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NBA News

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

Monday, December 15, 2025

LeBron James' 18-Year-Old Scoring Record Broken by Cooper Flagg

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LeBron James' long-standing NBA scoring record for an 18-year-old was broken on Monday by Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg, who dropped 42 points. James originally set the record on December 13, 2003, scoring 37 points against the Boston Celtics during his rookie season with the Cleveland Cavaliers. James and Flagg are now the only two players in NBA history to exceed 24 points in a single game at 18 years old, a mark also reached by Dwight Howard and Kobe Bryant.

Ingram Scores 28 Points, Delivers Well-Rounded Line in Raptors' Win

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Brandon Ingram tallied 28 points (9-19 FG, 5-7 3Pt, 5-5 FT), five rebounds, five assists, and a block in 38 minutes during the Toronto Raptors' 106-96 victory over the Heat on Monday. While he fell short of 30 points for a third consecutive game, Ingram posted a strong, well-rounded performance. He has been a consistent force for the Raptors this season, scoring at least 20 points in five of his last six outings, maintaining high usage and fantasy value.

Cunningham Explodes for 32 Points, Double-Double in Pistons' Victory

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Cade Cunningham delivered an impressive performance for the Detroit Pistons, recording 32 points (11-21 FG, 6-10 3Pt, 4-4 FT), four rebounds, 10 assists, and one steal in 36 minutes during Monday's 112-105 win over Boston. This marks his first time reaching the 30-point threshold since November 28th. Cunningham also showcased strong facilitation, securing a double-double in two of his last three appearances, leading Detroit to a significant victory.

Josh Hart's 'Honest' Chat with Mike Brown Ignites Knicks' NBA Cup Finals Run

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Veteran guard Josh Hart's recent struggles, mirroring those of the New York Knicks, were reportedly resolved after an 'honest' conversation with Mike Brown. This pivotal meeting is credited with sparking a significant turnaround for both Hart and the team, propelling the Knicks into the NBA Cup finals. The discussion appears to have been a catalyst for their improved performance and successful playoff push.

Harden Officially Cleared for Monday's Game vs. Grizzlies

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James Harden (calf) has been officially cleared to play Monday against the Grizzlies, resolving earlier confusion after coach Ty Lue's premature statement. Harden will shake off his questionable tag due to a left calf contusion. Over his last five appearances, he averaged 22.4 points, 6.4 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.0 steals in 34.4 minutes per game, shooting 45.6% from the field and 35.0% from three-point range.

Daniel Gafford Returns from Ankle Injury, Set to Start vs. Jazz

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Daniel Gafford is available and expected to start Monday against the Jazz, returning from a three-game absence due to a right ankle injury. His return bolsters the Dallas Mavericks' frontcourt depth with Dereck Lively II out for the season. Despite being cleared, Gafford's minutes will be limited to 17-20 in his first game back. In his last five appearances (three starts), he averaged 6.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.0 blocks in 22.2 minutes per game.

Anthony Davis Ruled Out Monday Amid Trade Talks, Injury Concerns

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Anthony Davis (calf) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Jazz, missing his first game of December despite participating in shootaround. His absence opens opportunities for Klay Thompson and Naji Marshall. Davis is reportedly a prime trade candidate for the Dallas Mavericks, with his market value questioned due to a significant injury history, having played just 11 games this season while averaging 20 points and 10.5 rebounds. He is also expecting a massive contract extension, with Atlanta, Detroit, and Toronto rumored to be interested.

Tyler Herro Late Scratch for Monday's Game Due to Toe Injury

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Tyler Herro has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Raptors due to a toe injury. He was initially listed in the starting lineup for the Miami Heat but was downgraded to out. This is the same toe injury that previously forced him to miss two games earlier this month. As a result of Herro's late scratch, Simone Fontecchio will draw the start in his place.

Gabe Vincent Emerges as Likely Trade Piece for Lakers Seeking Defensive Upgrade

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Gabe Vincent is identified as a likely trade candidate for the Los Angeles Lakers as they seek to improve their point-of-attack defense. Coach J.J. Redick has openly discussed the team's defensive shortcomings, leading the Lakers to target a 3&D wing, such as Keon Ellis. Vincent, a solid veteran guard, is expected to be part of any trade package the Lakers assemble to address their defensive needs, suggesting he should have a "go-bag ready by the door."

Lauri Markkanen Trade Speculation Rises Despite Extension; Jazz May Tank for Pick

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Despite signing a four-year, $195.9 million extension and playing at an All-Star level, Lauri Markkanen is subject to trade speculation. While the Utah Jazz have not made him available, other teams believe a trade is possible due to Markkanen's timeline not aligning with younger Jazz stars like Keyonte George, Walker Kessler, and Ace Bailey. Additionally, the Jazz might consider trading him for young players or picks to actively tank and increase their odds of retaining a top-eight protected draft pick owed to the Thunder.

