game for contact with ref

Cooper Flagg is rewriting the record books.  The Blue Devils star scored 42 points to help Jon Sc...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> is rewriting the record books.</p><p>The Blue Devils star scored 42 points to help Jon Scheyer's squad defeat Notre Dame 86-78 on Saturday, shattering the ACC and school's single-game scoring record by a freshman.</p><p>With seven minutes left to play, Flagg overtook the previous school mark of 35 set by Zion Williamson in 2019 against Syracuse.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">DUKE FRESHMAN RECORD | SINGLE-GAME SCORING<br><br>1. Cooper Flagg: 36 (today v. ND)*<br>2. Zion Williamson: 35 (2019 v. Syracuse)<br>2. Jared McCain: 35 (2024 at FSU)<br>4. JJ Redick: 34 (2003 v. UVA)<br>4. Marvin Bagley III: 34 (2017 v. Texas)<br><br>*7:03 left vs. ND</p>— #DukeMBBStats (@DukeMBBStats) <a href="https://twitter.com/DukeMBBStats/status/1878152093158268961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Boston College's Olivier Hanlan held the previous ACC freshman record with a 41-point performance against Georgia Tech in the 2013 conference tournament.</p><p>Flagg also became the first Blue Devil to score 40 or more in one game since JJ Redick put up 40 against Virginia in January 2006.</p><p>The 18-year-old added seven assists and six rebounds and was efficient from all over the floor; he shot 11-of-14 overall, including 4-of-6 from distance, and converted all but one of his 17 trips to the free-throw line.</p><p>The Maine native, widely expected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, didn't take long to make an impact, soaring through the lane just six minutes in for a one-handed jam that brought the crowd at Cameron Indoor Stadium to its feet.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">COOPER WITH AUTHORITY 🔨<a href="https://twitter.com/DukeMBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DukeMBB</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/DukeATHLETICS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DukeATHLETICS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%F0%9D%95%BF%F0%9D%96%8D%F0%9D%96%8A%F0%9D%95%AD%F0%9D%96%97%F0%9D%96%94%F0%9D%96%99%F0%9D%96%8D%F0%9D%96%8A%F0%9D%96%97%F0%9D%96%8D%F0%9D%96%94%F0%9D%96%94%F0%9D%96%89?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#𝕿𝖍𝖊𝕭𝖗𝖔𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖗𝖍𝖔𝖔𝖉</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/cpisecurity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cpisecurity</a> <a href="https://t.co/PHg7BotTu0">pic.twitter.com/PHg7BotTu0</a></p>— ACC Digital Network (@theACCDN) <a href="https://twitter.com/theACCDN/status/1878161984241246440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Duke appeared to stall immediately following Flagg's record-setting bucket, which came on a mid-range jumper with 7:39 to play and pushed the team's lead to 13.</p><p>The Blue Devils failed to score another field goal for the remainder of the contest, allowing Notre Dame to shrink the gap to four with just over 30 seconds left. However, Flagg responded with a pair of free throws to restore Duke's lead to six and the Fighting Irish failed to get closer the rest of the way.</p><p>Blue Devils center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162172" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162172">Khaman Maluach</a> added 19 points and 10 rebounds, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110378" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110378">Markus Burton</a> led Notre Dame with 23 points to go with five rebounds and two assists.</p><p>The win kept Duke perfect through six ACC matchups this season and improved the school's overall record to 14-2.</p>

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 11: Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts following a three point basket during the first half of the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Cameron Indoor Stadium on January 11, 2025 in Durham, North Carolina.

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Flagg breaks ACC freshman scoring record in win over Notre Dame

The NBA postponed Saturday's game between the Houston Rockets and Atlanta Hawks due to severe wea...

