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NBA News

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

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Rookie Derik Queen Defies Critics with Historic 30-Point Triple-Double

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Pelicans rookie Derik Queen is silencing critics following a controversial draft trade, recently achieving a historic 33-point, 10-rebound, 10-assist, 4-block triple-double. He's the first rookie since 1973-74 to record such a stat line. Despite initial media backlash over New Orleans trading a 2026 first-round pick to acquire him, Queen's strong play is validating GM Joe Dumars' decision. Queen told ESPN he's used to people disliking him before changing their minds. The Pelicans currently hold the NBA's worst record, yet Queen remains a standout in the 2025 draft class.

Chris Paul Dismissed by Clippers, Coach Lue Denies Feud Report

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Chris Paul was abruptly dismissed by the Clippers last week, stating he is 'at peace' and 'excited to be back here with my family,' including seeing his son play for the first time. Coach Tyronn Lue denied reports of a feud, insisting they were speaking despite Paul being out of the rotation in November. Clippers president Lawrence Frank confirmed the split, with the team planning to trade Paul, who becomes eligible Monday. A league source indicated Paul had called out teammates and coaches, leading to the decision. Paul averaged career lows of 2.6 points, 3.3 assists, and 14.3 minutes this season.

Tristan da Silva Poised for Increased Role with Wagner's Ankle Injury

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Following Franz Wagner's high left ankle sprain, Tristan da Silva is expected to see increased opportunities for the Orlando Magic. While Anthony Black started the recent NBA Cup game, da Silva has previously filled a starting role when Paolo Banchero was out. He will have opportunities to contribute while Wagner is sidelined for 2-4 weeks.

Anthony Black Steps Up for Magic as Wagner Recovers from Ankle Sprain

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With Franz Wagner sidelined by a high left ankle sprain, Anthony Black has stepped into a more prominent role for the Orlando Magic. Black started in Tuesday's NBA Cup victory over the Heat, filling the void left by Wagner's injury. He is expected to continue receiving increased opportunities and is considered a superior streaming choice, especially given the injury history of starting point guard Jalen Suggs.

Franz Wagner Suffers High Ankle Sprain, Out 2-4 Weeks for Magic

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Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner sustained a high left ankle sprain during Sunday's loss to the Knicks and is expected to be re-evaluated in two to four weeks. The injury appeared severe at the time it occurred. Anthony Black and Tristan da Silva are expected to fill the void in the starting lineup while Wagner recovers, providing opportunities for both players.

Ayo Dosunmu Diagnosed with Grade 1 Thumb Sprain, Day-to-Day for Bulls

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Chicago Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu did not practice Wednesday and has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 thumb sprain. He is considered day-to-day, with his status for Friday's game against the Hornets remaining uncertain. The Bulls are expected to provide more clarity on his condition Thursday. Dosunmu has been starting in place of the injured Isaac Okoro, providing value when in the lineup.

Kings GM 'Very Encouraged' by Nique Clifford's Recent Versatile Play

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Sacramento Kings GM Scott Perry expressed he is 'very encouraged' by rookie Nique Clifford's recent play, highlighting his high basketball IQ, work ethic, and versatility. Clifford, the No. 24 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, is averaging 4.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists this season. He has stepped up lately, delivering key minutes, and recently recorded his best pro game with 15 points on 7-of-8 shooting in a win over the Miami Heat on Saturday. Perry noted Clifford's ability to defend multiple positions.

Mavs' Dereck Lively II to Miss Season with Right Foot Surgery

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Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II will undergo season-ending surgery on his right foot to address lingering discomfort, as reported by ESPN's Shams Charania. This marks the end of his 2025-26 campaign, having played just seven of the Mavs' 25 games this season and being sidelined since Nov. 22. Lively, who averaged 4.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in 16 minutes per game, had previously fractured the same foot last January and underwent offseason surgery. He is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for training camp. His absence will likely increase minutes for Daniel Gafford and Anthony Davis.

Short Guards Making Impact in NBA

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Jamal Shead, with Davion Mitchell and Collin Gillespie, all 6-foot-1 and under, are establishing a new standard for guards in the NBA. Their success offers a clear example for other smaller players, proving that skill and determination can overcome physical disadvantages, and they are actively shaping the game's evolution.

Short Guards Making Impact in NBA

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Collin Gillespie, alongside Davion Mitchell and Jamal Shead, all 6-foot-1 and under, are proving that height is not a barrier in the NBA. These guards are offering a roadmap for smaller players, highlighting their capacity to compete and excel in a league often dominated by taller athletes, thereby influencing team dynamics.

