MORE FROM Yash Matange

On 4-0 road trip, LBJ stars in the clutch for Lakers

Over the last four games, James ranks second in the league in fourth-quarter points and leads the league in fourth-quarter plus-minus as he contributes for nearly 60% of the team's fourth quarter production.

Yash Matange

•

KD set to miss games due to 'health and safety protocols'

The team announced Durant's unavailability for Tuesday's home game against the Utah Jazz but as per reports, he is set to miss the three more games after being placed under the 'health and safety protocols'.

Yash Matange

•

Luka sets multiple all-time records in win at Houston

1000th career assist, first triple-double of the season and 26th of his career. It was all happening for the young Slovenian sensation as he led the Mavericks to a comfortable road victory over the Rockets.

Yash Matange

•

Take note: Paul George is back

It's still early in the 2020-21 season but PG13 is already putting together an impressive and strong bounce-back campaign, one that's reminiscent of his 2018-19 season in Oklahoma City. His most recent performance against the Phoenix Suns is yet another reminder that George belongs among the NBA's elite.

Yash Matange

•

After win in Brooklyn, have Wiz turned the corner?

The Wizards escape Brooklyn with a 123-122 win to improve to 2-5 for the season. Have the team turned the corner with this win or did they catch the slumping Nets, who have now lost four of their last five, at the right time?

Yash Matange

•

In return from mouth laceration, 'Masked Kawhi' dominates

Just five days after needing eight stitches to tend to mouth laceration, the former two-time Finals MVP returned to the court with a mask on, but that didn't seem to bother his game one bit.

Yash Matange

•

Hammon becomes 1st woman to coach NBA game

The Spurs assistant took over the head coaching duties after Gregg Popovich was ejected with 3:56 remaining in the second quarter.

Yash Matange

•

LBJ becomes 1st-ever to historic NBA feat

James achieves this unique feat in his 1270th career regular-season game. He already owns the record for most consecutive double-digit scoring games, a streak that he continues to extend every time he takes the floor.

Yash Matange

•

The keys to Orlando's scorching start

By taking care of business against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, the Orlando Magic remain unbeaten in the young 2020-21 season. What's been the secret to their success? Let's take a closer look.

Yash Matange

•

Jokic making strong early MVP case

Through four games, the Denver Nuggets are 1-3 but their All-Star center Nikola Jokic is off to a MVP-level start averaging 24.5 points, 13.5 assists, and 11.8 rebounds on 62.5% shooting from the field.

Yash Matange

•

Clutch Lillard, red-hot Trent star in Blazers win vs. Lakers

The guard duo combined for 59 points on a supreme efficiency of 20-of-30 shooting from the field and 12-of-21 from beyond the arc, thus ensuring that the Trail Blazers began their 4-game road trip on a winning note.

Yash Matange

•

Jokic makes Nuggets history with monster triple-double

As the Nuggets recorded their first win of the 2020-21season by blowing out the Rockets at home, Nikola Jokic's stat-sheet stuffing triple-double put him alongside some elite company in the franchise's all-time record books.

Yash Matange

•

Morant leaves game vs. Nets with ankle injury

Late in the second quarter of the game against the Nets, Morant injured his left ankle after he seemed to have landed on the opponents' foot while contesting a shot.

Yash Matange

•

Hayward shines in Hornets' upset win vs. Nets

Six Hornets scored in double digits, led by veteran Gordon Hayward, as they registered their first win of the season by defeating the Brooklyn Nets 106-104.

Yash Matange

•

Latest on Kawhi Leonard's facial injury

Leonard left the floor with 6.07 left on the game clock, in the Clippers Christmas Day game against the Nuggets, after taking an accidental elbow from teammate Serge Ibaka.

Yash Matange

•

PG leads balanced offence in big win vs. Nuggets

Kawhi Leonard exited the floor with just over six minutes left in the game, but the Clippers, led by Paul George, hold on to win big in Denver.

Yash Matange

•

Clutch plays seal Suns win over Doncic, Mavs

Luka Doncic scored a game-high 32 points but the Suns, who had six players finish in double figures, came up clutch down the stretch to begin their 2020-21 campaign on a winning note.

Yash Matange

•

Tatum game-winner denies Bucks big comeback win

Even after Tatum's clutch shot, the Greek Freak had a chance to extend the game to overtime but failed to knock his second free-throw, giving the Celtics a 122-121 win.

Yash Matange

•

PG credits offseason for game-winning performance vs. Lakers

His 33-point game-winning performance made George the first Clipper to record three straight 30-point outings against the Lakers since the franchise relocated to Los Angeles in 1984.

Yash Matange

•

Single-game records in season openers

From who has scored the most points to who has blocked the most shots, here are the all-time single-game records in season openers.

Yash Matange

•

Will CP3 addition end Suns drought?

The Suns haven't made the playoffs since 2010, making for the second-longest drought in the league. Can a busy offseason, where they took a huge step towards getting better and deeper, snap that streak?

Yash Matange

•

Biggest storylines from Day 5 of preseason

Just three preseason games were slated for Wednesday but there was plenty of action with the Philadelphia 76ers beginning their preseason with a win, James Harden returning to the Rockets line-up and more. We've got you covered with all the action from Day 5 of preseason.

Yash Matange

•

Report: LiAngelo Ball is 1 of 3 to be waived by Pistons

Nearly a couple of weeks after signing a non-guaranteed one-year deal with the Pistons, middle son LiAngelo Ball is one among three to be cut by the team - as per The Athletic's James Edwards.

Yash Matange

•

Biggest storylines from Day 3 of the preseason

Preseason action continued in the NBA with 12 teams taking the floor on Monday. From the Nets' All-Star duo making their debut to the LA franchises playing the second of their two preseason games, there were plenty of storylines to keep track of. We've got you covered with all the action from Day 3 of preseason.

