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NBA News

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

Tuesday, March 17

Max Strus Returns to Form Following Jones Fracture

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Max Strus made his season debut Sunday after recovering from a Jones fracture, scoring 24 points with eight rebounds in 20 minutes. Strus shot 6-of-7 from beyond the perimeter, providing the Cavaliers with a much-needed perimeter shooting threat. While the team is evaluating his ability to ramp up for the playoffs, his performance has been lauded as a significant boost to the team's free-flowing offensive style.

Kevin Durant Takes Blame for Rockets' Loss to Lakers

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Kevin Durant accepted full responsibility for the Houston Rockets' 100-92 loss to the Lakers, stating he 'lost the game' for his team. Durant recorded 18 points on 8-of-16 shooting but struggled significantly in the second half, scoring only two points and committing seven of his team's 24 turnovers as the Lakers utilized aggressive double-teams to stifle his production. The Rockets fall to 41-26 on the season. Durant also remains a benchmark for freshman scoring records.

Steve Kerr Admits Misplaced Blame on Will Richard

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Warriors coach Steve Kerr admitted that his public scolding of rookie Will Richard during Sunday's loss to the Knicks was misplaced. After reviewing game tape, Kerr acknowledged that the turnover in question was caused by a poor pass from Brandin Podziemski rather than an error by Richard. Kerr expressed regret for the incident but emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards while ensuring players know they are supported.

Josh Giddey Records Another Triple-Double in Bulls Win

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Giddey delivered a stellar performance in Monday's 132-107 victory over Memphis, recording 16 points, 15 rebounds, 13 assists, and three steals in 34 minutes. The star guard has now logged a triple-double in five of his last seven appearances. After missing time in February due to a hamstring injury, Giddey is finishing the campaign strong, averaging 19.0 points, 12.0 assists, 11.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals over his last seven outings.

OG Anunoby Poised for Big Night Against Short-Handed Pacers

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Anunoby is expected to lead the Knicks' offensive effort in Tuesday's game against the Pacers, especially with Jalen Brunson listed as doubtful. Anunoby has been in excellent form, averaging 19.2 points per game this month while shooting 45% from beyond the arc. He recently scored 25 points against Indiana and has been a consistent presence on the boards, grabbing at least five rebounds in six of his last nine outings.

Trae Young Ruled Out Tuesday Following Collision

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Young has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Pistons due to a quadriceps injury. The point guard sustained the injury after a collision with Will Richard during Monday's loss to the Warriors. Although Young was able to walk off the court under his own power, the Wizards are exercising caution with their new acquisition. His next opportunity to return to the lineup will be Thursday in a rematch against Detroit.

Bilal Coulibaly Ruled Out for Tuesday's Game Against Detroit

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Bilal Coulibaly will not play in Tuesday's matchup against the Detroit Pistons due to a heel injury. The forward is being held out for the second leg of a back-to-back set. Coulibaly previously logged 33 minutes in Monday's 125-117 loss to the Warriors, contributing 21 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and one steal. Jamir Watkins and Will Riley are expected to see increased playing time in his absence.

Alex Sarr Sidelined for Tuesday's Contest Against Pistons

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Alex Sarr is out for Tuesday's game against the Detroit Pistons due to a hamstring injury. Sarr will miss both legs of the Wizards' back-to-back set. With the team managing the health of key players, fantasy managers should anticipate continued rotation adjustments. Tristan Vukcevic, Anthony Gill, and Julian Reese are candidates to see a bump in involvement while Sarr remains sidelined.

Anthony Black Remains Out for Tuesday's Game Against Thunder

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Anthony Black has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to an abdominal injury. This marks his sixth consecutive game on the sidelines, and there is currently no indication that he is near a return to action. Black is considered doubtful for Thursday's upcoming contest against the Charlotte Hornets.

Jamal Murray Expected to Bounce Back Against Shorthanded 76ers

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Following a difficult 1-of-14 shooting performance against the Lakers, Jamal Murray is projected to rebound in Tuesday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Murray averages a career-best 25.1 points and 7.1 assists per game this season. Analysts favor him to exceed 24.5 points and 6.5 assists against a depleted 76ers squad that ranks 22nd in defensive rating over their last 10 games.

