Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla was appreciative of Kristaps Porzingis' toughness in Wedne...

<p>Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla was appreciative of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a>' toughness in Wednesday's 109-100 Game 2 victory over the Orlando Magic.</p><p>Porzingis was bloodied by an elbow to the head from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/76007" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/76007">Goga Bitadze</a> late in the third quarter. He remained in the game with a bandage to shoot his free throws after Bitadze was assessed a flagrant-1 foul.</p><p>"I like his overall approach. He has the innate ability to take things very seriously and at the same time have a great perspective," Mazzulla said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/JustinmTurpin/status/1915224058414707126">WEEI's Justin Turpin</a>. "You see how he controls the environment really well with how he handles the crowd and how he handles the physicality of it. He can maintain his poise ... and I think that helps us."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He added, "I like watching him bleed on the court. I think it's important."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5BW54tG4uPw?si=v7f4m9I6BoaDQ2ak" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Porzingis briefly left the contest to get five stitches on his forehead but returned to the court in the fourth quarter to the delight of the crowd.</p><p>"I love my WWE moments, for sure," Porzingis <a href="https://x.com/NBATV/status/1915236150001774778">said</a> with a smile. "It just happens in a game, and you know me, like I always love engaging with the crowd, and I already knew getting hit again, blood again, the crowd was gonna go with it."</p><p>Porzingis finished the game with 20 points, 10 rebounds, two steals, and two blocks in 34 minutes. </p><p>"It was a tough, physical game - nothing easy on either side," he added. "Every rebound is a war, and it's probably going to be that way for the rest of the series."</p><p>The Celtics played Game 2 without star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> due to a bone bruise in his right wrist. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> stepped up in Tatum's absence with a game-high 36 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists.</p><p>Mazzulla was proud of how his team managed to pull off the victory and take a 2-0 series lead.</p><p>"At the end of the day, you've got to be able to win games in different ways," Mazzulla said. "I thought our guys did a good job of making winning plays."</p><p>The series now moves to Orlando for Game 3 on Friday.</p><p> </p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 23: Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics reacts with a bandage on his head against the Orlando Magic during the third quarter in Game Two of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on April 23, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Mazzulla lauds Porzingis' grit: 'I like watching him bleed on the court'

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum didn't play in Wednesday's 109-100 Game 2 victory over the Orlan...

<p>Boston Celtics star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> didn't play in Wednesday's 109-100 Game 2 victory over the Orlando Magic due to a bone bruise in his right wrist.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> picked up the slack with Tatum sidelined, dropping 36 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists to give the Celtics a 2-0 series lead. </p><p>Head coach Joe Mazzulla said Tuesday that Tatum is day-to-day.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tatum sustained the injury in Sunday's 103-86 series-opening win, landing on his wrist after taking a hard foul from <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11367">Kentavious Caldwell-Pope</a> on a drive to the basket.</p><p>The six-time All-Star finished Game 1 despite getting hurt, posting 17 points in 40 minutes of action. Caldwell-Pope received a flagrant-1 foul on the play.</p><p>Orlando went 2-0 against Boston during the regular season when Tatum didn't play.</p><p>Tatum had never missed a playoff game prior to Wednesday, appearing in 114 straight, which was the longest active streak in the NBA.</p><p>The 27-year-old averaged 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and six assists across 72 regular-season games in 2024-25.</p><p> </p>

Boston, MA - April 20: Orlando Magic guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope commits a flagrant foul against Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum during Game 1 of the NBA Eastern Conference playoffs against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden.

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Tatum misses Game 2 vs. Magic with bone bruise in wrist

The Los Angeles Lakers struggled in Saturday's Game 1 blowout loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves,...

<p>The Los Angeles Lakers struggled in Saturday's Game 1 blowout loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> is expecting a different result for Tuesday's Game 2.</p><p>"Hopefully, we can just right our wrongs," Reaves said Monday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44788357/redick-lauds-lakers-practice-bemoans-earlier-lack-focus">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>. "We played bad, they shot the ball really well. They're obviously a really good team that's physical. We got to match that. Tomorrow, it'll be a different story."</p><p>The Wolves shot 51.2% from the field and 50% from three in the series-opening win. While L.A. struggled offensively, star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> was the only Laker to exceed 20 points and shoot above 50%.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Shitty," Reaves said of his 5-of-13 shooting performance in the 117-95 loss. "I wasn't myself. To what the reason was, don't know. But just got to go out there and be myself, play my game and have fun doing it."</p><p>Head coach JJ Redick said Monday marked the "best practice (the Lakers) had in months," noting the team "played live for a very extended period" during the session.</p><p>Redick also acknowledged that the club should have approached its off days leading up to the playoffs with greater intensity, attributing Los Angeles' Game 1 issues to a lack of organization.</p><p>"I think a lot of times you would hear that word and then you would think, 'Oh, it's the point guard calling a play,'" Redick said. "No, it's just all of the normal stuff that we try to do, and when we do it, we're really good. Being organized is screening. Being organized is getting to the proper spacing. Being organized is getting the corners filled after makes and misses. That's being organized."</p><p>Going down in the series was a setback, but Reaves called the loss a "wake-up call."</p><p>"We just have to do a lot of things better," Redick added. "And it starts with playing harder and being organized."</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 19: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers dribbles the ball during Round 1, Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 19, 2025 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, 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 License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Reaves vows bounce-back for Lakers: Game 2 'will be a different story'

Five-star forward Nate Ament committed to Tennessee, he told ESPN's Jonathan Givony on Sunday.  "...

