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NBA News

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

Monday, November 17, 2025

Brandon Miller Assigned to G League for Practice Following Shoulder Injury

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Brandon Miller has been assigned to the G League's Greensboro Swarm for practice as he continues his recovery from a left shoulder subluxation. The Charlotte Hornets forward exited an Oct. 25 game against the 76ers and was re-evaluated two weeks later. This move to the G League signifies a progression in his on-court work. Miller, a 22-year-old forward, is expected to practice with Greensboro for a few days while the Hornets are on the road. If his shoulder responds well, he could be a candidate to return to action when the Hornets host the Clippers on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. Miller, who signed a two-year, $22.31 million contract in July 2023, was a highly touted prospect from Alabama, drawing comparisons to Paul George.

Neemias Queta Excels as Screening Machine for Celtics

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Neemias Queta has emerged as a highly effective "screen assist" contributor for the Boston Celtics, significantly aiding their offense. In a recent game against the Los Angeles Clippers, Queta was credited with eight screen assists, directly leading to 21 points for his teammates, contributing to a 121-118 victory. This performance more than doubled his season averages, as he currently ranks fourth in the NBA with 3.9 screen assists per game and fifth with 9.2 screen assist points per game. Queta's screening efforts have helped free up shooters like Payton Pritchard and Derrick White for crucial three-pointers. The Celtics, as a team, now lead the NBA in screen assist points per game (23.7) and are tied for the league lead in screen assists per game (9.9), partly due to Queta and Luka Garza's contributions. Queta himself also added 14 points on 7-of-16 shooting, with nine rebounds (six offensive) and a +16 plus/minus in 33 minutes. He has been a significant positive for the Celtics since elevating to a starting role, boasting a net rating of +18.2 in his minutes on the floor, a stark contrast to the team's performance when he is on the bench.

Sunday, November 16, 2025

Draymond Green Confronts Pelicans Fan Over 'Angel Reese' Chant, Citing Disrespect

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Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green confronted a fan courtside during Sunday night's 124-106 win over the New Orleans Pelicans after the fan repeatedly referred to him as WNBA star Angel Reese. Green stated that while it was initially a joke, it became disrespectful, emphasizing, "Can’t keep calling me a woman" given he has four children and another on the way. The fan, Sam Green, claimed Draymond threatened to punch him and used profanity, describing the interaction as "unnerving." Officials and teammates quickly separated the two; Green received no penalty, while the fan was warned. Green finished the game with 8 points and 10 rebounds. Coach Steve Kerr commented that player discussions with fans are acceptable if they don't escalate, noting security could have intervened sooner. Green has a history of fan altercations, including a $25,000 fine in 2022.

Coby White Shines in Debut, Faces Evolving Role Amidst Bulls' Backcourt Changes

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Coby White delivered an impressive debut, tallying 27 points, eight assists, four rebounds, and a steal in 30 minutes during the Bulls' recent double-overtime loss to the Jazz, though he will sit Monday due to a calf issue. This performance follows his breakout 2023-24 campaign, where he averaged career highs of 19.1 points, 5.1 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.6 threes, including a 42-point Play-In Game, largely benefiting from Zach LaVine's absence. For 2024-25, with LaVine and Lonzo Ball expected healthy, and Josh Giddey acquired to start at point guard, White's role is projected to shift to shooting guard. His career has seen fluctuating roles, from a promising rookie year and a near-full-time starting role to reduced minutes and a "worst statistical season" before securing a three-year contract. Finishing 48th in fantasy last season, his lack of defensive stats and the Bulls' evolving roster create uncertainty, making him a potential dynasty/keeper buy-low candidate.

Lauri Markkanen Dominates with 47 Points, Eyes Strong Comeback Season After Injury-Plagued Year

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Lauri Markkanen delivered a stellar performance, logging 47 points (15-33 FG, 6-17 3Pt, 11-13 FT), seven rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks in 46 minutes during Sunday's 150-147 double-overtime victory over the Bulls. This comes after a 2023-24 season where injuries, including a right shoulder issue that sidelined him for 17 of Utah's final 21 games and the Olympic Qualifying Tournament, caused a slight step back from his career-high 2022-23 campaign. Markkanen, who signed a five-year, $238 million extension this offseason and cannot be traded in 2024-25, is expected to be 100 percent for training camp. In 2022-23, he was a feel-good story, ending as the 23rd-ranked player in standard formats and winning Most Improved Player with career-highs of 25.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 3.0 three-pointers on 49.9% FG and 87.5% FT. While his 26th-place fantasy finish that year looks like an outlier, his elite three-point shot and efficient offense make him a strong fantasy option when healthy. Despite new talent on the Jazz, he is expected to remain the number one option.