<p>The NBA postponed Saturday's game between the Houston Rockets and Atlanta Hawks due to severe weather and icy conditions in the Atlanta area.</p><p>The game was slated to begin at 3 p.m. ET but will be rescheduled for a later date.</p><p>Several states in the southern U.S., including Georgia, were hit by a winter storm in recent days that brought heavy snow and freezing rain. Over 900 flights were canceled at Atlanta's airport alone Friday, according to <a href="https://www.accuweather.com/en/winter-weather/biggest-snowstorm-in-years-shuts-down-travel-across-southern-us/1732538">AccuWeather's Brian Lada</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It's the third postponed matchup of Saturday's NBA schedule; the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers had their home games against the San Antonio Spurs and Charlotte Hornets, respectively, called off due to the wildfires in the L.A. area. The Lakers' contest against the Hornets on Thursday was also canceled. All three are yet to be rescheduled.</p><p>The Hawks don't play again until Tuesday when they host the Phoenix Suns. The Rockets will return to Houston to face the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday.</p>

ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 26: An exterior view of the venue before an NBA basketball game between the Chicago Bulls and the Atlanta Hawks on December 26, 2024 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Rockets-Hawks postponed due to winter storm

Giannis Antetokounmpo is well on course for his ninth All-Star selection.  The Milwaukee Bucks st...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> is well on course for his ninth All-Star selection.</p><p>The Milwaukee Bucks star continues to lead all players after the second return of fan voting released Thursday, holding a near-450,000-vote lead over Denver Nuggets center and reigning MVP Nikola Jokic. The two were separated by just over 288,000 votes after the first returns Jan. 2.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokić continue to lead their respective conferences in the second fan returns of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBAAllStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBAAllStar</a> Voting presented by AT&amp;T.<br><br>Fans account for 50% of the vote to decide All-Star starters. Players and a media panel account for 25% each.<br><br>Next fan update:… <a href="https://t.co/oQvm99AmE5">pic.twitter.com/oQvm99AmE5</a></p>— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAPR/status/1877415055525827009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> of the Oklahoma City Thunder and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a> of the Charlotte Hornets also remained the most popular guards in each conference, though Golden State Warriors ball-handler <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> overtook injured Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic for second in the West.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Only about 2,000 votes separate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> for the second-most fan votes among frontcourt players in the West. San Antonio Spurs phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> now trails both after surpassing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> for fourth in the conference.</p><p>Fan voting accounts for 50% of players' final tallies, with the players themselves and a media panel splitting the remaining 50%. Fan returns are released every Thursday through the final edition Jan. 20.</p><p>The final list of starters will be announced Jan. 23. The All-Star Game is set to be played Feb. 16 at the Warriors' Chase Center.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 17: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks smiles after he checked out late in the fourth quarter of the championship game of the Emirates NBA Cup against the Oklahoma City Thunder at T-Mobile Arena on December 17, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Bucks defeated the Thunder 97-81.

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Giannis remains overall leading vote-getter in 2nd ASG fan returns

