Category: Main Rumors

Jaylen Brown: ‘I think I’m capable of doing anything and everything’

Brown exploded for a season-high 36 points on 13-of-23 shooting, to go along with five rebounds and two assists in 34 minutes of action. After their 130-121 win vs. Washington, the Celtics All-Star explained his mindset entering the game with Tatum …

Brown exploded for a season-high 36 points on 13-of-23 shooting, to go along with five rebounds and two assists in 34 minutes of action. After their 130-121 win vs. Washington, the Celtics All-Star explained his mindset entering the game with Tatum sidelined due to injury: “Nah, I keep going,” Brown responded when asked if he approaches games differently whenever Tatum is out of the picture. “I’ve been doing it this whole time. I think I’m capable of doing anything and everything. So, just coming out here playing with my teammates, having fun, and letting the game take care of its self. ”

Source: Paolo Songco @ Clutch Points

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

John Karalis @John_Karalis
New on BSJ: Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown’s connection vs. Washington shows how far both have come together in Boston bostonsportsjournal.com/2022/11/27/mar… – 12:03 AM
Chris Forsberg @ChrisForsberg_
Six more Marcus Smart-to-Jaylen Brown assists tonight. 43 connections this season. Third best assist combo in the NBA.
Chemistry is off the charts for these two. But we still need to know more about those headlocks. pic.twitter.com/PblJirl6KF – 9:36 PM

Brian Robb @BrianTRobb
Jaylen Brown: “We’re shooting the shit out of the ball.” – 9:12 PM
Brian Robb @BrianTRobb
Jaylen Brown on Marcus Smart: “That’s my brother and I appreciate him trying to make me the best version of myself.” – 9:08 PM
Jared Weiss @JaredWeissNBA
When Jaylen Brown was a rookie and played too fast, he told Marcus Smart, “When everybody’s telling me to slow down, the defense hears that, so I’ma speed up!”
Now he’s learned how to play at his pace:
“We were like, nah, that doesn’t make sense. So he’s using his grace now.” – 9:06 PM
Brian Robb @BrianTRobb
Marcus Smart on Jaylen Brown: “When Jaylen first got here, he would go 1-on-5 sometimes and throw up some bullshit (laughs)….he’s using more of his grace now…He’s definitely matured in a way that’s big time for us.” – 9:06 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
I kind of wonder if Jaylen Brown gets a day off tomorrow on the back-to-back against Charlotte. Would make sense, especially if Jayson Tatum can play tomorrow. – 8:34 PM
Cameron Tabatabaie @CTabatabaie
Jaylen Brown’s likely done for the night, finishes with 36 points on 13-23 shooting – 8:16 PM
Gary Washburn @GwashburnGlobe
Another Jaylen Brown And-1 and Unseld calls a timeout to throw in the towel with 2:04 and #Wizards down 16. Let’s see if Mazzulla pulls his frontline guys. #Celtics – 8:15 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Jaylen Brown has been grimacing and flexing out his right shoulder since he came back in the game. Something to keep an eye on. – 8:08 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Wizards have cut it to 12 points and Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart are both back in for Boston. Bradley Beal back in for Washington. – 8:05 PM
Adam Himmelsbach @AdamHimmelsbach
And here come Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart. Certainly not ideal. – 8:04 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
This game is getting sloppy. Jaylen Brown could come back in to stretch the lead again, but not sure he should reenter this mess. – 7:57 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
If he played enough, Jaylen Brown might threaten his career-high of 50 points. I don’t think he’s going to play enough though. – 7:43 PM
Neil Dalal @NeilDalal96
Tough sequence for Deni Avdija after he knocks down a 3.
Slowed down running into courtside fans, has to show help for Kristaps Porzingis on Al Horford in semi-transition and then step up onto Jaylen Brown with a full head of steam and gets the foul call despite minimal contact. – 7:27 PM
Cameron Tabatabaie @CTabatabaie
Jaylen Brown is going to be an All-Star again this year, right? – 7:24 PM
Steve Bulpett @SteveBHoop
Jaylen Brown has attempted 19.2 field goals per game this season. With Jayson Tatum out, he’s gotten up six shots in the first 5:24 against Washington. #timetoeat – 6:24 PM
Neil Dalal @NeilDalal96
Deni Avdija draws Jaylen Brown as his primary defensive matchup with Jayston Tatum out. – 6:23 PM
A. Sherrod Blakely @ASherrodblakely
With Jayson Tatum out tonight, the Celtics starting five consists of Marcus Smart; Jaylen Brown; Derrick White; Grant Williams and Al Horford. – 6:08 PM
Chris Mannix @SIChrisMannix
At TD Garden, where Boston will be without Jayson Tatum against Washington. That usually means a big night for Jaylen Brown. Brown last season in games Tatum missed: 30.4 points, ten rebounds, 4.4 assists. – 5:45 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Celtics starters tonight:
Al Horford
Grant Williams
Jaylen Brown
Derrick White
Marcus Smart
Wizards starters:
Kristaps Porzingis
Deni Avdija
Corey Kispert
Bradley Beal
Monte Morris – 5:32 PM
Cameron Tabatabaie @CTabatabaie
Jaylen Brown (and tonight’s national anthem singer) warming up about an hour before tip pic.twitter.com/McF0cViacq – 4:54 PM

More on this storyline

Swell. I have an agenda, and it calls for a local star athlete and self-proclaimed social justice warrior to stop being selective with anti-hate messaging and putting personal loyalty to Ye and Kyrie ahead of hate speech supported or spoken by your friends. That’s my agenda. And the Boston Celtics — an organization built by Red Auerbach, owned by Wyc Grousbeck and Steve Pagliuca, and led by Brad Stevens — should teach Brown some history and explain how this organization has been run for 75 years. I reached out to Stevens about this, and he responded Friday with, “We regularly speak to the players about the responsibilities of their platforms. -via Boston Globe / November 26, 2022
“Jaylen has explicitly stated that he is against antisemitism and hate speech. Jaylen also has a strong history of using his platform to contribute positively to causes both local and national. “Regarding the Kyrie Irving suspension, Jaylen has stated that he feels that in his role as vice president of the union he should protect and support players’ rights.” -via Boston Globe / November 26, 2022
“We regularly speak to the players about the responsibilities of their platforms,” Stevens told Dan Shaughnessy of the Boston Globe. “Jaylen has explicitly stated that he is against antisemitism and hate speech. Jaylen also has a strong history of using his platform to contribute positively to causes both local and national.” -via Boston Globe / November 25, 2022

Ja Morant on Derrick Rose: ‘He really made it to where people believe in guys like me’

Morant and Rose played against each other for the sixth time on Sunday during the Grizzlies’ 127-123 win against the New York Knicks. After the game, Morant reflected on being compared to Rose. “He really made it to where people believe in guys like …

Morant and Rose played against each other for the sixth time on Sunday during the Grizzlies’ 127-123 win against the New York Knicks. After the game, Morant reflected on being compared to Rose. “He really made it to where people believe in guys like me,” Morant said after recording 27 points, 10 rebounds and 14 assists for the fifth triple-double of his career. “Coming in, athletic guards, I felt like he was pretty much the one who kind of made it more famous. With how acrobatic his finish is, his touch around the rim, and how explosive he was. Coming in, he was my comparison. It’s crazy to be out there on the floor sharing a court with him.”

