NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing

Last updated: November 3, 2026, 4:40 AM ET

Scoring Surges

Luka Doncic espn.com continued his scoring run with 42 points in the Lakers' win, earning praise from Giannis Antetokounmpo. Days earlier, Doncic dropped 45 points espn.com in a 131-125 win over the Raptors, a performance he credited to a stronger defensive effort. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's season-high 43 points espn.com, including a go-ahead three, handed the Cavaliers their first home loss of the season. Yaxel Lendeborg added 37 points espn.com for the Warriors, including six three-pointers.

Injuries and Standings

The Pacers were left with just six players in a loss to the Hawks after 11 teammates were sidelined, a short-handed effort espn.com that underscored the injury toll across the league. A broader look at the season finds that injuries have reshaped espn.com both the title and MVP races just two weeks in. In Charlotte, Coby White made his debut espn.com for the Hornets against the Pistons, with Knueppel's return described as imminent.

Around the League

LeBron James had a lighter moment during the 76ers' 126-107 win over the Bucks, taking a sip espn.com of a fan's wine. Hawks guard Kingston Flemings was suspended one game espn.com for an elbow to the head of Pelicans guard McGowens. The Thunder will retire Russell Westbrook's espn.com No. 0 jersey this season. Off the court, Michael Wilbon is taking a leave of absence espn.com from ESPN to address health issues. Jaylen Brown also drew attention for owning a rare 18th-century golden harp espn.com at his Boston apartment.

Coming Up

Knueppel is expected back espn.com for the Hornets soon, with his return described as right around the corner.