Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler returned to the lineup in Friday's 133-113 loss to the Denver Nugget...

Miami Heat star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> returned to the lineup in Friday's 133-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets following his seven-game suspension.Rumors have surrounded Butler all season, but the six-time All-Star said it's just a lot of speculation."There was a lot said by everybody except for me, to tell you the truth," said Butler, according to <a href="https://x.com/Anthony_Chiang/status/1880468121527689600">The Miami Herald's Anthony Chiang</a>. "So we'll let people keep talking like they know everything, like they have all the answers. And then, sooner or later, the whole truth will come out."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Butler was suspended for numerous instances of "conduct detrimental to the team."During his ban, Butler <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3189604" href="https://thescore.com/news/3189604">reportedly</a> met with Heat president Pat Riley to reiterate the trade request he reportedly made before his suspension. But the 35-year-old said he's "gonna hoop" if he's still in Miami following the Feb. 6 trade deadline, according to <a href="https://x.com/Anthony_Chiang/status/1880462886545551497">Chiang</a>.Some members of the Heat were dreading Butler's return, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43439721/jimmy-butler-pat-riley-nba-feud-miami-heat">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>.Butler started in Friday's contest and put up 18 points in 33 minutes of action. Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra didn't address the situation postgame."I'm not feeding into these storylines," he said, according to <a href="https://x.com/BradyHawk305/status/1880456937810325752">5ReasonsSports' Brady Hawk</a>. "We got our asses kicked."Miami has now lost three straight games and sits at 20-20 on the campaign. The Heat will look to end this skid Sunday against the San Antonio Spurs.

MIAMI, FL - JANUARY 17: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat smiles before the game against the Denver Nuggets on January 17, 2025 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Butler on trade rumors: 'Sooner or later, the whole truth will come out'

Maverick Carter, LeBron James' business manager, has been enlisted as an advisor by a group of in...

Maverick Carter, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>' business manager, has been enlisted as an advisor by a group of investors looking to form an international basketball league to rival the NBA, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43441356/sources-maverick-carter-advising-5b-effort-start-new-basketball-league">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.James isn't involved in the endeavor despite his ties to Carter, Charania adds.The group includes multiple private equity funds. It's seeking to raise $5 billion for the venture.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The league would comprise six men's teams and six women's teams that'd play games around the world, Charania notes.The investment group may try to tap private equity and sovereign wealth funds to raise the money, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-16/investors-seek-5-billion-to-form-basketball-league-to-rival-nba">Bloomberg</a> reports.The NBA hasn't faced a significant rival since the American Basketball Association in the 1970s. The ABA eventually went under, and the NBA absorbed four of its teams: the Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets, Denver Nuggets, and San Antonio Spurs.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 8: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers wearing a Liverpool FC jersey and Maverick Carter attends the game between Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks at Crypto.com Arena on March 8, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Report: LeBron's manager leading possible upstart to rival NBA

New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu says she's cleared to participate in Unrivaled after under...

New York Liberty guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/55066" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/55066">Sabrina Ionescu</a> says she's cleared to participate in Unrivaled after undergoing surgery to repair a torn UCL in her right thumb last month."[My recovery] has been a little sped up," Ionescu said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/43442470/sabrina-ionescu-not-100-cleared-play-unrivaled">ESPN's Kendra Andrews</a>. "If I didn't have this going on, I probably could have taken a little bit more time just rehabbing, letting it heal. But I'm fully cleared by the doctors to be able to play and continue to do my rehab while I'm out here and get live reps."The former No. 1 overall pick suffered the torn UCL during Game 4 of the WNBA Finals but managed to play the rest of the series as the Liberty won their first championship in franchise history.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ionescu was cleared to participate in all basketball activities on Jan. 8, Andrews reports. This past week was the first time she returned to the court. She practiced with a white wrap on her surgically repaired thumb and sported a black splint during media availability."I'm a little rusty, but I'm knocking the rust off," Ionescu said. "Everything's been going really well. ... It's nice to get back out on the court and get live reps in."The 27-year-old was the last player to commit to the new 3-on-3 league, which kicks off Friday. She said her delay was due to her injury and to ensure Unrivaled would be willing to work with her schedule and previous commitments.Ionescu says she will not be participating in the league full-time and that one of her absences will come Feb. 13-16 for NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco.The three-time All-Star averaged 18.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists in 2024.

BROOKLYN, NY - OCTOBER 20: Sabrina Ionescu #20 of the New York Liberty celebrates during the game against the Minnesota Lynx during Game Five of the 2024 WNBA Finals on October 20, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Ionescu cleared to play in Unrivaled

Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic has had enough of his team's poor play.   Following Wednesday...