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander would be more than happy to remain with the smaller-market Oklahoma City ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> would be more than happy to remain with the smaller-market Oklahoma City Thunder for the rest of his career.</p><p>"I can only speak for myself. I love Oklahoma City, and I can't see a world where I'm not in Oklahoma City," he told reporters Wednesday after the Thunder's 129-122 road loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, courtesy of <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6048947/2025/01/09/cavaliers-thunder-top-teams-column-nba-future/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CI%20can%20only,around%20doing%20it.%E2%80%9D">The Athletic's Jason Lloyd</a>. "I'm comfortable where I am. I like where I am. I love the people in the organization, love the people around me, and those are the things that matter.</p><p>"I go to work every day with a smile on my face. Me personally, the market doesn't matter. The money doesn't matter to a certain extent. But as long as I enjoy what I'm doing at a very high level, I love the people that I'm around doing it."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gilgeous-Alexander is in his sixth season with the Thunder after arriving in the July 2019 trade that sent Paul George to the Los Angeles Clippers. He finished with a game-high 31 points, plus five rebounds, four assists, three steals, and two blocks against Cleveland.</p><p>The Canadian guard has evolved into a perennial MVP candidate in Oklahoma City. He finished second in voting behind Denver Nuggets star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> last season and is on pace to be heavily involved in the conversation again, averaging 30-plus points for a third straight year while leading the 30-6 Thunder to the best record in the Western Conference.</p><p>Thunder fans, though, may still be apprehensive about stars expressing a desire to stay long term.</p><p>Then-reigning MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> said in 2015 during his eighth season with the franchise - his seventh in Oklahoma City following the relocation of the Seattle SuperSonics - that he, too, loved the city and wanted to stick with the organization for the rest of his career.</p><p>However, in his free agency the following year, Durant infamously left Oklahoma City to sign with the Golden State Warriors, which had just blown a 3-1 series lead in the Finals to the Cleveland Cavaliers after winning 73 regular-season games.</p><p>In Gilgeous-Alexander's case, at least, Thunder fans won't have to worry about free agency for now. After this season, the 26-year-old has two more remaining on the max rookie contract extension he signed in August 2021, keeping him under contract through 2026-27.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - DECEMBER 10: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates with fans during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at Paycom Center on December 10, 2024 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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Jimmy Butler may be unable to choose where the Miami Heat will trade him, but he can influence wh...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> may be unable to choose where the Miami Heat will trade him, but he can influence where they won't.</p><p>The Memphis Grizzlies are one of multiple teams that have been advised not to make the Heat an offer for the veteran, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1876680459469676962">NBA insider Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>Butler has leverage regarding his future as his contract contains a $52.4-million player option for next season, which he said he intends not to exercise to enter free agency in the summer. That presents a risk for teams interested in meeting Miami's trade demands but unable to agree on an extension with Butler.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Memphis possesses multiple tradable contracts that could offset Butler's incoming $48.8-million salary in a swap while bringing in a third All-Star-caliber player alongside core duo <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62285">Jaren Jackson Jr</a>. The Grizzlies sit third in the Western Conference and seven games behind the No. 1 Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><p>In exchange for Butler, Miami could request a combination of established names from Memphis, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93901" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93901">Desmond Bane</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24740" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24740">Marcus Smart</a>, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45655" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45655">Brandon Clarke</a>. That would allow the Heat to flesh out the depth around their other top scorers, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a>, helping keep them competitive in the East.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 24: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat drives to the basket past Vince Williams Jr. #5 of the Memphis Grizzlies during the second quarter of the game at Kaseya Center on January 24, 2024 in Miami, Florida.

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DeMar DeRozan led everyone with 30 points, but the six-time All-Star had special praise for teamm...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/470" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/470">DeMar DeRozan</a> led everyone with 30 points, but the six-time All-Star had special praise for teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102739" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102739">Keon Ellis</a> after the Sacramento Kings' double-overtime win Monday over the Miami Heat.</p><p>"The young kid is amazing, man," DeRozan said, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/BrendenNunesNBA/status/1876519817509003601">Sactown Sports 1140's Brenden Nunes</a>. "The knack that he has defensively is incredible. ... I kind of look at him and just - he don't even realize how much better he's going to get at the things he's already great at.</p><p>"So, it's fun to see it: how incredible he is, the confidence he has when he's shooting threes, and now making plays. We encourage him just to go out there and play. So, it's big. He's a key part, especially in our success these last five games."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ellis finished with 17 points on 6-of-11 shooting (3-of-7 from three) and eight rebounds in just over 48-and-a-half minutes Monday - tied for second on Sacramento behind center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/38429" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/38429">Domantas Sabonis</a> (50:39). However, his most significant contributions in the Kings' fifth straight victory were arguably on defense.</p><p>The third-year guard found himself switched onto center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> as Miami prepared to inbound the ball with 0.9 seconds left in the first overtime and the scored tied 112-112. However, Ellis got a hand on the pass - one of 15 deflections Monday - thwarting what could've been a game-winning buzzer-beater.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/z7UcdOTNBZ">pic.twitter.com/z7UcdOTNBZ</a></p>— HHTVids (@HHTVids) <a href="https://twitter.com/HHTVids/status/1876526906172199068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>He also had a critical block, swatting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110252" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110252">Jaime Jaquez</a> on a post-up to keep the game tied at 117 with two minutes to play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/F2W3xSQdnQ">pic.twitter.com/F2W3xSQdnQ</a></p>— HHTVids (@HHTVids) <a href="https://twitter.com/HHTVids/status/1876528827306053716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>DeRozan then helped Sacramento close out the game with three jumpers, including a pair of long, step-back twos in the final 71 seconds.</p><p>"He's been amazing ... He's doing all this, and then he's still level-headed, talking back to the other team on defense," Sabonis said about Ellis, courtesy of <a href="https://x.com/SeanCunningham/status/1876532970716381618">FOX40's Sean Cunningham</a>. "He's big. Without him, we basically can't win these games. When he's locked in like that, it makes life so much easier for everybody."</p><p>Ellis is averaging 29.7 minutes in six games since the Kings tabbed Doug Christie to replace former head coach Mike Brown on an interim basis. He credited Christie for giving him "a little bit more rope" to play through his mistakes.</p><p>"Late when I had that turnover, those are crucial, but he's just like, 'Don't worry about it, you'll get it back, just go get it on the other end,'" Ellis said, according to <a href="https://x.com/BrendenNunesNBA/status/1876535248424722845">Nunes</a>. "So, things like that just kind of eases your mind a little bit. I think those are more so the biggest differences."</p>

SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 1: DeMar DeRozan #10 and Keon Ellis #23 of the Sacramento Kings talk during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 1, 2025 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Kings laud Ellis' defense in 2OT win over Heat: 'Young kid is amazing'

Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving is expected to miss at least one-to-two weeks due to a bulging...

<p>Dallas Mavericks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/6154" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/6154">Kyrie Irving</a> is expected to miss at least one-to-two weeks due to a bulging disc in his back, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43312414/sources-mavericks-kyrie-irving-back-least-1-2-weeks">ESPN's Shams Charania and Tim MacMahon</a>.</p><p>The Mavericks are already without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>, who suffered a calf strain Christmas Day and still doesn't have a set return date. After Irving undergoes treatment over the next few days, there's reportedly optimism that the 32-year-old will have a target date for his return to action.</p><p>Irving had already been ruled out for Monday's contest against the Memphis Grizzlies with a lumbar sprain. Though he missed Friday's 134-122 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers due to illness, he'd been otherwise relatively healthy all season; he'd missed just four previous games in 2024-25, with all of those absences related to his surgically repaired right shoulder.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Now in his third campaign with the Mavs, the eight-time All-Star is averaging 24.3 points, 4.9 assists, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.2 steals. He's also flirting with a second 50/40/90 season with shooting splits of 49/44.1/89.9 through 30 starts.</p><p>Dallas has lost four straight and seven of its last 11 games. Over that span, the team has dropped from second to sixth in the Western Conference. Following Monday's road matchup with Memphis, the Mavericks return home for a four-game set during which they'll host the Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, and two consecutive contests against the Denver Nuggets.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - DECEMBER 23: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at American Airlines Center on December 23, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Report: Kyrie out at least 1-2 weeks with bulging disc

Jimmy Butler's reprieve from the Miami Heat may only be temporary.  The Heat expect their exiled ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>'s reprieve from the Miami Heat may only be temporary.</p><p>The Heat expect their exiled veteran to rejoin the active roster and compete if they're unable to trade him during his team-issued seven-game suspension, a source told the <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article298036423.html">Miami Herald's Anthony Chiang</a>. With a $48.8-million salary this season, Miami reportedly doesn't intend to pay Butler to remain away from the team.</p><p>Several teams have already discussed a possible Butler trade with the Heat, Chiang reports. The Phoenix Suns are reportedly intrigued, but Miami isn't interested in Bradley Beal's contract. Beal's pact contains a rare no-trade clause, but his $50.2-million salary this season is a near-perfect match for Butler.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Golden State Warriors <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3179650" href="https://thescore.com/news/3179650">reportedly</a> had internal discussions about adding Butler. However, they're believed to prefer other trade targets, such as Chicago Bulls center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5094">Nikola Vucevic</a>, and aren't considered a viable option for the Heat wing.</p><p>Butler reportedly sought a two-year, $113-million extension during the offseason and was upset when Miami made no such offer. On Dec. 31, following weeks of trade rumors surrounding the six-time All-Star, Butler <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3175423" href="https://thescore.com/news/3175423">said</a> he didn't care about getting traded. He then told reporters two days later that he'd <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3177631" href="https://thescore.com/news/3177631">lost</a> his joy playing for the Heat.</p><p>Miam's 136-100 home loss Saturday to the Utah Jazz was Game 1 of the 35-year-old's seven-game ban, which is slated to run through the team's Jan. 15 meeting against the Los Angeles Lakers. That date is also when several players re-signed by their teams this past offseason will become trade-eligible.</p><p>Butler is averaging 17.6 points through 22 games this season, his lowest output since joining Miami ahead of the 2019-2020 campaign. He's also averaging 5.5 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.2 steals while posting 55.2/37.5/78.8 shooting splits.</p>