Yash Matange

•

Kyrie & KD sizzle in Nets preseason debut

Durant played his first game in a Nets jersey, coming off nearly 18 months of no NBA action, and Irving was coming off a 2019-20 season having only played 20 games. Impressively, both stars looked like they hadn't missed a beat in their 2020-21 preseason debut against the Washington Wizards.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: CP3 makes history with epic 20-20 game

Not only was it the first 20-20 game of Paul's career, it was enough to make and break franchise and NBA records.

Yash Matange

•

OTD: Sloan starts legendary stint with Jazz

Sloan took over the reigns as head coach after his predecessor, Frank Layden, resigned. In his 23 years, he led the team to 22 winning seasons and 20 playoff appearances.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: A possible Kobe-CP3 partnership is vetoed

A few days later after Stern's veto Paul was traded to the LA Clippers, thus giving birth to the Lob City era in Los Angeles.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Nash-Kidd duel headlines 2OT thriller

This double-overtime game, which ended with the Phoenix Suns winning 161-157, is tied for the fifth-most (318) combined points scored in NBA history.

Yash Matange

•

LBJ wins SI's Sportsperson of the Year for record 3rd time

Having previously won it in 2012 and 2016, James, who led the work in combating voter suppression while leading the Lakers to the 2020 NBA title as the Finals MVP, becomes the first athlete to win SI's Sportsperson of the Year more than two times.

Yash Matange

•

10 must-see games from first half of schedule

The first half of the NBA's 2020-21 season schedule, which ranges from Dec. 22 to Mar. 4, includes multiple mouth-watering contests. Here's a look at the top 10 games you should not miss. So, mark these down on your calendar.

Yash Matange

•

Will Lakers repeat as champs after major offseason?

Retooled and restocked, the defending champions were clear winners of the 2020 offseason. Can the Lakers validate those big moves and withstand all the pressure to repeat?

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: The epic Kobe-Antawn duel in Oakland

The game was the first time in nearly 38 years and only the third instance (at that time) in NBA history that opposing players each scored at least 50 points in an NBA game.

Yash Matange

•

NBA players react on Twitter to Wall-Westbrook trade

The trade had the NBA buzzing with current and former players sharing their reactions on Twitter:

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Dirk scores 53 in epic duel with T-Mac

This was the first of three 50-point games of Nowitzki's career. It's also a franchise record, one previously held by Jim Jackson and Jamal Mashburn.

Yash Matange

•

Report: Noah 'likely headed towards retirement'

The retirement would end a remarkable 13-year career, highlighted by Noah's years with the Chicago Bulls.

Yash Matange

•

Will Pistons reap the rewards of a busy offseason?

The Pistons were among the busiest teams in the 2020 offseason, the first for new general manager Troy Weaver. Will that translate into more wins this upcoming season?

Yash Matange

•

OTD: Kareem passes Robertson on all-time scoring list

A couple of years later, the six-time league MVP became the highest-scoring player in NBA history when he passed Wilt Chamberlain's total of 31,419 on April 5, 1984.

Yash Matange

•

Report: Evan Turner to join Celtics coaching staff

The No.2 overall pick of the 2010 Draft, Turner is set to join the Celtics as an assistant coach expected to focus on player development.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Harden's masterclass vs. Hawks

Harden's 60 points helped the Houston Rockets blowout the Atlanta Hawks by a margin of 47 points.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Kobe's surprise announcement

Prior to the a Lakers home game against the Indiana Pacers, Bryant's announcement to retire at the end of the season tipped-off one of, if not, the most memorable farewell tours in NBA history.

Yash Matange

•

How the Mavs new pieces fit around Doncic

The Mavericks cut their losses, trading away one of the league's best shooters in Seth Curry in order to improve their defence, especially on the wings. Can their roster for the upcoming 2020-21 season function on-court as well as it fits on paper?

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Rondo's epic assists streak ends

Rondo's 37-game double-digit assists streak, set in the calendar year of 2012, is tied with one by John Stockton for the second-longest in NBA history.

Yash Matange

•

Can Cavs strengthen foundation for the future?

In the six seasons played without LeBron James since 2003, only once have the Cavaliers have finished higher than 13th in the East. If the franchise wants to change that, they need to establish stability and find direction. Can they achieve those key culture traits in the 2020-21 season?

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Harden's 50 saves Rockets

The Beard's season-high tally helped the Rockets save face, escaping with a win against the Philadelphia 76ers squad that was coming into the game having the started the 2015-16 season 0-16.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: 2nd-longest NBA lockout ends

The 2011 lockout was the second-longest in league history, lasting a total of 160 days from Jul. 1 to Dec. 8, 2011.

Yash Matange

•

Can Ball evolve into Hornets' next superstar?

In LaMelo Ball, Charlotte has a young, long, 6'7" point guard who certainly raises the team's floor and has the potential to grow into a franchise cornerstone that the team can build around. Can he make an instant impact by helping the team reach the 2021 playoffs?

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Giannis explodes for record-setting 50 points

The performance, which led the Bucks to a 122-118 win – the team's eighth straight victory – helped Antetokounmpo put his name alongside multiple franchise records.

Yash Matange

•

Report: Kings decline to match Hawks' offer for Bogdan

The Atlanta Hawks had reportedly signed the Serbian guard to a 4-year $72 million offer sheet, one that the Sacramento Kings have reportedly decided to decline just a few hours short of the 48-hour deadline.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Wilt records 50-point, 40-rebound double-double

Chamberlain recorded a double-double of 50 points and 40 rebounds - one of only five 50-40 double-doubles in NBA history, all of which are owned by him.

Yash Matange

•

Report: Former Raptor Ibaka signs with Clippers

According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, the deal includes a player option in the second year. In Los Angeles, Ibaka reunites with Kawhi Leonard, a former teammate of his on the Toronto Raptors' 2019 championship-winning squad.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Chick Hearn's legendary streak begins

In a career that spanned just over four decades, Chick Hearn called an insurmountable 3,388 consecutive Laker games from 1965 to 2001.