Source: Memphis Commercial Appeal

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Tim Bontemps @TimBontemps
New ESPN story: After the fifth triple-double of his career, Ja Morant said his father asked – for the first time – for his jersey after the game. Why?
“It’s just the bright lights, man.”
On Morant putting on a show at MSG and lifting Memphis to a win: espn.com/nba/story/_/id… – 11:55 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
After recording his fifth career triple-double Ja Morant signed two jerseys and gave them away.
One went to his father, signed “Garden Boy.” The other went to Derrick Rose, a player he said paved the way for players like him to be stars in the NBA. dailymemphian.com/section/sports… – 11:01 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
After recording his fifth career triple-double Ja Morant signed two jerseys and gave them away.
One went to his father, signed “Garden Boy.” The other went to Derrick Rose, a player he said paves the way for players like him to be stars in the NBA. dailymemphian.com/section/sports… – 11:00 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant on Derrick Rose: “He really made it to where people believe in guys like me. Coming in, athletic guards, I felt like he was pretty much the one who kind of made it more famous.“
Memphis legends. pic.twitter.com/zzccJF6oOI – 10:07 PM

Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ja Morant’s postgame presser was awesome, by the way. Stories coming… – 9:45 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
Cam Reddish was extremely complimentary of Ja Morant after guarding him for a good portion of tonight: “I rock with Ja’s game,” he said. “He’s a great player.” Was talking about how tough Steven Adams’ screens are, too. “It’s just fun competing against the best players,” he said. – 9:45 PM
Tim Bontemps @TimBontemps
Ja Morant said today was the first time in his career that his father asked for his jersey after a game. Said it was special for him to get a triple-double here at Madison Square Garden, saying it was a place he always has held a special feeling for. – 9:02 PM
Ian Begley @IanBegley
Jalen Brunson had 30p, 11a & 5r for New York tonight but missed two shots late in the 4th with a chance to win the game as Knicks fall to MEM, 127-123. Ja Morant had 27p, 14a & 10r to lead Grizzlies. NYK (9-11) played relatively well tonight but has lost 5 of its last 6 at home. – 8:49 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant secured his fifth triple-double of his career, and the Grizzlies got one late stop against Jalen Brunson when they needed it most.
Final: Grizzlies 127 Knicks 123
The Grizzlies are 12-8
commercialappeal.com/story/sports/n… – 8:44 PM
Peter Vecsey @PeterVecsey1
Ja Morant v Knicks in a spellbinder or a new episode of Yellowstone, one channel removed! Thank God gifted me a split personality… – 8:44 PM
Tim Bontemps @TimBontemps
Ja Morant has his first triple-double of the season for the Grizzlies: 27 points, 10 rebounds and 14 assists.
But he just split a pair of free throws to give the Grizzlies a 125-123 lead with 6 seconds to go. Knicks will get one final shot to tie – or win – this at the buzzer. – 8:38 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant has a triple-double. Big game for 12 today. – 8:37 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
If you care to get to your TV — after Ja Morant gives the Grizzlies a 124-123 lead, it’ll me Knicks ball coming out of the timeout with 13.9 seconds to go in regulation. – 8:36 PM
Tim Bontemps @TimBontemps
Ja Morant got unbelievably lucky there, but the result is still a good one for Memphis: a layup to put the Grizzlies up one with 13.9 to go. Been a very fun evening here at MSG. – 8:35 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Dillon Brooks plays with Ja Morant and Brooks 100% believes he’s the best player on the floor every game.
I mean it with complete sincerity when I say I love it so much. You need guys like that to be a great team. – 8:30 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ja Morant ties his career high in assists with 14. It comes on a huge 3-pointer by Dillon Brooks. – 8:29 PM
NBA on ESPN @ESPNNBA
Ja Morant is even more absurd in slow motion 🌀 pic.twitter.com/iOB7WLmeOB – 8:02 PM

Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ja Morant has 13 assists going into the fourth quarter. His career high is 14.
He’s also two rebounds away from a triple-double. – 7:58 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
That was a scary fall for Ja Morant. He looks to be OK. – 7:54 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ja Morant is just two rebounds away from a triple-double. Knicks have tried to make him a passer – he’s hitting wide open dudes now. – 7:42 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Halftime:
Grizzlies lead Knicks 54-52
Dillon Brooks has 11 points
Ja Morant has eight points, seven assists and five rebounds. Both teams shooting 44%. – 7:14 PM
Ian Begley @IanBegley
Derrick Rose, Immanuel Quickley, Cam Reddish, Obi Toppin and Isaiah Hartenstein is the Knicks’ initial all-bench unit tonight vs Memphis. – 6:33 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
Derrick Rose is in, so we know he’s playing. Now, we wait to see on Cam Reddish – 6:26 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
Knicks didn’t have Quentin Grimes on opening night, when RJ Barrett primarily manned Ja Morant. Tonight, Grimes is doing it. Did a good job on that initial pick-and-roll action. – 6:13 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
Jalen Brunson is a game-time decision with the quad injury, Tom Thibodeau says. Derrick Rose and Cam Reddish are available. – 4:19 PM
Tommy Beer @TommyBeer
In addition to Jalen Brunson (contused right quad), the Knicks are also listing Derrick Rose (Sore right toe) and
Cam Reddish (Sore right groin) as questionable for tomorrows game vs. Memphis – 2:23 PM
Steve Popper @StevePopper
Knicks list Injury update for tomorrow’s game.
Questionable:
Jalen Brunson (Contused right quad)
Derrick Rose (Sore right toe)
Cam Reddish (Sore right groin) – 2:20 PM
Rebecca Haarlow @RebeccaHaarlow
Mitchell Robinson is IN and Derrick Rose and Cam Reddish are OUT tonight vs Portland. More details coming your way on @MSGNetworks at 7 pm with @BillPidto @McNuttMonica @Alan Hahn @Wally Szcerzbiak, Mike Breen and me. Join us!!! #knicks – 5:53 PM
Stefan Bondy @SBondyNYDN
Cam Reddish and Derrick Rose are out tonight, per Thibs.
Mitchell Robinson is available – 5:51 PM

More on this storyline

Fred Katz: Jalen Brunson has a contused right quad and is listed as questionable for tomorrow’s game against the Grizzlies. Derrick Rose (sore toe) and Cam Reddish (sore groin) are both questionable, as well. -via Twitter @FredKatz / November 26, 2022
Did the bygone possibility of making the Garden his full-time office enter his mind as he was shredding the Knicks with surgical precision? “Nah, it wasn’t a thought,” Morant responded. “Obviously, I felt like everybody’s dream as a basketball player is to play in the Garden. So I’ll take my one time a year.” -via New York Post / November 28, 2022
Speaking to reporters after the Grizzlies’ 132-111 win over the Pelicans, Morant opened up about Williamson’s return to the court and how special it is for them to share the floor together. It has been 647 days since they last played against each other–with Zion also missing their supposed meeting last week due to injury–and so Ja couldn’t help but reflect on what they have done so far to be able to reach their current positions. “Two guys from South Carolina… Being able to live out our dream, playing basketball at the highest level. Being able to provide not only for ourselves but [also] our family, it’s big time,” Morant said. -via Clutch Points / November 26, 2022

Damian Lillard on Jerami Grant: ‘I think he’s added a layer to our team on both ends of the floor’

“I think he’s added a layer to our team on both ends of the floor,” Lillard told HoopsHype before the Blazers faced the Nets at Barclays Center. “A lot of times, he’s taking the toughest matchup defensively. He’s using his size, length and …

“I think he’s added a layer to our team on both ends of the floor,” Lillard told HoopsHype before the Blazers faced the Nets at Barclays Center. “A lot of times, he’s taking the toughest matchup defensively. He’s using his size, length and athleticism to be disruptive and give guys like Anfernee and myself the opportunity to play off the ball and not wear ourselves out on the defensive end of the floor every possession and then have to go score and make plays as much as we do offensively. On offense, he’s been able to score in isolation, transition, hit catch-and-shoot threes, and post up. He’s doing so many different things for us on both ends of the floor. He’s so versatile. It’s made us a much better team having him.”