Jonathan Kuminga Available for Trade, Ineligible Until January 15 Amid Breakup Talk

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Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga is reportedly available for trade and eyeing a breakup with the team, though he is ineligible to be dealt until January 15. His current contract (two years, $46.8 million with a team option) was designed to facilitate a trade. The Pelicans and Nets are rumored to be interested in Kuminga, whose market has been affected by his inconsistent playing time under coach Steve Kerr. The Warriors are also reportedly interested in acquiring Trey Murphy III or Nic Claxton, potentially using Kuminga as part of a trade package.

Spurs Consider Bringing Victor Wembanyama Off Bench for NBA Cup Final

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The San Antonio Spurs are reportedly discussing deploying Victor Wembanyama off the bench for their upcoming NBA Cup final against the Knicks. This comes after Blake Griffin recently praised Wembanyama's significant impact in the Spurs' NBA Cup semifinal win over the Thunder, even pondering his potential to become the greatest of all time. The team is exploring different ways to utilize the star player in the championship game.

Payton Pritchard Cleared for Monday's Game Despite Neck Spasms

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Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard (neck) has been cleared to play in Monday's game against the Pistons, shedding his earlier questionable designation due to neck spasms. Pritchard was a late addition to the injury report and was initially in jeopardy of missing his first game of the campaign. The 27-year-old point guard has been productive in December, averaging 14.2 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.2 rebounds in 32.2 minutes over five games. His availability means teammates Derrick White and Anfernee Simons will not see the anticipated uptick in usage.

Blake Griffin Discusses Chris Paul & Clippers' Past

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Blake Griffin discussed his reaction to the Clippers sending Chris Paul home during an interview with Kevin O'Connor. The conversation also touched upon the evolution of the NBA, Griffin's career, and current rookie stars like Victor Wembanyama. Griffin shared insights on Wemby's impact and the Spurs' victory over the Thunder in the NBA Cup semifinals.

Suggs Diagnosed with Hip Contusion, Expected to Miss Weeks

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Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs has been diagnosed with a left hip contusion, confirmed by MRI, after exiting Saturday's NBA Cup semifinals loss to the Knicks. Suggs, who scored 25 first-half points, had been battling hip discomfort for several games. His return timetable is murky, depending on treatment response, and he is considered doubtful for Thursday's game against Denver. He is expected to miss an extended period, potentially weeks, with teammates Anthony Black and Tyus Jones possibly seeing increased responsibility in his absence.

Giannis Trade Market Stalled Amid Injury, No Demand Yet

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Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is currently sidelined with a calf strain. The NBA trade market for him remains stalled as he has yet to formally demand a trade, reportedly hesitant to force his departure from Milwaukee, despite his agent meeting with the Bucks. He is considered likely the biggest name on the trade market. Suitors like the Knicks, Heat, Timberwolves, Spurs, and Rockets are monitoring the situation, though some teams are cautious given his recent calf and groin strains and his age (31) for a potential max extension. The Spurs, with significant assets, are noted as potential buyers.

Stephen Curry Reportedly Unable to Save Warriors

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Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry was mentioned in a report titled "NBA Hater Report," which stated that "Stephen Curry can't save Warriors." The article did not provide further specific details or context regarding this assessment of his performance or the team's current situation.

Paolo Banchero's Performance Blemish Reportedly Growing

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Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero was mentioned in a report titled "NBA Hater Report," which stated that "Paolo Banchero's blemish is getting bigger." The article did not provide further specific details or context regarding this assessment of his performance or current situation.

Jamal Shead Emerging as Key Bench Contributor for Raptors

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Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead has emerged as one of the team's biggest surprises over the past two weeks, delivering TJ McConnell-like production off the bench. His stat line includes strong assists, low turnovers, and steals, along with an increased number of three-pointers. With the Raptors facing a favorable Week 9 schedule that includes four games and a back-to-back, Shead is highlighted as a viable streaming option for fantasy managers in 12+ team 9-cat and points leagues.

Tari Eason Nearing Return from Oblique Injury, Questionable for Monday

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Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason has been upgraded to questionable ahead of Monday's game against Denver, signaling he is nearing his return from an oblique injury that has sidelined him for 11 games. Eason is considered a valuable target in 9-cat fantasy leagues for his efficiency, three-pointers, rebounds, and stocks, particularly with Houston scheduled to play four games this week. His return is expected to be a key factor in the Rockets' rotation, providing the team with another two-way weapon.