Yash Matange

•

Report: Caldwell-Pope returns to LA

The deal, as reported by The Athletic's Shams Charania, is for three years and worth $40 million.

Yash Matange

•

Report: Bertans re-signs with Wizards

Bertans will remain in Washington D.C, as reported by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, on a contract that is among the biggest for a European-based agent.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Shaq's legendary triple-double

This iconic performance is one of only two triple-doubles that O'Neal recorded in a career that spanned 1,423 games.

Yash Matange

•

LeBron, NBA players react to 2020 Draft

Despite the unique virtual circumstances, the Draft was still a special and career-making moment for the prospects selected. And the NBA community - current and former players - tweeted their reactions to the selections.

Yash Matange

•

Bucks select RJ Hampton with No. 24 pick

By drafting the 6'5" guard RJ Hampton, the Bucks have picked the fastest player in 2020 Draft class - one of the many skills the 19-year-old possesses.

Yash Matange

•

Mavs draft Aussie Josh Green with No. 18 pick

With the Mavericks taking Green in the first round with the No. 18 overall pick, he becomes only the eighth Aussie in NBA Draft history to be selected in the first round.

Yash Matange

•

Wizards draft Deni Avdija with No. 9 pick

In Avdija, the Wizards get a 6'9" forward with one of the highest ceilings among all the prospects in the 2020 Draft class.

Yash Matange

•

T-Wolves select Anthony Edwards No. 1 overall

In Edwards, the Timberwolves have selected a 19-year-old whose physique is NBA ready and a young prospect that fits well alongside their young superstar duo of Karl-Anthony Towns and D'Angelo Russell.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: LeBron dominates Heat with 50-piece

It marked the 12th 50-point game of LeBron's career, moving him past Allen Iverson on the all-time leaderboards. The performance was also the first 50-piece by a Laker since Kobe Bryant's career finale, when he dropped 60.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Kemba erupts for 60 points

Walker set a number of franchise records with his red-hot showcase, but it wasn’t quite enough for the Hornets to get the win.

Yash Matange

•

Report: Bucks make big splash with trade for Holiday

According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, the Pelicans will receive George Hill, Eric Bledsoe and multiple draft picks (including multiple swaps) in exchange.

Yash Matange

•

Report: Bogdanovic headlines Kings, Bucks sign-and-trade deal

According to the ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Kings will also ship Justin James to Milwaukee in exchange for the trio of Donte Divincenzo. Ersan Ilyasova and DJ Wilson.

Yash Matange

•

Report: Duncan to step down as Spurs assistant

Three years after his retirement in 2016, Duncan joined Popovich's staff as an assistant in the 2019 offseason. After a year on the bench, he is reportedly set to let go off that role.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: 76ers acquire Butler in stunning trade

Completed nearly two months after Butler had requested a trade from the Timberwolves, the deal saw the five-time All-Star paired in Philadelphia alongside the young star-studded duo of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Dirk passes Hakeem for historic feat

Nowitzki finished his career ranked sixth all-time in scoring with 31,560 points. He passed a number of Hall of Famers along the way, including Hakeem Olajuwon, Elvin Hayes, Moses Malones, Shaquille O'Neal and Wilt Chamberlain.

Yash Matange

•

Austin Spurs name Aussie Matt Nielsen as head coach

Nielsen, who will be the seventh coach in Austin Spurs history, has previously spent a lot of time with the San Antonio franchise. His coaching career began in San Antonio as a player development assistant during the 2014-15 season.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Suns shatter multiple scoring records

Led by Kevin Johnson and Dan Majerle, the Suns tied the NBA record for most points in a non-overtime game in a 30-point win over the Denver Nuggets on Nov. 11, 1990.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: The second-longest game ever

The quintuple-overtime contest is the second-longest game of all-time and the longest in the shot-clock era. Dale Ellis of the Seattle SuperSonics went off for a career-high and set an NBA record with his playing time.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Lillard's first 60-point game

This showcase, which came in a loss, was the first of three 60-point games for Lillard over the course of 2019-20 season - a feat only one other player had previously achieved in NBA history.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Shaq begins legendary NBA career

One of the most dominant players in NBA history, Shaq recorded a double-double of 12 points and 18 rebounds in his first-ever NBA game. It was the first of 68 double-doubles in his rookie season.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Elgin Baylor retires after 14-year career

Just nine games into the 1971-72 season, nagging knee injuries forced Baylor to call curtains on his remarkable NBA career - one that is quite often overlooked.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Robinson and Elliot debut with Spurs

Starters on the franchise's first championship in 1999, Robinson and Elliott are two of 10 players who have had their jersey retired by the Spurs.

Yash Matange

•

Warriors pay tribute to Oakland with new jerseys

The jersey is inspired by the uniforms worn by the team from 1997 to 2010. Oakland played host to all Warriors home games from 1972-96 and 1997-2019 before the franchise moved to the Chase Center in San Francisco.

Yash Matange

•

On This Date: Kobe makes Lakers debut

The late, great Kobe Bryant headlines a number of notable NBA players who played their first game on Nov. 4.

Yash Matange

•

How does Zion's debut compare to Jordan and LBJ

Here's a look at how Zion Williamson's entertaining NBA debut compares to some of the biggest NBA legends including Michael Jordan, LeBron James and Wilt Chamberlain.

Yash Matange

•

Nov. 2, 1990: 'Run TMC' combine for 99 in record game

The trio of Chris Mullin, Tim Hardaway, and Mitch Richmond led from the front, as the Warriors defeated the Nuggets 162-158 - the highest scoring non-overtime game in NBA history.

Yash Matange

•

Can the Lakers run it back?

From which players the Lakers have under contract for next season to which players will be free agents this offseason, both restricted and unrestricted.

Yash Matange

•

OTD: An 'NBA debut' date for multiple HOFs

Nearly 11 NBA legends made their debut on October 22nd, seven of which occurred in 1976, the season after the NBA-ABA merger.

