Category: Main Rumors

Hawks keeping an eye on Josh Hart?

Josh Hart is also a player to keep an eye on, thanks to his team-friendly contract, which is non-guaranteed next season, as noted on our Pelicans salary page. Some teams have liked him from afar. One of those teams is Atlanta. Source: Michael Scotto …

Josh Hart is also a player to keep an eye on, thanks to his team-friendly contract, which is non-guaranteed next season, as noted on our Pelicans salary page. Some teams have liked him from afar. One of those teams is Atlanta.

Source: Michael Scotto @ HoopsHype

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Jim Eichenhofer @Jim_Eichenhofer
Willie Green on Josh Hart (left knee contusion) being out tonight at Detroit: “He got banged up (in the Cleveland game). He’ll continue to take it day-to-day. That’s how it’s been with his knee.” – 5:37 PM
Christian Clark @cclark_13
Josh Hart will miss tonight’s game in Detroit with a left knee contusion. Brandon Ingram still listed as questionable. – 12:36 PM
Andrew Lopez @_Andrew_Lopez
Pelicans say Brandon Ingram is questionable for tonight’s game while Josh Hart will sit with a left knee contusion. pic.twitter.com/O5pS295S0x – 12:34 PM

Jim Eichenhofer @Jim_Eichenhofer
Brandon Ingram questionable, Josh Hart out for Tuesday’s game at Detroit. #Pelicans injury report via @MorrisBartLLC: https://t.co/1I17dgJe6i pic.twitter.com/0xuE1bWkO8 – 12:33 PM

Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Pelicans starters tonight:
Devonte’ Graham
Josh Hart
Herb Jones
Jaxson Hayes
Jonas Valanciunas
Jaxson at the 4 minutes 👀 – 6:28 PM
Christian Clark @cclark_13
Pels going with a jumbo lineup. Starters:
Devonte’ Graham
Josh Hart
Herb Jones
Jaxson Hayes
Jonas Valanciunas – 6:26 PM
Christian Clark @cclark_13
Pelicans say Josh Hart and Jonas Valanciunas will play tonight. – 6:21 PM
Jim Eichenhofer @Jim_Eichenhofer
Josh Hart and Jonas Valanciunas are available to play tonight at Cleveland – 6:21 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Brandon Ingram will be out again tonight vs. Cleveland, per Willie Green.
Jonas Valanciunas and Josh Hart will go through their warmups before their status is determined for tonight. – 5:33 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
Brandon Ingram is OUT tonight against the Cavaliers, per Willie Green.
Jonas Valanciunas and Josh Hart remain game-time decisions. – 5:33 PM
Josh Hart @joshhart
So what’s up with the Cool Cat pets? What time are holders able to mint? Are we able to mint 1 pet per Cool Cat? – 10:00 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Brandon Ingram (right ankle sprain), Jonas Valanciunas (non-COVID illness) and Josh Hart (left knee sprain) are all questionable for tomorrow’s game in Cleveland, per the Pelicans. – 4:30 PM
Keith Smith @KeithSmithNBA
I don’t know how many other centers in the NBA can do what Rob Williams does here. Action starts with a PnR where Williams steps up to contest Devonte’ Graham at the arc. After the pass, Josh Hart thinks he has a floater. Rob has other thoughts. Block and shot-clock violation. pic.twitter.com/5DEQYz7P9I – 10:41 AM

More on this storyline

The Pelicans could make a strong offer for some of the top names available in this year’s trade deadline. They hold the sixth-worst offense in the league and could use a scoring boost if they’re trying to make a push for the play-in tournament. For example, they could make an offer consisting of Josh Hart, draft picks, and salary filler for scoring guards such as CJ McCollum or Buddy Hield. An additional ball-dominant scoring threat could help them in late-game situations. -via HoopsHype / January 25, 2022
Michael Scotto: Also, the Pelicans and Josh Hart. A lot of executives thought when he signed his contract that it was designed to be traded. He’s a guy I can see getting some value around the league due to his defensive ability and knowing himself as a role player. Yossi Gozlan: Hart’s contract is very unique. It’s got multiple non-guaranteed years, and one of those years also has an option. -via HoopsHype / December 1, 2021

Donte DiVincenzo getting a lot of trade interest

Donte DiVincenzo has drawn considerable trade interest from teams around the league, sources told HoopsHype. Milwaukee isn’t going to move him unless they get a good young player or someone that’s going to help them win this season. Source: Michael …

Donte DiVincenzo has drawn considerable trade interest from teams around the league, sources told HoopsHype. Milwaukee isn’t going to move him unless they get a good young player or someone that’s going to help them win this season.

Source: Michael Scotto @ HoopsHype

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Eric Nehm @eric_nehm
Bucks up, 48-33, after Donte DiVincenzo finds Pat Connaughton in the corner for a 3.
Neither team shooting it well, but the Bucks have a solid lead. – 8:21 PM
Kane Pitman @KanePitman
Donte DiVincenzo starting to find a rhythm the last week or so. He’s back to doing ‘Donte stuff’. It’s almost like 7 months off basketball might require a little patience to shake the rust off. – 8:21 PM
Christos Tsaltas @Tsaltas46
The 36 point home loss against the Nuggets was a slap in the face like for the Bucks. The reigning champs know pretty well how to react after nights like these and Donte DiVincenzo sets the tone ahead of the game vs Wizards.
#FearTheDeer sdna.gr/mpasket/928866… – 3:53 PM
Eric Nehm @eric_nehm
Donte DiVincenzo’s answer about trade rumors caught me by surprise.
“And if a trade happens? I went through a trade! I experienced that. ‘Hey, you’ve been traded.’ I’ve got that call.” (He was referencing the Bogdanovic move.)
More at @TheAthletic: theathletic.com/3097200/2022/0… – 11:36 AM
Eric Nehm @eric_nehm
As Donte DiVincenzo hobbled off the court, he told his coach not to worry.
“Goran stepped on my foot. I gotta get it taped up.” – @Donte DiVincenzo
But nobody stepped on his foot. He was out for seven months.
At @TheAthletic, we talked about the journey back:theathletic.com/3097200/2022/0… – 6:08 PM
Eric Nehm @eric_nehm
A lot has happened since Donte DiVincenzo tore a ligament in his left foot eight months ago. And we talked about all of it.
The injury, the frustration, the debut of “Coach Donte”, contract negotiations, and his return to the court.
At @TheAthletic: theathletic.com/3097200/2022/0… – 3:00 PM
Eric Nehm @eric_nehm
Donte DiVincenzo thought he stepped on someone’s foot last May. A lot has happened since then.
In a 1-on-1 conversation at @TheAthletic, we discussed it all — the injury, trade rumors, finding his rhythm and more.
“I control my own destiny” – @Donte DiVincenzo theathletic.com/3097200/2022/0… – 12:06 PM

More on this storyline

Doc Rivers on Ben Simmons’ situation: ‘It’s all posturing’

“It’s all posturing. That’s why you haven’t heard me – I don’t get involved in all that stuff. I’ll leave that up to the front office and Ben’s camp. I’m staying out of that part. But, listen, some of this stuff I laugh at and I feel bad. I think …

“It’s all posturing. That’s why you haven’t heard me – I don’t get involved in all that stuff. I’ll leave that up to the front office and Ben’s camp. I’m staying out of that part. But, listen, some of this stuff I laugh at and I feel bad. I think Ben’s a good kid. I want Ben to do well.”