<p>Five-star forward Nate Ament committed to Tennessee, he told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44771766/top-5-recruit-nate-ament-commits-tennessee-volunteers">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a> on Sunday.</p><p>"Coach (Rick) Barnes sees me as a one-and-done type player," Ament said. "He has done it before with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>. He sees me as that kind of guy. I built a great relationship with the coaching staff. I trust them a lot, and they have big goals for me. I think they'll do a great job of developing me as a player and a young man. I trust the coaches to help me get to the next level."</p><p>The 6-foot-10 Ament picked the Volunteers over Duke, Kentucky, Arkansas, Louisville, and others.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He was ranked as ESPN's No. 4 prospect in and made the McDonald's All-American team. Ament previously led Highland High School to a 42-8 record and a VISAA Division 1 Championship. Ament earned Virginia boys basketball Gatorade Player of the Year honors.</p><p>Ament is projected to be an early 2026 draft pick.</p><p>"Seventeen-18 months ago, if you told me I'd be where I am now, I wouldn't have believed you," Ament said. "Having the confidence to truly believe I'm one of the best players in the country was the most important part. It wasn't about height or strength, it was about putting the training I've been given to use."</p><p> </p><p> </p>

High School Basketball: McDonalds All-American Game: East Team Nate Ament (10) in action, dribbles vs West Team during the game at Barclays Center. Brooklyn, NY 4/1/2025 CREDIT: Erick W. Rasco (Set Number: X164703 TK2)

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5-star forward Nate Ament commits to Tennessee 

The NBA revealed its three finalists for the 2024-25 awards Sunday. Oklahoma City Thunder guard S...

