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NBA News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Saturday, May 2

RJ Barrett Hits Clutch Game-Winner to Eliminate Cavaliers

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RJ Barrett secured a series-clinching victory for the Toronto Raptors in Game 6 against the Cleveland Cavaliers, sinking a decisive three-pointer with 1.2 seconds remaining. This high-stakes performance marked a significant career highlight for Barrett, drawing widespread celebration. His clutch play not only eliminated Cleveland but also earned a nod from LeBron James, who jokingly thanked Barrett for the heroics that granted him additional rest time.

LeBron James Propels Lakers Past Rockets into Next Round

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At 41, LeBron James led the Lakers to a series-clinching win over the Rockets, earning praise from coach JJ Redick as having the greatest career in NBA history. James joked about Houston's Will Anderson Jr. being his 'fourth child' due to his resemblance to Bronny. Following the win, James noted that RJ Barrett's heroics in Toronto's series provided him extra rest time for golf. The Lakers now prepare to face the Thunder as 16-point underdogs in the upcoming series.

Baylor Scheierman Named to Celtics Starting Lineup for Game 7

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Baylor Scheierman will start for the Boston Celtics in their high-stakes Game 7 against the 76ers. The team has unveiled a completely new starting lineup for the contest, which includes Scheierman, Luka Garza, and Ron Harper Jr. This strategic adjustment is intended to provide the Celtics with a necessary advantage in this must-win playoff environment.

Ron Harper Named to Celtics Starting Lineup for Game 7

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Ron Harper has been named to the starting lineup for the Boston Celtics ahead of their Game 7 clash with the 76ers. As part of a major roster shake-up, Harper will take the floor alongside starters Luka Garza and Baylor Scheierman. The team is looking for a fresh spark from this new-look lineup to overcome Philadelphia and keep their postseason aspirations alive.

Luka Garza Named to Celtics Starting Lineup for Game 7

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Luka Garza has been confirmed as a starter for the Boston Celtics in their pivotal Game 7 showdown against the 76ers. The Celtics have opted for a brand-new starting rotation for this elimination game, featuring Garza alongside teammates Baylor Scheierman and Ron Harper Jr. This tactical shift marks a significant change in the team's approach as they look to secure a victory and advance in the playoffs.

Paul George Cleared to Play in Game 7 Against Celtics Despite Illness

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Paul George will play in Saturday's Game 7 of the Eastern Conference first-round series against the Boston Celtics. George had been listed as probable earlier in the day while managing an illness. Despite the health concern, he has been cleared for the high-stakes contest at TD Garden. This update was confirmed by Adam Aaronson of PhillyVoice.com, following initial reports from Derek Bodner of AllPHLY.com regarding his status.

Brandon Ingram Questionable for Game 7 vs. Cleveland With Heel Injury

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Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram is listed as questionable for Sunday's Game 7 of the Eastern Conference first-round series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The status of the forward is currently in doubt due to a heel injury. His availability remains a key storyline as the Raptors prepare for the decisive final game of the series. Further updates on his status are expected as the team approaches tip-off.

Franz Wagner Ruled Out for Game 7 vs. Pistons With Calf Strain

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Franz Wagner has been officially ruled out for Sunday's Game 7 of the Eastern Conference playoffs against the Detroit Pistons. The Orlando Magic forward will miss his third consecutive game due to a calf strain. His absence is a significant blow for the Magic as they face a decisive matchup with their season on the line. The team is currently evaluating rotation adjustments in his absence, highlighting the cautious approach the NBA is taking toward calf injuries.

Cade Cunningham Leads Pistons Into Crucial Game 7 Showdown

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Cade Cunningham is expected to play a pivotal role as the Detroit Pistons prepare for a high-stakes Game 7 against the Orlando Magic on Sunday, May 3. With the series on the line, expectations are high for Cunningham to deliver a standout performance to secure a victory. Analysts are closely monitoring his impact as the Pistons look to overcome the Magic in this decisive Eastern Conference playoff matchup.

Ayo Dosunmu Listed as Day-to-Day With Calf Injury

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Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu is currently considered day-to-day as he manages a right calf injury. The update was provided by head coach Chris Finch during media availability on Saturday, as reported by Jace Frederick of the St. Paul Pioneer Press. Further analysis regarding his recovery status and potential return to the lineup can be found via RotoWire.com.