Source: Tom Moore @ Bucks County Courier-Times

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Tom Moore @TomMoorePhilly
#Sixers story: Doc Rivers on Ben Simmons: ‘There’s nobody that’s been more supportive than me. I have a tape someone sent me of almost an hour of me over and over (praising him)’ https://t.co/AEvTyXJF9g #NBA pic.twitter.com/eyzPBpV9NM – 10:10 PM

KC Johnson @KCJHoop
Heat lose at Toronto, their 3rd straight L.
Bulls can lead East outright—and improve Billy Donovan’s chances to coach All-Star game—with a victory.
76ers coach Doc Rivers, whose team trails Bulls by 1/2-game and visits Sunday, isn’t eligible because he coached last yr – 9:57 PM
Noah Levick @NoahLevick
No surprises here: Tyrese Maxey is officially one of 12 sophomore players chosen for the Rising Stars Challenge by NBA assistant coaches.
Maxey’s the first Rising Star selection for the Sixers since Ben Simmons in 2019. – 7:15 PM
Kurt Helin @basketballtalk
Report: Ben Simmons ignored Doc Rivers’ calls and texts, frustrated that 76ers coach didn’t visit anyway nba.nbcsports.com/2022/02/01/rep… – 6:00 PM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
Andre Drummond has proven himself to be a solid free agency pickup. Doc Rivers is feeling lucky to have him on the roster. #Sixers sixerswire.usatoday.com/2022/02/01/doc… via @SixersWire – 4:36 PM
CBS NBA @CBSSportsNBA
Ben Simmons remains at impasse with 76ers, will forfeit $32 million if he sits out full season, per report
cbssports.com/nba/news/ben-s… – 3:15 PM
Tom Moore @TomMoorePhilly
Exclusive #NBA story on Doc Rivers’ reaction to the latest from the #Sixers’ Ben Simmons: ‘Some of this stuff I laugh at … The people that can’t (handle the truth) probably don’t handle me well. And I don’t lose an ounce of sleep over it’ https://t.co/awaUELQT1V #76ersPreview pic.twitter.com/YJQhpTkA4E – 3:13 PM

Sam Quinn @SamQuinnCBS
It’s February, so screw it, let’s make some trade deadline predictions.
Won’t get traded: Ben Simmons, Jerami Grant, Harrison Barnes, any notable Pacers.
Will get traded: C.J. McCollum (Pelicans), Eric Gordon (Cavs), John Collins (destination unclear), Kenrich Williams (Bulls). – 2:28 PM
Jake Madison @NOLAJake
The source on the Ben Simmons piece is very clearly Klutch and even they are like look we tried to get Ben to listen and he wouldn’t.
Ignoring all the texts and calls and then being upset someone doesn’t show up is just Ben not getting it. – 2:24 PM
The Vertical @YahooSportsNBA
Ben Simmons has been fined $19 million by the 76ers so far this season.
Simmons could lose another $12 million if he refuses to play this year.
➡️ https://t.co/60K9cfgcZN pic.twitter.com/GUhocTJ2hj – 2:01 PM

Sopan Deb @SopanDeb
So Ben Simmons is upset that Doc Rivers didn’t show up unannounced to a gym he worked out at after ignoring several of Doc’s entreaties?
https://t.co/HtxuDuI8We pic.twitter.com/ve0rbyckDC – 12:24 PM