<p>The NBA revealed its three finalists for the 2024-25 awards Sunday. Oklahoma City Thunder guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> is attempting to dethrone three-time MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> of the Denver Nuggets. The pair is joined by Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> as the third finalist.</p><h3>Most Valuable Player</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781509/cropped_GettyImages-2210569557.jpg?ts=1745179271" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781509/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210569557.jpg?ts=1745179271 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781509/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210569557.jpg?ts=1745179271 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781509/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210569557.jpg?ts=1745179271 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781509/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210569557.jpg?ts=1745179271 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781509/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210569557.jpg?ts=1745179271 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Murphy / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Position</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</td>
<td> Oklahoma City Thunder</td>
<td> G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikola Jokic</td>
<td> Denver Nuggets</td>
<td> C</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Giannis Antetokounmpo</td>
<td> Milwaukee Bucks</td>
<td> F</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The MVP race has been a two-man competition all season between Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic. SGA led the Thunder to the winningest campaign in franchise history and the NBA's best record. He also paced the league in scoring with 32.7 points per game. Meanwhile, Jokic is looking to win his second consecutive MVP and third in the last four years. He became the third player in league history to average a triple-double and posted career highs in points (29.6) and assists (10.2). Antetokounmpo's numbers were nothing to laugh at either, as he posted 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. He also shot over 60% from the field for the second straight season.</p><h3>Rookie of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781516/cropped_GettyImages-2209584209.jpg?ts=1745180643" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781516/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209584209.jpg?ts=1745180643 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781516/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209584209.jpg?ts=1745180643 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781516/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209584209.jpg?ts=1745180643 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781516/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209584209.jpg?ts=1745180643 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781516/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209584209.jpg?ts=1745180643 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Gonzales / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Position</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Stephon Castle</td>
<td> San Antonio Spurs</td>
<td> G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Zaccharie Risacher</td>
<td>Atlanta Hawks</td>
<td>F</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaylen Wells</td>
<td>Memphis Grizzlies</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>San Antonio Spurs freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121685" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121685">Stephon Castle</a> is the likely front-runner for the league's first-year honor. The 20-year-old led all qualified rookies in scoring with 14.7 points per game while missing just one contest all season. However, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121714" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121714">Zaccharie Risacher</a>, the No. 1 pick in the 2024 draft, impressed out of the gate for an Atlanta Hawks squad that reached the play-in. Meanwhile, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121734" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121734">Jaylen Wells</a>, a second-round find by the Memphis Grizzlies, was thrust into the starting lineup after just six games and never relinquished his spot.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Sixth Man of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781517/cropped_GettyImages-2210099367.jpg?ts=1745180691" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781517/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210099367.jpg?ts=1745180691 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781517/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210099367.jpg?ts=1745180691 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781517/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210099367.jpg?ts=1745180691 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781517/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210099367.jpg?ts=1745180691 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781517/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210099367.jpg?ts=1745180691 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brian Fluharty / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Position</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Payton Pritchard</td>
<td> Boston Celtics</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Malik Beasley</td>
<td>Detroit Pistons</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ty Jerome</td>
<td>Cleveland Cavaliers</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Microwave scoring guards are frequent candidates to win the league's top reserve prize, and this year is no exception. All three finalists averaged at least 12 points and shot a minimum of 40% from distance while providing their respective squads with timely offensive boosts when called upon off the bench.</p><h3>Defensive Player of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781518/cropped_GettyImages-2208651664.jpg?ts=1745180754" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781518/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208651664.jpg?ts=1745180754 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781518/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208651664.jpg?ts=1745180754 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781518/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208651664.jpg?ts=1745180754 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781518/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208651664.jpg?ts=1745180754 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781518/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208651664.jpg?ts=1745180754 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Liam Kyle / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Position</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Evan Mobley</td>
<td> Cleveland Cavaliers</td>
<td> F</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dyson Daniels</td>
<td> Atlanta Hawks</td>
<td> F</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Draymond Green</td>
<td> Golden State Warriors</td>
<td> F</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Defensive Player of the Year award race was blown wide-open once <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> went down with a blood clot. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> felt like the favorite as the defensive catalyst of the East-best Cavaliers. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102785" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102785">Dyson Daniels</a> led the league with three steals per game and 229 total swipes. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a>, unlike the other finalists, forced himself into contention with some self-promotion, and the Warriors' 20-7 record post-All-Star break added fuel to his fire.</p><h3>Most Improved Player</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778564/cropped_GettyImages-2205959916.jpg?ts=1743623257" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778564/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205959916.jpg?ts=1743623257 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778564/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205959916.jpg?ts=1743623257 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778564/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205959916.jpg?ts=1743623257 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778564/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205959916.jpg?ts=1743623257 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778564/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205959916.jpg?ts=1743623257 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Position</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cade Cunningham</td>
<td>Detroit Pistons</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dyson Daniels</td>
<td>Atlanta Hawks</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ivica Zubac</td>
<td>Los Angeles Clippers</td>
<td>C</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Cade Cunningham's incredible leap was a pivotal factor in the Detroit Pistons' complete turnaround following a dismal 2023-24 campaign, making him the likely favorite. However, Ivica Zubac's own across-the-board improvement was instrumental in helping the Los Angeles Clippers replace some of the production that left with Paul George's exit, while Daniels' emergence as a defensive menace earned him plaudits in his debut campaign with the Hawks.</p><h3>Coach of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781555/cropped_GettyImages-2209564484.jpg?ts=1745190234" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781555/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209564484.jpg?ts=1745190234 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781555/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209564484.jpg?ts=1745190234 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781555/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209564484.jpg?ts=1745190234 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781555/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209564484.jpg?ts=1745190234 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781555/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209564484.jpg?ts=1745190234 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Liam Kyle / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Kenny Atkinson</td>
<td>Cleveland Cavaliers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>J.B. Bickerstaff</td>
<td>Detroit Pistons</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ime Udoka</td>
<td>Houston Rockets</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Ime Udoka is the only Coach of the Year finalist who was with his current team last season. In his debut year in Cleveland, Atkinson transformed the Cavaliers into a free-flowing juggernaut in the Eastern Conference, and with much of the same roster from last season. J.B. Bickerstaff, who Atkinson replaced in Cleveland, vindicated himself in the Motor City by winning 44 games with a Pistons squad that won just 31 in the previous two seasons combined.</p><h3>Clutch Player of the Year</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781556/cropped_GettyImages-2204207527.jpg?ts=1745190337" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781556/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204207527.jpg?ts=1745190337 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781556/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204207527.jpg?ts=1745190337 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781556/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204207527.jpg?ts=1745190337 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781556/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204207527.jpg?ts=1745190337 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781556/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204207527.jpg?ts=1745190337 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">AAron Ontiveroz / Denver Post / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Name</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Position</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Nikola Jokic</td>
<td>Denver Nuggets</td>
<td>C</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>New York Knicks</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Edwards</td>
<td>Minnesota Timberwolves</td>
<td>G</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The league's most recently introduced end-of-season honor recognizes those who made the most significant contributions in crunch time. It's no surprise then that all three finalists ranked inside the top 10 for total points in clutch games, which the NBA defines as contests separated by no more five points with five minutes remaining in the fourth or overtime. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> were Nos. 1 and 2 with 157 and 156 clutch points, respectively, while Jokic placed fourth with 140.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MARCH 10: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets look on during the game on March 10, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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NBA awards finalists: SGA, Jokic in tight race for MVP