Chicago Bulls center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5094">Nikola Vucevic</a> has had enough of his team's poor play. Following Wednesday's 110-94 loss to the Atlanta Hawks, Bulls guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69889">Coby White</a> was asked what head coach Billy Donovan told his team in the locker room. But White made it clear someone else was doing the talking."Vuc said it all postgame," White said, according to <a href="https://www.dailyherald.com/20250115/chicago-bulls/sounding-off-vucevic-vents-after-bulls-drop-third-straight-home-game/">Daily Herald's Mike McGraw</a>. "Stop doing the dumb stuff that we've been doing. Stop doing the stuff that we can control. Stop not boxing out, not rebounding, stop with the switch confusion, stop getting back cut - stuff we've been dealing with all year. Vuc is 100% correct. He spoke up and he dug in us."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>This defeat marked Chicago's third straight loss: The team also fell to the Sacramento Kings on Sunday and the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday. The Hawks were missing their top three scorers Wednesday - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60633" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60633">Trae Young</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96072" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96072">Jalen Johnson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53037" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53037">De'Andre Hunter</a> were all sidelined with injuries - but still managed to defeat the Bulls."It was a buildup of things we haven't been doing well, things we can control that coaches keep pointing out to us and we just don't do them," Vucevic said. "We focus on the wrong things. We have to understand it's the details that make a difference at this level."I felt it was a good moment to say it because we needed to understand why we lost."The defeat dropped Chicago to 18-23 on the season, and it's now the third time this campaign the Bulls have fallen five games below .500. They shot a season-worst 22.2% from three in Wednesday's contest and didn't ever take a lead.White knows the team is struggling but said the players need to "stay together.""This right here can define the season," the 24-year-old guard said. "The games are going to keep coming. It's on us to figure it out." The Bulls now sit 10th in the Eastern Conference and will look to end their losing skid Friday against the Charlotte Hornets.

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 15: Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Chicago Bulls handles the ball during the game against the Atlanta Hawks on January 15, 2025 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Vucevic to Bulls after 3rd straight loss: 'Stop doing the dumb stuff'

Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein will be sidelined for at least one week due to a ...

Oklahoma City Thunder center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60051" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60051">Isaiah Hartenstein</a> will be sidelined for at least one week due to a left soleus strain in his calf.Hartenstein suffered the injury in Tuesday's win over the Philadelphia 76ers.The 26-year-old has been a great addition to OKC's frontcourt in the first year of a three-year, $87-million contract inked in the offseason. He's averaging a career-high 11.8 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 2024-25.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Hartenstein missed the first 15 games of the campaign due to a fractured left hand he suffered in the preseason. The Thunder have also been without big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> since early November because of a pelvic fracture.OKC sits atop the Western Conference at 33-6. The Thunder next play Thursday against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the only team with a better record than them.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 7: Isaiah Hartenstein #55 of the Oklahoma City Thunder plays against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half of a game at the Smoothie King Center on December 7, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Hartenstein to miss at least 1 week with calf injury

Things are not going well for the Golden State Warriors.  The Warriors fell 104-101 to the Toront...

Things are not going well for the Golden State Warriors.The Warriors fell 104-101 to the Toronto Raptors on Monday, and head coach Steve Kerr took full responsibility for the defeat after the game."(We) weren't disciplined enough and that's my fault," Kerr said, according to <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1879004551891898450">The Athletic's Anthony Slater</a>. "I'm the coach of the team. I have to find a way to help this team and I'm not doing a good job of that. Down the stretch we're not executing, but that's happening throughout the game at both ends. ... It's on me."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He added, "This is as frustrating a night as we've had all season. This game was right there for us to win, we let them get right back in it. ... I'm the coach, so that's my fault."The Warriors are 7-17 in their last 24 outings after beginning the season 12-3. Monday's loss drops them to 19-20, marking the first time this campaign that they're below .500."It sucks," Kerr said, according to <a href="https://x.com/NotoriousOHM/status/1879006744204210650">ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk</a>. "I don't like falling below .500."The Raptors had six different players score in double digits Monday, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96044" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96044">Scottie Barnes</a> leading the pack with 23. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46591" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46591">Chris Boucher</a> scored 17 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter alone.The Warriors had a chance to tie the game, getting possession with 3.1 seconds remaining. Kerr made the bold choice to run a play for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24735" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24735">Buddy Hield</a>, who was 2-of-9 from three prior to the last play and only managed to put up eight points in the game."I trust him," Kerr said, according to <a href="https://x.com/anthonyVslater/status/1879006076861100535">Slater</a>. "I put him in the last play because I believe he's always gonna make the next shot. ... I'm gonna keep playing him. I'm gonna keep trusting him."The Warriors have now lost two in a row and are 11th in the Western Conference. They'll look to end the skid Wednesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - JANUARY 10: Steve Kerr the head coach of the Golden State Warriors gives instructions to his team against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on January 10, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Kerr: Warriors' struggles down stretch vs. Raptors 'on me'

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo did not hold back following a 140-106 blowout loss to ...

Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> did not hold back following a 140-106 blowout loss to the New York Knicks on Sunday.The defeat dropped the Bucks to 0-8 this season against the top three teams in the Eastern Conference - the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and Knicks."We've gotta get our stuff together," said Antetokounmpo, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43390316/giannis-antetokounmpo-bucks-need-step-vs-top-teams">ESPN's Chris Herring</a>. "It's as simple as that. We did not beat Boston. We did not beat the Cavs. We didn't beat the Knicks. Those are the top three teams, and we've played horribly against them."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Milwaukee has lost three times to the Cavaliers and Celtics and twice to the Knicks. Their other loss to New York came on Nov. 8 and dropped the Bucks to 2-7 to start the season.The Bucks have turned it around since then and now sit at 20-17. They're sixth in the East, but Antetokounmpo still expects more from his team against the league's best."I think we're a way better team than the November team," Antetokounmpo said. "We've proven it by playing good basketball for longer stretches. But at the end of the day, when we're playing the better teams, we've got to do a better job. They're not just going to give it to us - we've got to take it. They're not just going to fold."Milwaukee was unable to contain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> on Sunday. He erupted for 44 points, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> added 30 points and 18 rebounds.Antetokounmpo scored a team-high 24 points, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> put up 22 points to go along with five assists. They were the only two members of the Bucks' starting five to score in double digits.Lillard compared Milwaukee's struggles against the top teams to his time as a member of the Portland Trail Blazers. He believes the Bucks will be able to figure things out by the time the playoffs arrive."One year in Portland, we got our asses whupped every game by OKC," Lillard said. "Then in the playoffs, we whupped their ass. So no, we haven't beaten the top teams. But we also have to key in, look at why, figure out the context and move forward."The Bucks next play Tuesday against the Sacramento Kings. They do not meet the Cavaliers, Celtics, or Knicks again until Mar. 9, when they host Cleveland.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 12: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks boxes out Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the second half at Madison Square Garden on January 12, 2025 in New York City.

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Giannis: 'We've played horribly' against top 3 teams in East

The Indiana Pacers erased a 15-point deficit Sunday to defeat the Cavaliers 108-93, snapping Clev...

The Indiana Pacers erased a 15-point deficit Sunday to defeat the Cavaliers 108-93, snapping Cleveland's 12-game win streak.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102757" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102757">Andrew Nembhard</a> led all Pacers scorers with 19 points to go along with four assists and two steals. Indiana was without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93893" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93893">Tyrese Haliburton</a> for the second half after he exited with hamstring tightness."We were connected (on defense)," Nembhard said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43390143/indiana-pacers-end-cleveland-cavaliers-winning-streak-12">ESPN</a>. "We didn't fool around, even when we made mistakes, we helped out each other, and just made the next play."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Indiana went into the break down 13, but didn't stop fighting. Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle was impressed by his team's effort in the closing frames."I just thought our connectivity in the second half was as good as it's been all year," said Carlisle, according to <a href="https://x.com/ScottAgness/status/1878619264871231640">team writer Scott Agness</a>. Cleveland was held to just 40 second-half points and was outscored 37-18 in the third quarter. The Cavs also shot just 39.8% from the field and 26.8% from three. This was the first time this season the Cavaliers were held under 100 points."What disappointed me was, in the first half we were phenomenal defensively, and in the second half we just fell off," said Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6056858/2025/01/12/cavaliers-pacers-result-win-streak-nba/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=twhq&amp;source=twitterhq">The Athletic's Joe Vardon</a>. "We couldn't sustain our defense. The shots — we live with days like that, nights like that, but just disappointed (with) our defensive mindset in that third quarter and really the whole second half."The Pacers had six players score in double figures, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39061" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39061">Pascal Siakam</a> with 18 points.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> contributed a game-high 20 points and seven assists for the Cavaliers."It happens, 82 games in a season is super long," Garland said, according to Vardon. "Some days you have one of these games. I mean, we went an entire month without a loss, we were due for one."This was the Cavaliers' first loss since a 122-113 defeat to the Miami Heat on Dec. 8. It was also just the fifth Cleveland loss and the second at home this season.The Pacers are now winners of six in a row and are 22-18. The Cavaliers remain first in the NBA at 33-5.The Cavaliers and Pacers will have a rematch Tuesday in Indiana.