Jaylen Brown Continues Career-Best Season with 41-Point Masterclass

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Jaylen Brown is enjoying a career-best campaign, averaging 28.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. His recent form includes a 41-point performance in Monday's 120-112 win over the Suns, featuring 18 points in the fourth quarter. Brown, who has set a franchise record with nine consecutive 30+ point games, attributes his leap to his role as the team's primary creator. Despite his individual success, he remains focused on the team's championship goals as Jayson Tatum returns to the lineup.

Mitchell Robinson Questionable for Tuesday Against Pacers

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Mitchell Robinson is listed as questionable for Tuesday's game against the Indiana Pacers due to a back injury. Robinson was a late addition to the injury report, and the Knicks may choose to exercise caution with their center. If Robinson is unable to suit up, Ariel Hukporti is expected to see increased minutes in the backup center role.

Mikal Bridges Struggles Amidst Knicks Playoff Push

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Bridges is facing a significant slump, averaging just 6.5 points over his last six games while shooting 32% from the floor and 21% from three. He has been benched in the fourth quarter multiple times recently, raising concerns as the Knicks prepare for the postseason. While he remains a defensive asset, his offensive production has regressed significantly this season. The team needs him to regain his form to bolster their championship contention over the final 13 games.

Cooper Flagg Named to AP All-America First Team

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Duke forward Cooper Flagg was announced Tuesday as a unanimous selection for the AP All-America first team. Flagg, who was also a unanimous choice as a freshman last season, headlines a group of heralded young talent recognized for their impact on the college game this year. His selection follows a standout season where he led the Blue Devils to ACC regular-season and tournament titles, securing a top overall seed in the NCAA Tournament.

DeMar DeRozan Dominates as Kings Push for Fantasy Playoffs

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DeMar DeRozan has been a standout performer for the Kings, averaging 29.8 points and 6.3 assists over his last five games, including impressive 41-point and 39-point outings. Despite missing one contest, his mid-range efficiency remains elite, having made only one three-pointer during this high-scoring stretch. With teammates Keegan Murray and Malik Monk sidelined by ankle injuries, DeRozan is expected to maintain a heavy workload and high production for the remainder of the season.

Stephon Castle Shines in Spurs' Win Over the LA Clippers

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Stephon Castle played a pivotal role in the San Antonio Spurs' win against the LA Clippers. The second-year guard impressed with his ability to attack the lane, highlighted by a skillful spin move and a crucial steal-and-slam sequence against Darius Garland. Castle's intensity and willingness to embrace tough defensive assignments have been vital for the Spurs as they compete for playoff positioning.

Devin Booker Explodes for 40 Points in Hard-Fought Loss to Celtics

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Devin Booker recorded a massive 40-point performance against Boston, shooting 15-of-24 from the field with 6 assists and 3 rebounds in a 120-112 loss. Booker carried the Phoenix offense with 23 consecutive points across the second and third quarters. Despite his efficiency, he committed 7 turnovers as the Suns struggled to counter late-game double-teams. This marks his second-highest point total at TD Garden, trailing only his 70-point masterpiece from 2017.

Keldon Johnson Climbs Spurs All-Time Bench Scoring List

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Keldon Johnson has solidified his place in San Antonio Spurs history, moving into fourth place all-time for the franchise in points scored off the bench. With 6,591 career points, 2,345 rebounds, and 882 assists over seven seasons, Johnson is currently chasing Malik Rose's mark of 3,272 bench points. His production has drawn statistical comparisons to Kawhi Leonard's tenure with the team, highlighting Johnson's continued growth and importance to the Spurs' long-term rotation.

Kristaps Porziņģis Scores Season-High 30 in Warriors Win

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Porziņģis recorded a season-high 30 points off the bench in Monday's 125-117 win over the Wizards, shooting 8-of-13 from the field and 13-of-14 from the free-throw line. He added five rebounds, four assists, two steals, and three blocks in 26 minutes. Following the game, he praised teammate Steph Curry as the 'GOAT' and expressed excitement about their potential pairing as the Warriors look to make a push before the play-in tournament.

Rookie Drake Powell Focused on Consistency and Defensive Intensity

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Nets rookie Drake Powell is prioritizing defensive effort and consistent play as he navigates his first NBA season. Through 51 games, the 20-year-old has shown flashes of potential, shooting 55% from two-point range and 90% from the free-throw line, though he struggles with a 25.5% clip from deep. Recently, Powell averaged 15 points over three G League games with Long Island before returning to Brooklyn, where he continues to adapt to head coach Jordi Fernández’s offensive system.