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NBA News

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

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Franz Wagner Benefits from Desmond Bane's Arrival, Eyes Next Level for Magic Offense

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Franz Wagner is a key young star for the Orlando Magic, with the team hoping Desmond Bane's arrival will help him and Paolo Banchero win a championship. Wagner was involved in the game-winning play on November 10, passing to Bane for the buzzer-beater against Portland. He scored 29 points in a recent 117-113 overtime loss to the Houston Rockets on November 17. Banchero notes that Bane has "already unlocked things" for both him and Wagner, making the team "harder to guard" and creating easier offensive situations. Wagner himself acknowledged the Magic's past offensive struggles, describing them as "pretty stagnant" last year. He also highlighted Bane's unique leadership perspective after a heated training camp scrimmage, discussing the incident with Jalen Suggs afterward. Wagner's 3-point shooting has improved to 35.7% this season, up from 29.5% last season. He played only 97 minutes in six games with Banchero and Suggs last season due to injuries.

Moses Moody Solidifies Starting Role for Warriors Amidst Winning Streak

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Moses Moody has seemingly solidified his role as a starter for the Golden State Warriors, contributing significantly to their three-game winning streak. Since being inserted into the starting lineup, Moody has averaged 18.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.0 steals, shooting an impressive 48.6% from the field and 50% from three-point range. Coach Steve Kerr indicated that Moody's defensive ability and offensive efficiency make him a strong fit alongside Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. Moody's recent career-high 32-point performance further underscores his impact.

De'Anthony Melton 'Not Very Close' to Warriors Return from ACL Injury

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Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr revealed that veteran guard De'Anthony Melton is 'not very close' to returning from his ACL injury. Melton is participating in scrimmages and working on his conditioning, but due to missing most of last season, he requires significant on-court practice to regain rhythm. While he is expected to play a role later in the season, an exact return date has not been set. Melton averaged 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in six games before his injury.

Monday, November 17, 2025

Draymond Green Receives NBA Warning After Viral Fan Taunt During Pelicans Game

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Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green was issued a warning by the NBA following a heated interaction with a fan during Sunday's 124-106 victory against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. The incident, which occurred with 2:02 left in the second quarter, involved a courtside fan repeatedly taunting Green by referring to him as "Angel Reese" after he missed several tip-in attempts. ESPN's Shams Charania reported the warning on Tuesday, confirming no fine was issued to Green. Arena security also warned the fan, who was not ejected. The NBA's action comes ahead of the Warriors' scheduled return to New Orleans on February 24.

Karl-Anthony Towns Navigates New Role, Aims for Consistent Production with Knicks

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Karl-Anthony Towns is set to embrace a new challenge as the starting center for the New York Knicks, following a trade before training camp. With Isaiah Hartenstein in OKC and Mitchell Robinson injured, Towns steps into a pivotal role under coach Tom Thibodeau, a situation reminiscent of his elite fantasy production years (2016-2019) where he averaged 24.3 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks with strong shooting splits. Despite a recent trade, Towns' outlook is intriguing, though he will share the court with other high-usage players like Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart. Historically, Towns has demonstrated elite fantasy potential, averaging double-doubles for his first six seasons and showcasing remarkable three-point shooting, leading all centers in attempts and makes per game in recent seasons. He has also contributed defensively, averaging over a block per contest throughout his career and posting a steal per game last year. However, health has been a concern, with multiple seasons cut short by injuries and COVID-19 protocols. Last season, he played 74 games, a significant improvement after prior injury-plagued campaigns, averaging 24.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 2.0 three-pointers. His ability to stay on the court and maintain efficiency, including a 50% field goal percentage and over 40% from three in multiple seasons, makes him a unique fantasy asset. While his production has fluctuated, particularly with the addition of Rudy Gobert in Minnesota which impacted his rebounding and block numbers, his move to New York presents an opportunity for a return to consistent elite production, especially if he can maintain his shooting prowess and health.

Mikal Bridges Delivers Strong Performance Amidst Knicks' Roster Shake-Up and Career Trajectory Shifts

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Mikal Bridges recently delivered a strong performance for the New York Knicks, tallying 23 points (9-14 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 3-5 FT), three rebounds, four assists, four blocks, and two steals in 39 minutes during Monday's narrow 115-113 loss to Miami. This comes as Bridges navigates a significant roster shake-up in New York, where he was traded to reunite with college teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, followed by a blockbuster deal sending DiVincenzo and Randle to Minnesota for Karl-Anthony Towns. With a healthy OG Anunoby and other key players, Bridges' offensive volume is expected to decrease from his No. 1 option role in Brooklyn, where he averaged 25.8 points and a 30.3% usage rate in 31 games. His fantasy ranking dropped from 12th to 41st last year, primarily due to a free-throw percentage decline. Despite potential offensive adjustments, Bridges' history as an efficient two-way player, including top-35 fantasy finishes in Phoenix and an unbroken five-year career durability record, aligns well with Coach Thibodeau's defensive focus. He previously demonstrated versatility and consistent production, even in secondary roles, making him a valuable asset for the Knicks.