Ja Morant is vowing that the Memphis Grizzlies won't repeat their historically poor performance d...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> is vowing that the Memphis Grizzlies won't repeat their historically poor performance during Sunday's 51-point Game 1 loss to the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><p>"We will never play that bad again," Morant said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44771092/jay-morant-vows-grizzlies-never-play-bad-again">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>.</p><p>The 51-point margin is the fifth-highest in a playoff game in NBA history, according to ESPN Research. It's the most lopsided postseason contest since the Chicago Bulls beat the Milwaukee Bucks by 54 points in 2015. The Thunder led by as many as 56.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Luckily for us, there's only one way from this, and that's up," said Grizzlies interim head coach Tuomas Iisalo. "We will analyze it, we'll learn from it, and then we will fix those things that hurt us. But there were a lot of things."</p><p>The Thunder are expecting a much better fight from the Grizzlies in Game 2.</p><p>"We kind of have to take this win, like, they're going to be way better in Game 2," Thunder forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102799" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102799">Jalen Williams</a> said. "We're trying to not give them a lot of life in regards to that. That's a really good team over there, so Game 2 is going to be completely different. We're kind of competing with ourselves in a way to make sure we're sharp for Game 2."</p><p>OKC's top-ranked defense forced the Grizzlies into 21 turnovers and held them to 34.4% shooting. Memphis also struggled from beyond the arc, going 6-of-34 from three.</p><p>"You got to turn the page fast," Grizzlies guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93901" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93901">Desmond Bane</a> said. "Definitely take the rest of this afternoon and kind of see what we could have done better, but at the end of the day, it's one game. If we lose by 50 or lose on a buzzer-beater, the series is still 1-0."</p><p>Memphis is also dealing with a hobbled Morant, who sprained his right ankle during Tuesday's play-in loss to the Golden State Warriors.</p><p>Morant received pain-killing injections to play in the Grizzlies' second play-in game against the Dallas Mavericks. He declined to reveal if he got another shot prior to Sunday's contest, saying his ankle "felt good."</p><p>Memphis and OKC will meet in Game 2 on Tuesday.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 20: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round 1 Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 20, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Morant promises Grizzlies 'will never play that bad again'

Baylor guard VJ Edgecombe declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, the school announced Sunday.  Edgecomb...

<p>Baylor guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121790" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121790">VJ Edgecombe</a> declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, the school announced Sunday.</p><p>Edgecombe is projected to be a top-five pick after averaging 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in his lone season with the Bears. He shot 43.6% from the field and 34% from three.</p><p>The 6-foot-5 Edgecombe earned All-Big 12 team honors and was named Big 12 Freshman of the Year for his efforts.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He started all 33 games for Baylor as the program finished the campaign 20-15 overall.</p><p>The 19-year-old then shined in the NCAA Tournament. He posted 14 points in the Round of 64 win over Mississippi State before dropping 16 points and six rebounds when Baylor fell to Duke in the Round of 32.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 23: VJ Edgecombe #7 of the Baylor Bears runs the court in the second round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament against the Duke Blue Devils at Lenovo Center on March 23, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Baylor's Edgecombe declares for NBA draft

Russell Westbrook stole the show for the Denver Nuggets in Saturday's 112-110 overtime victory ov...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> stole the show for the Denver Nuggets in Saturday's 112-110 overtime victory over his former team, the Los Angeles Clippers, in Game 1.</p><p>The nine-time All-Star sealed Denver's win with a clutch defensive play late in the extra frame as he deflected an inbound pass to force a turnover. </p><p>"I know that play," Westbrook said, referring to his time with the Clippers, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44755095/nuggets-erase-15-point-deficit-stun-clippers-game-1-ot-win">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>. "They have a dynamic roller with (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52287" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52287">Ivica Zubac</a>), great cutters and guys that catch lobs. My job is to be able to be the low man and find ways to, excuse my language, f--k shit up."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Westbrook's defense shined throughout the contest, and it earned praise from Nuggets interim head coach David Adelman.</p><p>"Russ is Russ," Adelman said postgame. "Defensively he was absolutely incredible. He was playing free safety out there. I thought a lot of the reasons why the (Clippers' 20) turnovers happened, even if it wasn't him forcing it, just the way he was roaming around and impacting the game, it was great for us."</p><p>The 36-year-old also contributed 15 points in the victory, including a 3-pointer late in regulation to give the Nuggets a late lead. It wasn't the most efficient scoring effort, however, as he shot 5-of-17 from the field.</p><p>"Offensively, a couple of times I thought he attacked, maybe we could have pulled it out and executed, but that's what Russ does," Adelman said. "He's going to play in attack mode. I don't think he's going to change after 17 years. If he sees somebody in front of him one-on-one, he's going to attack, and he made an enormous three in the fourth."</p><p>The Nuggets know what to expect from Westbrook, and they respect his belief in himself.</p><p>"I think he has the most confidence of anyone in this matchup," <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> said after scoring 29 points, 12 assists, and nine rebounds in the win.</p><p>The teams will meet for Game 2 on Monday.</p><p> </p>

DENVER, CO - APRIL 19: Russell Westbrook #4 of the Denver Nuggets celebrates during the game against the LA Clippers during Round One Game One of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 19, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. 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 2025 NBAE

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Nuggets' Westbrook: My job is to 'f--k shit up'

The Memphis Grizzlies will face the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the pl...