MIAMI, FL - NOVEMBER 18: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat smiles during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on November 18, 2024 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Report: Heat expect Butler back with team after suspension if not traded

Don't expect Jimmy Butler to relocate to the Bay by the trade deadline.  The Golden State Warrior...

<p>Don't expect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> to relocate to the Bay by the trade deadline.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/16" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/16">Golden State Warriors</a> are unlikely to swing a deal for the disgruntled Miami Heat wing and aren't considered a viable option despite being on his initial list of preferred destinations, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6036974/2025/01/04/warriors-jimmy-butler-nba-trade-deadline/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Anthony Slater, Marcus Thompson II, and Sam Amick</a>.</p><p>The Warriors have their eyes set elsewhere, as they reportedly discussed a deal with the Chicago Bulls for center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5094">Nikola Vucevic</a>. The Montenegrin big man is in the midst of one of the best offensive seasons of his career, averaging 20.3 points per game while shooting a personal-best 44% from deep on 4.8 attempts per contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Butler's $48.4-million salary this season is reportedly among the Warriors' multiple deterrents regarding a possible trade involving the forward.</p><p>Golden State's only players earning at least $20 million in 2024-25 are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> ($55.8 million), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31937" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31937">Andrew Wiggins</a> (26.3 million), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> ($24.1 million). Wiggins is regarded as the most likely of the three to be included in any deal, but the franchise reportedly prefers to keep the former first overall pick rather than include him in trades for salary-matching purposes.</p><p>The Warriors are also averse to re-signing Butler, 35, to a max contract, sources told The Athletic.</p><p>Butler is expected to opt out of his current deal this summer and become a free agent. Golden State is already pushing up against the $154.7-million salary cap for 2025-26, per <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nba/golden-state-warriors/yearly/_/sort/tax_total/view/roster">Spotrac</a>, and still has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a>'s restricted free agency to navigate this summer. Meanwhile, the 34-year-old Vucevic is owed $20 million this season and $21.4 million in 2025-26.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 14: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat drives against Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Chicago Bulls during the second quarter of the game at Kaseya Center on December 14, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

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Report: Warriors unlikely to trade for Butler, prefer Bulls' Vucevic

The Chicago Bulls are retiring Derrick Rose's No. 1 jersey next season, the team announced Saturd...

<p>The Chicago Bulls are retiring Derrick Rose's No. 1 jersey next season, the team announced Saturday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">OFFICIAL: The Bulls will retire Derrick Rose's number during the 2025-26 NBA season. No other player will ever wear the number 1 for the Chicago Bulls.<br><br>Number 1 will always be from Chicago. <a href="https://t.co/s7z3J030WA">pic.twitter.com/s7z3J030WA</a></p>— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) <a href="https://twitter.com/chicagobulls/status/1875586409748431079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Rose spent eight seasons with his hometown franchise after he was selected first overall in 2008. The three-time All-Star became the youngest MVP in NBA history while with the Bulls, winning the honor at the age of 22 in his third campaign.</p><p>The three-time All-Star will become the fifth player to have their number retired by the franchise, joining Jerry Sloan (No. 4), Bob Love (No. 10), Michael Jordan (No. 23), and Scottie Pippen (No. 33). Chicago has also raised banners to the rafters for Jerry Krause and Phil Jackson to commemorate their work as general manager and head coach, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bulls president Michael Reinsdorf informed Rose in person of the jersey retirement plans earlier Saturday, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/KCJHoop/status/1875588126112149795">K.C. Johnson of CHSN</a>. The team later posted footage of the moment showing the 36-year-old holding back tears.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The moment Pooh learned his number is officially going in the rafters 🥹 <a href="https://t.co/D8JZjXhdtG">pic.twitter.com/D8JZjXhdtG</a></p>— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) <a href="https://twitter.com/chicagobulls/status/1875633304927342758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The franchise's announcement comes hours ahead of a scheduled "Derrick Rose Night" during their home matchup against the New York Knicks. Rose played parts of four seasons with the Knicks in two separate stints, totaling 152 career appearances - second only to the 406 he made with Chicago.</p>