Source: Michael Scotto @ HoopsHype

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Damian Lillard @Dame_Lillard
That might be our longest rushing TD since Charlie Garner vs the jets when I was in middle school lol… @iAM_JoshJacobs a true animal 🤷🏽‍♂️ – 7:39 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Nets 111, Blazers 97: FINAL. 29 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds for @Jerami Grant. 17 points, 14 rebounds, 4 assists for @Jusuf Nurkic. 14 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists for @Justise Winslow. 15 points, 6 assists for @Anfernee Simons. – 5:23 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Seems to be a correction on Jerami Grant free throws attempts this afternoon – 4:51 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Nets 84, Blazers 80: end of third quarter. 24 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds for @Jerami Grant. 16 points, 6 rebounds/assists for @Justise Winslow. 11 points, 4 assists for @Anfernee Simons. 9 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists for @Jusuf Nurkic. – 4:49 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Nets 58, Blazers 57: halftime. 20 points, 3 assists for @Jerami Grant. 9 points, 3 assists for @Josh Hart. 8 points, 4 assists for @Anfernee Simons. – 4:06 PM
Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
Halftime: Nets lead the Blazers 58-57. Pretty even game so far. Nic Claxton hit a pair of free throws right before the break. He’s shot it a little better from the charity stripe lately. Jerami Grant has carried the Blaxers without Dame. KD has 15, Seth with 14 and Kyrie has 10. – 4:06 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Fashion Week Jerami Grant – 4:01 PM
Erik Slater @erikslater_
Royce O’Neale with a great defensive possession against Jerami Grant in the post.
That’s the kind of matchup he’s effective against. – 3:55 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Nets 31, Blazers 24: end of first quarter. 8 points, 1 assist for @Anfernee Simons. 5 points, 2 assists for @Jerami Grant. POR shooting 41 percent, BKN 57 percent. – 3:37 PM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
Simmons, Irving, Durant, O’Neale and Claxton start for Brooklyn. The #Nets won’t face Damian Lillard – missing his fourth straight – but have they learned their lesson about not looking past shorthanded foes? #trailblazers – 2:55 PM
Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
Greetings from Barclays. Nets-Blazers tips shortly. Another game in which the Nets don’t face the opponent’s best player. Dame Lillard is out. Recent history has shown that only means so much. First game of an eight-game stand. Can Nets start it off with a W? – 2:53 PM
Damian Lillard @Dame_Lillard
Regis Prograis just put on a hell of a performance… and closed the show – 1:05 AM
Eli Savoie @Eli560
I guess Marshall over Notre Dame would have to be it right? Was there any other outcome that looks weirder when looking back at it? – 10:39 PM
Arash Markazi @ArashMarkazi
The Coliseum is sold out tonight as No. 5 USC, led by Heisman Trophy favorite Caleb Williams, is taking on Notre Dame. Last year 4-8 USC was playing its last home game of the season, a 35-34 loss to BYU, in front of a half empty Coliseum. Here’s what it looked like then and now. pic.twitter.com/PGkR8pPSD2 – 9:36 PM

David Cobb @DavidWCobb
Wrote about it this week, but contrary to what everyone wants to believe, Ohio State’s shot at the CFP is not over.
Week 1 should matter — even though a lot of people act like it doesn’t — and the Buckeyes’ win over Notre Dame is a good win that could become a great win tonight. pic.twitter.com/vDNZRSFgVG – 7:22 PM

StatMuse @statmuse
Players with 28+ free throws in a game since 2000:
— Hack a Shaq
— Hack a Shaq
— Hack a Shaq
— LeBron James
— Hack a Dwight
— Hack a Dwight
— Hack a Jordan
— Hack a Jordan
— Hack a Jordan
— Hack a Drummond
— Hack a Ben
— Jerami Grant (last night) pic.twitter.com/sbs2FxbFSj – 2:25 PM

Nick DePaula @NickDePaula
Jerami Grant dropped a career-high 44 at The Garden in the @adidas Basketball Crazy 1 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/sUUhVhwKJB – 12:23 AM

Ryan Blackburn @NBABlackburn
Yo, Jerami Grant shot 28 free throws tonight and had 44 points. Not Nuggets related just had to share. – 11:43 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Chauncey Billups starts out by saying he’s disappointed Jerami didn’t hit a few more free throws to get 50 at the Garden – 10:45 PM
Tim Bontemps @TimBontemps
Blazers coach Chauncey Billups jokes he is “very disappointed” in Jerami Grant because missed free throws prevented him from scoring 50 at Madison Square Garden. Said he was proud of how Grant (44 points) carried Portland to a win. – 10:44 PM
NBA on ESPN @ESPNNBA
Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons went OFF in The Garden 🔋 pic.twitter.com/wtKa5GKlFC – 10:34 PM

Jamie Hudson @JamieHudson_
Blazers snap their 4-game losing streak behind Grant’s career high 44. This is Portland’s second OT win of the season. Blazers defeat the Knicks, 132-129.
Jerami to @brookeolzendam — “I should’ve had 50.” – 10:32 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Blazers 132, Knicks 129: FINAL in OT. Blazers end four-game skid. Career-high 44 points for @Jerami Grant thanks to a franchise record 21 free throws. 38 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds for @Anfernee Simons in 47 minutes. 20 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists for @Jusuf Nurkic. – 10:31 PM
StatMuse @statmuse
Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons tonight:
82 PTS
7 3P
OT win. pic.twitter.com/pQ5xWvFCa2 – 10:31 PM

Tim Bontemps @TimBontemps
Wild game here at MSG, where the Blazers win 132-129 in overtime.
Jerami Grant finishes with 44 points to lead Portland, while Anfernee Simons had 38, including hitting the game-tying FTs at the end of regulation.
Jalen Brunson had 32 to lead New York, who hosts Memphis Sunday. – 10:31 PM
Jay Allen @PDXjay
Jerami Grant has now attempted a @Portland Trail Blazers franchise record 28 free throws tonight. Former team record was 22. – 10:29 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
And that’s a new career high for @Jerami Grant with 44 points in 40 minutes – 10:29 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
Career-high 44 points for Jerami Grant – 10:29 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Carry @Jerami Grant to the Margiela in Greenwich – 10:23 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Blazers 116, Knicks 116: end of regulation. 40 points, 2 assists for @Jerami Grant. 32 points, 4 assists/rebounds for @Anfernee Simons. 15 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists for @Jusuf Nurkic. 10 points, 18 rebounds, 4 assists for @Josh Hart. – 10:09 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
Portland has put size on Brunson all night. He’s had to go against Jerami Grant. He’s had to go against Justise Winslow. He’s done well against both. Pretty wild for a small guard to see Winslow on him, take him to the post and for that to be the right decision. – 10:06 PM
Tim Bontemps @TimBontemps
A terrible shot by Anfernee Simons to get Portland the 2-for-1 with a tie game down the stretch, followed by a terrific Jalen Brunson post move inside to give NYK a 116-114 lead with 13.7 seconds to go. We’ll see if Jerami Grant (40 points) or Simons (30) has one more in them. – 10:04 PM
Bill Simmons @BillSimmons
It’s kind of hilarious that the Knicks don’t have a single wing who can defend Jerami Grant. – 10:01 PM
Jay Allen @PDXjay
Jerami Grant up to 40 points tonight against the Knicks. It’s his third career 40-point game. Career-high is 43. #RipCity – 10:00 PM
Dan Favale @danfavale
we probably still don’t give jerami grant enough credit for deciding to explore and strengthen his offensive dynamism mid-career. you couldn’t have envisioned a game like this from him three years ago. – 9:59 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
That’s 40 points on 10-of-17 from the field, 3-of-7 from three and 17-of-22 from the free throw line for @Jerami Grant. Blazers up 114-111 with 1:15 to play in regulation. – 9:58 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
Jerami Grant has 40, three off his career high. – 9:57 PM
Jeff Goodman @GoodmanHoops
One-bid ACC? Just kidding but the league is off to another brutal start.
Notre Dame loses to the Bonnies today, UNC to Iowa State, Florida State to Stanford and Virginia Tech in a dogfight with mighty Charleston southern. – 9:37 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Blazers 92, Knicks 86: end of third quarter. 28 points, 2 assists for @Jerami Grant. 26 points, 4 rebounds for @Anfernee Simons. 11 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists for @Jusuf Nurkic. 8 points, 14 rebounds, 4 assists for @Josh Hart. – 9:28 PM
Steve Popper @StevePopper
Jerami Grant went to the line 12 times in the second quarter alone — and the Blazers lead the Knicks, 62-61, after trailing by 14 in the second quarter. – 8:59 PM
Tim Bontemps @TimBontemps
Massive first half for Jerami Grant here at MSG tonight, as he has 25 points — including going 12-for-14 from the free throw line — to give Portland a 62-61 lead without Dame Lillard. – 8:53 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
You wanna talk problematic?
Jerami Grant attempted FOURTEEN free throws in the first half. The Blazers took 28. Nine Knicks have a foul and seven have at least two.
Gotta defend without fouling better than that. – 8:46 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Blazers 62, Knicks 61: Portland goes 20-5 in the final 4:30 of the half to take a one-point lead into the intermission. 25 points, 2 assists for @Jerami Grant. 15 points, 4 rebounds for @Anfernee Simons. 11 points, 3 rebounds/assists for @Jusuf Nurkic. – 8:46 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Knicks 31, Blazers 25: end of first quarter. 10 points, 2 assists for @Jerami Grant. 5 points, 2 rebounds/assists for @Jusuf Nurkic. POR shooting 44 percent, NYK 46 percent. – 8:08 PM
Fred Katz @FredKatz
Jerami Grant has been the perfect Trail Blazer. Makes so much sense for them on both sides. – 8:07 PM
Stefan Bondy @SBondyNYDN
Welcome to Adam Silver’s NBA. In just the last week, the Knicks have played the Nuggets without Jokic, the Suns without Chris Paul and now the Blazers without Dame Lillard. – 7:26 PM
Damian Lillard @Dame_Lillard
🚨Sneakerheads: For #BlackFriday weekend, our squad at @kickscrew is dropping hard to find hype kicks and classics at the best prices. You know where I’ll be shopping… 📲👟
🛒 https://t.co/6ccA2nfrRo pic.twitter.com/n7gZJJv2tf – 1:54 PM