<p>The Memphis Grizzlies will face the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs after eliminating the Dallas Mavericks in Friday's play-in decider.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62285" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62285">Jaren Jackson Jr.</a> poured in 24 points to lead the Grizzlies to the 120-106 victory. Memphis advances to the playoffs after finishing 13th in the Western Conference a year ago.</p><p>"We're still alive, that's all that matters," Jackson said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/grindcitymedia/status/1913456076390904126">Grind City Media</a>. "We got it done at home, something to feel good about ... now we're onto the playoffs."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Game</th>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Home</th>
<th>Away</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>April 20</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>1 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>April 22</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>7:30 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>April 24</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td> 9:30 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>April 25</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>3:30 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5*</td>
<td>April 28</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6*</td>
<td>May 1</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7*</td>
<td>May 3</td>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>* If necessary</em></p><p>The Mavs' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> posted a game-high 40 points in a losing effort but was severely limited in the fourth quarter as he battled an apparent calf injury. Davis outscored all four other Dallas starters combined.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> was able to play for the Grizzlies despite a right ankle sprain. He reportedly received injections to help with pain pregame. </p><p>"I couldn't feel it ... so I was out there," Morant said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44742404/ja-morant-plays-ankle-sprain-grizzlies-lock-8-seed">ESPN</a>.</p><p>The star wound up dropping 22 points, nine assists, and two steals to contribute to the win.</p><p>"I've learned not to doubt (Morant) too much," Grizzlies interim head coach Tuomas Iisalo said, per <a href="https://x.com/grindcitymedia/status/1913450957259579429">Grind City Media</a>. "He comes up with some stuff that I'm not sure there's any other human being on the planet that can do."</p><p>The Grizzlies dominated from the opening tip. They led by as many as 25 and didn't allow the Mavs to hold a single lead.</p><p>Dallas misses the playoffs a year after reaching the NBA Finals. It's a sour end to its season after trading superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> to the Los Angeles Lakers for Davis in February.</p><p> </p>

MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 18: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 and Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies celebrate after the game against the Dallas Mavericks during the 2025 SoFi Play-In Tournament on April 18, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Grizzlies top Mavs to book 1st-round clash with Thunder

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant is available for Friday's play-in tournament clash against the D...

<p>Memphis Grizzlies star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> is available for Friday's play-in tournament clash against the Dallas Mavericks despite a right ankle sprain.</p><p>Morant received injections on his ankle Thursday and Friday to help manage the pain, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44740104/grizzlies-ja-morant-face-mavericks-ailing-ankle">ESPN's Shams Charania and Tim MacMahon</a>.</p><p>The two-time All-Star suffered the injury in Tuesday's play-in loss to the Golden State Warriors. He managed to play through the ailment, posting 22 points in 35 minutes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The injury would sideline Morant in the regular season, as he continues to experience significant soreness and swelling, Charania and MacMahon report.</p><p>Morant was the Grizzlies' leading scorer this season, averaging 23.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.3 assists across 50 games. </p><p>The winner of Friday's tilt will go on to the playoffs as the 8-seed and face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - APRIL 1: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the Golden State Warriors in the 2025 SoFi Play-In Tournament on April 15, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, 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 Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Morant available for play-in vs. Mavs

Luka Doncic is disappointed in the way Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison has been sp...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> is disappointed in the way Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison has been speaking of him since trading him to the Los Angeles Lakers for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a>.</p><p>"It's just sad the way he's talking right now," Doncic said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44736507/lakers-luka-doncic-not-spoken-mavs-gm-nico-harrison-says-criticism-dallas-painful-want-talk-back">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>. "I never say anything bad about him, and I just want to move on. The fans, my ex-teammates, I'll always keep at heart. It's time for me to move on from there."</p><p>Earlier this week, Harrison said he had "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3268022" href="https://thescore.com/news/3268022">no regrets</a>" about the trade and justified it by alluding to Luka's defensive struggles.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Mavs reportedly had "constant conditioning concerns" about Doncic, as well as worries about a "lack of discipline regarding his diet."</p><p>However, Doncic is more focused on moving forward than addressing the criticism.</p><p>"I mean, it's painful, depending on how you take it," Doncic said. "It mostly came from Dallas, so I didn't want to talk back. But I don't really read that much stuff. I'm just trying to focus on my journey."</p><p>Doncic said he felt heartbroken when he was moved but added that he's now "getting used to" L.A.</p><p>Although Doncic said he wanted to spend his entire career with the Mavericks, he now hopes to remain with the Lakers.</p><p>L.A. begins its first-round series against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday. </p><p> </p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 11: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to a basket during the first quarter against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena on April 11, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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The Minnesota Lynx acquired Karlie Samuelson from the Washington Mystics for their first-round pi...

<p>The Minnesota Lynx acquired <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/95296" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/95296">Karlie Samuelson</a> from the Washington Mystics for their first-round pick in the 2026 draft, the teams announced Monday.</p><p>Samuelson is coming off a breakout season in which she averaged a career-high 8.4 points across 29 games. The 29-year-old also posted 2.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 39.8% from three.</p><p>The Lynx will mark the sixth team Samuelson has played for in her career. She previously suited up with the Los Angeles Sparks, Dallas Wings, Seattle Storm, and Phoenix Mercury.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Minnesota acquired an extra 2026 first-round selection from the Chicago Sky on Sunday in exchange for the No. 11 pick in Monday's WNBA draft.</p><p> </p>

WASHINGTON, D.C. - SEPTEMBER 17: Karlie Samuelson #44 of the Washington Mystics looks on during the game against the New York Liberty on September 17, 2024 at Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, D.C. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Lynx acquire Samuelson from Mystics for 2026 1st-rounder

Illinois freshman Kasparas Jakucionis will enter the NBA draft, he told ESPN's Jonathan Givony.  ...