CLEVELAND, OH - JANUARY 12: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Indiana Pacers handles the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 12, 2025 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Pacers snap Cavaliers' 12-game win streak

Some history was made in Denver on Friday, as the Nuggets' Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook bec...

Some history was made in Denver on Friday, as the Nuggets' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> became the first teammates to both record a triple-double in the same game multiple times in a single season.Jokic finished the 124-105 victory over the Brooklyn Nets with 35 points, 15 assists, and 12 rebounds. Westbrook put up 25 points, 10 assists, and 11 rebounds.They're also the first duo in NBA history to each record a 25-point triple-double in the same contest, according to <a href="https://x.com/StatMamba/status/1877938787881304574">StatMamba</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
TRIPLE-DOUBLE MACHINES 👊👊 🔋 Jokić: 35p, 15a, 12r 🔋 Russ: 25p, 10a, 11r They are the first pair of teammates in NBA history to both record a triple-double in the same game MULTIPLE TIMES in a single season 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/oAJg8IB8Ul">pic.twitter.com/oAJg8IB8Ul</a>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1877941681833562116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>They both had a triple-double in a Dec. 30 victory over the Utah Jazz."You're watching history. This is the history channel," Nuggets head coach Mike Malone said postgame.Jokic and Westbrook are also just the second set of teammates in NBA history to both have triple-doubles in the same game twice at any point during a shared tenure. The Miami Heat's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> did it once in the 2019-20 season and again in 2020-21.Westbrook has seen a career resurgence in his first season in Denver, and he credits that to playing with the three-time MVP Jokic."Nikola is the best player in the world, man, and I just try to play off him," said Westbrook to <a href="https://x.com/AltitudeTV/status/1877938448201298157">AltitudeTV</a>.He added praise for all his Nuggets teammates: "I'd run through a wall for everyone in that locker room," according to <a href="https://x.com/MattBrooksNBA/status/1877943686568239460">team writer Matt Brooks</a>.This was Westbrook's 202nd career triple-double, the most in NBA history. Jokic sits third all time with 145.Westbrook has won 74% of games in which he posted a triple-double throughout his career, and Jokic has won 79% of his, according to <a href="https://x.com/HPbasketball/status/1877940066409992228">Action Network's Matt Moore</a>.The Nuggets are now 12-4 with Westbrook in the starting five. They sit fourth in the Western Conference at 22-15 and next play Sunday against the Dallas Mavericks.

DENVER, CO - JANUARY 10: Russell Westbrook #4 and Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets look on during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on January 10, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Jokic, Westbrook make history together in Nuggets' win over Nets

The New York Knicks suffered their second double-digit loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a wee...

The New York Knicks suffered their second double-digit loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a week, continuing a worrisome trend against tougher opposition.The Knicks fell to 0-5 versus teams ahead of them in the standings and 1-6 against the NBA's top eight clubs, according to <a href="https://x.com/IanBegley/status/1877910928592662916">SNY's Ian Begley</a>.However, Knicks big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> remains confident in his team.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I ain't worried about them teams, I'm worried about us," Towns said Friday after the Knicks' 126-101 loss at Madison Square Garden, according to <a href="https://x.com/nypostsports/status/1877928056251175144">New York Post Sports</a>. He added, "We're constantly chasing perfection, we're chasing improvement every day."New York was unable to contain OKC's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> who erupted for a game-high 39 points in just 29 minutes. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93854" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93854">Isaiah Joe</a> splashed in eight triples and put up a career-high 31 points.The Thunder led by as many as 30 points and shot a ridiculous 53.9% from the field. They also went 14-for-27 from three for 51.9%, while the Knicks were just 12.9% from beyond the arc."We'll be the best version of ourselves when we need to be against those teams," said Towns. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a> went scoreless after shooting 0-for-9 from the field. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a> also struggled, scoring just four points on 2-for-8 shooting.Knicks wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30695" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30695">Josh Hart</a> also still believes his team has what it takes to compete with the league's best."I think we do," Hart <a href="https://x.com/IanBegley/status/1877927936222703623">said</a>. "I think at the end of the day, we have to ... go out there with energy. We have to go out there with no egos. We have to go out there with no individual agendas. We have to go out there and sacrifice."The Knicks now sit 25-14 on the season and third in the Eastern Conference. They return to action Sunday against the Milwaukee Bucks.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 10: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 and Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks react on the bench during the fourth quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Madison Square Garden on January 10, 2025 in New York City. The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the New York Knicks 126-101.