Paul George Returns for 76ers, 'Rusty but Felt Good' in Season Debut

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Paul George made his season debut for the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday against his former team, the LA Clippers, playing for the first time in eight months since March 4. The star forward, who underwent off-season surgery in July, finished with 9 points and 7 rebounds in 21 minutes, playing in five-minute stints. Despite shooting 2-for-9 from the field, George stated he "felt good" and "rusty." He hit a catch-and-shoot 3-pointer early and was fouled on another attempt, making two free throws. George, who signed a four-year, $212 million max contract in July 2024, averaged a career-low 16.4 points last season. His return saw him sit the final 8:52 as the 76ers won 110-108. Next steps for increasing his minutes will be determined with the medical staff.

Josh Giddey Delivers Double-Double in Win, Eyes Fresh Start with Chicago Bulls

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Josh Giddey recently contributed 21 points (8-12 FG, 5-8 FT), 14 rebounds, and six assists in 30 minutes during a 130-127 win over the Nuggets. This performance follows his trade from Oklahoma City to Chicago in exchange for Alex Caruso shortly after last season. Giddey's previous season saw him average 12.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 25.1 minutes, with improved perimeter and free-throw efficiency. He holds career highs of 16.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 48.2% shooting from 2022-23, and recorded 28 double-doubles and four triple-doubles in his sophomore year. Now with the Chicago Bulls, Giddey seeks a fresh start, competing for minutes with players like Ayo Dosunmu and Coby White, and is a potential mid-to-late round draft target if he improves his range and defense. Despite pre-draft concerns about his shooting, his improved free-throw percentage offers hope for consistent three-point shooting.

LaMelo Ball Flirts with Double-Double in Return, Hornets Guard Averages 22 Points This Season

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LaMelo Ball returned to action for the Charlotte Hornets, logging 20 points (6-19 FG, 1-7 3Pt, 7-7 FT), eight assists, five rebounds, and one steal in 28 minutes during a 110-108 loss to the Raptors on Monday. This marked his first 20-point game since October 28, achieved despite efficiency struggles, largely due to his perfect charity stripe work. Ball was given the green light after resting during Saturday's loss to the Thunder. For the season, the 24-year-old guard is averaging 22.0 points, 9.6 assists, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.4 steals over 31.9 minutes, though he's connecting on just 40.5 percent of his field-goal attempts and 31.5 percent from three-point range. Ball signed a five-year, $205.9 million contract extension with the Hornets in July 2023, following a pre-NBA career that included professional stints in Lithuania and Australia.

Chet Holmgren Dominates with 26 Points, Nine Rebounds in Thunder Victory

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Chet Holmgren delivered an efficient 26-point performance (10-14 FG, 3-6 3Pt, 3-4 FT) along with nine rebounds and one block in 33 minutes during Monday's 126-109 win over the Pelicans. This marked his best scoring night since October 25th and his fourth 20-plus point game in his last five matchups, leading the Thunder in scoring and falling just shy of a double-double. The 23-year-old center, who signed a five-year, $240.7 million extension in July 2025, is averaging 19.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.7 steals, and 1.3 blocks in 2025. A former No. 1 recruit, Holmgren was the second pick in the 2022 NBA Draft after an impressive collegiate career at Gonzaga, where he earned WCC Newcomer and Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Naz Reid Achieves Double-Double, Continues Strong Bench Play for Timberwolves

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Naz Reid recorded a double-double on Monday, notching 22 points (9-14 FG, 3-6 3Pt, 1-1 FT) and 12 rebounds, plus two assists, in just 23 minutes during the Timberwolves' 120-96 victory over the Mavericks. Despite being an intriguing big man often in a bench role behind Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert (and Julius Randle replacing Towns in 2024-25), Reid won Sixth Man of the Year last season. He signed a three-year, $42 million deal this offseason, with the team viewing him as a core piece. Last season, he averaged 12.3 points and 4.6 rebounds off the bench, but as a starter, he posted 17.6 points and 7.0 rebounds. Reid was on a hot streak before a wrist injury in early April, averaging 18.1 points and 4.9 rebounds over his last eight appearances, and was expected back by training camp.

Pascal Siakam Leads Pacers with 29 Points in Loss to Pistons

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Pascal Siakam scored 29 points (8-17 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 10-12 FT) with seven rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one block in 34 minutes during Monday's 127-112 loss to the Pistons. Siakam, who began the 2023-24 season with the Raptors before a mid-season trade to the Pacers, helped lead Indiana to the Eastern Conference Finals and signed a four-year deal in the offseason. With the Pacers in 2023-24, he averaged 21.3 points on 54.9% shooting, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in regular season, and 21.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in the postseason. He recorded 13 games with 30+ points and his only triple-double (26 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists) in late January. Siakam is expected to continue leading the Pacers' fast-paced offense alongside Tyrese Haliburton.