Kurt Helin @basketballtalk
Report: 76ers have fined Ben Simmons more than $19M – and counting nba.nbcsports.com/2022/02/01/rep… – 12:14 PM
Kyle Neubeck @KyleNeubeck
Every time people around Ben Simmons try to tell his side of the story, they only end up showing they don’t understand the problem at hand phillyvoice.com/ben-simmons-la… – 12:08 PM
Ramona Shelburne @ramonashelburne
Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers are stuck in a moment. espn.com/nba/insider/in… – 11:51 AM
Emiliano Carchia @Sportando
Ben Simmons reportedly fined $19 million since season started sportando.basketball/en/ben-simmons… – 11:45 AM
Jon Johnson @jonjohnsonwip
Correct me of I’m wrong, but didn’t Ben Simmons have the second worst +/- in the Raptors series, while Joel Embiid had by far the best?
And Ben’s stat line was nothing to gloat about. – 11:40 AM
Jon Johnson @jonjohnsonwip
Would like to thank Ben Simmons. If not for his thin skin, being incredibly selfish, the Sixers would not know what they have in Tyrese Maxey. – 10:25 AM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
There was a controversial non-call on Seth Curry at the end of the 4th which caused Doc Rivers to get a technical foul. He and the team react to what happened in the win at home. #Sixers sixerswire.usatoday.com/2022/01/31/doc… via @SixersWire – 11:34 PM
Gina Mizell @ginamizell
Doc Rivers on Ja Morant’s unreal finishes: “I kept telling our guys, ‘Don’t overreact. His two points seem like they’re more than two.’ And we talked about that at halftime, like, ‘OK, I know it’s an amazing shot, but I swear to God he only gets two points for them.'” – 10:30 PM
Justin Grasso @JGrasso_
Tyrese Maxey says Doc Rivers reminded the team this morning that the #Grizzlies bullied the #Sixers the last time they played each other. So they were really motivated to get back at them tonight – 10:01 PM
Tom Moore @TomMoorePhilly
#Sixers coach Doc Rivers: ‘Any win without your best player is important with any team.’ – 9:51 PM
Tom Moore @TomMoorePhilly
#Sixers coach Doc Rivers: ‘I hate getting a tech there (at the end of regulation).’ – 9:51 PM
Noah Levick @NoahLevick
Doc Rivers: “Lot of grit. … It’s a good group. The guys like each other.” – 9:50 PM
Lauren Rosen @LaurenMRosen
Doc Rivers on this @Philadelphia 76ers team:
“Guys like each other. They like playing with each other. It’s a good group. They like each other.” – 9:50 PM
Kyle Neubeck @KyleNeubeck
Doc Rivers on whether he saw these sort of games coming for Maxey looking at things last offseason: “I don’t know. I know one thing: Tyrese, downhill, against anybody” – 9:50 PM
Lauren Rosen @LaurenMRosen
Doc Rivers on @Tyrese Maxey tonight:
“I know one thing:
Tyrese downhill, against anybody.” – 9:49 PM
Tom Moore @TomMoorePhilly
#Sixers coach Doc Rivers: ‘We felt good about our chances to get downhill tonight.’ Tyrese Maxey led the way on they department – 9:48 PM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
Doc Rivers says this was the best passing game for Tyrese Maxey today. He had 8 assists on the night with his 33 points. #Sixers – 9:46 PM
Rob Perez @WorldWideWob
only Doc Rivers could start an overtime down by a point. – 9:30 PM
Kyle Neubeck @KyleNeubeck
Doc Rivers just drew a tech for his reaction to the no-call on Seth Curry to end regulation – 9:22 PM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
Doc Rivers is irate over no foul call there on the Seth Curry shot. He’s still yelling at the official. Game is going to overtime tied at 111. #Sixers – 9:20 PM
Tom Moore @TomMoorePhilly
Doc Rivers isn’t too pleased with Andre Drummond (14 points, 19 rebounds, 5 assists). Talked to him coming off court during timeout. #Sixers – 9:06 PM
Joe Mullinax @sbnGrizzlies
5-0 run to start the quarter and Doc Rivers calls timeout just 56 seconds in with the game tied – 8:24 PM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
#Sixers coach Doc Rivers on what determined that tonight’s game vs. #Memphis would be a planned rest day for Joel Embiid: “I really don’t get that much involved in it, to be honest with you. They come and present their calendar…. – 6:04 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Doc Rivers compared the Grizzlies to the Cincinnati Bengals. That’s becoming a popular comparison. – 5:57 PM
Lauren Rosen @LaurenMRosen
Doc Rivers on Joel Embiid’s Eastern Conference Player of the Week selection:
“Not surprised. He deserves it. Hopefully there’s many more.” – 5:25 PM
Tom Moore @TomMoorePhilly
#Sixers coach Doc Rivers: The #Grizzlies ‘remind you a little of the #Bengals). They’re brash.’ – 5:24 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Doc Rivers said the 2021-22 Grizzlies remind him of the Grit-and-Grind era teams.
“It’s the athletic version of what they had before. A lot of tough guys.” – 5:23 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Doc Rivers said the Grizzlies “kind of remind you of the Bengals.” – 5:23 PM
Tom Moore @TomMoorePhilly
#Sixers coach Doc Rivers: Center Andre Drummond’s penchant for trying risky passes comes from ‘irrational confidence.’ – 5:22 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Doc Rivers on resting Joel Embiid today:
“They thought this was the right day with the amount of rest we can get him, so that’s why they did.” – 5:20 PM
Tom Moore @TomMoorePhilly
#Sixers coach Doc Rivers: ‘(Sports science people) pointed to this game’ for Joel Embiid to rest tonight. Furkan Korkmaz is out. – 5:20 PM
Justin Grasso @JGrasso_
Furkan Korkmaz is out tonight, per Doc Rivers #Sixers – 5:19 PM
Noah Levick @NoahLevick
Furkan Korkmaz (left knee soreness) is out, Doc Rivers says. – 5:19 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
Jay Scrubb getting the Doc Rivers x rookie T Mann end of quarter tribute seconds – 1:41 PM

More on this storyline

Rivers learned Tuesday from a story by ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, citing sources close to the Sixers’ embattled Ben Simmons, that Simmons is “frustrated that Rivers didn’t come to see him while he was training in Los Angeles” despite ignoring numerous text messages and calls from Rivers, as well as telling some of his Philadelphia teammates not to fly out to talk to him. “That’s the first time I’ve ever heard that,” Rivers told the Bucks County Courier Times, part of the USA TODAY Network, on Tuesday afternoon. “There’s nobody that’s been more supportive than me. I have a tape someone sent me of almost an hour of me over and over (praising Simmons). You heard me last year every day. -via Bucks County Courier-Times / February 2, 2022
“I feel pretty good, and I don’t think we’ve played our best basketball yet. We still got a long way to go. We’re missing guys here and there that could really help us. There’s really no urgency to change anything. I think we got everything we need. We’re gonna keep on going and I’m happy.” -via ESPN / January 15, 2022

Kyrie Irving on Net’s Big Three: ‘We think about the long term and how well we gel together as a trio’

Michael Scotto: Kyrie Irving on how often he, Kevin Durant and James Harden haven’t played together: “I hate that I even have to answer that question. We think about it daily. It’s not something that’s short-sighted for us. We think about the long …

Michael Scotto: Kyrie Irving on how often he, Kevin Durant and James Harden haven’t played together: “I hate that I even have to answer that question. We think about it daily. It’s not something that’s short-sighted for us. We think about the long term and how well we gel together as a trio.”

Source: Twitter @MikeAScotto

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
“My body is weird.” Mikal Bridges when asked about how he plays so many minutes, guards guys like James Harden and Kyrie Irving and still score a season-high 27. #Suns pic.twitter.com/afla1zuunt – 2:06 AM

Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Kyrie: “I think James said it last year, there’s not a lot of teams that could be out on the floor with us that can match up very well with us. That’s just the confidence we have in one another when all three of us are healthy and we’re playing at a high level …” – 1:57 AM
Dave Early @DavidEarly
“Man, honestly, I hate that I even have to answer that question. We think about it daily. It’s not something that is shortsighted for us. We think about the long-term and how well we gel together as a trio.”
-Kyrie Irving says he, Durant and Harden have some “long-term” visions. pic.twitter.com/NsNYeEWy1h – 1:34 AM

Michael Scotto @MikeAScotto
Kyrie Irving on how often he, Kevin Durant and James Harden haven’t played together: “I hate that I even have to answer that question. We think about it daily. It’s not something that’s short-sighted for us. We think about the long term and how well we gel together as a trio.” pic.twitter.com/IQKoswdpqu – 1:33 AM

Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Kyrie says he thinks about the fact that the Nets’ big three hasn’t been together much “daily.” He’s hopeful that the pieces will come together at the right time later in the season for his team. – 1:26 AM
Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
Final: Suns beat the Nets 121-111. The losing streak is five, the longest in Steve Nash’s year and a half in Brooklyn. Kyrie Irving tried to rally the Nets and Blake Griffin was a pleasant surprise. The Suns are scary. BK heads to Sacramento tomorrow night. See you there. – 12:28 AM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Harden finishes 6-for-19 from the field for 22 points in 37 minutes. Kyrie finishes 10-for-20 from the field for 26 points in 37 minutes. Quick turnaround given Kings game is tomorrow night. – 12:27 AM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Nets waving the white flag taking Kyrie Irving and James Harden out. Surprised they wouldn’t keep Kyrie in and give him a shot or two – 12:25 AM
Dave Mason @DeuceMason
CP3 and Kyrie are too fun to watch tonight. – 12:07 AM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Kyrie Irving.
Again. – 12:05 AM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
What was a dozen-point deficit is now down to 95-92. Kyrie Irving has led the #Nets rally, with seven of his 22 points in the first 2:25 of the fourth quarter. – 12:03 AM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
That Kyrie Irving.
Up to 22. #Suns lead down to three, but #Nets have gotten back into this with the 3 ball.
15-of-35. Have four players who have hit three 3s. Harden, Irving, Mills and Edwards.
Aren’t turning the ball over either. Haven’t had one since halftime. – 12:02 AM
Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
Suns lead the Nets 95-92. Kyrie Irving up to 22 points. BK continues to hang in there. Need to be careful on defense with the Suns already in the bonus. – 12:01 AM
Kristian Winfield @Krisplashed
Here’s the game: Kyrie Irving is 6-of-14 and James Harden is 6-of-17.
Meanwhile Devin Booker’s up to 30, Mikal Bridges has 18 on 8/12 FG and Cam Johnson’s got 16 off the bench for the Suns. Nets need their stars to deliver in the fourth to seal the deal. – 11:55 PM
Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
End of the third quarter: Suns lead the Nets 91-82. Blake Griffin just hit a 3…and then got a T. Tough shooting night from Harden and Kyrie. – 11:51 PM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
The Nets took a 70-69 lead after a Patty Mills three with 7:17 left in third. Since then the Suns have been on a 19-6 run. Kyrie and Harden are a combined 11-for-29 from the field. – 11:46 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Bridges got that pass in the corner so DA could get the ball and he wasn’t in position to seal off Irving. Rhythm just hasn’t been there with that part of the offense tonight – 11:31 PM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
Kessler Edwards just hit his third 3 of the night. #Suns coach Monty Williams on what he’s seen in the #Nets rookie: “Just his energy, his ability to knock down shots from catch-shot environment. All these guys they’ve integrated have learned how to play with James & Kyrie.” – 11:29 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Irving beating #Suns down floor for layup. #Suns lead down to 2. – 11:28 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
#Suns 65 #Nets 58 Half
PHX: Booker 18 (14 in 1st), Bridges 14, Johnson 13 (3-of-6 from 3). Team: 57.5% FG (6-of-13 on 3s), 13-of-16 FTs.
BKN: Harden 15, Irving 9. Team: 50% FG (9-of-22 3PTs), 9-of-15 FTs.
Ties 2. Lead changes: 5
Nets 7 turnovers led to 11 Phoenix points – 11:26 PM
Chris Haynes @ChrisBHaynes
My @NBAonTNT report on Kyrie Irving and the New York vaccine mandate with a response from the office of NY mayor Eric Adams. pic.twitter.com/PAn0642Gip – 11:22 PM

Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
Halftime: Suns lead the Nets 65-58. Chris Paul just went coast-to-coast to beat the buzzer for a layup. He’s got nine points, 10 dimes. Nets have stayed within striking distance but haven’t narrowed really threatened. Need a guy not named Kyrie or Harden to get hot. – 11:11 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Irving got downhill a bit too quickly on that last PnR with Griffin. Could have slowed it down with some hesitation moves, a jab step perhaps. – 11:04 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Nine of the 10 players on the court right now I believe were first round picks.
Johnson, Bridges, Booker, Paul and Ayton for #Suns
Irving, Griffin, Harden, Bembry for #Nets .
Edwards 2nd round. – 11:01 PM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Harden has 15 in 16 minutes. The hand looks fine — he’s moving around well on the hamstring. The Nets desperately need him to stay healthy and help Kyrie offensively during the rest of this trip. – 10:55 PM
Anthony Puccio @APOOCH
Kyrie is a wizard
🎥 @YESNetwork pic.twitter.com/fquzGxZzFD – 10:33 PM

Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
When Chauncey Billups was talking about Kyrie being a wizard with the ball a couple weeks back — he was talking about sequences just like that one. – 10:32 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Kyrie has the ball on a string, but #Suns up eight as Johnson hits 3 answer of Mills 3 off Irving pass. – 10:31 PM
Kristian Winfield @Krisplashed
Kyrie Irving has a knack for turning nothing into something. – 10:31 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Irving 3. #Suns up 30-24. – 10:28 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Paul over Kyrie.
Thomas answers.
#Suns up seven as Bridges hits 3. #Suns 10-of-11 from the field. – 10:19 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Bridges on Harden, Booker on Kyrie and Paul is playing safety. #Suns #Nets – 10:07 PM
Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Irving on Paul
Harden on Booker
Bridges on Harden
Booker on Irving
Crowder on Mills
Both teams switching a lot early. – 10:06 PM
Duane Rankin @DuaneRankin
Crowder opens with 3 on 1st shot.
Irving answers with 3.
Tie game. #Suns #Nets – 10:06 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Boos for Kyrie Irving during starting intros. Loud cheers for Steve Nash – 10:01 PM
Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
Nets starters in Phoenix: Harden, Irving, Mills, Edwards and Claxton. – 9:40 PM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
Harden, Irving, Mills, Edwards and Claxton will start for the #Nets tonight vs the #Suns. – 9:31 PM
Kristian Winfield @Krisplashed
James Harden, Kyrie Irving, Patty Mills, Kessler Edwards and Nic Claxton are your Nets starters tonight against the Suns. – 9:31 PM
Dave Early @DavidEarly
“We’ve haven’t had a run of availability for 18 months so we’re just used to always having different guys in and out of the lineup. [Kyrie Irving is] about as easy a guy to fit into a a team as there is.”
-Steve Nash on Kyrie Irving’s part time status and continuity. – 8:59 PM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Monty Williams on Kyrie: “He’s just a shifty, unreal scorer. One of the toughest covers in the league.” – 8:19 PM
NBA Kicks @NBAKicks
👀 @Kyrie Irving warms up for TNT action in a Nike Kyrie 1 in Phoenix! #NBAKicks pic.twitter.com/zgSjtwgB5y – 7:46 PM

Kellan Olson @KellanOlson
Nets numbers in the 5 road games since KD’s injury
Kyrie Irving (5 GP): 28.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 6.4 APG, 2.6 TPG, 1.2 SPG, 50.9 FG%, 38.9 3P%, 95.0 FT%
James Harden (4 GP): 22.5 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 10.8 APG, 5.3 TPG, 0.8 SPG, 41.4 FG%, 33.3 3P%, 78.1 FT% – 4:13 PM