Yash Matange

•

Oct. 20, 1976: 76ers acquire Dr. J from Nets

The NBA-ABA merger forced the reigning ABA Champions in the Nets to trade away their best player in Julius Erving. Find out how and why, and how the deal sparked a revival of the 76ers franchise.

Yash Matange

•

Hawks' Pierce spends day as election worker

Pierce, one of the leading voices among the Hawks organization, worked all day at the Hawks' home arena in an effort to contribute in making voting easier.

Yash Matange

•

OTD: KAJ begins legendary NBA career in 1969

In 1969, Abdul-Jabbar began his Hall of Fame NBA career as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks. Read on more on his debut, his career and other notable events from NBA history on October 18th.

Yash Matange

•

Frank Vogel has silenced his doubters

Reportedly the Lakers' third choice for their head coach hiring process last year, Frank Vogel overcame all such perceptions and doubts by leading the illustrious Los Angeles franchise to their first championship in a decade. Thus, proving his value, redeeming his legacy, and what's more - he and the Lakers aren't done yet.

Yash Matange

•

How the Lakers built their title team

After missing the postseason six straight times, the Los Angeles Lakers ascended to where they belong - owners of the Larry O'Brien trophy. Here's a look at how the franchise orchestrated and completed this incredible turnaround.

Yash Matange

•

Butler, Heat reflect on incredible season

After losing Game 6 and thus, the 2020 NBA Finals, everyone from the Heat who came to the podium looked back at the special brotherhood shared in the locker-room throughout their amazing season.

Yash Matange

•

NBA world reacts to Lakers winning 2020 title

The Lakers, one of the most illustrious and iconic franchises in sports history, clinched their 17th NBA title with a 106-93 Game 6 victory over the Miami Heat. Of course, this had NBA players - retired and present - buzzing on social media.

Yash Matange

•

Player Ratings for Game 6

Playing a near-perfect game, multiple Lakers featured high on the Player Ratings from Game 6, and rightfully so. Check it out:

Yash Matange

•

Who has won the most Finals MVPs?

After the 2021 Finals, 32 different players have earned NBA Finals MVP honours.

Yash Matange

•

Heat not surprised with Robinson's scoring outburst

As Robinson erupted for 26 points, setting playoff franchise and NBA records, his teammates weren't surprised by his explosion. "Every time he shoots, we feel like it’s going in," said teammate and rookie Heat guard Tyler Herro on Robinson's big Game 5.

Yash Matange

•

AD provides update on right heel injury

According to Anthony Davis postgame, he re-aggravated a right heel injury he first suffered in Game 5 against the Denver Nuggets in the Conference Finals.

Yash Matange

•

Player Ratings for Game 5

In what turned out to be the best game of the series, superstars put up monster numbers, members of the supporting cast from each team showed up. Here are the player ratings from a thrilling 111-108 win for the Miami Heat

Yash Matange

•

Lakers to wear 'Black Mamba' jerseys for Game 5

In the four prior playoff games, that the Lakers have donned the 'Black Mamba' jerseys, they are 4-0. In Game 5 of the NBA Finals, they stand a chance to improve that record and clinch the franchise's 17th championship.

Yash Matange

•

LBJ on AD: 'That guy can do everything defensively'

"Obviously, Anthony's matchup on Butler was a big factor in our defensive efficiency," Lakers head coach Frank Vogel stated postgame. Davis' clutch block on Jimmy Butler with 20.5 seconds remaining sealed Game 4 and gave Los Angeles a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Yash Matange

•

Player Ratings for Game 4

For the fourth time in the 2020 postseason, the Lakers responded to a loss with a win. Each of the previous three times, they ensured their opponents didn't win any more games in the series. What will happen in Game 5 of the Finals?

Yash Matange

•

Lakers 'not concerned' after Game 3 hiccup

"We're not concerned. We know we can play a lot better," LeBron James said after Game 3. "We have another opportunity to take a commanding lead on Tuesday."

Yash Matange

•

Player ratings for Game 3

Behind a masterful performance from Jimmy Butler, the Miami Heat battled in Game 3 and eventually pulled off a win despite missing two of its key players. How did the game's biggest players perform in this one? Find out in our player rankings:

Yash Matange

•

Butler: 'It's not over. We're just down 0-2'

"It's not over. We're just down 0-2, so we got to do something special," Jimmy Butler said after the Game 2 loss. Butler and the Heat still believe they are in this, although only four teams out of 31 occasions have comeback from the Finals deficit that the Heat are in right now.

Yash Matange

•

Player ratings for Finals Game 2

Anthony Davis stole the show for a second consecutive game in the Finals but which other players performed well in Game 2? Find out with our player ratings.

Yash Matange

•

How NBA legends performed in Finals debuts

Going off for 34 points in Game 1 of the 2020 NBA Finals, Anthony Davis put his name alongside multiple NBA greats. After his performance, we take a look at how notable NBA legends including Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and more performed in their Finals debuts.

Yash Matange

•

📷: Reliving Game 1 of the first-ever bubble NBA Finals

Nearly a year since the 2019-20 season tipped-off, Game 1 of the 2020 NBA Finals were played between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat. Take a look at some of the best photos from the series-opener.

Yash Matange

•

AD's historic Finals debut - By the Numbers

"I expect it out of him," LeBron James said of Anthony Davis postgame as the Brow took over Game 1 of the Finals and carried the Los Angeles Lakers to a comfortable 1-0 series lead.

Yash Matange

•

Player ratings for Game 1

The Lakers' All-Stars dominated and led their team to a comfortable Game 1 win. Their bench delivered as well, outplaying their counterparts in what turned out to be a lopsided contest. Which players performed in best in the series-opener?

Yash Matange

•

How was the Heat's roster built?

In the timespan of a single season, the Heat have gone from 10th place in the East to the 2020 NBA Finals. How did this roster come to be?