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Towns: 'I ain't worried' about Knicks' record vs. top teams

Zion Williamson was suspended one game by the New Orleans Pelicans for a violation of team polici...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a> was suspended one game by the New Orleans Pelicans for a violation of team policies and didn't play in Friday's 123-115 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.The 24-year-old was late for Thursday's team flight to Philadelphia, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1877842002089275534">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Williamson had also been late for multiple practices this season, reported <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1877846827329860019">NBA insider Chris Haynes</a>, citing sources.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I take full responsibility for this suspension," Williamson said in a statement Friday. "I've worked extremely hard in rehab to get healthy and deliver for this team. There is no excuse for being late to team activities."I have apologized to (owner Gayle) Benson and my teammates and coaches and I also owe an apology to the fans. I can and will be better as a teammate and member of the organization."Williamson will rejoin the team Saturday ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Boston Celtics."This one-game suspension is a result of failing to meet our team standards," Pelicans executive vice president David Griffin said in a statement. "His dedication to this organization is of paramount significance to us and to him. He has taken accountability for his actions and reaffirmed that commitment to the team today. I'm confident he will continue to evolve positively on and off the floor."Williamson returned from a 27-game absence due to a hamstring strain in Tuesday's loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The two-time All-Star sat out the second night of the back-to-back, a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.He's missed significant time every season he's been in the NBA, including the entire 2021-22 campaign. In his seven games in 2024-25, he's averaging 22.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists on 47.1% shooting.The Pelicans were also without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herb Jones</a> against the 76ers. The team <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3186145" href="https://thescore.com/news/3186145">announced</a> Friday that he's out indefinitely with a torn labrum in his shoulder.New Orleans sits last in the Western Conference at 8-31.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 07: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts against the Minnesota Timberwolves during a game at the Smoothie King Center on January 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Zion misses Pelicans' win vs. 76ers after suspension for violating team policies

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant returned to the lineup in Thursday's 119-115 loss to the Housto...

Memphis Grizzlies guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> returned to the lineup in Thursday's 119-115 loss to the Houston Rockets.Morant contributed a team-high 27 points to go along with three rebounds and three assists in 29 minutes of action. Rockets big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96113" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96113">Alperen Sengun</a> scored a game-high 32 points and 14 rebounds, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a> added in 27 points. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Morant, the 2019-20 Rookie of the Year, was in the starting five. He missed the previous five games because of an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder.That was the 25-year-old's second lengthy absence of the season; he also missed eight games in November because of hip and pelvis injuries.Morant was averaging 21.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 7.9 assists on 45.4% shooting through 20 games entering Thursday.The Grizzlies also got back forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96118" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96118">Santi Aldama</a>, who was out for the past six games because of a sprained left ankle. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93901" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93901">Desmond Bane</a> was also in the starting lineup after missing Monday's victory over the Dallas Mavericks with a sprained left ankle.Aldama put up 12 points in 23 minutes, and Bane notched 16 points including two 3-pointers.Memphis is now 24-14 and sits third in the Western Conference.

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - DECEMBER 23: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies brings the ball up court during the game against the LA Clippers at FedExForum on December 23, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee.

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Ja Morant returns from 5-game absence in loss to Rockets

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson returned to the lineup in Tuesday's 104-97 loss to t...

New Orleans Pelicans forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a> returned to the lineup in Tuesday's 104-97 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.Head coach Willie Green said pregame that Williamson would be on a minutes restriction, but the 2019 first overall pick was in the starting five and managed to play 28 minutes. Williamson contributed 22 points, six rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46143" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46143">Dejounte Murray</a> led all Pelicans scorers with 29 points. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93912" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93912">Anthony Edwards</a> dropped a game-high 32 points for the Timberwolves.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The two-time All-Star missed the previous 27 games due to a hamstring strain. The Pelicans went 4-23 over that stretch but won their last two contests prior to Tuesday's action.The 24-year-old was averaging 22.7 points, eight rebounds, and 5.3 assists in his six games this campaign heading into Tuesday.New Orleans remains without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44931" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44931">Brandon Ingram</a>, who's missed the last 13 contests due to an ankle sprain. The franchise is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3175361" href="https://thescore.com/news/3175361">reportedly</a> prioritizing trading the 27-year-old by the Feb. 6 trade deadline.The Pelicans have been beset by injuries, as key rotation pieces including Williamson, Ingram, Murray, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2562" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2562">CJ McCollum</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96120" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96120">Trey Murphy III</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herb Jones</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96124" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96124">Jose Alvarado</a> have missed multiple games.New Orleans ranks last in the Western Conference with a 7-30 record following Tuesday's defeat.