<p>Illinois freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121809" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121809">Kasparas Jakucionis</a> will enter the NBA draft, he told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44669227/illinois-star-freshman-kasparas-jakucionis-enter-nba-draft">ESPN's Jonathan Givony</a>.</p><p>Jakucionis is a projected top-10 pick after averaging 15 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists for the Fighting Illini this season.</p><p>"This has been my dream from a young age," Jakucionis told ESPN on Monday. "I've waited for this moment a long time. Saying goodbye to Illinois will be the hardest part. I've made friendships and built real relationships with players, coaches, support staff, and everyone around Champaign. My goal now is to work as hard as I can and be the best version of myself."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jakucionis earned spots on the Big Ten All-Freshman team and the All-Big Ten second team for his standout campaign. He also led Illinois to the Round of 32 in the NCAA Tournament, where Kentucky eliminated the Illini.</p><p>Hailing from Lithuania, Jakucionis was one of the first highly regarded European players to skip out on the European league and play for a U.S. college.</p><p>"I wanted to be closer to American basketball," Jakucionis said. "The academic side is very important for me and my family. And, of course, for the NBA, it helps. The competition in college is extremely high level. Every game and detail matters. You're competing against the best young players in the world."</p><p>The 6-foot-6 guard added that he studies <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> more than any other player, particularly admiring "how he reads the game."</p><p>Illinois' Canadian <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/121811" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/121811">Will Riley</a> will also declare for the NBA draft, he told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44673022/illinois-riley-projected-1st-rounder-enters-nba-draft">Givony</a>. The freshman is a projected first-rounder after averaging 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists and winning Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year this season.</p><p>"I learned a lot through the season," Riley said. "I faced a lot of adversity, which helped me. When I was younger, I had no idea what it was like on the American basketball scene. That transition from Canada was good for me. The biggest difference was the physicality. I put on 22 pounds before the start of the season. NBA teams saw my potential as a ball-handler and creator, my IQ, and my ability to make reads. These are things you can't teach. I got adjusted midway through the season and started to blossom."</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 14: Kasparas Jakucionis #32 of the Illinois Fighting Illini passes the ball during the game against the Maryland Terrapins in the Big Ten men's basketball tournament quarterfinals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 14, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Illinois' Jakucionis, Riley to enter NBA draft

Toronto Raptors star Scottie Barnes wasn't too impressed with his level of play in his fourth NBA...

<p>Toronto Raptors star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a> wasn't too impressed with his level of play in his fourth NBA season.</p><p>"Shooting was a problem for me this year," Barnes told reporters Monday, including <a href="https://x.com/JLew1050/status/1911803640282513613">TSN's Josh Lewenberg</a>.</p><p>"It was my first year having the ball in my hands for real and just finding out what's gonna work for me."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Barnes acknowledged he needs to not shy "away from physicality" and admitted he fell short of the dominance he hoped to display this campaign.</p><p>The 23-year-old regressed in most major statistical categories after making his first All-Star team in 2023-24. He averaged 19.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.4 steals, and a block this season.</p><p>Barnes also posted career lows in field-goal percentage (44.6) and 3-point percentage (27.1).</p><p>He said he focused on developing different parts of his game throughout the campaign but needs to learn how to bring them together each night consistently.</p><p>"Some stretches throughout the season, you saw me working on playing a lot in the mid-range, working on fades, getting to the mid, shooting pull-ups," Barnes said. "Different times of the season, you saw me attack and (be) really aggressive getting to the rim, playmaking."</p><p>Barnes added that he's confident he'll elevate his game once all the pieces, particularly his shooting, come together. But despite the challenges, Barnes said he still managed to take several positives away from the campaign.</p><p>"I'm able to get to my spots. I'm able to play out of the post if I want to, play at the top pick-and-roll. I'm able to find those mismatches," Barnes said.</p><p>He also had high praise for his defensive capabilities, saying he feels like "an All-Defensive team type of player."</p><p>"Once we start winning, my name is going to be in a lot more conversations. All that stuff is going to come," Barnes said, per <a href="https://x.com/JLew1050/status/1911802284872265806">Lewenberg</a>.</p><p>Although Toronto finished the season sitting 11th in the East with a 30-52 record, the 2022 Rookie of the Year predicted a playoff berth for the Raptors next season.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

DALLAS, TX - APRIL 11: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on April 11, 2025 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Raptors' Barnes reflects on tough season, vows to embrace physicality

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic had the top-selling jersey across the NBA this season, the le...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> had the top-selling jersey across the NBA this season, the league announced Monday. </p><p>Doncic is the first international player to ever top the jersey sales list and the first player other than<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148"> Stephen Curry</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> to be No. 1 since 2012-13 when the New York Knicks' Carmelo Anthony held the spot.</p><p><strong>Top five in jersey sales</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Luka Doncic</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Curry</td>
<td>Golden State Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LeBron James</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jayson Tatum</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Brunson</td>
<td>New York Knicks</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Jersey sales are up 21% since the Feb. 6 trade deadline compared to the same period last year. The NBA said this was primarily driven by Doncic's trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers.</p><p>The Lakers also sold the most merchandise in the league, overtaking the Boston Celtics, who led at the halfway point of the season.</p><p>Doncic and the Lakers finished third in the West and will face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 11: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the third quarter against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena on April 11, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Luka breaks LeBron-Steph stranglehold to become jersey king

The Phoenix Suns announced Monday they fired head coach Mike Budenholzer after just one season.  ...