ATLANTA, GA - MAY 12: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls reacts after scoring a basket against the Atlanta Hawks in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Phillips Arena on May 12, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Bulls will retire Rose's No. 1 in 2025-26

The Los Angeles Clippers refuted allegations made by former trainer Randy Shelton regarding their...

<p>The Los Angeles Clippers refuted <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3107566" href="https://thescore.com/news/3107566">allegations</a> made by former trainer Randy Shelton regarding their handling of Kawhi Leonard, according to court documents obtained by <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43273480/clippers-say-ex-staffer-sought-millions-prior-kawhi-claims">ESPN's Baxter Holmes</a>.</p><p>Shelton said he was fired after complaining to the club that Kawhi Leonard was subjected to illegal treatment for his knee injury. He also claimed that L.A. violated NBA tampering rules prior to signing Leonard.</p><p>"(Shelton's) claims are frivolous: There was no 'tampering' before the Clippers signed Kawhi Leonard," the organization responded in a filing Thursday. "The Clippers did not provide 'illegal treatment' to Mr. Leonard. And (Shelton) was not terminated in 'retaliation' for anything. The court should not be fooled."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Shelton sued the Clippers in Los Angeles County Superior Court in October, alleging that he was wrongfully terminated after voicing concerns about Leonard's health.</p><p>He made several claims in the suit, saying the Clippers' alleged tampering violations "leapt well beyond the bounds of the NBA constitution," and that the team mishandled Leonard's injury, as well as his recovery. Shelton alleged that the club withheld information from him about Leonard and reduced his role within the organization after he raised his concerns.</p><p>However, the Clippers claimed Thursday that Shelton requested millions from the club but then filed his suit after they refused. They also said his employment was terminated in July 2023 after he offered unapproved and unsolicited medical advice to the players.</p><p>"(Shelton) took it upon himself to render advice to those who had not sought it and that he was not qualified to give," the organization said. "For example, he recommended medical procedures, such as blood-flow restriction, without having any medical training, knowing the players' condition, or consulting with his supervisors or the team doctors.</p><p>"His unauthorized conduct disrupted relationships between the players, their trainers, and the team, and put the players' health and well-being at risk."</p><p>Shelton joined the Clippers in July 2019 shortly after Leonard signed as a free agent. He worked in a similar capacity at San Diego State during Leonard's time at the school.</p><p>The Clippers said they continued to pay Shelton's salary in full through June 2024 after his termination.</p><p>The team is requesting for the suit to be settled by arbitration.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - DECEMBER 19: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers looks on during the second half of the game against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on December 19, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Clippers refute ex-trainer's claims, deny Kawhi had 'illegal treatment'

Bryce James, the youngest son of Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, has committed to Arizona, ...

<p>Bryce James, the youngest son of Los Angeles Lakers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>, has committed to Arizona, he <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DESwyi9SUWj/?hl=en">announced</a> Wednesday on Instagram.</p><p>The 6-foot-4 wing out of Los Angeles' Sierra Canyon School is a four-star prospect in the 2025 recruiting class, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/251631/bryce-james">ESPN</a>, though he falls outside the top 100.</p><p>James, who was born in Ohio, had home-state interest from Ohio State. He also received offers from Duquesne and USC, the latter of which his older brother Bronny played the 2023-24 season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>His father congratulated him on his decision in a separate social media post.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DESz41zyZ2a/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DESz41zyZ2a/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>He's the Wildcats' second commit of the 2025 cycle, joining Dutch four-star forward Dwayne Aristode.</p>