Bennedict Mathurin Explodes for 25 Points in Return, Primed for Career Year with Pacers

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Bennedict Mathurin made a strong return for the Indiana Pacers, notching 25 points (7-16 FG, 3-9 3Pt, 8-14 FT), three rebounds, two assists, one steal, and four turnovers in 25 minutes during Monday's 127-112 defeat to the Pistons. Despite a slow start with only two points in the first half, Mathurin ignited in the fourth quarter, showcasing his scoring ability. The Pacers are reportedly desperate for scoring, and with Mathurin expected to get ample shots, he is projected to have a career year if he remains healthy.

Daniss Jenkins Fuels Pistons' 10-Game Win Streak with 26 Points, Eight Assists

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Daniss Jenkins was instrumental in the Pistons' 10th consecutive win on Monday, contributing 26 points (11-21 FG, 1-5 3Pt, 3-4 FT) and eight assists, along with two rebounds and one steal in 33 minutes during their 127-112 victory over the Pacers. Jenkins has played a key role since being inserted into the rotation four games ago, averaging 21.8 points, 7.8 assists, 4.3 rebounds, 2.5 triples, and 2.0 steals per contest over that stretch, making him a must-roster fantasy player. The 24-year-old guard, who signed a two-way contract with the Pistons in August 2025, is currently averaging 9.8 points, 2.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.5 steals in 2025.

Kon Knueppel Leads Hornets in Scoring with 24 Points, Drains Four Triples

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Rookie Kon Knueppel led the Charlotte Hornets in scoring during Monday's 110-108 loss to the Raptors, logging 24 points (9-16 FG, 4-10 3Pt, 2-2 FT), seven rebounds, one assist, and three steals over 36 minutes. This marked the sixth time this season that the No. 4 overall pick of the 2025 NBA Draft connected on at least four three-pointers, and he has recorded three steals in two of his last three outings. Knueppel has opened his rookie season averaging 17.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 0.9 steals over 32.9 minutes per game, shooting 40.2 percent from beyond the arc on 8.0 attempts per game.

Jalen Duren Dominates with 31 Points and 15 Rebounds in Return from Absence

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Jalen Duren delivered a dominant performance in his return from a two-game absence, racking up 31 points (12-13 FG, 7-11 FT), 15 rebounds, and three assists in 29 minutes during Monday's 127-112 win over the Pacers. Duren looked fresh and secured his fifth consecutive double-double of the season. He is currently pulling down a career-high 12.3 rebounds per game, which ranks fifth in the NBA. His return also saw Paul Reed move back to the second unit.

Brandon Ingram Delivers Clutch Performance for Raptors with 27 Points

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Brandon Ingram delivered a strong performance for the Toronto Raptors in their 110-108 win over the Hornets on Monday, totaling 27 points (9-21 FG, 3-6 3Pt, 6-7 FT), six rebounds, three assists, three blocks, and two steals over 37 minutes. Ingram's contribution was crucial in the Raptors' victory.

Victor Wembanyama Diagnosed with Left Calf Strain, Expected to Miss Weeks

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Victor Wembanyama has been diagnosed with a left calf strain and is expected to miss "a few weeks," with re-evaluation anticipated in 2-3 weeks, potentially sidelining him until early December. He initially sustained the injury during Friday's game against the Golden State Warriors, where he played through it, recording 26 points and 12 rebounds, but was subsequently ruled out for Sunday's win over the Sacramento Kings. An MRI on Monday confirmed the strain. Wembanyama has been playing at an MVP level this season, averaging 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 4 assists, and a league-leading 3.6 blocks per game, shooting 34.5% from beyond the arc. His absence is a significant blow to the San Antonio Spurs, as their defense is 10.8 points per 100 possessions worse without him. Luke Kornet is expected to step into the starting center role, while De'Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle (if healthy) may see increased offensive roles. The Spurs, who started the season with a franchise-best five-game win streak and hold a 9-4 record, are being cautious with his return, especially given past calf-related injuries in the league.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Exits Cavaliers Game with Left Groin Strain, Status Uncertain

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Milwaukee Bucks All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo suffered a left groin strain during Monday's game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, forcing him to leave in the second quarter and not return. He appeared to tweak something earlier but continued playing before falling awkwardly after a layup attempt and immediately grabbing his groin. Coach Doc Rivers confirmed he would undergo imaging on Tuesday, stating the injury "didn't look great." Antetokounmpo had 14 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal in 13 minutes before exiting. His absence is a significant blow, as he leads the Bucks with season averages of 32.6 points (2nd in NBA), 11.3 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game. The team struggled without him, losing 118-106. While no firm timeline is set, similar injuries have led to at least a week's absence, and teams tend to be cautious with star players. Jericho Sims replaced him in the lineup.

Tyrese Maxey's 39 Points Fuel Sixers' Comeback Victory Over Clippers

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Tyrese Maxey spearheaded the Philadelphia 76ers' comeback effort on Monday night, scoring 39 points in a nervy 110-108 victory over the Clippers. Despite a slow start, going 0-for-3 from the floor early, Maxey ignited a crucial fourth-quarter run. He hit a three-pointer, converted an and-one bucket, and drove for a layup to give the Sixers a 95-94 lead. Although he committed a late turnover with the team up two, James Harden's missed shots on the final possession secured the win.