More on this storyline

Meanwhile, other teams are concerned that Sixers executive Daryl Morey is tampering with Harden like they believed he did in his run with the Houston Rockets to acquire Chris Paul. Paul had a player option heading into the 2017-18 offseason with the Los Angeles Clippers. -via Bleacher Report / February 1, 2022
Chris Haynes: There’s another player we’re going to add to this dynamic. Michael Rubin. For those who don’t know, the Sixers co-owner is very, very, very good friends with James Harden. And I’ve been talking to a rival owner, talking to rival front office executives, who believe that there can be some talk going on now between both sides. -via Spotify / January 28, 2022
Chris Haynes: Some front office executives are prepared to… when the time comes, if a deal does look like is about to transpire where there could be some potential sign-and-trade in the offseason… They’re prepared to get the league involved on a potential collusion case dating back to what they what they believe could be going on right now, you know as to why we’re probably hearing a lot of Philadelphia, James Harden talk. I was told there will be complaints issued to the league on try to investigate to see if there was any collusion. -via Spotify / January 28, 2022

Gary Trent Jr. would like to take part in three-point contest

Josh Lewenberg: Gary Trent Jr. says he would be interested in competing in the 3-point contest at all-star if the league calls and asks. Source: Twitter @JLew1050 What’s the buzz on Twitter? Josh Lewenberg @ JLew1050 “He’s a rock star in every sense …

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Josh Lewenberg @JLew1050
“He’s a rock star in every sense of the word.”
On Gary Trent Jr., who’s in one hell of a groove and is continuing to establish himself as a foundational piece for the Raptors: https://t.co/nGeSQR0IF1 pic.twitter.com/8w9hEOngKD – 12:25 AM

Michael Grange @michaelgrange
“He’s not in the flow. He is the flow. He is his own flow.” — Fred VanVleet on the Gary Trent Jr. experience. – 11:14 PM
Josh Lewenberg @JLew1050
Fred VanVleet on Gary Trent Jr.: “He’s a rockstar in every sense of the word… He’s not in the flow. He is the flow. He’s his own flow.” pic.twitter.com/YRCiMMP0kD – 10:48 PM

Michael Grange @michaelgrange
Lots of big moments for Gary Trent Jr. He ties DeMar DeRozan with five straight games of 30+ points. He also came to media room with a Prada woolen hoodie and — sadly not pictured — a red Prada basketball. The ultimate accessory when you’re on fire. pic.twitter.com/cf09n7TsaR – 10:31 PM

Eric Koreen @ekoreen
Gary Trent was wearing a Prada basketball as an accessory. – 10:28 PM
Josh Lewenberg @JLew1050
Gary Trent Jr. says he would be interested in competing in the 3-point contest at all-star if the league calls and asks. – 10:26 PM
Micah Adams @MicahAdams13
Gary Trent Jr. 30-point games
Last 5 games: 5
1st 174 career games: 4
That’s now tied with DeMar DeRozan for the most consecutive 30-point games in Raptors history. – 10:23 PM
Tas Melas @TasMelas
With all these consecutive 30+ point performances, Gary Trent is putting up Joel Embiid-like numbers. – 10:01 PM
Michael Grange @michaelgrange
If your Dad is as big as Gary Trent Jr. Dad, you can probably feel comfortably talking trash to PJ Tucker. Otherwise, maybe not advisable. – 9:42 PM
Wes Goldberg @wcgoldberg
Gary Trent Jr. vs the Heat 👉👈 Michael Jordan – 9:41 PM
StatMuse @statmuse
Players in NBA history with 30+ points and 5+ threes in 5 straight games:
Stephen Curry
James Harden
Damian Lillard
Gary Trent Jr. pic.twitter.com/JEOgHNVcyr – 9:40 PM

Quinton Mayo @RealQuintonMayo
GARY TRENT JR IS COOKIN MY GOODNESS
AND HES BARKING AT PJ – 9:40 PM
Josh Lewenberg @JLew1050
Gary Trent Jr. has scored 30+ points in 5 straight games, matching the longest streak in Raptors franchise history (initially set by DeMar DeRozan in 2016). – 9:39 PM
Josh Lewenberg @JLew1050
Raptors’ defensive energy focus just hasn’t been there. Heat’s FG% has come down slightly, but they’re shooting 58%. The still red-hot Gary Trent is keeping ’em in it. He’s got 17 points on 7-12 FG. Everybody else shooting 41%. Miami by 12 at the half. – 8:34 PM
Michael Gallagher @MikeSGallagher
Talking some of the 2020 class going off last night, Isaiah Jackson busting out, Gary Trent Jr. rolling, lots of ball-handlers missing Monday’s action, some letdowns, and more in NBA 3 Ball.
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/est… – 9:45 AM
Michael Grange @michaelgrange
The Raptors hoped this is the version of Gary Trent Jr. they were signing in the off-season and lately the rising star at shooting guard has erased all doubt: https://t.co/KoMgOltqyL pic.twitter.com/9CduaDXWc9 – 8:26 AM

More on this storyline

Anthony Edwards: ‘In five years, I want to be the face of the league and have a couple of MVPs’

Edwards’ long-term goals are, in a word, lofty. Without any hesitation, he tells me he wants to be the face of the league in five years. He wants to be a multiple-time MVP and have an NBA championship ring. Outside of Kevin Garnett and his MVP …

Edwards’ long-term goals are, in a word, lofty. Without any hesitation, he tells me he wants to be the face of the league in five years. He wants to be a multiple-time MVP and have an NBA championship ring. Outside of Kevin Garnett and his MVP season, those are feats that no one in the Minnesota Timberwolves organization has ever accomplished. “I want to be an All-Star. I want to go deep in the playoffs, definitely past the first round. In five years, I want to be the face of the league and have a couple of MVPs by then and have a ring. In five years, I would expect to go to the Finals for sure,” Edwards says.

Source: Jason Dumas @ Bleacher Report

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

The Ringer @ringernba
Anthony Edwards’s biggest fan is none other than @Ryen Russillo. #TheMismatch
Presented by @FDSportsbook. pic.twitter.com/yOgeAf7keC – 10:50 PM