Yash Matange

•

By the Numbers: Lakers' Finals appearances

In making the 2020 NBA Finals, the Lakers have maintained their streak of at least one Finals appearance in every decade of the NBA - the only franchise to achieve this feat.

Yash Matange

•

Top 10 scoring leaders in NBA Finals history

Where does LeBron James, in his 10 Finals appearances, rank on the all-time charts for total points and highest points per game average in the Finals?

Yash Matange

•

Postgame 🎙️: Walker, Celtics reflect back on season

A young Celtics squad knew they underachieved but also knew they gave it their all. After a season-ending Game 6 to the Miami Heat, they all looked back at the 2019-20 season with pride, love, and no regrets.

Yash Matange

•

Bam's late-game takeover carries Miami to NBA Finals

With their 125-113 Game 6 win, the Miami Heat become the first team, fifth-seed or lower to make the NBA Finals since the New York Knicks in 1999.

Yash Matange

•

'I knew it was winning time': LBJ talks late-game takeover

Over the final minutes of Game 4, James' decision to switch on to defend Murray that helped the Lakers edge out a 114-108 win and hold a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Yash Matange

•

AD says injured ankle 'good enough to play' in Game 5

After rolling his left ankle midway through the fourth quarter, AD played through the rest of the game and was the contest's top-scorer with 34 points.

Yash Matange

•

Lakers dominate the glass, take 3-1 series lead

LeBron James and Anthony Davis combine for 60 points as the Lakers outscore the Nuggets 25-6 in second chance points to take a commanding 3-1 series lead. Do the Nuggets have another comeback in them?

Yash Matange

•

Brown after Game 4 loss: 'We came out a little bit flat'

"We have to do it [the comeback]," Celtics All-Star Kemba Walker said postgame about attempting to overcome their 3-1 series deficit. "It's about pride. We can do it."

Yash Matange

•

Adebayo downplays injured left wrist

The Heat forward was getting iced plenty after the game but insisted that he's 'good' and that it was just a twist. Later, in his postgame conference with the media, he dedicated the Heat win to Breonna Taylor, a 26-year-old black woman who was killed by police officers in Louisville in March this year.

Yash Matange

•

Heat ride rookie Herro's historic Game 4 for win

The 20-year-old stole the show, scoring 17 of his game-high 37 points in the fourth quarter. His performance helped the Heat survive a furious second-half comeback by the Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum.

Yash Matange

•

Postgame 🎙️: LeBron, Lakers rue Game 3 loss

Los Angeles turned the ball over 16 times and were outrebounded 44-25 by the Nuggets. "We'll be fine," Anthony Davis said as he mentioned that the Lakers still had control of the series with their 2-1 series lead.

Yash Matange

•

Nuggets survive Lakers' comeback, win Game 3

After being down by as many as 20 in the fourth quarter, Los Angeles mounted a furious fourth-quarter rally with a 19-2 run, but Jamal Murray took over late to help the Nuggets escape Game 3 with a 114-106 win.

Yash Matange

•

🎙️: Lakers heap praise on AD for 'Mamba shot'

"He different, it's that simple," LeBron James said postgame. Anthony Davis received a lot of praise from head coach Frank Vogel and his teammates after he nailed the buzzer-beater in Game 2 against the Nuggets.

Yash Matange

•

AD pays tribute to Bryant, yells 'KOBE' on game-winner

Anthony Davis came up clutch in Game 2 against the Nuggets. While wearing the black 'Mamba' jerseys, he scored 22 of his 31 points in the second half including the final 10 for the Lakers. On video, it was quite evident he yelled Kobe after his game-winner dropped and postgame, the Brow confirmed as much.

Yash Matange

•

Davis' buzzer-beating 3-pointer puts Lakers up 2-0

Denver looked set to steal Game 2 after their All-Star Nikola Jokic had scored 11 straight points down the stretch. Instead, Anthony Davis, in his first career Conference Finals, iced the game with a buzzer-beating three from the wing.

Yash Matange

•

Nuggets lament foul trouble & defense in Game 1 loss

“I’m not going to sit here and just blame it on the refs.That’s not what I’m doing. We just got to play through it and earn the respect," Nuggets guard Jamal Murray said postgame after the Lakers dominant 126-114 Game 1 victory.

Yash Matange

•

8 observations from Lakers' dominant Game 1 win

The Lakers fire on all cylinders and ride a 20-3 second-quarter run to their first Game 1 win of the 2020 playoffs. It was the veterans show as LeBron, AD, Rondo, and Dwight Howard played huge roles against the young Nuggets.

Yash Matange

•

Rondo passes MJ for 10th all-time in playoff assists

In the Lakers 126-114 Game 1 over the Nuggets, Rondo passed Jordan en route to finishing with seven points, nine assists, and zero turnovers.

Yash Matange

•

Biggest X-Factors in Lakers-Nuggets series

The superstars steal the spotlight in a playoff series, and rightfully so, but their play alone can't decide the winner. Here's a look at key players who's performance could play a significant role in deciding who will advance to the NBA Finals.

Yash Matange

•

Teams to come back from 2-0 in Conference Finals

The Boston Celtics are 0-2 down in the 2020 Eastern Conference Finals to the Miami Heat. Only six times in previous 0-2 deficits have the team down rallied to win, can the C's join the short list of teams?

Yash Matange

•

Heat's zone defence stifles C's in Game 2

According to ESPN Stats & Info, the Heat's zone defence on 25 plays in the second half allowed just five made shots and forced Boston into five turnovers.

Yash Matange

•

Heat lock in on defence to grind out Game 2 win

Bam Adebayo sparked the comeback, then the veterans in Jimmy Butler and Goran Dragic iced the win which gave the Heat a commanding 2-0 series advantage.

Yash Matange

•

Teams to come back from 3-1 series deficit

Only 13 times in NBA Playoffs history has a team overcome a 3-1 series deficit. Here's when, where and how all of those comebacks happened.

Yash Matange

•

Kawhi speaks on lack of chemistry

From Leonard to George to Lou Williams, multiple Clippers connected their blown leads in Games 5, 6 and 7 to a lack of chemistry.