PORTLAND, OR - OCTOBER 25: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans smiles during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on October 25, 2024 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Zion returns from 27-game absence in loss to T-Wolves

Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler believes he's still enjoying his best years at the age of 35.  "I st...

Miami Heat star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> believes he's still enjoying his best years at the age of 35."I still think I'm in my prime if I'm being brutally honest," Butler said, according to <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/01/07/jimmy-butler-coffee/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=wp_main&amp;utm_source=twitter">The Washington Post's Ben Golliver</a>.Butler's comment comes amid his worst statistical season as a member of the Heat. He's averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists through 22 games.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The six-time All-Star is currently serving a seven-game <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3178790" href="https://thescore.com/news/3178790">suspension</a> handed to him by the Heat due to "conduct detrimental to the team." Miami announced that it will be shopping him after he made it clear he wants to be traded.Reports are linking Butler to the Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and Houston Rockets.The Memphis Grizzlies were also mentioned, but it was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3182556" href="https://thescore.com/news/3182556">reported</a> Tuesday that they are one of multiple teams advised not to make an offer for the 14-year veteran.Butler's $52.4-million player option for next season presents a risk to interested teams. He said he intends to decline the option and enter free agency.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 01: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat dribbles the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second quarter of the game at Kaseya Center on January 01, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Butler: 'I still think I'm in my prime'

Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal made the most of his new situation Monday, scoring a team-high 25...

Phoenix Suns guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> made the most of his new situation Monday, scoring a team-high 25 points off the bench in a 109-99 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.The Suns were on a four-game losing skid heading into Monday, and head coach Mike Budenholzer changed things up by moving Beal and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37599" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37599">Jusuf Nurkic</a> to the bench in favor of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121680" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121680">Ryan Dunn</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1630" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1630">Mason Plumlee</a>.It was Beal's first game coming off the bench in nine years and his first time doing so as a member of the Suns. The 31-year-old said it was "a little difficult" making the switch, according to <a href="https://x.com/DuaneRankin/status/1876473088923058215">AzCentral's Duane Rankin</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Coach made a decision," said Beal. "I'm not going to sit there and argue with him. I'm not going to sit here and be a distraction. I'm not going to sit here and be an asshole."He added, "I just gotta go out and play my game and do what I do. Whatever happens from there, happens from there."Beal does not believe he should be considered a bench player despite the move."I'm a starter in the league, I firmly believe that," said Beal. "No disrespect to anybody but I'm a starter."The three-time All-Star has been <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3170213" href="https://thescore.com/news/3170213">linked</a> to trade talks involving disgruntled Miami Heat star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>. Beal is in the third season of a five-year, $251-million contract that includes a full no-trade clause.Beal was asked if his move to the bench is related to the recent rumors."If so, I need to be addressed because I hold the cards," said Beal, according to <a href="https://x.com/DuaneRankin/status/1876474485689417900">Rankin</a>. "Until I'm addressed and somebody says something different, then I'll be a Sun."Beal is averaging 18.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists through 32 games this season.The Suns sit at 17-19 and are 12th in the Western Conference. They return to action Tuesday against the Charlotte Hornets.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 06: Bradley Beal #3 of the Phoenix Suns smiles during the second half against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on January 06, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Beal scores 25 points off bench: I'm not going to be 'a distraction'

The Miami Heat suspended wing Jimmy Butler for seven games due to his recent comments about no lo...