<p>The Phoenix Suns announced Monday they fired head coach Mike Budenholzer after just one season.</p><p>Phoenix fell well short of expectations this campaign, finishing 36-46 and missing the playoffs with the most expensive roster in the NBA.</p><p>"Competing at the highest level remains our goal, and we failed to meet expectations this season," the Suns said in a statement. "Our fans deserve better. Change is needed."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Budenholzer signed a five-year deal worth more than $50 million last May to replace Frank Vogel, who was also fired after a single season.</p><p>Phoenix will now look for its third head coach in three seasons after dismissing Monty Williams following the 2022-23 campaign.</p><p>The Suns went 10-18 after the All-Star break and 1-9 in their final 10 games to fall out of the play-in tournament. They also went 12-32 against teams with a .500 record or better.</p><p>Budenholzer reportedly had issues connecting with the Suns' locker room this season, and the roster failed to respond to him, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44671389/sources-suns-fire-coach-mike-budenholzer-one-season">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>. His inability to coexist with the players reportedly centered around star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a>.</p><p>The Suns are expected to retool around Booker this offseason and will reportedly look to trade <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> and have discussions about the future of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a>.</p><p>Durant seemed to be a difference-maker for Phoenix this campaign. The Suns went 33-29 when he was in the lineup and 3-17 without him. He missed their final seven games with an ankle sprain.</p><p>Phoenix is just the third team in NBA history to begin a season 8-1 and miss the playoffs. One of the Suns' worst stretches this season came across March and April when they lost a franchise-worst eight consecutive games by double digits.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 08: Head coach Mike Budenholzer of the Phoenix Suns reacts during the first half of the NBA game at PHX Arena on April 08, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Suns fire Budenholzer after 1 season

The New Orleans Pelicans fired executive vice president David Griffin after six seasons, the team...

<p>The New Orleans Pelicans fired executive vice president David Griffin after six seasons, the team announced Monday.</p><p>"This was a difficult decision, but one that I feel is necessary at this time to bring a fresh approach to our front office and build a culture that will deliver sustainable success, on and off the court," Pelicans governor Gayle Benson said in a statement.</p><p>NBA Hall of Famer Joe Dumars is a front-runner to replace Griffin, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1911838678160412850">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>. Dumars was the 2003 Executive of the Year and led the Detroit Pistons to the 2004 NBA title.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Dumars currently serves as executive vice president and head of basketball operations for the NBA. The Pelicans and Dumars are expected to engage in talks to finalize a deal by the end of the week, Charania <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1911839611900575942">reports</a>, citing sources.</p><p>Under Griffin's leadership, the Pelicans compiled a 209-263 overall record and finished 2024-25 ranked 27th in the NBA at 21-61.</p><p>New Orleans made the postseason in 2022 and 2024 during Griffin's tenure but lost in the first round both times.</p><p>While Griffin helped build a strong roster entering this season, a wave of injuries derailed the Pelicans' hopes of competing. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herb Jones</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96120">Trey Murphy III</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46143" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46143">Dejounte Murray</a> all missed significant time.</p><p>Head coach Willie Green remains in place as New Orleans begins its search for a new executive to oversee basketball operations. Whoever the Pelicans hire to replace Griffin will have a say in Green's future with the franchise, sources told <a href="https://x.com/WillGuillory/status/1911803231715360862">The Athletic's Will Guillory</a>.</p><p>Griffin came to New Orleans with lots of hype after leading the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2010-17. He played a pivotal role in bringing<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72"> LeBron James</a> back to Cleveland and was at the helm of the Cavs for their NBA championship in 2016.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - MARCH 6: David Griffin Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations of the New Orleans Pelicans looks on before a game against the Houston Rockets at the Smoothie King Center on March 6, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Pelicans dismiss top exec David Griffin after 6 seasons

Despite a disastrous season, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey remain confident the Philadelphia 76ers...