Jon Krawczynski @JonKrawczynski
The Wolves have defeated the Nuggets by at least 10 points in consecutive games for the first time since 2001.
An observant follower points out to me: the year Anthony Edwards was born – 10:23 PM
Christopher Hine @ChristopherHine
Anthony Edwards has just five points, D’Angelo Russell is out and the Wolves are beating Denver by 27. – 10:11 PM
Dane Moore @DaneMooreNBA
Chris Finch has been going to late-quarter offense-defense subs a lot lately.
Noteworthy: Anthony Edwards is never subbed out for a defensive replacement – 9:07 PM
Marc J. Spears @MarcJSpears
So how good “can your favorite player’s favorite player” be?” Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards tells @TheUndefeated, “I can be as good as anyone.” More on the rising T-Wolves star who yearns to be a 2022 #NBA All-Star here: bit.ly/3AREFzV – 7:44 PM
Rod Beard @detnewsRodBeard
#Pistons get two players on the sophomore team for NBA Rising Stars:
Precious Achiuwa
Saddiq Bey
Jaden McDaniels
Isaac Okoro
Isaiah Stewart
Jae’Sean Tate
Cole Anthony
Desmond Bane
LaMelo Ball
Anthony Edwards
Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Maxey – 7:19 PM
Kevin O’Connor @KevinOConnorNBA
New Mismatch with @Chris Vernon on NBA Crunch Time, MAXEY, Steph going off, Verno’s all-star reserve picks. Then @Ryen Russillo joins to discuss the Hawks, players we wanna see traded, Anthony Edwards, Tom Brady, and more. @ringer @ringernba
open.spotify.com/episode/0EtaAH… – 5:29 PM
The Ringer @ringernba
🏀 The debut of ‘NBA CrunchTime’
🏀 Predicting the remaining All-Stars
🏀 Anthony Edwards and reconsidering the Tatum-Brown duo with @Ryen Russillo
#TheMismatch with @Chris Vernon and @Kevin O’Connor: open.spotify.com/episode/0EtaAH… – 5:09 PM
Christos Tsaltas @Tsaltas46
The Timberwolves are creating a winning mindset team. The way they bounced back showed it.
“We love to see eachother s success”, Anthony Edwards said and that quote means a lot about team’s mood. #RaisedByWolves
Story at @SdnaGr sdna.gr/mpasket/928313… – 11:12 AM
Jon Krawczynski @JonKrawczynski
Anthony Edwards:
“I think we’re starting to love to see each other succeed. In the beginning of the season it was always ‘I want to do this, I want to do that.’ We’re starting to become a real team now and be excited for each other and I’m loving that.” – 12:34 AM
Dane Moore @DaneMooreNBA
A confident Anthony Edwards after tonight’s win:
“Every team we gon’ play is in trouble now cuz I got my guy TP playing good, Beas playin’ good, Jaden gettin’ his swag, Jaylen Nowell gettin buckets. Everybody is doing what they supposed to do, so every team is in trouble now.” – 11:45 PM
Dane Moore @DaneMooreNBA
Anthony Edwards again tonight brought up his knees hurting after the game. Sounds more like a fatigue thing, not an actual injury. But maybe something to note, as he’s brought it up multiple times lately. – 11:44 PM
Dane Moore @DaneMooreNBA
Anthony Edwards on KAT: “I was telling him he’s just too good, and they can’t stop him. 10 for 17, 30 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists. He can do that every night if you ask me. You can’t stop him. Put a small on him, a big on him, you can’t guard him, at all. He’s just that good” – 11:41 PM
Dane Moore @DaneMooreNBA
Anthony Edwards on Jaden McDaniels, who made all nine of the shots he took tonight:
“He’s like himself. He’s definitely getting all his confidence back, getting his swag back, and that’s what we need.” – 11:39 PM
Dane Moore @DaneMooreNBA
They key to the win tonight, according to Anthony Edwards: “J-Mac changed the game for us – Jordan McLaughlin, however you pronounce his last name. Yeah, he changed the game for us.”
McLaughlin started in place of DLo, made both 3s he took, had 12 points, 4 assists, 4 steals. – 11:38 PM
Dane Moore @DaneMooreNBA
Anthony Edwards was informed during his presser that the Nuggets (the Wolves’ next opponent) beat the Bucks today. His response: “We beat the Bucks, too.”
Ant said the key to beating the Nuggets is “locking up number 15” – 11:14 PM
Dane Moore @DaneMooreNBA
Jordan McLaughlin gets the start tonight. McLaughlin has a positive net rating with two teammates this season: Anthony Edwards and Greg Monroe pic.twitter.com/21xJ8z5X0X – 8:09 PM

More on this storyline

As for the big man himself, when asked what would mean more to him — Cameroon triumphing at AFCON or Embiid winning MVP — he smiles. “That’s tough! I want both — both would be great! “It would have been a better question if you were to ask me between Cameroon winning or me winning a championship!” Asked then which he would prefer, Embiid said, “Both would be great, like I said, I’m a competitor — I want to win.” -via CNN / January 29, 2022
Less than 2 weeks after being a 50-1 longshot to win NBA MVP, Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Joel Embiid is now the favorite (+260) at Caesars Sportsbook. Embiid, listed at 50-1 on January 16, is in the midst of a 16-game stretch in which he is averaging 34 points and 10 rebounds per game. The Sixers big man vaulted former MVPs Stephen Curry (+300) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (+325) in the last few days. Denver Nuggets All-NBA big man and last season’s MVP Nikola Jokic has the fourth-best odds at +400 while Memphis Grizzlies rising star Ja Morant is fifth at +1400. -via ESPN / January 29, 2022
Harrison Wind: Steve Nash on Nikola Jokic: “He’s an MVP for a reason. He’s incredible.” -via Twitter @HarrisonWind / January 26, 2022

Dirk Nowitzki kind of regrets playing final two seasons with the Mavs

Dirk Nowitzki has massive problems with his left ankle, which has already had to be operated on. “My foot is really bad, there are days when I don’t move well at all. I’m thinking… Have the last two years (with Dallas) really been worth it? We …

Dirk Nowitzki has massive problems with his left ankle, which has already had to be operated on. “My foot is really bad, there are days when I don’t move well at all. I’m thinking… Have the last two years (with Dallas) really been worth it? We haven’t achieved anything as a team, that’s going through my head a bit.” But it’s also “damn” difficult to find the right time to end your career.

Source: DER SPIEGEL @ Der Spiegel

More on this storyline

LaMelo Ball, Evan Mobley, Scoot Henderson selected for 2021-22 Rising Stars Challenge

Shams Charania: 2021-22 Rising Stars rosters at NBA All-Star weekend in Cleveland: pic.twitter.com/YiWHtRg0ju Source: Twitter @ShamsCharania What’s the buzz on Twitter? Rod Beard @ detnewsRodBeard #Pistons get two players on the sophomore team for …

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Rod Beard @detnewsRodBeard
#Pistons get two players on the sophomore team for NBA Rising Stars:
Precious Achiuwa
Saddiq Bey
Jaden McDaniels
Isaac Okoro
Isaiah Stewart
Jae’Sean Tate
Cole Anthony
Desmond Bane
LaMelo Ball
Anthony Edwards
Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Maxey – 7:19 PM
Kelsey Russo @kelseyyrusso
#Cavs will have two players for Rising Stars at All-Star Weekend in Cleveland.
Evan Mobley was selected as one of 12 rookies for Rising Star.
Isaac Okoro was one of 12 sophomores selected. – 7:18 PM
Chris Fedor @ChrisFedor
#Cavs Isaac Okoro will be joining Evan Mobley as part of the Rising Stars. Okoro was one of 12 sophomores selected. – 7:17 PM
Rod Boone @rodboone
LaMelo Ball has been selected to participate in the 2022 Clorox Rising Stars in Cleveland. – 7:16 PM
Chris Fedor @ChrisFedor
#Cavs Evan Mobley will be part of NBA All-Star Weekend in Cleveland. He has been selected as one of 12 rookies for the Rising Stars. – 7:16 PM
Jake Madison @NOLAJake
Locked on Pelicans is live!
🏀 Jaxson Hayes outplay Evan Mobley
🏀 Should Jax be playing more at the 4?
🏀 Why is Trey Murphy not playing?
🎧 https://t.co/BETlDzTh35
Watch on YouTube!
📺 https://t.co/4DBESaga40 pic.twitter.com/4NtTXut5o9 – 3:30 PM