ELMONT, NY - DECEMBER 13: Bryce. James of Sierra Canyon (5) looks on during the Luhi Holiday Invitational boys high school basketball game between Long Island Lutheran and Sierra Canyon on December 13, 2024 at UBS Arena in Elmont, NY

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Bryce James, LeBron's youngest son, commits to Arizona

Devin Booker acknowledged the pressure is on the Phoenix Suns after losing their third straight c...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a> acknowledged the pressure is on the Phoenix Suns after losing their third straight contest Tuesday against the Memphis Grizzlies and falling to 15-17.</p><p>"Frustration level's high," he said after the 117-112 defeat at home, according to <a href="https://x.com/GeraldBourguet/status/1874324183234249206">PHNX Sports' Gerald Bourguet</a>. "We're all competitors in here, and we realize these games are gonna cost us at the end of the season.</p><p>"So you want to do your work early, pre-All-Star break, before it comes down to the nitty-gritty. You never know what could happen. Injuries can happen around that time, too. We wanna gain some ground, get up out of the play-in position and just win every possible game."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The loss was the Suns' sixth in their last seven games and dropped them to 11th in the Western Conference - outside the play-in picture entirely. The Grizzlies never trailed in Tuesday's contest despite missing several key rotation players, including star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> due to a shoulder joint sprain.</p><p>Booker finished with 16 points, nine assists, and four rebounds but couldn't find his stroke. He shot 4-of-20 from the field, including 1-of-7 in the fourth quarter, and was 2-of-8 overall from deep.</p><p>"I got a lot of good looks," the Suns guard <a href="https://x.com/GeraldBourguet/status/1874328460644278592">said</a> when asked about his off night. "I think just playing a few more games, getting back to regular minutes (will help), but there's no excuse for it.</p><p>"Especially around the rim. Just trusting that last burst, or trusting that last step, is something that will probably take a couple games to get acquainted with."</p><p>It was the 28-year-old's first game back after missing the previous five with a groin strain, marking just the 12th time the Suns' Big Three of Booker, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> have played together in 32 games this season. Durant scored a team-high 29 points on 11-of-19 shooting and added 10 rebounds and six assists; however, Beal was ruled out after the first quarter after injuring his hip in an awkward fall.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - DECEMBER 31: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 31, 2024 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Booker, Suns frustrated after 3rd loss in a row: These games will cost us

The NBA suspended Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson two games and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozi...

<p>The NBA suspended Houston Rockets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110271" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110271">Amen Thompson</a> two games and Miami Heat guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31126" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31126">Terry Rozier</a> one game following Sunday's on-court altercation between their teams, the league announced Tuesday.</p><p>Rockets wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a> and Heat guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a> were each fined $35,000 and $25,000, respectively.</p><p>Houston head coach Ime Udoka, who was ejected in the incident's immediate aftermath for unsportsmanlike comments toward referee Marc Davis, was fined $50,000 for verbally abusing an official and failing to leave the court in a timely manner.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sunday's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3174007" href="https://thescore.com/news/3174007">scuffle</a> broke out during a stoppage in play with just over 35 seconds remaining in Miami's 104-100 win.</p><p>As Thompson approached Herro to defend the guard on the Heat's inbound, the two jawed with each other before the Rockets' second-year wing whipped Herro to the ground in front of the Heat's bench. Rozier went after Thompson in response, and Green came to his teammate's aid.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Chaos ensues at the end of Heat vs. Rockets 😳 <br><br>Four players and two coaches were ejected after this scuffle. <a href="https://t.co/suYWuxrX8B">pic.twitter.com/suYWuxrX8B</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1873560873303765070?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Rockets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/25275" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/25275">Fred VanVleet</a> was ejected seconds prior to the altercation for bumping into Davis by the scorer's table. He avoided a suspension - the outcome he was hoping for, he told reporters postgame. However, he was still fined $35,000 for making reckless contact with the official.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 29: Jalen Green #4 and Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets fight with Terry Rozier #2 of the Miami Heat during the second half at Toyota Center on December 29, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Rockets' Thompson, Heat's Rozier suspended for late-game brawl

A fight broke out during the final minute of the Miami Heat's 104-100 win over the Houston Rocket...