The Miami Heat suspended wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> for seven games due to his recent comments about no longer wanting to play in South Beach."We have suspended Jimmy Butler for seven games for multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team over the course of the season and particularly the last several weeks," the Heat wrote in a <a href="https://x.com/MiamiHEAT/status/1875333072444649849">statement</a> Friday. "Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team. Jimmy Butler and his representative have indicated that they wish to be traded, therefore, we will listen to offers."The players' association <a href="https://x.com/TheNBPA/status/1875380380993516004">announced</a> that it intends to file a grievance to challenge Butler's "excessive and inappropriate" suspension.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Butler's seven-game suspension concludes Jan. 15, the day most players with trade restrictions are eligible to be dealt, according to <a href="https://x.com/WorldWideWob/status/1875333107274150352">SiriusXM's Rob Perez</a>.His desired landing spots reportedly include the Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, and his hometown Houston Rockets.The Heat have no desire to take back Suns guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a> in a potential trade due to the $110 million remaining on his contract, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43277039/jimmy-butler-miami-heat-suspension-possible-trade">ESPN's Bobby Marks</a>. Beal would also need to waive his no-trade clause to make the move work.Butler said Thursday he's lost his "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3177631" href="https://thescore.com/news/3177631">joy</a>" playing basketball in Miami. He has been at the center of all trade rumors for weeks now, but Heat president Pat Riley <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3170670" href="https://thescore.com/news/3170670">said</a> last week that the franchise wouldn't trade Butler.Butler struggled in the last two Heat games, scoring just nine points in each and being benched the entire fourth quarter of both contests. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra called Butler's recent performances "aberrational," per <a href="https://x.com/Anthony_Chiang/status/1875015283787829649">Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald</a>.The suspension will bring him to the 65-game eligibility threshold, meaning he's disqualified for season awards if he misses another game after the suspension, according to <a href="https://x.com/tomhaberstroh/status/1875335057839136881">NBA journalist Tom Haberstroh</a>.Butler will be away from the team for Saturday's home game against the Utah Jazz and the Heat's six-game road trip that includes contests with the Sacramento Kings, Warriors, Jazz, Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Los Angeles Lakers.The 35-year-old holds a $52-million player option for 2025-26, and he reportedly intends to decline the option to enter free agency this summer.Butler's suspension will cost him $2.35 million in salary, according to <a href="https://x.com/BobbyMarks42/status/1875338491602858223">Marks</a>.The six-time All-Star is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists through 22 games of action.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 01: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat looks on against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second quarter of the game at Kaseya Center on January 01, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Heat suspend Butler 7 games, will listen to trade offers

Former Bulls guard Derrick Rose is set to be honored in Chicago on Saturday, and he shared his de...

Former Bulls guard Derrick Rose is set to be honored in Chicago on Saturday, and he shared his desire to one day see his No. 1 jersey hanging in the rafters of the United Center."I would love that," Rose told <a href="https://x.com/ESPNNBA/status/1875290237309473103">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.Rose spent eight seasons in Chicago after being drafted No. 1 overall by the Bulls in the 2008 NBA Draft. He went on to win the 2008-09 Rookie of the Year award in his inaugural season. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He followed that up with three straight All-Star appearances and became the youngest Most Valuable Player in NBA history, winning the award in 2010-11 at 22 years old. Rose averaged a career-high 25 points in his MVP year, leading the Bulls to the best record in the Eastern Conference and their first Eastern Conference finals appearance since Michael Jordan retired.Rose was the only former league MVP omitted from the NBA 75th Anniversary Team when it was unveiled in 2021."That would be my way of getting close to the Top 75 ... and I'm only saying that because it relates to the MVP thing," Rose said of having his jersey retired. "It's only a handful, a small group that got that trophy back there."Rose averaged 19.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 6.2 assists during his time with the Bulls, but a torn ACL in 2013 stumped his potential. Rose missed the entire 2013-14 season and never returned to All-Star status again.His Bulls tenure ended in the 2016 offseason when he was traded to the New York Knicks.No other player has worn Rose's No. 1 jersey in a game for Chicago since his departure. The Bulls have retired four jersey numbers: Jerry Sloan's No. 4, Bob Love's No. 10, Jordan's No. 23, and Scottie Pippen's No. 33.In addition to the Bulls and Knicks, Rose also spent time with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Memphis Grizzlies. He holds career averages of 17.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists on 45.6% shooting across 15 seasons. The Bulls are hosting Derrick Rose Night during Saturday's contest against the Knicks. Both teams will don shooting shirts honoring Rose in pregame shootaround, while Chicago will unveil the Derrick Rose Atrium Experience, which will spotlight memorabilia from his career.

Basketball: NBA Playoffs: Chicago Bulls Derrick Rose (1) with Maurice Podoloff MVP Trophy before game vs Atlanta Hawks at United Center. Game 2. Chicago, IL 5/4/2011 CREDIT: Greg Nelson (Set Number: X85914 TK1 R1 F11 )

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Derrick Rose would 'love' Bulls to retire his jersey

New Orleans Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado will return to the lineup Friday against the Washington ...