Yash Matange

•

NBA Players react to Denver's 3-1 comeback vs. Clippers

The Denver Nuggets became the first team in NBA history to rebound from consecutive 3-1 series deficits in the same playoffs and this achievement had their peers taking to Twitter.

Yash Matange

•

How the Nuggets shocked the Clippers in Game 7

The Nuggets came back from a 12-point second-quarter deficit to cap off their second consecutive 3-1 series comeback with a 104-89 Game 7 victory against a star-studded LA Clippers squad.

Yash Matange

•

NBA world reacts to 'block of the year'

The 6'9" center's clutch swat gave the Miami Heat a 117-114 win over the Boston Celtics and 1-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Yash Matange

•

Mitchell's historic postseason is 'just the beginning'

The Utah Jazz guard etched his name into numerous playoff records over the course of his historic seven-game series against the Denver Nuggets. He transformed from an up-and-down streaky shooter in the postseason to a superstar who methodically navigated his team to a win. This evolution, Mitchell believes, is 'just the beginning.'

Yash Matange

•

Kemba on Tatum: 'He’s a superstar'

Tatum became the second-youngest ever and the youngest since Kobe Bryant in 2000 to have at least 25 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in a Game 7.

Yash Matange

•

Jokic on Game 5 comeback: 'We didn't want to quit'

"I know everybody is excited about the Lakers playing the Clippers in the Western Conference Finals but we’re hoping to have something to say about that," Nuggets head coach Mike Malone said postgame.

Yash Matange

•

Nuggets force Game 6 with 4th quarter comeback

The LA Clippers are going to have to work for that elusive Conference Finals appearance as the Nuggets rallied from 16 points down to force a Game 6 and keep their season alive.

Yash Matange

•

LeBron: 'We got to close out games the right way'

"We get a big lead, we got to be able to continue to defend, continue to put pressure on their defense, and not allow them to get back into the game like we did," James said postgame. The Lakers dominated a majority of Game 4, then needed some clutch plays down the stretch to hold off a furious Rockets' comeback.

Yash Matange

•

D'Antoni on Game 4 loss: 'Just a lack of spirit.'

"Whether we make mistakes or not, it doesn't really matter. It's how hard you play," Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni said postgame. An 18-2 fourth-quarter run made things interesting, otherwise Game 4 was dominated by the Lakers with no lead changes and a biggest lead of 23 points (a series-high).

Yash Matange

•

Game 7 fast facts for Raptors-Celtics

The Raptors and Celtics are never faced-off in a Game 7 before. In fact, this is their first head-to-head playoff series ever. That said, we take a look back at how each franchise has fared in Game 7s in the past and more.

Yash Matange

•

NBA players react to 'best game of the bubble'

The defending champions' season is still alive. The Raptors force a Game 7 after a grind-out double-overtime Game 6 win over the Celtics. Here are the best Twitter reactions from former and current NBA players.

Yash Matange

•

Butler: 'We want a championship'

In his ninth year as a professional, Butler reaches his first Conference Finals but he's not done yet. "We want to win ‘it. We want a championship and I think that's what we're focused on," he said postgame.

Yash Matange

•

Thunder & Billy Donovan mutually part ways

According to ESPN Stats & Info, Donovan, in his five years, has the third best coaching record in Thunder/SuperSonics franchise history with a winning percentage of 60.8% through 400 regular season games.

Yash Matange

•

Kawhi, PG star in Clippers' 113-107 Game 3 win

Game 3 was a back-and-forth contest that saw 12 lead changes and 15 ties, but then the Clippers seized momentum with a 23-10 game-sealing run over the final 8:29 minutes.

Yash Matange

•

Murray becomes franchise leader for playoff made 3s

The 6'4" Canadian guard overtook J.R. Smith for the top spot on the Nuggets' all-time list. He passed Smith's total of 65 in his 24th playoff game while Smith reached that mark in 35 postseason games.

Yash Matange

•

Russ, Harden star in Game 1 win vs. Lakers

The Rockets' All-Star duo combined for 60 points in Game 1 and sparked the team to a 16-5 run to open the fourth quarter, an advantage they would hold onto and eventually win 112-97.

Yash Matange

•

Kawhi, Clippers dominate Game 1 vs. Nuggets

Leonard led the way with 29 points on 12-of-16 shooting as the Clippers came away with a lot of positives in their 120-97 Game 1 victory.

Yash Matange

•

Series Preview: How will Lakers fare against small-ball challenge?

It's a match-up of two different styles of play - the Rockets' super-small-ball against the Lakers' traditional style of paint and fastbreak play. Who will be dictate the tempo of the games and gain the upper hand? We preview this exciting Conference Semifinals series.

Yash Matange

•

Harden's clutch blocks seals Game 7 for Rockets

James Harden's clutch play takes the spotlight but the Rockets got the job done by committee. They overcame big games from veteran Chris Paul and rookie Luguentz Dort to book their fourth consecutive trip to the Western Conference Semifinals.

Yash Matange

•

Game 7 fast facts for Rockets-Thunder

As the Rockets and Thunder face off in a Game 7, we take a look back at how each franchise has fared in Game 7s in the past and more.

Yash Matange

•

10 greatest playoff performances ever

The NBA playoffs are where legacies are made. In light of a historic mind-boggling performance by 21-year-old Slovenian Luka Doncic in the first round of the 2020 playoffs, here's an attempt at listing the ten greatest single-game individual performances in NBA playoff history, in no particular order.

Yash Matange

•

Nuggets edge Jazz, complete 3-1 series comeback

After surrendering a 19-point lead, the Nuggets survive Game 7 and advance to the Conference Semifinals for the second consecutive year. On the back of this win, Denver became the 12th team in NBA playoff history to come back from a 3-1 series deficit and the first since the Cleveland Cavaliers (2016 NBA Finals).

