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NBA News

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

Tuesday, January 27

Bucks provide no timetable for Giannis Antetokounmpo's calf strain return

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Giannis Antetokounmpo is sidelined with a calf strain, with the Bucks' coach Doc Rivers stating there's "no timetable" for his return, despite Antetokounmpo's self-diagnosis of 4-6 weeks. This absence will cause him to miss the All-Star game and eligibility for postseason awards. The Bucks are 3-11 without him this season, and his injury further squashes any pre-deadline trade rumors. While Antetokounmpo publicly denies wanting a trade, internal tension is high. A summer trade is considered more likely, especially as he enters the final year of his contract in 2026-27, with the team exploring options to build around him or face a potential departure.

Nuggets maintain strong record despite Nikola Jokić's absence

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The Denver Nuggets have managed a 9-5 record in games without Nikola Jokić, showcasing their depth. This marks the first season the team has sustained success while their MVP candidate has been sidelined, highlighting the impact of other players stepping up in his absence.

Sean McDermott fired as Bills head coach after nine seasons

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Sean McDermott was fired as the Buffalo Bills head coach following a nine-year tenure, a week before offensive coordinator Joe Brady was promoted. McDermott led the Bills to seven consecutive playoff appearances and five AFC East titles, ending a 17-year playoff drought. Despite consistent regular-season success, the team failed to reach the Super Bowl, with their closest attempts ending in AFC Championship losses. Owner Terry Pegula cited the team hitting a "playoff wall" after a divisional round overtime loss as the reason for the change.

Trey Murphy III projected to struggle from three-point range vs. Thunder

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New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III is projected to make under 3.5 three-pointers against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder's improved three-point defense, which has recently cut down on long-range attempts for opponents, is expected to limit Murphy's perimeter looks, potentially forcing him to operate more inside the arc.

Drew Timme's emergence unlocks effective two-big lineups for Lakers

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Two-way center Drew Timme has become a crucial rotation player for the Lakers, excelling as a spacing four alongside Deandre Ayton. His ability to hit relocation threes and finish inside has sparked runs and provided head coach J.J. Redick with a much-needed two-big lineup option, especially when paired with LeBron James, yielding a +9.3 net rating. Timme, an undrafted Gonzaga product, has adapted his game, increasing his three-point volume and showing offensive versatility, while also contributing to rebounding. His strong play could lead to a conversion from his two-way contract.

Wizards' Bilal Coulibaly Returns from Back Injury vs. Portland

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Bilal Coulibaly (back) is officially available to play in Tuesday's game against Portland, ending a five-game absence. The Washington Wizards forward had been sidelined with a back injury. While he is cleared to return, the team may ease him back into action, potentially limiting his minutes. This marks his first game back since January 27, 2026.

Coby White nears Bulls' all-time three-point record amid trade rumors

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Coby White scored 23 points with five three-pointers against the Lakers, passing Kirk Hinrich for second-most threes in Bulls history (1,049). He is now less than 100 threes away from Zach LaVine's franchise record (1,130). However, White's expiring contract and the upcoming Feb. 5 trade deadline create uncertainty. The Bulls face a dilemma: trade their developing scorer now or risk losing him in free agency this summer, despite him becoming a de facto franchise player.

Devin Booker out with ankle sprain; Suns face tough stretch

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Devin Booker will be re-evaluated in one week after sustaining a right ankle sprain in Atlanta, forcing the Suns into "next man up" mode. With 36 vital games remaining, Phoenix must navigate a tight Western Conference without their star. Dillon Brooks, Grayson Allen, and Collin Gillespie are expected to see increased usage and responsibility. Allen, despite a recent cold shooting night, is guaranteed more shots, while Gillespie will be tasked with more creation. The team hopes for a bounce-back from Allen and contributions from Jordan Goodwin and a returning Jamaree Bouyea to stay afloat.

Ivica Zubac poised for increased scoring vs. short-handed Jazz

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Clippers center Ivica Zubac is expected to boost his scoring against a potentially short-handed Utah Jazz frontcourt, with Jusuf Nurkic (doubtful) and Lauri Markkanen (questionable) battling illness. Despite averaging 12.5 points in January, Zubac previously scored 19 points against the Jazz in October. He's a strong rebounder, averaging 3.6 offensive boards and 4.2 second-chance points (3rd in NBA), which will be crucial against Utah's weak interior defense and low rebound rate. Projections anticipate him exceeding 14.5 points.

Grayson Allen set for increased role and usage with Suns' injuries

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With Devin Booker and Jalen Green sidelined, Grayson Allen is expected to take on a significantly increased offensive role for the Suns. Despite a recent rough shooting night (4-of-18 FG, 1-of-11 3PT) against Miami, he scored 18 points, largely from the free-throw line. His usage, including a season-high 28 pick-and-rolls, and shot attempts are guaranteed to rise. While efficiency might dip without Booker's gravity, Allen, who is averaging a career-high 3.7 assists, has an opportunity to elevate his playmaking and overall production in what has already been a career-best season.

