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NBA News

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

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Darius Garland Cleared to Play Tuesday vs. Pelicans After Quad Scare

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Darius Garland (left quadriceps contusion) is officially available for Tuesday's game against the Pelicans, shedding his questionable tag. This marks his first time suiting up for both halves of a back-to-back this season. Earlier, he was at risk of missing the game due to the quad issue. The Cavaliers guard has been highly productive recently, averaging 25.8 points, 8.3 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.0 steals while shooting an impressive 53.1 percent from three-point range over his last four outings.

Jared McCain to Start Tuesday vs. Nets Due to Teammate Illnesses

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Jared McCain will draw his first start of the season for the Philadelphia 76ers against the Nets on Tuesday. He steps into the lineup due to VJ Edgecombe and Quentin Grimes both being sidelined with illness. Over his last five games, the second-year guard has averaged 7.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.2 steals across 19.2 minutes per contest.

Ben Simmons Chasing Pro Fishing Passion While Planning NBA Comeback

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Ben Simmons is currently focusing on a unique passion, owning a professional fishing team in Florida. This venture comes as the player simultaneously prepares for his anticipated return to the NBA.

Kings reportedly make Malik Monk available for trade amid reduced role

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Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk has reportedly been made available for trade, with NBA insider Chris Haynes confirming the news. This comes amidst a significantly reduced role, seeing his minutes drop from over 31 to around 23 per game and his scoring decline from 17.2 to 12.5 PPG. Monk played 14 minutes Tuesday, contributing 9 points (3/8 FG, 2 3-pointers) and 2 steals, and has expressed confusion over his benching. Despite coach Doug Christie stating he expects Monk to remain "until otherwise," he acknowledged the team is "trying to shake things up." Monk, who signed a 4-year, $78M deal last summer, is reportedly not part of the team's future plans.

Dominick Barlow Ruled Out for Tuesday's Game Due to Illness

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Philadelphia 76ers C Dominick Barlow has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Nets due to an illness, as reported by Adam Aaronson. Barlow isn't feeling well enough to play, with his next opportunity to suit up scheduled for Friday's battle with the Bulls. With the 76ers missing several key contributors, Justin Edwards appears to be worth streaming in the majority of fantasy leagues.

Quentin Grimes Sidelined for Tuesday's Game with Illness

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Philadelphia 76ers G Quentin Grimes has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Nets due to an illness, according to Adam Aaronson. Grimes is among several 76ers players, including VJ Edgecombe and Dominick Barlow, dealing with illness or injury. His next chance to play will be Friday against the Bulls. With the 25-year-old swingman unavailable, Jared McCain and Justin Edwards are likely to see increased roles, and Eric Gordon may enter the rotation.

Hornets' Ryan Kalkbrenner Out Tuesday with Sprained Left Elbow

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Charlotte Hornets C Ryan Kalkbrenner has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Wizards due to a sprained left elbow. This marks the second consecutive game the rookie second-rounder will miss with the injury. His next opportunity to suit up will be Friday's matchup in Orlando. With Mason Plumlee also out of action with a groin injury, Moussa Diabate is expected to handle the bulk of the center minutes for the Hornets on Tuesday.

DeMar DeRozan's 37 Points Can't Prevent Kings' Loss to Pistons

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Sacramento Kings' DeMar DeRozan delivered a strong performance with 37 points and eight assists during Tuesday's 136-127 loss to the Detroit Pistons. Despite his efforts, including 23 points in the first half and a three-point play late in the fourth quarter, his scoring was not enough to overcome Detroit's lead. The Kings ultimately fell to 7-23 on the 2025-26 NBA season, marking their sixth loss in seven games.

Wizards' Cam Whitmore Diagnosed with DVT, Out Indefinitely

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Washington Wizards G/F Cam Whitmore has been diagnosed with upper-extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right shoulder, sidelining him indefinitely, likely until next season. The 21-year-old, in his third NBA season, was averaging 9.2 points and 2.8 rebounds off the bench. The diagnosis followed two missed games for shoulder soreness. DVT, a condition that can cause blood clots, carries serious health risks, including pulmonary embolism. Whitmore joins a list of NBA players who have experienced DVT.

Terry Rozier Files Motion to Dismiss Federal Sports Betting Charges

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Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier's attorneys have formally requested a federal judge to dismiss wire fraud and money laundering charges against him, arguing the government overstepped in accusing him of involvement in a sports betting scheme. Rozier had previously pleaded not guilty to the charges. His legal team asserts the accusations are unfounded, seeking to clear his name in the ongoing federal case.

