NBA Basketball 3d Briefing
×Team Moves
The Nuggets espn.com bolstered their backcourt depth by adding free agent veteran point guard Tyus Jones, aiming to strengthen their playoff push. Simultaneously, the Oklahoma City Thunder signed forward Payton Sandfort espn.com to a two-way contract and waived guard Buddy Boeheim, signaling roster adjustments ahead of the postseason push. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks traded Trae Young espn.com to the Washington Wizards, though Young remains sidelined since December 27th, awaiting his debut.
Player Updates
James Harden returned to action espn.com for the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, overcoming a broken thumb in his non-shooting hand, though he remains in the recovery process. Conversely, Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry suffered another setback espn.com, requiring at least five more games off the court due to persistent right knee issues. Additionally, Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner underwent another ankle surgery espn.com, with his return timeline now uncertain.
Standings & Performances
The Cleveland Cavaliers surpassed expectations espn.com, leveraging the addition of All-Star Kevin Durant to climb to the NBA's best record, despite initially struggling in a play-in spot. The New York Knicks dominated the Spurs espn.com on Sunday, holding them to just 89 points with a high-level defensive effort. Conversely, the Memphis Grizzlies delayed Zach Edey's return further with another ankle surgery, while the Los Angeles Lakers celebrated a father-daughter milestone espn.com with LeBron James' latest win.
Controversies & Records
Thunder guard Lu Dort faced ejection espn.com after a flagrant foul 2 on Nikola Jokic, who labeled the play "unnecessary." The Boston Celtics set an offensive record espn.com, posting one of the league's best performances against the Nets. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons-Cleveland Cavaliers game experienced a bizarre delay espn.com due to a blaring horn from a malfunctioning scoreboard.
Injury Notes
Joel Embiid missed games espn.com with an oblique strain, while Kristaps Porzingis remained sidelined espn.com for the Warriors with general illness. Lauri Markkanen faced another absence espn.com for the Jazz after an MRI on his hip.