NBA Basketball 3d Briefing
×Injury Updates
Stephen Curry espn.com will sit out at least five more games due to his persistent right knee issue. The Warriors star has yet to advance to court work in his rehab, acknowledging he'll be out a "little longer." Meanwhile, Joel Embiid espn.com will miss at least three games with a strained right oblique. The 76ers center's absence adds to Philadelphia's injury concerns as they navigate the stretch run.
Zach Edey espn.com is set to undergo another surgery on his ailing left ankle, with his return to be determined. The Grizzlies second-year center has been dealing with the injury for some time now. Norman Powell espn.com has a Grade 1 right groin strain and will be out for at least a week, dealing a blow to the Heat's playoff push.
Player Returns and Performances
James Harden espn.com made a successful return for the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, still dealing with a broken thumb in his non-shooting hand. The veteran guard's presence bolsters Cleveland's championship aspirations. Donovan Mitchell espn.com and Harden each missed their second straight game Friday for the Cavs, who also ruled out Keon Ellis and Dean Wade.
The Celtics posted one of the best offensive performances in league history on Friday night against the Nets. Boston's historic showing from the floor showcased their championship-caliber offense. Kon Knueppel espn.com broke Keegan Murray's NBA rookie record for 3-pointers, making his 207th on Thursday night against the Pacers.
Game Highlights
The Knicks held a streaking Spurs team to just 89 points in a dominant showing Sunday, ending San Antonio's winning streak. New York's "high-level" defense was the story of the game. The Lakers secured a win that capped LeBron James' father-daughter road trip with Zhuri, adding another memorable moment to the four-time MVP's 23-year career.
Friday night's game between the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers was delayed for 18 minutes in the third quarter by a blaring horn after a power surge caused the overhead scoreboard to malfunction. The interruption didn't derail Cleveland's eventual victory with Harden's return.
Off-Court News
Gui Santos espn.com signed a three-year, $15 million contract extension with the Warriors on Saturday. The starting forward's commitment provides stability for Golden State's rotation. Mason Plumlee espn.com has signed a deal with the San Antonio Spurs for the remainder of the season, adding veteran presence to their frontcourt.
Cole Anthony espn.com was waived Friday by the Suns, three weeks after being acquired at the NBA trade deadline. The guard did not appear in any games during his brief tenure in Phoenix. Lauri Markkanen espn.com will be reevaluated in two weeks after an MRI on his hip Thursday, making him the latest Utah player to be sidelined due to injury.
League Developments
Nikola Jokic espn.com angrily confronted Lu Dort for what he called an "unnecessary move" after the Thunder guard was called for a flagrant foul 2 and ejected from Friday night's game. The incident highlighted the intensity between these rising Western Conference rivals.
Erik Spoelstra espn.com says it would be "incredible" to think of Kevin Durant on the 2028 Olympic team if the 13-time All-Star still wants to play. The Heat coach's comments reflect Durant's enduring impact on international basketball.
Tyrese Haliburton espn.com has spoken about being born on a leap year, sharing that it's "just as good" when it's not technically his birthday. The Pacers star's perspective on his unique birthday continues to resonate with fans.
Zion Williamson espn.com "tweaked his ankle" and was forced to leave Saturday's win over the Jazz in the second quarter. The Pelicans forward's health remains a key storyline for New Orleans' playoff push.
Awards and Future Outlook
Andre Snellings espn.com looks at the NBA awards races and explains which ones to bet on, and which to avoid entirely. The analysis provides insight into the most competitive races as the regular season winds down.
With the playoffs approaching, teams are managing injuries and rotations carefully. The Warriors' continued absence of Curry and Porzingis tests their depth, while the Cavaliers' return of Harden could be the boost they need for a deep postseason run.