Yash Matange

•

Records broken by Doncic in playoffs debut

Luka Doncic provided NBA fans a postseason debut for the ages. The 6'7 guard from Slovenia set and broke multiple NBA records - and we explore them all.

Yash Matange

•

Nuggets force Game 7 behind Murray's 50-piece

The Canadian carried over his red-hot form from Games 4 and 5, becoming the first player since Allen Iverson in 2001 to drop 40 or more in three straight playoff games. Thus, ensuring there will be a winner-take-all Game 7 between the division rivals.

Yash Matange

•

Previewing Sunday's 3 Game 5s

Will the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers take care of business and closeout their respective series with Game 5 wins? Who will win the crucial Game 5 between the Houston Rockets and the Oklahoma City Thunder? We preview all games set for Sunday.

Yash Matange

•

Lillard to leave Orlando to examine injured knee

Lillard sprained his right knee in the Trail Blazers' 135-115 Game 4 loss. As per the team, 'his availability to return to the Orlando campus is yet to be determined.'

Yash Matange

•

Previewing Thursday's playoff action

Can the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers take care of business and wrap things up in their respective closeout games? Who will win the crucial Game 5 between the Rockets and the Thunder? We preview all games on Thursday's slate.

Yash Matange

•

PG stars in Clippers' big Game 5 win

In a blowout 154-111 Game 5 victory, the LA Clippers broke multiple franchise records en route to taking a 3-2 series lead in their first round matchup against the Dallas Mavericks.

Yash Matange

•

Previewing Wednesday's Game 5 action

Will the Jazz make it to their third Conference Semifinals in the last four years by eliminating the Nuggets in Game 5? What about the decisive Game 5 in the Clippers-Mavericks matchup? We preview both Game 5s on Wednesday's slate.

Yash Matange

•

Lillard injures right knee, set to undergo MRI

After the results of the MRI of Damian Lillard's right knee tonight were inconclusive, the Portland Trail Blazers announced that the All-Star point guard would undergo a second MRI on Tuesday afternoon (local time).

Yash Matange

•

Bam, Dragic lead Heat to sweep of Pacers

The Heat led for all of the second half and grinded their way to a 99-87 victory, one that ensured them a sweep over the fourth-seed Indiana Pacers. For the Pacers, this was their fifth straight first-round exit.

Yash Matange

•

What's at stake in Sunday's 4 Game 3s?

The four-game slates in the 2020 postseason continue. Here's all you need to know about the Game 3s scheduled for Sunday.

Yash Matange

•

Takeaways: Kawhi powers Clippers to Game 3 win vs. Mavs

Less than a minute after he recorded his first career playoff triple-double, Luka Doncic was forced to exit the game with a left ankle sprain. While the Mavericks still battled, Kawhi Leonard set a couple of playoff franchise records as he led his team to victory in Game 3.

Yash Matange

•

Doncic sprains left ankle, says 'It’s not that bad'

When Doncic exited the game for good in the fourth quarter, he had recorded his first career playoff triple-double with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.

Yash Matange

•

What's at stake in Saturday's Game 3s?

The four-game slates in the 2020 postseason continues. Here's all you need to know about the Game 3s scheduled for Saturday.

Yash Matange

•

Lillard dislocates left index finger, will play Game 3

The Trail Blazers All-Star left the game with 1:44 left in the third quarter and never returned. The team announced later that the X-rays returned negative.

Yash Matange

•

Giannis' BIG game helps Bucks level series 1-1

The no.1 seed Milwaukee Bucks, bounced back from a Game 1 upset loss by taking care of business in Game 2 - a 111-96 win.

Yash Matange

•

Lillard after Game 1 win: 'Job is far away from being done'

"Job is far away from being done," Lillard said postgame after the eighth-seeded Trail Blazers pulled off an upset win in Game 1. Both sides made clear after the game that there's improvements to be made as they brace for a long series.

Yash Matange

•

What's at stake in Thursday's 4 Game 2s?

The four-game slates in the 2020 postseason continues. Here's all you need to know about the Games 2 scheduled for Thursday.

Yash Matange

•

Takeaways: Lillard, Trail Blazers stun Lakers in Game 1

The Trail Blazers All-Star, who finished with 34 for the game, was responsible for 14 points in their game-sealing 22-9 run over the final eight minutes.

Yash Matange

•

Doncic drops 42 in playoff debut, Clippers take 1-0 lead

The Slovenian set records in his postseason debut, but Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers clinched Game 1 with a 19-12 run over final six minutes of the game.

Yash Matange

•

Hayward sprains right ankle in Game 1 vs. 76ers

When he exited the floor, with 3:08 left in the game, Hayward had recorded 12 points, four rebounds, four steals, and three assists in 35 minutes of action.

Yash Matange

•

Pacers vs. Heat series preview

This is Indiana's fifth straight trip to the playoffs. Can the Pacers finally break through the first round for the first time since 2014 or will the Heat play spoiler? All eyes will be on TJ Warren and Jimmy Butler, who have gone back-and-forth with each other this season.

Yash Matange

•

Play-in preview: Portland vs. Memphis

In the first-ever play-in tournament in NBA history, we preview this unique contest between the eighth-seeded Portland Trail Blazers and the ninth-seeded Memphis Grizzlies.

Yash Matange

•

NBA players' Twitter reactions to Blazers' thrilling win

In a back-and-forth contest between the Nets and Blazers, that the latter had to win to keep their season alive, went right down to the final possession. Eventually Portland won 134-133, with NBA players chiming in on Twitter at the intense finish.

Yash Matange

•

When is the 2020 NBA Draft Lottery?

The 14 teams that make up the lottery will include the eight that weren't invited to the season restart in Orlando and the six that were invited but didn't make the playoffs.

Yash Matange

•

All you need to know about the play-in tournament

For the first time in NBA history, there will be a play-in tournament for the final playoff spots. Here's all you need to know about the play-in games.