<p>Despite a disastrous season, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a> remain confident the Philadelphia 76ers can still be a legitimate title contender.</p><p>"I think with the personnel we have, I think with finding young talent (to help us). ... I think we can be a team in the future that can compete for a championship," George said ahead of Sunday's regular-season finale, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44658463/paul-george-tyrese-maxey-say-sixers-compete-lost-season">ESPN's Tim Bontemps</a>.</p><p>The Sixers began the campaign with championship aspirations but entered Sunday ranked 26th in the NBA. Sunday's loss to the Chicago Bulls dropped Philadelphia to 24-58, marking its worst record since 2015-16 and a dramatic fall from preseason expectations.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Injuries contributed to the collapse, as George, Maxey, and star center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> missed significant stretches and were ultimately shut down early due to injuries.</p><p>"The one positive that I do take away is the only way we can go from here is up," said Maxey.</p><p>The Sixers' Big Three played only 294 minutes together across 15 games this season.</p><p>"The names on the paper ... it looks nice. It does," Maxey said. "And I think we've seen where our peaks can be this year. There wasn't a lot of them. But there was some stretches where we all played, and we looked really good. We found the right rotations, we knew who to get the ball to, who we need to get the ball to them, everybody got shots, everybody looked good.</p><p>"So the sky's the limit. That's the thing that I can say. But the work has to be put in from Day 1, not from in the middle of the season. ... Today is our last game. Whenever everybody decides to start working out again, that's when our season for next year starts, individually and collectively. And it has to be taken serious."</p><p>George appeared in 41 contests this campaign after signing a four-year, $212-million max deal with Philly in the offseason. He also posted his lowest scoring average (16.2 points per game) since 2014-15.</p><p>"It was just, to be honest, one of the toughest seasons for me," George said. "Just with a lot of adversity on the court, off the court and, then again, the injury stuff was some stuff that I didn't necessarily know I had going on ... which was frustrating."</p><p>Embiid played in 19 games, the fewest of the Sixers' trio. The team announced earlier this week that Embiid underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, his second operation on that knee in the last 14 months.</p><p>"It sucked," Maxey said of watching Embiid struggle with his injury. "At the end of the day, Joe is somebody who really wants to be out there. So to see him suffer, to see him go out there and actually try, and he just couldn't be himself ... you could tell.</p><p>Maxey added, "Hopefully, that surgery went well and all that, and he gets back to the Joel Embiid that we know and love."</p><p>Sixers president Daryl Morey announced following Sunday's loss that he and head coach Nick Nurse will return next season. </p><p> </p><p> </p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - FEBRUARY 11: Tyrese Maxey #0 and Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on against the Toronto Raptors at the Wells Fargo Center on February 11, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Raptors defeated the 76ers 106-103. 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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George, Maxey keeping faith in 76ers despite rough season

Former Michigan State guard Tre Holloman committed to NC State, he announced Sunday on Instagram....

<p>Former Michigan State guard Tre Holloman committed to NC State, he <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DIZK5rwRTTk/?igsh=XzViQXg1QUNC&amp;img_index=1">announced</a> Sunday on Instagram.</p><p>Holloman is coming off a breakout sophomore season with Michigan State, averaging 9.1 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists across 37 games in 2024-25.</p><p>The 21-year-old had a stellar March Madness, scoring double digits in three of the Spartans' four games. However, Holloman finished his career at Michigan State on a sour note, going 0-for-10 from the field in the Elite Eight loss to Auburn.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>NC State went 12-19 overall and 5-15 in conference play this past season. The Wolfpack failed to qualify for the NCAA Tournament after finishing 16th in the ACC.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MARCH 28: Tre Holloman #5 of the Michigan State Spartans celebrates after defeating the Ole Miss Rebels 73-70 during the second half in the South Regional Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at State Farm Arena on March 28, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Former Michigan State guard Holloman joining NC State

The Portland Trail Blazers announced Sunday they agreed to a multi-year contract extension with h...

<p>The Portland Trail Blazers announced Sunday they agreed to a multi-year contract extension with head coach Chauncey Billups.</p><p>Billups was in the final guaranteed year of his previous deal, and the Blazers picked up his option for next season while adding another two years, NBA insider <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1911445129937793447">Chris Haynes</a> reports.</p><p>His new deal will reportedly run through the 2027-28 season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"The core of Chauncey's leadership is his ability to build a collaborative culture and growth mindset for our young team," Jody Allen, chair of the Blazers, said in a statement. "We're very happy to extend his contract as head coach, and excited to see his continued work developing our players and transforming this team into one capable of long-term success."</p><p>Billups took over as bench boss in Portland in 2021-22 and holds an overall record of 116-211. The Blazers' 35 wins this season are their most in four years.</p><p>He found a groove with his young roster in 2025, as the Blazers hold a 22-18 record since Jan. 19. They also boast the third-best defensive rating in the NBA over that time.</p><p>"We are building this team the right way with a defensive-minded, hard-nosed, competitive culture," said Billups. "I look forward to continuing to give Rip City fans a product on the court that they can be proud of and cheer for every night."</p><p>The Hall of Famer has sparked the development of the Blazers' young core, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102802" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102802">Shaedon Sharpe</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93883" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93883">Deni Avdija</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110264" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110264">Toumani Camara</a> making notable leaps this season.</p><p>Portland also inked general manager Joe Cronin to a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3260907" href="https://thescore.com/news/3260907">multi-year extension</a> on Monday.</p><p>"Chauncey Billups is a great leader, motivator and communicator that has worked tirelessly to establish an identity for this team that has taken shape over his time in Portland," said Cronin. "I am beyond excited to continue this partnership with Chauncey and take this team to the next level."</p><p>The Blazers have failed to make the playoffs under Billups. They've been eliminated from postseason contention entering their regular-season finale Sunday against the Los Angeles Lakers.</p><p> </p>

PORTLAND, OREGON - APRIL 06: Head coach Chauncey Billups of the Portland Trail Blazers gestures during the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs at the Moda Center on April 06, 2025 in Portland, Oregon. The Portland Trail Blazers won 120-109.

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Trail Blazers sign Billups to multi-year extension

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Joseph Luca Casciaro

News Editor

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