Jake Madison @NOLAJake
Locked on Pelicans is live!
🏀 Jaxson Hayes outplay Evan Mobley
🏀 Should Jax be playing more at the 4?
🏀 Why is Trey Murphy not playing?
🎧 https://t.co/BETlDzTh35
Watch on YouTube!
📺 https://t.co/4DBESaga40 pic.twitter.com/7w6TZXVqef – 12:59 PM

Jake Madison @NOLAJake
Locked on Pelicans is live!
🏀 Jaxson Hayes outplay Evan Mobley
🏀 Should Jax be playing more at the 4?
🏀 Why is Trey Murphy not playing?
🎧 https://t.co/BETlDzTh35
Watch on YouTube!
📺 https://t.co/4DBESaga40 pic.twitter.com/PIpy3tXLZu – 11:30 AM

Jake Madison @NOLAJake
Locked on Pelicans is live!
🏀 Jaxson Hayes outplay Evan Mobley
🏀 Should Jax be playing more at the 4?
🏀 Why is Trey Murphy not playing?
🎧 https://t.co/BETlDzTh35
Watch on YouTube!
📺 https://t.co/4DBESaga40 pic.twitter.com/xGK1pW9Awy – 9:16 AM

Tim MacMahon @espn_macmahon
Per @ESPNStatsInfo, list of NBA teens with 500 points, 200 rebounds and 200 assists in first 45 career games:
LeBron James
Luka Doncic
LaMelo Ball
Josh Giddey – 11:32 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
Battle at starting power forward in Pelicans 93-90 loss to Cavaliers
Jaxson Hayes:
19 points
7 rebounds
3 blocks
1 three
9-10 FGA
Evan Mobley:
4 points
5 rebounds
2 assists
1 steal
3 blocks
1-7 FGA – 9:31 PM
Kelsey Russo @kelseyyrusso
#Cavs starting lineup tonight against the Pelicans: Cedi Osman, Isaac Okoro, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen – 6:32 PM
Sirius XM NBA @SiriusXMNBA
“[Mobley] is doing it all while helping his team win.”
@Amin Elhassan tells @Rick Kamla why Evan Mobley is his pick for Rookie of the Year. pic.twitter.com/G3xfz5CqMC – 5:14 PM

James Boyd @RomeovilleKid
Well, this game got so out of hand that the #Pacers actually made history for all of the wrong reasons. LaMelo Ball and Co. were dominant as the #Hornets scored 158 points in this win! My full 📸 gallery here —> https://t.co/ZSy3rwZD7D pic.twitter.com/awrcZRBINB – 1:07 PM

NBA Math @NBA_Math
RPR ROY Predictor standings, determined by our Rolling Player Ratings and team success:
1. Scottie Barnes: 5.4
2. Evan Mobley: 5.29
3. Franz Wagner: 4.86
4. Herbert Jones: 3.48
5. Josh Giddey: 3.45
6. Cade Cunningham: 3.38
7. Chris Duarte: 2.94
8. Omer Yurtseven: 2.24 pic.twitter.com/yrzDCtQYuY – 10:10 AM

James Edwards III @JLEdwardsIII
Sunday’s matchup between the Pistons & Cavs was a look at the NBA’s future. @Kelsey Russo and I had a discussion about Cade Cunningham and Evan Mobley as the game played out. It started with how damn good Mobley is, and ended with how special Cade is:
theathletic.com/3101885/2022/0… – 9:02 AM
Brad Botkin @bradbotkincbs
2020 NBA Draft turning out to be a monster.
Lottery: Edwards, LaMelo, Patrick Williams, Okoro, Okongwu, Toppin, Avdija, Vassell, Haliburton
Mid to late first round: Cole Anthony, Bey, Maxey, Quickley, McDaniels, Bane
Wiseman still a wild card. – 11:20 PM
James Edwards III @JLEdwardsIII
Sunday’s matchup between the Pistons & Cavs was a look at the league’s future. @Kelsey Russo and I had a discussion about Cade Cunningham and Evan Mobley as the game played out. It started with how damn good Mobley is, and ended with how special Cade is:
theathletic.com/3101885/2022/0… – 9:37 PM
Omari Sanfoka II @omarisankofa
Asked Cade about going against Mobley, and if that’s something he thought about: “I knew that would be one of the narratives of the game, but I try not to focus in on that kind of thing too much. I can’t play Evan Mobley’s game, and Evan Mobley can’t play my game better than me.” – 9:00 PM
Chris Fedor @ChrisFedor
#Cavs Evan Mobley doesn’t have many weaknesses. But free throws haven’t been great. – 7:48 PM
Kelsey Russo @kelseyyrusso
At the half, #Cavs lead the Pistons 55-49. Cavs shot 47.8% from the field and 33.3% from 3 in the first half.
Darius Garland has 14 pts and 4 assists. He scored 12 of his 14 pts in the second quarter. Evan Mobley has 9 pts and 6 rebounds. Cade Cunningham has not scored yet. – 7:20 PM
Vincent Goodwill @VinceGoodwill
Evan Mobley just pulled off a 19-foot step back against tough defense…
He’s gonna be the freaking boogeyman – 6:44 PM
Chris Fedor @ChrisFedor
#Cavs lead the Pistons, 29-24, at the end of the first quarter. Pistons went to the bench early, following Cleveland’s 15-0 start. The Pistons bench scored 21 of their 24 points in the first quarter. Evan Mobley led the Cavs with 7 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists. – 6:40 PM
Kelsey Russo @kelseyyrusso
At the end of the first, #Cavs lead the Pistons 29-24 after Evan Mobley made 1 of his free throws. Cavs had a 15-0 run through the first 4 minutes of the game. Cavs shot 13-of-27 (48.1%) from the field and 1-of-7 (14.3%) from 3.
Mobley with a team-high 7 points and 4 rebounds. – 6:38 PM
Chris Fedor @ChrisFedor
Evan Mobley is ridiculous. – 6:31 PM
Omari Sanfoka II @omarisankofa
Casey isn’t surprised by Evan Mobley’s season. “You saw what he’s doing now and he’s still not a finished product. He hasn’t stretched the floor like he will be able to. Strength is a factor, he will grow into his body … he has every skill that you look for in a big man.” – 4:27 PM
Rod Boone @rodboone
Final: Clippers 115, #Hornets 90
LaMelo 23 pts, 10 ast, 6 rebs
Miles Bridges 18 pts, 9 rebs
Up next: at Boston on Wednesday – 3:24 PM
Rod Boone @rodboone
Halftime: Clippers 51, #Hornets 47
Rough shooting so far for the Hornets. They’ve made 34 percent and it feels worse than that.
Miles Bridges 13 pts, 4 rebs
PJ Washington 10 pts, 5 rebs
LaMelo 9 pts, 5 ast, 4 rebs – 2:07 PM
Law Murray @LawMurrayTheNU
They’re going to review that shot clock violation at a later minute. Close with Plumlee appearing to beat the clock on a possession LaMelo Ball threw it off the glass to no one in particular. – 1:58 PM
James Plowright @British_Buzz
For a team with very little going offensively that quarter I thought LaMelo Ball was fantastic breaking down the Clippers defense – 1:39 PM