Rookie Amari Williams shines in career-high minutes for Celtics

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Celtics rookie Amari Williams impressed in a career-high 25:53 minutes during Boston's win over the Trail Blazers, logging nine points, seven rebounds, an assist, a steal, and two blocks. Jaylen Brown praised his "exceptional" rim protection and positioning. Coach Joe Mazzulla substituted Williams in for Neemias Queta early in the game, and teammates noted his passing ability and rebounding. This performance significantly surpassed his previous NBA playing time, building on his G League averages of 12.1 points, 10.1 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.8 blocks on 60.5% shooting.

Celtics maintain success despite Jayson Tatum's absence

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The Boston Celtics have maintained their No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference despite playing without All-NBA First Team superstar Jayson Tatum. His absence has led to increased usage for Jaylen Brown. An adjustment period is anticipated upon Tatum's return as he integrates with new teammates like Gonzalez, Garza, and Simons, but the team's long-standing success with both Tatum and Brown on the court suggests any power dynamic concerns are unfounded.

Jaylen Brown discusses "sacrifices" made for Celtics' championship success

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Jaylen Brown, recently named an NBA All-Star starter, is averaging career highs in points (29.6), rebounds (6.8), and assists (4.9) with Jayson Tatum sidelined. He leads the NBA with 22.5 shot attempts per game, attributing his elevated play to "sacrifices" made for the Celtics to be a championship-caliber team. Brown stated that his capabilities are now more evident, noting the team's continued success as the East's second seed despite significant roster changes. He thrives on criticism and previously won NBA Finals MVP alongside Tatum in 2024.

Jimmy Butler suffers season-ending ACL tear, impacting Warriors' trade plans

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Jimmy Butler has sustained a season-ending right ACL tear, an injury that is significantly impacting the Golden State Warriors' trade considerations. Multiple team sources indicate that the Warriors are now "less likely" to trade Jonathan Kuminga before the Feb. 5 deadline, as Butler's absence has changed the team's dynamic and Kuminga's role.

Payton Pritchard Reveals Persistent Finger Injury, Powers Celtics with 23 Points

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Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard revealed he's been playing through a recurring left pinky finger injury, first sustained on December 28th. Despite briefly leaving Monday's game against the Blazers after aggravating it, he returned to finish the 102-94 win. Pritchard delivered a strong performance, tallying 23 points on 8-16 FG, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists. The injury hasn't significantly impacted his production, as he's averaging 16.8 points this season and 15.9 points in January, with an improved 46.6% FG. He also boasts one of the NBA's best assist-to-turnover ratios.

Monday, January 26

Jrue Holiday Receives Champion's Welcome in Boston Return, Reflects on Trade

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Portland Trail Blazers guard Jrue Holiday made an emotional return to Boston, receiving a champion's welcome with cheers and a standing ovation. He reflected on 'good times' and appreciated the Celtics' front office for being transparent about his trade last offseason. Holiday, who won a 2024 NBA title with Boston, scored 14 points in 24 minutes during Monday's 102-94 loss to the Celtics. He's been averaging 12.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in his first six games back from a 27-game hamstring injury, still on a minutes restriction.

James Harden Averages 25.1 Points During Clippers' Impressive 15-3 Run

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James Harden has been a key contributor to the Los Angeles Clippers' remarkable turnaround, averaging 25.1 points per game since December 20th. During this period, the Clippers have compiled an impressive 15-3 record, transforming their season from a 6-21 start to play-in tournament contention. His scoring has been instrumental in the team's recent success.

Kawhi Leonard Questionable for Tuesday with Bruised Knee, Leads NBA in Scoring Since Dec. 20

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Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard is questionable for Tuesday's game against the Jazz due to a bruised left knee, picked up after a strong 28-point performance Sunday against the Nets. Since December 20th, Leonard has been the NBA's leading scorer, averaging 31.8 points per game, coinciding with the Clippers' impressive 15-3 run. The team is expected to monitor his condition closely during shootaround and warmups before deciding on his availability.

Draymond Green Sidelined with Left Low Back Soreness for Warriors' Loss

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Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green was ruled out for Monday's game against the Timberwolves due to left low back soreness. He was initially questionable after playing 23 minutes and scoring two points Sunday night. His absence, alongside Stephen Curry, contributed to the Warriors' 108-83 loss, as the team notably lacked interior defense. Quinten Post and Trayce Jackson-Davis are expected to fill in during his absence, which was confirmed in broader injury updates.

LeBron James Scores 24 Points in Lakers' Win, Struggles from Three-Point Range

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LeBron James contributed 24 points (9-19 FG, 1-4 3Pt, 5-6 FT), five rebounds, three assists, and one steal in 33 minutes during the Lakers' 129-118 victory over the Bulls. He started strong with 20 points in the first half but added only four in the second, finishing as the Lakers' second-leading scorer. While reaching 20 points in two of his last three games, James has struggled from deep, shooting just 27.3 percent in that span. He will face the Cavaliers in Cleveland on Wednesday.