New Orleans Pelicans guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96124" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96124">Jose Alvarado</a> will return to the lineup Friday against the Washington Wizards after missing 23 games due to a hamstring strain, he announced Thursday."I'll be playing tomorrow for sure," Alvarado told <a href="https://x.com/WillGuillory/status/1874895192488345658">The Athletic's Will Guillory</a>. "No doubt. ... I finally get to be Jose again."Alvarado is the latest Pelicans player to return from injury. <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2562">CJ McCollum</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herbert Jones</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46143">Dejounte Murray</a>, and <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110274">Jordan Hawkins</a> are all healthy after missing time earlier this season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>However, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69536" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69536">Zion Williamson</a> remains out with a hamstring strain, and forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44931" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44931">Brandon Ingram</a> is still recovering from a high-grade low ankle sprain.Alvarado, 26, is averaging a career-high 10.7 points across 11 games this season. He's also recording 4.5 assists and 1.5 steals on a career-best 40% from three.The Pelicans sit last in the NBA at 5-29. They're currently on an 11-game losing streak.

NEW ORLEANS, LA - NOVEMBER 11: Jose Alvarado #15 of the New Orleans Pelicans brings the ball up court during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on November 11, 2024 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Pelicans' Alvarado returning vs. Wizards after 23-game absence

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo and Denver Nuggets big man Nikola Jokic are the leadin...

Milwaukee Bucks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> and Denver Nuggets big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic </a>are the leading vote-getters from each conference in the NBA's first All-Star fan voting returns of the season, released Thursday.Antetokounmpo is trailed by Boston Celtics star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a>, and Phoenix Suns forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> is close behind Jokic.Oklahoma City guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a>, who's averaging 31.3 points for the 27-5 Thunder, has accumulated a little more than 1 million votes. He's the only guard in the NBA to surpass that mark. Charlotte Hornets floor general <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a> leads all East guards.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo lead their respective conferences in the first fan returns of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBAAllStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBAAllStar</a> Voting presented by AT&amp;T. Fans account for 50% of the vote to decide All-Star starters. NBA players and a media panel account for 25% each. Next fan update: 1/9. <a href="https://t.co/OoIIa3S3fn">pic.twitter.com/OoIIa3S3fn</a>— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAPR/status/1874878388026192043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Fan voting returns will be released every Thursday prior to the Jan. 20 cutoff. Supporters will make up 50% of the final vote, with the remaining 50% split between current players and a media panel.The starters for this year's All-Star Game will be revealed Jan. 23 and the reserves, chosen by NBA head coaches, will be announced Jan. 30.This year's game will look a lot different. The league is trying out a four-team mini-tournament, splitting the 24 All-Stars into three teams and including the winner of the Rising Stars Challenge.San Francisco's Chase Center hosts the 2025 NBA All-Star Game on Feb. 16.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - FEBRUARY 12: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks drives to the basket against Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets during the first half of a game at Fiserv Forum on February 12, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Giannis, Jokic lead 1st All-Star fan voting results

Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey broke the fibula in his left leg in a collision with Orlando gua...

Detroit Pistons guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102756" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102756">Jaden Ivey</a> broke the fibula in his left leg in a collision with Orlando guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93882" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93882">Cole Anthony</a> during Wednesday's victory over the Magic, the team confirmed Thursday.Ivey underwent surgery Thursday to repair the fracture and will be re-evaluated in four weeks, the Pistons announced.The 22-year-old immediately clutched his leg and screamed in pain before eventually being stretchered off the court. Ivey's teammates and opponents were visibly shaken up after the injury.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jaden Ivey was carried out on a stretcher during the fourth quarter of the Pistons-Magic game after a collision with Cole Anthony. <a href="https://t.co/r2uPX4ibLI">pic.twitter.com/r2uPX4ibLI</a>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/1874644901419257922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Anthony was very emotional, as was Pistons second-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110235" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110235">Ausar Thompson</a>, who is expected to see increased playing time with Ivey sidelined.Ivey was in the midst of a career year, as he was averaging 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and four assists while shooting 46% from the field and 40.9% from three.After going No. 5 overall in the 2022 draft, he finished sixth in Rookie of the Year voting and made the All-Rookie second team. He has bounced back from last campaign's sophomore slump by starting all 30 games he's appeared in this season.The Pistons are 15-18, already surpassing their 2023-24 win total. They are ninth in the Eastern Conference and return to action Friday against the Charlotte Hornets.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 01: Jaden Ivey #23 of the Detroit Pistons brings the ball up the court in the second half while playing the Orlando Magic at Little Caesars Arena on January 01, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit won the game 105-96. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License.

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Pistons' Ivey has broken leg

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Joseph Luca Casciaro

News Editor

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