Damian Lillard @Dame_Lillard
👀 We just dropped new @MoveInsoles bundle deals for #BlackFriday. Get two pairs of our insoles and save $. Covering all of your needs on and off the court. Tap in!
🛒 https://t.co/3vx5qaCkgu pic.twitter.com/tlkFOerXV7 – 10:09 AM

More on this storyline

Sean Highkin: New addition to the Blazers’ injury report for tomorrow in Cleveland: Josh Hart is “probable” with a left ankle sprain. Damian Lillard, Gary Payton II and Keon Johnson remain out. -via Twitter @highkin / November 22, 2022
Shams Charania: Trail Blazers say Damian Lillard has a Grade 1 strain of the soleus muscle in the right lower leg and will be re-evaluated in one to two weeks. -via Twitter @ShamsCharania / November 20, 2022
Sean Highkin: Blazers say Damian Lillard will be re-evaluated in 1-2 weeks. That would almost certainly rule him out for the entire upcoming four-game road trip. -via Twitter @highkin / November 20, 2022
Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant will enter the summer of 2023 as one of the top unrestricted free agents on the market, but the 28-year-old forward hinted that Portland has the early edge to re-sign him when asked about his long-term future. “I’m satisfied right now,” Grant told HoopsHype after scoring a career-high 44 points against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden. “I’m really happy with what we’re doing. We’ll just talk about it when it comes.” -via HoopsHype / November 28, 2022
“This is an extremely talented group of guys,” Grant told HoopsHype. “It’s a mix of young and older guys that are veterans who know how to play. It’s a good fit for me. I think we can be really good. What we have, we can win with for sure. We’ve got a lot of talented players who can put the ball in the basket. We’ve got a lot of defenders. We’ve got rebounders. We’ve got a bit of everything. I think we can be really good. We are good now. We can be a lot better, so I’m looking forward to it.” -via HoopsHype / November 28, 2022

Kyle Kuzma on Ivica Zubac: ‘One the most underrated bigs in the league’

Kyle Kuzma: Zu one the most underrated bigs in the league and I’m happy you had a game like that for everyone to see wow!!!!! @Ivica Zubac  Source: Twitter @kylekuzma What’s the buzz on Twitter? Emiliano Carchia @ Sportando Ivica Zubac: I was mad …

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Emiliano Carchia @Sportando
Ivica Zubac: I was mad at myself because I wanted to get that 30 and 30 so bad
sportando.basketball/en/ivica-zubac… – 5:05 AM
BasketNews @BasketNews_com
The Pacers have witnessed prime Kareem before their eyes in Ivica Zubac 🤯
31 PTS (Season High)
29 REB (Career High)
14/17 FG
3 BLK
3 AST pic.twitter.com/5t7a5Vpjvm – 1:26 AM

Kyle Kuzma @kylekuzma
Zu one the most underrated bigs in the league and I’m happy you had a game like that for everyone to see wow!!!!! @Ivica Zubac 💐 – 12:50 AM
Kyle Kuzma @kylekuzma
Zu one of the most underrated bugs in the league and I’m glad he had the game he did tonight wow! @Ivica Zubac 💐 – 12:49 AM
Kyle Kuzma @kylekuzma
To be successful it’s all about how disciplined you are with a sprinkle of luck💯 – 12:44 AM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
🆕 @TheAthletic
When DeAndre Jordan was in his age-25 season, he played 30+ minutes for first time.
Same thing 9 years later for Ivica Zubac. Age 25, 30+ minutes for first time.
Clippers have long manifested dominant games for Zu. 31 and 29 today. 🇭🇷
https://t.co/GpP21mtG9j pic.twitter.com/2zrcd8Tp65 – 11:10 PM

Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
🆕 @TheAthletic
When DeAndre Jordan was in his age-25 season, he played 30+ minutes for first time.
Same thing 9 years later for Ivica Zubac. Age 25, 30+ minutes for first time.
The Clippers have long manifested dominant games for Zu, and it culminated with 31 and 29 Sunday. pic.twitter.com/6HMELT4zsd – 11:08 PM

StatMuse @statmuse
Players with a 30/25 game on 80% shooting since the 3pt era:
Shaq
Chuck
Zubac pic.twitter.com/Co5pXpyFZK – 8:44 PM

StatMuse @statmuse
Zubac today:
31 PTS
29 REB
Only Dwight Howard has topped those numbers in a game in the last 40 seasons. pic.twitter.com/08y8l2YOu5 – 8:39 PM

Scott Agness @ScottAgness
STORY: Pacers fall flat in Game 1 of road trip, have no answer to Clippers center Ivica Zubac.
Running thoughts: fieldhousefiles.com/p/running-thou… – 7:31 PM
Mirjam Swanson @MirjamSwanson
Man! The Clippers’ reliable @CDzierzanowski (go Duck) stayed busy this afternoon adding historical context to Big Zu’s really big game: pic.twitter.com/5BNswTCAhY – 7:23 PM

Janis Carr @janiscarr
“It’s special to witness something special,” Nico Batum said of Zubac’s career game. – 7:19 PM
Ralph Lawler @Ohmeomy
I was busy watching NFL today and just saw Zubac 31 pts and 19 Rebs!
Yikes! – 7:18 PM
Neil Dalal @NeilDalal96
Kyle Kuzma’s lower back soreness flared up Saturday night, per Wes Unseld Jr. who attributed it to the 39 minutes averaged the last 5 games.
Kuz did a light pre-game warmup (followed by extensive film with assistant coach Ryan Richman), but was not concerned with the severity. – 7:05 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Ivica Zubac: “If you’re playing the Clippers, I don’t want anyone to have anything easy at the rim.” – 7:04 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Zubac says that Ty Lue called the first play of the game for him. 🔋🔋🔋 – 7:02 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Ty Lue happy for Zu.
Also happy for Rams intercepting Patrick Mahomes in the 4th quarter lol – 6:54 PM
NBA on ESPN @ESPNNBA
Zubac dropped a stat line so good it made Kawhi smile 😄 pic.twitter.com/zjEXQ4rjI4 – 6:35 PM

Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Clippers beat Pacers 114-100 to win their first game without Kawhi Leonard and Paul George this season.
Ivica Zubac: 31 points (14/17 FGs), 29 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks, 3/3 FTs. How Do U Want It? pic.twitter.com/KnTyMV96qN – 6:30 PM

Tony East @TEastNBA
Pacers get to 100 with a dunk late, but the Clippers dominated all night and win 114-100. Ivica Zubac was incredible with 31 points and 29 rebounds for the Clippers.
Pacers: 38.3% from the field, 21.4% from deep. Jalen Smith and TJ McConnell the only guys to shoot over 40%. – 6:29 PM
Scott Agness @ScottAgness
Pacers have their worst game of the season to begin the road trip, lose 114-100 to the Clippers.
– Would have season-low pt total if not for 3FGs in the final minute
– Season-low 21% (9/42) from 3
– Outrebounded 62-39
– Zubac tallies 31/29
Up next: Monday at Lakers (10:30pm ET) – 6:28 PM
Bobby Manning @RealBobManning
31-29 is insane. Ivica Zubac has been one of the league’s underrated stars for a while, and he doesn’t have a backup to spell him. – 6:27 PM
The Vertical @YahooSportsNBA
Ivica Zubac was a BEAST today 💪
🔵 31 PTS
🔵 29 REB
🔵 3 BLK
🔵 14/17 FG (82%) pic.twitter.com/3tOwr3U2ys – 6:26 PM

Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Paul George on Ivica Zubac, January 2021:
“We gotta keep pumping Zu. You know, Zu just doesn’t know how dominant he can be. You forget how young he is, he’s still a baby. But it’s on us to continue to give him that positive reinforcement. Just tell him to keep going.” – 6:25 PM
Christos Tsaltas @Tsaltas46
Ivica Zubac made the best game we’ve seen from a big man this year (by far). 31 points, 29 rebounds, 14-17FG, 3 blocks. He was UNSTOPPABLE!
One of the most dominant performances from a big man in this league EVER! #ClipperNation #NBATwitter – 6:23 PM
James Plowright @British_Buzz
Ivica Zubac is FEASTING, holy cow. – 6:23 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Ivica Zubac just dominated today. 31 points, 29 rebounds and three blocks. – 6:22 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
Ivica Zubac just dominated today. 21 points, 29 rebounds and three blocks. – 6:21 PM
Rob Perez @WorldWideWob
Ivica Zubac just did a Minnesota Kevin Love. – 6:20 PM
Eric Patten @EricPatten
Zubac with first game with 31+ points and 29+ boards in @nba since Dwight in 2018. Kevin Love did it in 2010. That’s it since LAC moved to Los Angeles. Moses Malone did it in 1982 last before Love. – 6:19 PM
John Schuhmann @johnschuhmann
Ivica Zubac fouls out just 1 rebound shy (he had 31 & 29) of what would have been just the 3rd 30/30 game in the last 40 years…
Kevin Love – 31 & 31 – Nov. 12, 2010
Dwight Howard – 32 & 30 – Mar. 21, 2018
Before that…
Moses Malone – 38 & 32 – Feb. 11, 1982 – 6:16 PM
Eric Patten @EricPatten
Zubac had the fifth 29+ rebound performance in franchise history and first since 1988 – 6:16 PM
Janis Carr @janiscarr
Zu fouls out with 31 points and 29 rebounds. Gets a standing ovation with 3:40 to play – 6:15 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Ivica Zubac has fouled out with 31 points and 29 rebounds. Clippers out of challenges.
Still gets much deserved standing ovation. – 6:15 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
31 points for Ivica Zubac. Needs a rebound. – 6:14 PM
Janis Carr @janiscarr
Swen Nater holds the Clippers franchise rebounding record at 32. Zu next? – 6:13 PM
Scott Agness @ScottAgness
Zubac entered the game with career-highs of 32 & 18.
He has 29-29 with 5mins left.
Will Ty Lue let him finish the game? – 6:12 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
High drama here.
Ivica Zubac has 29 points and 29 rebounds.
And five fouls. – 6:12 PM
Janis Carr @janiscarr
Zubac now has 29 and 29. Still in the game. – 6:11 PM
Janis Carr @janiscarr
Sunday crowd knows they are watching something special, cheering Zubac as he grabs rebounds and scores his 27th point. – 6:11 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Rebound Zu
Bucket Zu
Free throw Zu pic.twitter.com/VwJ1Ynnu8X – 6:10 PM

Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Referees hating on Zu lol
Called him for ATO travel just as he was about to hook Isaiah Jackson, then called him for a foul as he was about to rim protect for another rebound.
HATE HATE HATE – 6:09 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Clippers starting to take some irresponsible 3s, but that’s not important yet.
LA is up 97-79 with 6:15 left. This should be operation get the ball to Zu. He has 24 points and 28 rebounds.
The only 30-30 games in NBA since 1980:
– Moses (1982)
– Love (2010)
– Dwight (2018) – 6:08 PM
Janis Carr @janiscarr
Zubac now has 28 rebounds and 24 points. How high can he go? There’s still 6:15 to play. – 6:07 PM
Ohm Youngmisuk @NotoriousOHM
Ivica Zubac putting up Shaq-like numbers. He has 24 points and 25 rebounds — the most rebounds in a single NBA game this season. – 6:01 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Pacers have missed all 13 second half 3s.
Zubac’s sixth dunk of the game was followed by Reggie Jackson’s first 3 of the game.
Carlisle timeout 41 seconds into fourth quarter. LA takes largest lead of the game at 87-69. – 5:54 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Ty Lue is calling fourth quarter opening plays for IVICA ZUBAC – 5:53 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Clippers ran out of buckets last 3:27 of third quarter, still take 82-69 lead into fourth quarter vs Pacers.
Ivica Zubac should just go for the 30-30. He has 22/21 with 3 blocks in 27 minutes. LA has outscored Pacers 52-34 in paint and shockingly have 14-7 off. rebound advantage – 5:51 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
They double Zu *one time* and LA’s 11-1 run is over after a pick six finished by Mathurin.
Still! Clippers playing well, up 81-67 with 2:45 left in third quarter. – 5:42 PM
Eric Patten @EricPatten
Last @Los Angeles Clippers player with 20+ boards was DJ (3-21-18). Zubac has almost a quarter and a half to add more to his gaudy total. – 5:37 PM
Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
Wizards at Celtics – TD Garden – Nov. 27, 2022 – Starters
Boston – Smart, White, Brown, Horford, G. Williams
Washington – Monte Morris, Bradley Beal. Corey Kispert, Deni Avdija, Kristaps Porzingis
OUT: Boston: Tatum, R. Williams, Gallinari Washington: Kuzma, Wright, Hachimura pic.twitter.com/XMEEYSRnsI – 5:37 PM

Scott Agness @ScottAgness
Zubac having perhaps the best game of his career. 20pts, career-high 21rebs, 3blks. 10 of 13 shooting, all in the paint.
Wonder if they’ll try the more physical Bitadze or Johnson on him? For now, Turner playing with four fouls.
And the Clippers’ lead is 15. pic.twitter.com/kg6NdvsYyB – 5:36 PM