Anthony Edwards Remains Week-to-Week Following Knee Injury

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Anthony Edwards continues to be sidelined with a knee injury and is currently designated as week-to-week. Despite the ongoing recovery, Edwards was seen shooting free throws during Saturday's practice session. The update was confirmed by head coach Chris Finch, as reported by Chris Hine of The Minnesota Star Tribune. Further analysis on his injury status and rehabilitation progress is available on RotoWire.com.

Deandre Ayton Dominates in Lakers' Series-Clinching Victory

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Deandre Ayton played a pivotal role in the Lakers' series-clinching win on Friday night. His strong contributions were essential to the team's resilient performance, helping them overcome the pressure of the elimination game. Ayton was specifically credited with shutting down Alperen Şengün in Game 6, a defensive effort that proved instrumental in fueling the Lakers' victory and securing their advancement to the second round of the playoffs.

Bronny James Mentioned in LeBron's Post-Game Comments

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Bronny James was referenced by his father, LeBron James, following the Lakers' Game 6 victory over the Rockets. LeBron jokingly compared the physical appearance of Houston's Will Anderson Jr. to Bronny, referring to Anderson as his 'fourth child' due to their uncanny resemblance. This lighthearted moment occurred as the Lakers celebrated their series-clinching win and prepared to advance to the next round of the postseason against the Thunder.

Kevin Durant's Debut Rockets Season Ends in First-Round Playoff Exit

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Kevin Durant’s debut season with the Houston Rockets concluded with a disappointing first-round playoff exit following a home loss to the Lakers. As the team enters a critical offseason, the organization is evaluating roster construction and potential high-profile acquisitions to pair with Durant to improve their competitive standing. The season ended with Durant on the bench, leaving the franchise searching for answers after failing to advance.

Chris Paul Reflects on Tenure with the San Antonio Spurs

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During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Chris Paul took time to reminisce about his previous tenure with the San Antonio Spurs. The veteran guard discussed his experiences and memories from his time with the organization, providing fans with a look back at that chapter of his career.

Donovan Mitchell Faces Scrutiny After Cavaliers' Game 6 Loss

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Donovan Mitchell is under pressure to improve following the Cavaliers' gut-wrenching Game 6 loss to the Raptors. Analysis of the defeat suggests the team's struggles were evident well before the final moments of the game, with Mitchell's performance being singled out as an area needing significant improvement. The loss has prompted a critical look at the team's execution and Mitchell's role in the outcome.

Marcus Smart Contributes to Lakers' Series-Clinching Win

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Marcus Smart provided key contributions during the Lakers' series-clinching victory on Friday night. His efforts were instrumental in supporting the team's leadership and maintaining the resilience required to close out the series against Houston. Smart's performance was highlighted as a significant factor in the Lakers' collective success during this critical playoff game.

Friday, May 1

LeBron James Leads Lakers to Second Round After Eliminating Rockets

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LeBron James propelled the Lakers to a 98-78 victory over the Rockets in Game 6, recording 28 points (10-25 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 6-8 FT), seven rebounds, and eight assists in 37 minutes. This legacy-defining performance secured a second-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, marking the Lakers' first advancement to the second round since 2023. James noted these moments remain special, acknowledging the uncertainty of how many seasons he has left in his career.

Austin Reaves Returns to Starting Lineup for Crucial Game 6 Victory

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After missing time due to a strained left oblique, Austin Reaves returned to the starting lineup for the Lakers' decisive Game 6 victory over the Houston Rockets. Coach JJ Redick noted that the team faced significant challenges following injuries to both Reaves and Luka Doncic on April 2. Reaves' return was pivotal as the Lakers utilized a tenacious defensive effort to hold the Rockets to their lowest point total of the season, securing a spot in the second round.

Evan Mobley Posts Double-Double in Heartbreaking Game 6 Loss

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Evan Mobley delivered a standout performance in a 112-110 overtime loss to the Raptors, recording 26 points (9-15 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 5-8 FT), 14 rebounds, three assists, and a steal in 41 minutes. Despite his masterclass effort, Mobley missed a potential game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer. The loss forces a decisive Game 7 in the Eastern Conference first-round series, with analysts noting his fantastic individual contribution despite the team's failure to close out the series.