<p>A fight broke out during the final minute of the Miami Heat's 104-100 win over the Houston Rockets after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110271" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110271">Amen Thompson</a> grabbed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69689" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69689">Tyler Herro</a>'s jersey and threw him to the ground.</p><p>Thompson approached Herro in the Heat's backcourt as Miami prepared to inbound the ball while up five with 35.7 seconds left. The two appeared to exchange words before getting tangled up. Thompson then whipped Herro to the court by Miami's bench, sparking an altercation involving multiple players.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Chaos ensues at the end of Heat vs. Rockets 😳 <br><br>Four players and two coaches were ejected after this scuffle. <a href="https://t.co/suYWuxrX8B">pic.twitter.com/suYWuxrX8B</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1873560873303765070?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Rockets head coach Ime Udoka, assistant coach Ben Sullivan, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a>, and Thompson were all ejected in the aftermath. Heat guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31126" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31126">Terry Rozier</a>, who pounced on Thompson immediately after Herro was flung, was ejected alongside Herro for Miami.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Herro, finishing with game highs of 27 points and nine assists, suggested that his play frustrated Thompson.</p><p>"I guess that's what happens when someone is scoring, throwing dimes, doing the whole thing," said Herro, who also had six rebounds in the contest, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/Anthony_Chiang/status/1873568905001881614">Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald</a>.</p><p>"I'd get mad, too.”</p><p>Udoka kept his assessment of the incident brief.</p><p>"They were in each other's faces, bumping chests a little bit. One guy is stronger than the other," Houston's head coach said, per <a href="https://x.com/SportsVanessa/status/1873562687281717512">Rockets reporter Vanessa Richardson</a>.</p><p>Just over 10 seconds of game time prior, Houston lost <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/25275" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/25275">Fred VanVleet</a> to a separate ejection after he bumped into referee Marc Davis while disagreeing with a call.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">VanVleet has been ejected after bumping into referee Marc Davis <a href="https://t.co/xx9ZkM6Em7">https://t.co/xx9ZkM6Em7</a> <a href="https://t.co/DqC1dxZXH0">pic.twitter.com/DqC1dxZXH0</a></p>— Italo Santana (@BulletClubIta) <a href="https://twitter.com/BulletClubIta/status/1873554607152251001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>VanVleet said postgame he inadvertently walked into Davis and hopes to avoid suspension, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSpolane/status/1873571435043778792">Adam Spolane of SportsRadio610</a>.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 29: Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat is thrown to the floor by Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets during an altercation on the court during the second half at Toyota Center on December 29, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Rockets, Heat derailed late after Thompson throws Herro to floor

Toronto Raptors forward Bruce Brown is available to make his season debut Sunday against the Atla...

<p>Toronto Raptors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52805" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52805">Bruce Brown</a> is available to make his season debut Sunday against the Atlanta Hawks, the team <a href="https://x.com/JosephCasciaro/status/1873478383293935960">announced</a>.</p><p>Brown missed the first 31 games of the 2024-25 after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee in September.</p><p>Toronto will also get back veteran center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37800" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37800">Jakob Poeltl</a>, who missed the last four games with a bilateral groin strain. Rookie guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121703" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121703">Jamal Shead</a> is also returning from a two-game absence due to a knee contusion.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Brown averaged 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 34 games (11 starts) with the Raptors following a January trade from the Indiana Pacers last season.</p><p>The 28-year-old told reporters in November that his performance in his debut Raptors season had been impacted by injury. He also rebuffed criticism from fans suggesting that he didn't want to play in Toronto.</p><p>"Last year, I didn't look really engaged or not a lot of energy like I (had) on previous teams," he said, days after he'd been cleared for his first practice. "It's just because I was playing on one leg."</p><p>The Raptors are 7-24 and in the midst of a nine-game losing streak. They're also just one game clear of the Washington Wizards for last place in the Eastern Conference.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 12: Bruce Brown #11 of the Toronto Raptors reacts after making a basket against the Miami Heat during the second quarter of the game at Kaseya Center on April 12, 2024 in Miami, Florida.

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Bruce Brown set for Raptors' season debut vs. Hawks

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