Ava Wallace @avarwallace
Wiz starters in Boston with Kyle Kuzma (low back pain) OUT and Monte Morris (ankle soreness) returning:
Morris
Beal
Kispert
Avdija
Porzingis
@kareemcopeland is on the scene for this one! – 5:35 PM
Josh Robbins @JoshuaBRobbins
With Kyle Kuzma out because of lower back pain, the Wizards will shift Deni Avdija to power forward in the starting lineup. From the team, its starters will be:
PG: Monté Morris
SG: Bradley Beal
SF: Corey Kispert
PF: Deni Avdija
C: Kristaps Porziņģis – 5:33 PM
Janis Carr @janiscarr
Zubac has a career-high 19 rebounds and there’s still more than 19 minutes left in the game. – 5:30 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Career high 19 rebounds for Ivica Zubac. – 5:28 PM
Chase Hughes @ChaseHughesNBCS
Monte Morris will return tonight against the Celtics but Kyle Kuzma, Rui Hachimura and Johnny Davis are all OUT, the Wizards announced. – 5:19 PM
Josh Robbins @JoshuaBRobbins
Monté Morris will be available to play tonight after he missed the last three games because of right ankle soreness, the Wizards said. Johnny Davis (right groin soreness), Rui Hachimura (right ankle soreness) and Kyle Kuzma (lower back pain) will NOT play. – 5:18 PM
Eurohoops @Eurohoopsnet
Per @ClippersPR Ivica Zubac is the first Clipper to have at least 15 points and 15 rebounds at halftime since DeAndre Jordan on 3/21/18 at Milwaukee. pic.twitter.com/SKZcCaf3Uy – 5:15 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Clippers lost yet another second quarter, but for the first time in three games, they lead at halftime, 59-57.
Zubac has 16/15/3 blocks at half, but LA played better with him off the floor. Mann playing complete game. Powell scoring off bench.
Batum might drop 30 in 2nd half😂 – 5:10 PM
Tony East @TEastNBA
Pacers down 59-57 at the half. Jalen Smith keeping the Pacers in it with 19 points and 6 rebounds, and Tyrese Haliburton had 10 points and 8 assists. But it’s the Clippers, and Zubac’s 16 points and 15 rebounds, that have the lead. – 5:09 PM
Scott Agness @ScottAgness
Not a good half, yet the Pacers are down just two, 59-57, after Buddy Hield sinks a reverse layup as the half expires.
Both teams shooting 45%. Zubac up to 16/15. Smith leads all with 19/6 and Haliburton has 10/8a.
Difference is LAC having their way on the boards + paint points – 5:08 PM
Mirjam Swanson @MirjamSwanson
Damn, Zu. 16 points and 15 rebounds in 17 minutes already vs. Myles Turner and Indiana? Monster numbers for a nice guy. Happy for him – 5:03 PM
Scott Agness @ScottAgness
Jalen Smith is off to the best game in his young career. Already 17pts, two shy of his career-high. He’s getting more minutes, too, because of Turner’s foul trouble.
Pacers still haven’t solved the Zubac Problem (16/15). – 5:01 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Jalen Smith finally missed a 3, an airball, and Zubac raised his arms like Christ the Redeemer — as if to say “finally” – 4:57 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
No Jayson Tatum for the Celtics tonight.
Rui Hachimura, Kyle Kuzma and Monte Morris all remain gametime decisions for the Wizards. – 4:48 PM
Neil Dalal @NeilDalal96
All of the Wizards questionable at Celtics are game-time decisions, per Wes Unseld Jr.
– Kyle Kuzma (low back pain)
– Rui Hachimura (right ankle soreness)
– Monte Morris (right ankle soreness)
– Johnny Davis (right groin soreness) – 4:38 PM
Scott Agness @ScottAgness
The first quarter was the Ivica Zubac show. The Clippers’ center has 14-9-2b and they’ve scored 26 of 35pts in the paint.
Pacers, down 35-29, need to get a handle of their inside defense.
Jalen Smith has 10pts, Haliburton with 3/7a. – 4:38 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Ivica Zubac is out here looking like Shaq. Already up to 12 points, 7 rebounds, 2 blocks.
Previous two games, Zubac COMBINED for 14 points, 14 rebounds, 1 block. We know Ty Lue said something lol.
LA leads Pacers 19-18 with 4:35 left in first quarter. – 4:26 PM
Tony East @TEastNBA
Zubac has been ridiculous for the Clippers – 4:25 PM
Janis Carr @janiscarr
Good thing Zubac is in there. He’s keeping the Clippers afloat with his putbacks and dunks. He is 6 of 7 with 12 pts and 7 rebs – 4:24 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Four dunks already in this game, two from Ivica Zubac (should be five, Twin smoked a layup with Zubac screening Turner for him).
Pacers up 16-12 with 6:34 left in opening quarter. Told @bellikemike that 115 points will be needed to win this game. – 4:19 PM
Ohm Youngmisuk @NotoriousOHM
Clippers-Pacers starters
LAC
Amir Coffey
Marcus Morris Sr.
Ivica Zubac
Terance Mann
Reggie Jackson
IND
Buddy Hield
Jalen Smith
Myles Turner
Aaron Nesmith
Tyrese Haliburton – 3:50 PM
Kyle Kuzma @kylekuzma
UConn Iowa on ESPN 🔥🔥 – 2:04 PM
Chris Miller @cmillsnbcs
Jayson Tatum is OUT vs. Wizards (left ankle sprain). Kyle Kuzma, Rui Hachimura, Monte Morris, Johnny Davis are listed as questionable. – 12:12 PM
Chase Hughes @ChaseHughesNBCS
While the Wizards have key rotation players Kuzma, Morris and Hachimura questionable for tonight, they are playing the Celtics without Jayson Tatum and Robert Williams. Both teams are banged up. – 10:36 AM
Chase Hughes @ChaseHughesNBCS
With Kyle Kuzma now added to the injury report, a look at how the Wizards’ depth has been tested recently and how injuries have compounded their struggling bench. ift.tt/y5i2v93 – 10:30 AM
Ava Wallace @avarwallace
Kyle Kuzma joins the Wizards’ ever-growing injury report; he’s questionable tonight in Boston with low back pain.
Also questionable:
Monte Morris (ankle)
Rui Hachimura (ankle)
Johnny Davis (groin) – 9:41 AM
Josh Robbins @JoshuaBRobbins
The Wizards have added Kyle Kuzma to their injury report because of lower back pain, listing him as questionable to play tonight in Boston. Also questionable: Johnny Davis (right groin soreness), Rui Hachimura (right ankle soreness) and Monté Morris (right ankle soreness). – 9:40 AM

More on this storyline

NBA Central: Ivica Zubac today: 31 points 29 rebounds 3 blocks 14/17 FG pic.twitter.com/XFjsivCMzy -via Twitter @TheNBACentral / November 27, 2022
Kyle Kuzma: We would of repeat if we were healthy -via Twitter @kylekuzma / November 27, 2022
Chase Hughes: Kyle Kuzma is now questionable for tonight’s Wizards-Celtics game with lower back pain, per the team. Morris, Hachimura and Davis are also questionable. -via Twitter @ChaseHughesNBCS / November 27, 2022

Chris Paul remains out against Sacramento

Gerald Bourguet: Chris Paul (right heel soreness) remains out for tomorrow’s game against the Kings. Nobody new on the Suns’ injury report Source: Twitter @GeraldBourguet What’s the buzz on Twitter? Duane Rankin @ DuaneRankin #Suns update: Chris …

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
#Suns update: Chris Paul (heel) will miss 10th straight game Monday at Sacramento azcentral.com/story/sports/n… via @azcentral – 8:29 PM
Jason Anderson @JandersonSacBee
The Phoenix Suns have ruled Chris Paul (heel) Cameron Johnson (meniscus) and Jae Crowder (not with team) out for Monday’s game against the Sacramento Kings. – 8:07 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Chris Paul (heel) OUT Monday at #Kings. #Suns – 7:22 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Same injury report for the Suns. No Chris Paul, Jae Crowder or Cam Johnson against the Kings tomorrow night in Sacramento. – 7:13 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Chris Paul (right heel soreness) remains out for tomorrow’s game against the Kings. Nobody new on the Suns’ injury report – 7:12 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Huge Deandre Ayton offensive board seals win.
#Suns 113 #Jazz 112 Final.
Watch Chris Paul and Devin Booker get in his face afterward.
Ayton line: 29 points (7-of-9 FTs) and 20 boards (all season highs). pic.twitter.com/4iDI6H1rlk – 11:21 PM

Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Booker’s gonna get the CP3 mini rest here with 6:36 to go. Suns up 4. – 10:59 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Monty Williams before the game on the next steps for Chris Paul to return from the sore right heel that’s kept him sidelined for 8 straight games now: pic.twitter.com/k8OQgHp7BU – 8:33 PM

Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Chris Paul (heel) out, Landry Shamet (concussion protocol) probable tonight vs. #Jazz. #Suns azcentral.com/story/sports/n… – 4:21 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Landry Shamet (concussion protocol) PROBABLE, Chris Paul (heel) OUT. #Suns – 2:32 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Landry Shamet has been upgraded to probable for tonight’s Suns game against the Jazz after missing the last seven due to concussion protocol.
Chris Paul, Cam Johnson and Jae Crowder remain out for Phoenix. – 2:20 PM
Brandon Rahbar @BrandonRahbar
OKC has a history of scorers they could give the ball to in tight games to go get a game-winning bucket:
Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, James Harden, Paul George, Chris Paul.
And now Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. – 11:13 PM
Stefan Bondy @SBondyNYDN
Welcome to Adam Silver’s NBA. In just the last week, the Knicks have played the Nuggets without Jokic, the Suns without Chris Paul and now the Blazers without Dame Lillard. – 7:26 PM

More on this storyline

Lauri Markkanen listed as questionable against Chicago

Andy Larsen: Lauri Markkanen is listed as questionable vs. Chicago tomorrow due to a left knee contusion. Source: Twitter @andyblarsen What’s the buzz on Twitter? Eric Walden @ tribjazz Jazz injury report. Lauri Markkanen sustained his knee …

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Eric Walden @tribjazz
Jazz injury report. Lauri Markkanen sustained his knee contusion when he hit knees with Deandre Ayton in the second quarter on Saturday night. pic.twitter.com/Lry4cEyLQY – 6:29 PM

Tony Jones @Tjonesonthenba
Lauri Markkanen suffered a knee contusion last night against Phoenix when he collided with DeAndre Ayton in the second quarter. He is questionable for tomorrow night against the Chicago Bulls – 6:26 PM
Ryan Miller @millerjryan
Lauri Markkanen is questionable tomorrow with a right knee contusion.
He sustained the contusion when he hit knees with Deandre Ayton in the second quarter of last night’s game. – 6:26 PM
Ben Anderson @BensHoops
The @Utah Jazz injury report vs. @Chicago Bulls:
QUESTIONABLE – Lauri Markkanen
(knee contusion)
QUESTIONABLE – Leandro Bolmaro (concussion protocol)
OUT – Mike Conley (strain left leg)
OUT – Rudy Gay (MCP joint sprain)
OUT – Johnny Juzang (wrist sprain)
OUT – Micah Potter – 6:25 PM
Sarah Todd @NBASarah
Lauri Markkanen has been added to the Jazz injury report and is questionable for tomorrow’s game at home against the Bulls with a right knee contusion – 6:24 PM
Andy Larsen @andyblarsen
Lauri Markkanen is listed as questionable vs. Chicago tomorrow due to a right knee contusion. – 6:24 PM
Andy Larsen @andyblarsen
Lauri Markkanen is listed as questionable vs. Chicago tomorrow due to a left knee contusion. – 6:24 PM
Andy Larsen @andyblarsen
Jazz up 54-51 at the half.
Weird one: Devin Booker is just 3-13. Lauri Markkanen is 0-6. But everyone else for both teams shooting pretty well. Sexton turned it on at the end of 2Q for 11p, Clarkson has 12p. – 10:04 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Landry Shamet was working his ass off to defend that Lauri Markkanen post-up and drew the offensive foul. He’s been so surprisingly good on the defensive end since he arrived in Phoenix – 9:51 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Lauri Markkanen and Deandre Ayton might have bumped knees on that last play. They were both slow to get back down the court, but they’re staying in. DA looks a little hobbled though – 9:47 PM
Sarah Todd @NBASarah
Lauri Markkanen comes away from that drive limping a little favoring the left knee, but looks like he’s kind of run it off – 9:47 PM
Tony Jones @Tjonesonthenba
The Jazz doing a nice job of creating switch mismatches with Lauri Markkanen and then playing out of them. Have gotten some nice looks – 9:32 PM

More on this storyline

Utah has so far signaled an intent to keep breakout star forward Lauri Markkanen plus franchise favorite Jordan Clarkson, and have established a high asking price for Jarred Vanderbilt, sources told Yahoo Sports, leaving Malik Beasley and Kelly Olynyk, along with Conley, as the obvious veterans the Jazz could move before the Feb. 9 trade deadline. Olynyk is known to be a favorite of Ainge. -via Yahoo! Sports / November 23, 2022

CJ McCollum remains out against OKC

Christian Clark: Lengthy injury report for tomorrow’s game against OKC: Naji Marshall (non-COVID illness), Larry Nance Jr. (right shoulder soreness) questionable Brandon Ingram (left toe) doubtful CJ McCollum (health and safety protocols) out …

Christian Clark: Lengthy injury report for tomorrow’s game against OKC: Naji Marshall (non-COVID illness), Larry Nance Jr. (right shoulder soreness) questionable Brandon Ingram (left toe) doubtful CJ McCollum (health and safety protocols) out

Source: Twitter @cclark_13

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Christian Clark @cclark_13
Lengthy injury report for tomorrow’s game against OKC:
Naji Marshall (non-COVID illness), Larry Nance Jr. (right shoulder soreness) questionable
Brandon Ingram (left toe) doubtful
CJ McCollum (health and safety protocols) out – 5:42 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
A few new names on the Pels’ injury list:
Naji Marshall (non-COVID illness) is questionable
Larry Nance (right shoulder soreness) is questionable
Brandon Ingram (left great toe contusion) is doubtful
CJ McCollum (health and safety protocols) is out – 5:41 PM
Andrew Lopez @_Andrew_Lopez
Tomorrow’s injury report for the Pelicans:
– Brandon Ingram; doubtful (left big toe contusion)
– Larry Nance; questionable (right shoulder soreness)
– Naji Marshalll questionable (non-COVID illness)
CJ McCollum remains in health and safety protocols. – 5:39 PM
Jim Eichenhofer @Jim_Eichenhofer
#Pelicans injury list expands with Naji Marshall, Larry Nance questionable; Brandon Ingram doubtful; CJ McCollum out for Monday’s home game vs. Oklahoma City. @MorrisBartLLC injury report: https://t.co/eOzm0PmGeI pic.twitter.com/nm4KKDcYiu – 5:37 PM

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Marc J. Spears: Pelicans star @CJ McCollum announces his new McCollum Heritage 91 2020 Chardonnay, in partnership with Adelsheim Vineyard. This release marks the first official Chardonnay offering from the brand. McCollum talks his latest wine & much more in @andscape https://t.co/kUAcMAu9Ov #nba pic.twitter.com/cwLxfSclpq -via Twitter @MarcJSpears / November 25, 2022
CJ McCollum: Naturally, things started to come back. But I feel like s— and I’m playing like s—. Thankfully my wife and son didn’t get sick. It was rough. It felt like I had COVID, but I took COVID tests, and I didn’t have it. We ended up losing a couple games. We lost to the [Portland Trail] Blazers; that’s never fun losing to my old team in a game where Dame [Damian Lillard] and Nurk [Jusuf Nurkic] don’t play at all. We bounced back nicely winning a tough back-to-back. We’re playing well as a team. Young guys are playing really, really well. I’m really proud of the growth that they’re showing. Even when I wasn’t playing well, we were able to win games. -via Andscape / November 24, 2022

Kyle Kuzma says Lakers would have repeated in 2020-21 if they were healthy

Kyle Kuzma: We would of repeat if we were healthy Source: Twitter @kylekuzma What’s the buzz on Twitter? Sean Grande @ SeanGrandePBP Wizards at Celtics – TD Garden – Nov. 27, 2022 – Starters Boston – Smart, White, Brown, Horford, G. Williams …