Kevin Durant's 35-Point Effort Secures Rockets Overtime Win, Continues Strong Start

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Kevin Durant led the Houston Rockets to a 117-113 overtime victory over the Orlando Magic on Sunday, dropping a game-high 35 points and playing 45 minutes. Durant hit crucial clutch shots at the end of regulation and again in overtime, putting Houston up 113-110 with 9.2 seconds remaining. The Rockets, who improved to 9-3 and are third in the Western Conference, secured their fourth consecutive win and ninth in their last ten games after an 0-2 start. Durant has been instrumental, averaging 25.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, while shooting over 42% from beyond the arc. Houston also showed improved free-throw shooting at 86.2%, an area of concern last season. The Rockets will look to extend their winning streak on Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Jalen Johnson Continues Stellar Play with Third Straight 20/10/7 Performance

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Jalen Johnson, the 23-year-old Atlanta Hawks forward, delivered another impressive performance on Sunday, recording 25 points (9-13 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 5-6 FT), 10 rebounds, seven assists, and a steal in 39 minutes during a 124-122 win over the Suns. This marks his third consecutive game with at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, leading the team in rebounding. Johnson has been highly efficient, shooting 60.3 percent from the floor over his last four games, averaging 24.0 points, 12.0 rebounds, 9.3 assists, and 2.5 steals in 34.8 minutes per contest during that stretch. He signed a five-year, $150 million contract extension with the Hawks in October 2024. His collegiate career, though brief, showcased his talent with notable outings including a 19-point, 19-rebound debut and a 24-point, 16-rebound, seven-assist, four-block game.

Franz Wagner Posts Season-High 29 Points Amidst Three-Point Shooting Concerns

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Franz Wagner, the 22-year-old Orlando Magic forward, achieved a season-high 29 points (8-21 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 10-13 FT) on Sunday, adding five rebounds, four assists, and two steals in 43 minutes during an overtime loss to the Rockets. While Wagner set career highs in 2023-24 with 19.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.1 steals, his three-point shooting significantly declined to 28.1 percent, including an abysmal 18.8 percent over his final 27 regular-season games, after shooting at least 35 percent in his first two seasons. Despite this, he has maintained over 84 percent from the charity stripe throughout his career, suggesting potential for a bounce-back. The 2021 eighth overall pick, an All-Rookie First Teamer, has a well-carved-out role as a slasher and shooter, though his fantasy upside is currently limited without a consistent deep shot.

Alperen Sengun Posts Huge Double-Double, Eyes Healthy Return Amidst Rockets' Evolving Offensive Landscape

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Alperen Sengun recorded a huge double-double with 30 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists, and two blocks in 45 minutes during Sunday's 117-113 overtime victory over the Magic. This strong outing follows a breakout Year 3 where the 22-year-old center posted career highs of 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. His season was cut short in mid-March by a severe right ankle sprain, but he is expected to be fully healthy for training camp and retain his starting role in 2024-25. Despite his established All-Star caliber play, Sengun's offensive production could face adjustments due to the Rockets' evolving roster, including Jalen Green's strong finish, the arrival of No. 3 pick Reed Sheppard, and expected jumps from other young players, alongside a projected faster-paced attack. Sengun's ability to fill the box score, reminiscent of Nikola Jokic, makes him a quality fantasy starter, building on a sophomore season that included two triple-doubles.

Moses Moody's Career-High 32 Points Powers Warriors' Win Over Pelicans

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Moses Moody was the Golden State Warriors' shining star in their 124-106 victory against the New Orleans Pelicans. Moody delivered a career-high 32 points on 10-of-16 shooting, including an impressive 8-of-12 from beyond the arc. He made seven three-pointers in the first quarter alone, a new career high for him and a feat only previously achieved by Steph Curry and Klay Thompson for the Warriors. Moody, who joked about his Southern roots fueling his performance, played 33 minutes, contributing significantly to a win where star players like Steph Curry and Draymond Green had reduced minutes. His impactful scoring, including key threes set up by offensive rebounds, allowed the Warriors to overcome 15 combined turnovers from Curry, Green, and Butler, highlighting his crucial role in the team's success without relying heavily on their top talent.