Short Guards Making Impact in NBA

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Davion Mitchell, along with Jamal Shead and Collin Gillespie, all 6-foot-1 and under, are demonstrating how smaller guards can succeed in today's NBA. They are providing a blueprint for shorter players to thrive, showcasing their ability to compete effectively against taller opponents and make significant contributions to their teams.

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Coby White: Buy-Low Potential Despite Injury-Plagued Start

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Coby White, a consistent fantasy contributor in previous seasons, has been limited to seven games this season due to injuries and minutes restrictions. Despite this, he's averaging 22.1 points, 5.4 assists, and 2.3 three-pointers when playing. His three-point shooting (30.2%) is currently at a career low but is expected to improve as his health and playing time increase. This situation presents a potential buy-low opportunity for fantasy managers looking for upside.

Jimmy Butler: Sell-High Opportunity Amidst Career Efficiency

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Jimmy Butler, playing his first full season with the Warriors, is averaging 19.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.0 assists with exceptional shooting percentages (51.9% FG, 84.8% FT, 46.5% 3PT). Despite his efficiency and durability this season (only four missed games), his career history suggests he's unlikely to maintain his current three-point percentage. Given his tendency for injuries (fewer than 65 games in eight of the last nine seasons), his fantasy value is likely at its peak, making it an opportune time to explore trade offers.

Jalen Brunson, Knicks Dominate Raptors, Advance to NBA Cup Semifinals

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Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks delivered a dominant performance, crushing the Raptors on the road in the NBA Cup quarterfinals on Tuesday night. This decisive victory propels the Knicks into the NBA Cup semifinals, showcasing their strong surge in the tournament.

Ingram's 31 Points, 6 Assists Lead Raptors in NBA Cup Quarterfinals Loss

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Brandon Ingram recorded 31 points (11-18 FG, 3-5 3Pt, 6-8 FT), six rebounds, six assists, and two steals in 39 minutes during the Raptors' 117-101 NBA Cup quarterfinals loss to the Knicks on Tuesday. This marks his second consecutive game with 30-plus points. The 28-year-old swingman was efficient from beyond the arc, shooting 8-for-13 from deep in his last three games. He also dished out at least six assists for the third time this season, helping with playmaking while Immanuel Quickley was sidelined due to illness.

Banchero Scores 18 Points in Win, Minutes Increase Post-Groin Strain

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Paolo Banchero closed with 18 points (5-13 FG, 2-5 3Pt, 6-7 FT), seven rebounds, four assists, and one block across 32 minutes in Orlando's 117-108 win over the Heat on Tuesday. Despite a pregame minutes restriction following a 10-game absence due to a groin strain, Banchero saw a significant bump in playing time, finishing as the Magic's third-leading scorer. He hit multiple triples for a second consecutive game and appears to be trending toward a full workload.

Herro Returns with 20 Points, Struggles from Three-Point Range

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Tyler Herro returned from a right toe contusion, contributing 20 points (7-17 FG, 0-6 3Pt, 6-7 FT), seven rebounds, and three assists in 34 minutes during Miami's 117-108 loss to Orlando on Tuesday. While he reached 20-plus points for the sixth time in as many regular-season appearances and tied a season-high with seven boards, Herro struggled significantly from beyond the arc, going 0-for-6 after previously shooting 48.4% from three.

Adebayo Delivers 19 Points, 8 Boards, 3 Blocks in Productive Outing

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Bam Adebayo logged 19 points (7-14 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 5-6 FT), eight rebounds, three blocks, two assists, and one steal over 36 minutes during Miami's 117-108 loss to Orlando on Tuesday. Adebayo bounced back from a quiet offensive performance, scoring 19+ points in four of his last five games. He led the Heat in rebounds, grabbing seven or more boards for a seventh straight game, and matched his season-high with three blocks.

Bane's 37 Points Propel Magic to NBA Cup Semifinals

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Desmond Bane matched his season high with an explosive 37 points, driving the Orlando Magic to a significant 117-108 victory over the Heat. This dominant scoring effort was pivotal in securing the Magic's advancement to the NBA Cup semifinals, where they will continue their quest for the championship. Bane's performance underscored his critical impact on the team's offensive success and their strong tournament run.

Powell Leads Heat in Loss with 21 Points, Extends Scoring Streak

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Norman Powell paced the Miami Heat with 21 points (8-19 FG, 4-12 3Pt, 1-2 FT), seven rebounds, three steals, and two assists in 34 minutes during Tuesday's 117-108 loss to the Magic. Despite an inefficient shooting night, he led the team in points and triples. Powell has now scored 18-plus points in five consecutive games, averaging 25.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per game during that productive span for the veteran swingman.