Yash Matange

•

Winners of 2020 Jr. NBA Global Championships announced

In the boys bracket, Bien beat out Frankie to lead the team from the Asia Pacific region to the Boys Championship. Meanwhile, in the girls bracket, Emily beat out Amelia to help the team from Latin America win the Girls Championship.

Yash Matange

•

Blazers jump to 8th as Lillard drops 61 in win vs. Mavs

Lillard's game-winning performance made him 12th player in NBA history and the first in franchise history with consecutive 50-point games. More importantly, it pushed the Trail Blazers to the 8th seed in the West with a half-game lead over the three other teams in the race.

Yash Matange

•

What's at stake in Wednesday's games?

Can the Phoenix Suns improve to 7-0? What will the race for the eighth seed in the West look like? Here's a rundown of the standings and everything at stake in Wednesday's seven-game slate.

Yash Matange

•

What's at stake in Tuesday's games?

Can the Phoenix Suns improve to 6-0 and keep their playoff hopes alive? Can the Nuggets make a run for the West's No. 2 seed? Here's a rundown of the standings and all that's at stake in Tuesday's five-game slate.

Yash Matange

•

Doncic's monster game gives Mavs OT win vs. Bucks

The 21-year-old Slovenian posted a league-leading 17th triple-double with 36 points, 14 rebounds, and a career-high 19 assists en route to leading the Mavericks to an entertaining 136-132 win in overtime.

Yash Matange

•

What's at stake in Saturday's games?

Day 9 of the seeding games in Orlando is the sixth straight six-game slate. What's at stake for the 12 teams in action? We've got you covered with a rundown below.

Yash Matange

•

Booker: 'Kobe's with me every day'

'You guys see what I put on my shoes with the 'Be Legendary.' It's a reminder," the All-Star told reporters when asked about his t-shirt honouring Kobe Bryant. Booker recorded a 20-point, 10-assist double-double as Phoenix earned its fourth consecutive win at the restart.

Yash Matange

•

Revisiting Nuggets-Trail Blazers' epic 7-game series

As these two division rivals face-off in the bubble at the ESPN World Wide of Sports complex, here's a lookback at the key moments and aspects from their entertaining and competitive series from the 2019 postseason.

Yash Matange

•

Adebayo leads Bulter-less Heat past Celtics

Suiting up without Jimmy Butler, the Heat picked up a key win against the Celtics behind 21 points and 12 rebounds from their young All-Star in Bam Adebayo.

Yash Matange

•

10 must-see games this week

Through four days of the NBA season restart, every team has played at least once and it's been entertaining, to say the least. Stay up-to-date with the biggest games to watch from second week of the seeding games at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

Yash Matange

•

Warren becomes talk of NBA with 53-point game

Warren's 53 points, which is the third-most in Pacers history, helped Indiana clinch the season series against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Yash Matange

•

Harden's 49 helps Rockets pip Mavs, 153-149 in OT

The Houston Rockets' All-Star duo of James Harden and Russell Westbrook combined for 80 points, leading the team to a 14-point comeback win.

Yash Matange

•

How has Kawhi performed in the playoffs?

Including the 2019-20 campaign, Leonard has qualified for the playoffs eight times in nine seasons. Twice, he led his team to a championship as the Finals MVP, doing so in 2014 with the Spurs and in 2019 with the Raptors.

Yash Matange

•

Previewing Wednesday's scrimmage games

12 teams take the floor for the final day of scrimmages in Orlando. Here's a quick preview for the six games with the biggest storylines for each of these teams.

Yash Matange

•

5 takeaways from Day 5 of scrimmages in Orlando

10 teams took the floor on Day 5 of the scrimmages games in Orlando. Take a look at the biggest storylines from each game as the All-Star trio of Ben Simmons, Luka Doncic, and James Harden provided plenty of highlights.

Yash Matange

•

NBA family celebrates WNBA's tip-off with orange hoodies

Members - players/coaching staff - of nearly all NBA teams donned the orange WNBA hoodies

Yash Matange

•

Previewing Monday's scrimmage games

10 teams take the floor on Monday, here's a quick preview of the biggest storylines for each team.

Yash Matange

•

Previewing Saturday's scrimmages

On Day 3 of the scrimmage games, the final six teams take the court for their first taste of the action. Here's a quick primer on the biggest storylines surrounding each of these squads.

Yash Matange

•

Scrimmage Roundup: Giannis shows no rust; Curry starts on fire

For the second consecutive day, eight teams took the floor in Orlando for their first scrimmage games. Here are a few observations from the four games, headlined by MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo's dominant showing and Seth Curry's red-hot shooting performance.

Yash Matange

•

Holiday pledges remaining salary to social justice fund

Holiday's remaining salary would go to starting the Jrue and Lauren Holiday Social Justice Impact Fund, one that aids communities in the Los Angeles area, New Orleans, and Indianapolis.

Yash Matange

•

Which NBA players have the most titles?

Find out which players rank at the top of the leader board for most NBA championships in league history.

Yash Matange

•

WNBA legend Maya Moore wins big off the court

WNBA legend Maya Moore stepped away from the game in the prime of her career to champion the cause of a wrongfully accused man. After helping overturn a wrongful 50-year prison sentence, Moore stands tall as a beacon for hope and agent of change.

Yash Matange

•

The eight best games on the NBA schedule

LeBron vs Kawhi. Giannis vs Harden. Zion vs Ja. Those are just some of the matchups were most excited for once the season gets underway in Orlando.

Yash Matange

•

NBA family honours Juneteenth with marches & pledges

Multiple teams commemorated Juneteenth by taking to the roads in silent marches and pledging their support for the Black Lives Matter movement.

Yash Matange

•

OTD: Cavs wins 2016 title, complete historic 3-1 comeback

The 2016 title, which the Cavaliers clinched by becoming the first and only team to rally from a 3-1 series deficit in the NBA Finals, snapped a 52-year pro sports championship drought for the city of Cleveland.

Yash Matange

•
Newer Latest News Older