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Sean Grande @SeanGrandePBP
Wizards at Celtics – TD Garden – Nov. 27, 2022 – Starters
Boston – Smart, White, Brown, Horford, G. Williams
Washington – Monte Morris, Bradley Beal. Corey Kispert, Deni Avdija, Kristaps Porzingis
OUT: Boston: Tatum, R. Williams, Gallinari Washington: Kuzma, Wright, Hachimura pic.twitter.com/XMEEYSRnsI – 5:37 PM

Ava Wallace @avarwallace
Wiz starters in Boston with Kyle Kuzma (low back pain) OUT and Monte Morris (ankle soreness) returning:
Morris
Beal
Kispert
Avdija
Porzingis
@kareemcopeland is on the scene for this one! – 5:35 PM
Josh Robbins @JoshuaBRobbins
With Kyle Kuzma out because of lower back pain, the Wizards will shift Deni Avdija to power forward in the starting lineup. From the team, its starters will be:
PG: Monté Morris
SG: Bradley Beal
SF: Corey Kispert
PF: Deni Avdija
C: Kristaps Porziņģis – 5:33 PM
Chase Hughes @ChaseHughesNBCS
Monte Morris will return tonight against the Celtics but Kyle Kuzma, Rui Hachimura and Johnny Davis are all OUT, the Wizards announced. – 5:19 PM
Josh Robbins @JoshuaBRobbins
Monté Morris will be available to play tonight after he missed the last three games because of right ankle soreness, the Wizards said. Johnny Davis (right groin soreness), Rui Hachimura (right ankle soreness) and Kyle Kuzma (lower back pain) will NOT play. – 5:18 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
No Jayson Tatum for the Celtics tonight.
Rui Hachimura, Kyle Kuzma and Monte Morris all remain gametime decisions for the Wizards. – 4:48 PM
Neil Dalal @NeilDalal96
All of the Wizards questionable at Celtics are game-time decisions, per Wes Unseld Jr.
– Kyle Kuzma (low back pain)
– Rui Hachimura (right ankle soreness)
– Monte Morris (right ankle soreness)
– Johnny Davis (right groin soreness) – 4:38 PM
Kyle Kuzma @kylekuzma
UConn Iowa on ESPN 🔥🔥 – 2:04 PM
Chris Miller @cmillsnbcs
Jayson Tatum is OUT vs. Wizards (left ankle sprain). Kyle Kuzma, Rui Hachimura, Monte Morris, Johnny Davis are listed as questionable. – 12:12 PM
Chase Hughes @ChaseHughesNBCS
While the Wizards have key rotation players Kuzma, Morris and Hachimura questionable for tonight, they are playing the Celtics without Jayson Tatum and Robert Williams. Both teams are banged up. – 10:36 AM
Chase Hughes @ChaseHughesNBCS
With Kyle Kuzma now added to the injury report, a look at how the Wizards’ depth has been tested recently and how injuries have compounded their struggling bench. ift.tt/y5i2v93 – 10:30 AM
Ava Wallace @avarwallace
Kyle Kuzma joins the Wizards’ ever-growing injury report; he’s questionable tonight in Boston with low back pain.
Also questionable:
Monte Morris (ankle)
Rui Hachimura (ankle)
Johnny Davis (groin) – 9:41 AM
Josh Robbins @JoshuaBRobbins
The Wizards have added Kyle Kuzma to their injury report because of lower back pain, listing him as questionable to play tonight in Boston. Also questionable: Johnny Davis (right groin soreness), Rui Hachimura (right ankle soreness) and Monté Morris (right ankle soreness). – 9:40 AM
Kyle Kuzma @kylekuzma
Them wolverines 👀👀👀 – 9:14 PM

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Chase Hughes: Kyle Kuzma is now questionable for tonight’s Wizards-Celtics game with lower back pain, per the team. Morris, Hachimura and Davis are also questionable. -via Twitter @ChaseHughesNBCS / November 27, 2022
Chase Hughes: Kyle Kuzma says the Wizards need to bring back their Gilbert Arenas era gold jerseys next. “Oh man, I was pleading for it. I love those. I think those are ill for sure. These ones we have now are by far the best, but that’s gotta come next.” pic.twitter.com/R95GPswZzk -via Twitter @ChaseHughesNBCS / November 19, 2022

Patrick Williams: I’m starting to feel like I have what it takes to be a superstar

As often happens with a player known on the Chicago Bulls for his self-reflection, the conversation quickly broadened. “I told you I was going to figure it out. I think I’m still figuring it out. But I’m 100 percent locked in on being the player …

As often happens with a player known on the Chicago Bulls for his self-reflection, the conversation quickly broadened. “I told you I was going to figure it out. I think I’m still figuring it out. But I’m 100 percent locked in on being the player that I want to be,” Patrick Williams said following Sunday’s practice at the Advocate Center. “I always felt I had what it took to be a really good player in this league. But now I’m starting to feel like I have what it takes to be a star and a superstar in this league. I’m kind of trying to take that role on and build on it day-by-day. “I think it’s definitely a team effort. Guys have been telling me this since my rookie year and before that since high school and college. Kind of trying to take it in my own mind now and show that on the court.”

Source: K.C. Johnson @ NBC Sports

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

KC Johnson @KCJHoop
“I always felt I had what it took to be a really good player. But now I’m starting to feel like I have what it takes to be a star.”
A question about Patrick Williams’ improved 3-pt shooting led to something deeper at Sunday’s practice.
For @NBCSChicago: nbcsports.com/chicago/bulls/… – 2:44 PM
Rylan Stiles @Rylan_Stiles
There it is, the Lu Dort drawn offensive foul. He gets an illegal screen called on Patrick Williams. – 10:34 PM
Julia Poe @byjuliapoe
Sure it hasn’t been as flashy as fans probably wanted, but Patrick Williams has been making steady progress these last few weeks. That coast-to-coast trip just one example. – 8:18 PM

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“I think I started out in a slump, and I got myself out of that. Obviously, the coaching staff and talking to my teammates definitely helped. But I think I got myself out of that just mentally,” Williams said. “That’s definitely hard to do in this league, especially when you don’t know how you’re going to play game-to-game. So I just tried to take it in my own hands and say if anybody is going to get me out of this, it’s going to be me. -via NBC Sports / November 27, 2022

TJ Warren targeting Dec. 2 return

Shams Charania: Just in – Target season debut set for Brooklyn Nets forward TJ Warren, who last played in December 2020: Dec. 2 vs. Toronto. Source: Twitter @ShamsCharania What’s the buzz on Twitter? Emiliano Carchia @ Sportando TJ Warren set to …

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Emiliano Carchia @Sportando
TJ Warren set to debut with Nets next Friday sportando.basketball/en/tj-warren-s… – 11:15 AM
Sam Quinn @SamQuinnCBS
The TJ Warren news is a good reminder that the NBA gave awards for eight seeding games in the bubble. pic.twitter.com/gsLeezloOM – 10:48 AM

Shams Charania @ShamsCharania
Just in — Target season debut set for Brooklyn Nets forward TJ Warren, who last played in December 2020: instagram.com/reel/CleBgPkgL… – 10:18 AM
Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
Yuta Watanabe and TJ Warren are both out for the Nets tomorrow against Portland. – 3:00 PM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
A couple notes from Vaughn pregame: TJ Warren has started to get some 5-on-5 work in against a combo of coaches and players, but it remains unclear when he’ll make his debut. Yuta Watanabe (hamstring) is progressing in his rehab but it remains to be seen if he’ll return Sunday. – 6:45 PM

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Kristian Winfield: Yuta Watanabe (right hamstring strain) is out tomorrow against the Indiana Pacers, as are TJ Warren (foot) and Alondes Williams (G-League assignment. #Nets #NBA #NetsWorld -via Twitter @Krisplashed / November 24, 2022