Payton Pritchard Explodes for Career-High 30 Points, Solidifying Role as Celtics' Key Bench Scorer

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Payton Pritchard erupted for 30 points (10-16 FG, 8-13 3Pt, 2-2 FT), three rebounds, and two assists in 33 minutes during Sunday's 121-118 victory over the Clippers. This performance underscores his "scoring off the bench" role, which he is expected to maintain for his remaining three seasons. Last season, Pritchard saw increased playing time (22.3 MPG vs. 13.4 MPG in 2022-23), leading to improved shooting (46.8% FG, 82.1% FT). Despite his sharpshooting (career 39% from deep), his role remains a reserve behind Jrue Holiday and Derrick White. While Marcus Smart's departure initially opened minutes, Holiday's arrival adjusted the depth chart. Pritchard, a 2020 26th overall pick, has shown consistent offensive flashes, but his minutes have fluctuated due to defensive struggles and backcourt additions like Derrick White and Malcolm Brogdon. He aims to improve on last season's 13.4 MPG.

Anthony Davis Sidelined Another 7-10 Days as Mavericks Prioritize Calf Strain Recovery

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Dallas Mavericks star forward Anthony Davis is set to miss at least another 7-10 days as he continues to recover from a left calf strain, marking his ninth consecutive missed game. This precautionary measure, mandated by team owner Patrick Dumont, aims to prevent re-injury, specifically a potential Achilles tendon rupture, a concern highlighted by Tyrese Haliburton's recent injury in the NBA Finals. Davis, who last played on October 29 for just under seven minutes, had initially targeted a November 8 return, but this was overruled by Dumont and the team's director of health, who advocated for a cautious approach. Coach Jason Kidd noted this extended absence provides Davis "seven to 10 days to get better or to get stronger." The 32-year-old, a 10-time All-Star, has played only 14 games (plus play-in appearances) since being traded from Los Angeles to Dallas as part of the Luka Doncic deal, a move that led to the firing of former GM Nico Harrison. Davis was also injured at the time of that trade and suffered an adductor strain upon returning too soon, missing an additional six weeks. In five games this season, Davis has averaged a double-double with 20.8 points and 10.2 rebounds, shooting 52% from the field.

Jaylen Brown Delivers Dominant Double-Double Amidst Evolving Celtics Role and High Expectations

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Jaylen Brown delivered a dominant double-double in Sunday's 121-118 win over the Clippers, tallying 33 points (14-33 FG, 1-7 3Pt, 4-7 FT), 13 rebounds, three assists, one block, and two steals in 39 minutes. This follows a 2023-24 season where he earned Finals and ECF MVP honors and was an All-Star reserve. The arrivals of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis in 2023-24 led to slightly fewer minutes (33.5 MPG) and shots but improved efficiency (49.9% FG), though his free-throw accuracy (70.3%) was a five-year low. With Porzingis sidelined until December, Brown and Jayson Tatum will carry a heavier scoring burden early. Brown, who signed a $306 million, five-year deal, faces scrutiny over continued improvement, especially regarding turnovers (3.3 in 2023 playoffs) and increased ball-handling post-Marcus Smart. His 2022-23 season saw career highs in points (26.6), rebounds (6.9), and assists (3.5), shooting 49.1% from the field.

James Harden Pours in 37 Points; Eyes Bounce-Back Season with Increased Clippers Usage

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James Harden recently posted a game-high 37 points (9-22 FG, 5-11 3Pt, 14-15 FT), along with seven rebounds, eight assists, and one steal in 38 minutes during the Clippers' 121-118 loss to the Celtics. His 2023-24 season, following a forced trade from the 76ers to the Clippers, saw him average 16.6 points, 8.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds, providing third-round fantasy value despite being his least productive since Oklahoma City. Entering his age-35 season, Harden's 2024-25 outlook suggests a potential "mini-bounceback" due to Paul George's departure, creating significant usage for him and Kawhi Leonard, potentially making him the primary offensive option on Leonard's off-nights. While signs of decline include reduced shot attempts at the rim and fewer free throws, he remains a strong passer and three-point shooter. His scoring has regressed over the past three seasons, but his multi-category contributions maintain a safe fantasy floor, though drafting him carries some risk.