Tyrese Maxey Struggles with 13 Points on 3-for-14 Shooting in Sixers Loss

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Tyrese Maxey had a rough night in the Philadelphia 76ers' 114-106 loss to the Nets on Tuesday, finishing with 13 points on 3-for-14 shooting, three rebounds, four steals, two assists, and four turnovers. He went scoreless in the first quarter, missing his first six field goals, and was reportedly frustrated by Terance Mann's tight defense and the officiating. Maxey's struggles contributed to the Sixers' starting backcourt (including Jared McCain) shooting a combined 6 for 25 from the field.

Damian Lillard's Past DVT and Achilles Injury Recalled

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Damian Lillard was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right calf last March, making a surprisingly quick return to play for the Milwaukee Bucks in the playoffs by late April. He subsequently sustained a torn Achilles tendon in his left leg during a first-round game against the Indiana Pacers. The potential impact of his DVT and recovery on the Achilles tear in his opposite leg remains unclear.

Nick Young Weighs In on Draymond-Kerr Clash, Calls it 'Different'

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Former Golden State Warriors guard Nick Young offered his insight on the latest clash between Draymond Green and coach Steve Kerr, stating it feels 'different' than past altercations. Speaking on Gilbert Arenas’ podcast, Young noted that while Green and Kerr 'always fight,' this incident is distinct because the Warriors are 'not the same championship team.' He questioned whether the current Warriors, already dealing with other issues, can withstand such a squabble.

Draymond Green Exits Game After Kerr Clash, Frustrated with Role

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Draymond Green exited the Warriors' game early after a heated argument with coach Steve Kerr, stating he felt it 'was best to remove myself.' Green is reportedly 'frustrated' with his current role, specifically having to guard heavier centers nightly due to Al Horford's injury. Former Warrior Nick Young noted this clash feels 'different' than past ones, questioning if the current team can withstand such drama. Despite the incident, the Warriors outscored opponents after Green's departure and won by 23 points.

Trey Jemison III Praised for Development and Impact with Knicks

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Trey Jemison III, splitting time between the New York Knicks and their G League affiliate, is highlighted as a success of the Knicks' player development program. Coach Mike Brown praised his physicality, communication, and defensive effort, noting his 5 rebounds, a block, and 5 points in a key stretch against Indiana. Jemison, who also hosts popular Bible study sessions, has significantly improved his free throws and passing under the guidance of coaches like Billy Lange, Mark Bryant, and Carson Shanks, demonstrating his growth and commitment to the team.

Jerami Grant (Achilles) Out for Third Straight Game

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Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant will miss Tuesday's game against the Magic due to an Achilles injury, marking his third consecutive absence. There has been no indication of when he might return to play. In his continued absence, teammates Sidy Cissoko and Kris Murray are expected to receive increased playing opportunities.

Coward Questionable for Tuesday with Left Heel Soreness

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Memphis Grizzlies G Cedric Coward is listed as questionable for Tuesday's game against the Jazz due to left heel soreness. He played 25 minutes on Monday against the Thunder, recording 16 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. If Coward is unable to play, the Grizzlies anticipate expanded roles for players like GG Jackson and Olivier-Maxence Prosper on the wings.

Morant Out Tuesday with Sprained Ankle, Fourth Consecutive Absence

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Memphis Grizzlies star guard Ja Morant will miss Tuesday's game against the Jazz due to a sprained left ankle, marking his fourth consecutive absence. He is considered day-to-day and could potentially return for Friday's tilt against the Bucks. In his absence, Cam Spencer is expected to see heavy involvement in the depleted Memphis backcourt.

Jalen Suggs Sidelined Again Tuesday with Hip Injury

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Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs (hip) is officially ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Trail Blazers, marking his fourth consecutive absence. There is currently no timetable for his return, with his next potential opportunity to play being Friday against Charlotte. Anthony Black is expected to handle the majority of point guard duties in Suggs' continued absence.

Ajay Mitchell Ruled Out Tuesday with Concussion

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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell (concussion) will miss Tuesday's game against the Spurs. He was diagnosed with a concussion after exiting Monday's game early, making his availability for Christmas Day against the Spurs highly unlikely. In his absence, Alex Caruso, Isaiah Joe, and Cason Wallace are expected to see increased playing time.