More on this storyline

 

Jason Quick: Blazers’ guard Anfernee Simons will not defend his Slam Dunk title, telling @The Athletic “I just wanted to focus on the season” while adding that the title was “more of a checklist accomplishment.” Simons is coming off a January when he averaged 23.1 points and 6.7 assists. -via Twitter @jwquick / February 1, 2022

 

Bradley Beal to be re-evaluated in a week

Shams Charania: Wizards star Bradley Beal will be re-evaluated in one week with his left wrist injury, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Beyond games tonight and Wednesday, one-week evaluation places Beal out Saturday vs. Suns and Monday vs. Heat. …

Shams Charania: Wizards star Bradley Beal will be re-evaluated in one week with his left wrist injury, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Beyond games tonight and Wednesday, one-week evaluation places Beal out Saturday vs. Suns and Monday vs. Heat.

Source: Twitter @ShamsCharania

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Adrian Wojnarowski @wojespn
Washington Wizards All-Star guard Bradley Beal met with a specialist to examine his his injured left wrist in New York today and will be re-evaluated again in approximately a week, sources tell ESPN. Beal has been experiencing swelling and some pain in the wrist. – 6:40 PM
Shams Charania @ShamsCharania
Wizards star Bradley Beal will be re-evaluated in one week with his left wrist injury, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Beyond games tonight and Wednesday, one-week evaluation places Beal out Saturday vs. Suns and Monday vs. Heat. – 6:39 PM
Josh Robbins @JoshuaBRobbins
Experiencing swelling and discomfort his sprained left wrist, Bradley Beal was scheduled to visit a specialist today for an additional examination, coach Wes Unseld Jr. said. – 6:10 PM
Chase Hughes @ChaseHughesNBCS
Wes Unseld Jr. said the Wizards sent Bradley Beal to see a specialist for his wrist because of continued discomfort. He did not make the trip with the team: “Hopefully we’ll get some good news.” – 6:07 PM
Chase Hughes @ChaseHughesNBCS
Aaron Holiday will start at shooting guard in place of Bradley Beal (L wrist sprain), per Wes Unseld Jr. – 6:02 PM
Josh Robbins @JoshuaBRobbins
Aaron Holiday will start in place of injured Bradley Beal tonight in Milwaukee, Wes Unseld Jr. said. – 6:02 PM
Chris Miller @cmillsnbcs
Aaron Holiday will start for Bradley Beal tonight vs. Bucks – 6:01 PM
Bill Simmons @BillSimmons
The Beal/Simmons trade scenario, broken down with KOC pic.twitter.com/L5zukDOuSV – 2:57 PM

Kurt Helin @basketballtalk
Wizards: Bradley Beal out at least two games with wrist injury nba.nbcsports.com/2022/01/31/wiz… – 7:16 PM

More on this storyline

Anfernee Simons not defending Slam Dunk Contest title

Jason Quick: Blazers’ guard Anfernee Simons will not defend his Slam Dunk title, telling @The Athletic “I just wanted to focus on the season” while adding that the title was “more of a checklist accomplishment.” Simons is coming off a January when …

Jason Quick: Blazers’ guard Anfernee Simons will not defend his Slam Dunk title, telling @The Athletic “I just wanted to focus on the season” while adding that the title was “more of a checklist accomplishment.” Simons is coming off a January when he averaged 23.1 points and 6.7 assists.

Source: Twitter @jwquick

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Jason Quick @jwquick
Blazers’ guard Anfernee Simons will not defend his Slam Dunk title, telling @The Athletic “I just wanted to focus on the season” while adding that the title was “more of a checklist accomplishment.” Simons is coming off a January when he averaged 23.1 points and 6.7 assists. – 6:28 PM
Brandon Rahbar @BrandonRahbar
OKC started Lu Dort, Derrick Favors and three rookies and beat a Blazers team starting CJ McCollum, Robert Covington, Jusuf Nurkic, Anfernee Simons and Norman Powell by 17 points. pic.twitter.com/lwlgKhO6ld – 10:11 PM
Joe Mussatto @joe_mussatto
Thunder showing respect for Anfernee Simons by putting Dort on him. Wiggins has McCollum. – 8:24 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Bulls 130, Blazers 116: FINAL. 29 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists for @CJ McCollum. 22 points, 4 rebounds for @Norman Powell. 21 points, 6 assists for @Anfernee Simons. 11 points, 7 rebounds for @Robert Covington. 11 points, 4 rebounds for @bosnianbeast27. – 5:38 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Bulls 104, Blazers 92: end of third quarter. 22 points, 4 rebounds for @Norman Powell. 20 points, 4 rebounds/assists for @CJ McCollum. 17 points, 6 assists for @Anfernee Simons. 11 apiece for @Jusuf Nurkic and @Robert Covington. – 5:12 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Bulls 73, Blazers 65: halftime. 17 points, 1 rebound/assist for @Norman Powell. 16 points, 4 assists for @CJ McCollum. 14 points, 4 assists for @Anfernee Simons. – 4:30 PM
Casey Holdahl @CHold
Blazers 35, Bulls 29: end of first quarter. 9 points, 4 assists for @CJ McCollum. 8 points, 2 assists for @Anfernee Simons. 3 points, 2 rebounds/assists for @Robert Covington. POR shooting 68 percent, CHI 55 percent. – 4:02 PM

More on this storyline

Shams Charania: Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony is committing to the NBA Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star Weekend in Cleveland, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. At 6-foot-3, Anthony has had some explosive dunks and is having a breakout sophomore season (18 PPG, 6 RPG, 6 APG). -via Twitter @ShamsCharania / January 29, 2022