Tyrese Martin's Late Third-Quarter Surge Fuels Nets' Victory

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Tyrese Martin contributed significantly to the Brooklyn Nets' 129-106 win against the Washington Wizards, finishing with 20 points. His crucial seven-point burst late in the third quarter, which included a pair of field goals and a three-pointer, helped extend the Nets' lead to 94-84 after the Wizards had narrowed the gap to just one point. Martin's timely scoring was instrumental in solidifying Brooklyn's advantage, allowing them to pull away in the fourth quarter and secure their second road victory of the season.

Michael Porter's 34-Point Outburst Highlights Talented Yet Injury-Plagued Career

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Michael Porter recently delivered a strong performance, notching 34 points (11-18 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 9-10 FT), nine rebounds, and seven assists in 34 minutes during a 129-106 victory over Washington on Sunday. This outing reflects his significant offensive talent, yet his career has been consistently challenged by back issues. Last season (2023-24), Porter achieved career-highs in minutes (31.7 MPG) and appearances (81 games), demonstrating efficiency with over 48.0% FG and 39.0% 3Pt, plus a career-best 83.6% FT. He recorded four 30-point games and 16 double-doubles. Despite his scoring prowess, Porter's injury history, including missing his rookie season and undergoing surgery in 2021-22, led to him falling to the 14th pick in the 2018 Draft. When healthy, as in 2020-21, he averaged 19.0 points, 7.3 rebounds. Heading into 2024-25, he remains a critical piece for the Nuggets, expected to thrive alongside Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, though a cautious approach to his playing time is anticipated given his high-risk, high-reward profile.

Derrick Jones Jr. Suffers Apparent Knee Injury, Clippers Await Further Evaluation

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Los Angeles Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr. was helped off the court after sustaining an apparent knee injury. Following the incident, Clippers coach Tyronn Lue indicated that the team is awaiting further evaluation to gain more clarity on the severity and nature of Jones Jr.'s condition. The team will provide an update once more information becomes available regarding his status.

Onyeka Okongwu Elevated to Starting Center for Hawks Against Suns

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Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu is slated to enter the starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Suns, a significant development reported by Kevin Chouinard of the Hawks' official site. This promotion follows a career largely spent as the backup to Clint Capela, despite Okongwu being the sixth overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Last season, he averaged 10.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks. Okongwu has consistently shown strong per-minute production, including a sophomore season where he averaged 9.9 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in just 23.1 minutes. He concluded last season with a strong performance, scoring in double digits in 15 of his final 17 games and accumulating 30 blocks, highlighting his potential. While Capela's role has historically limited Okongwu's upside, the Hawks are reportedly growing more confident in increasing his playing time, suggesting this starting role could be a pivotal moment for his development and fantasy value.

Jerami Grant to Start Sunday for Blazers; Future Trade Prospects Loom

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Jerami Grant is set to enter the starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Mavericks. The 30-year-old forward, under contract through the 2027-28 season, led the Portland Trail Blazers in total points last year with 1,132 across 54 games, averaging 21.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists on 45/40/82 shooting. He has consistently been a top-80 player for three consecutive years. With Damian Lillard's departure, Grant could see a slightly expanded offensive role, though his efficiency might regress if he shoulders more scoring responsibility. The Blazers, building a young core, are expected to explore trading Grant, despite the challenge of finding a suitor for his substantial contract. He projects as a roughly 20-point scorer for one of the league's struggling teams.

Derik Queen Elevated to Pelicans' Starting Lineup Amid Strong Rookie Season

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Derik Queen will move into the starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Warriors, a decision made by the New Orleans Pelicans' new head coach, shifting Kevon Looney to a bench role. Queen, a 20-year-old center, has been a bright spot for the Pelicans this season. He signed a two-year, $10.57 million contract in July 2025, which includes a team option for 2027-28. The 6-foot-10, 245-pound big man was the MaxPreps National Freshman of the Year in high school and the MVP of the 2024 McDonald's All-American Game. In his lone season at Maryland, he averaged 16.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.1 blocks, and 1.1 steals, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors. Known for his lethal face-up game and elite transition play, Queen's upside is considered high, with comparisons to Zach Randolph, Julius Randle, and Alperen Sengun.