NBA Basketball 3d Briefing
×Injury Updates
Warriors star Stephen Curry espn.com will sit out at least the next five games due to his persistent right knee issue, the team announced Sunday. The two-time MVP has yet to advance to court work in his rehab, acknowledging he'll be out a "little longer." Meanwhile, Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen espn.com will be reevaluated in two weeks after an MRI on his hip Thursday, sources told ESPN, making him the latest Utah player to be sidelined because of an injury. 76ers center Joel Embiid espn.com will miss at least three games because of a strained right oblique, the team said Saturday.
Player Returns & Performances
James Harden espn.com, still dealing with a broken thumb in his non-shooting hand, made a successful return for the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday. The former MVP played through the injury to help secure the win. In other notable performances, the Celtics espn.com posted one of the best offensive performances in league history on Friday night against the Nets, showcasing their dominance on the court.
Game Results & Highlights
The Knicks espn.com held a streaking Spurs team to just 89 points in a dominant showing Sunday, ending San Antonio's winning streak. In a father-daughter road trip milestone, LeBron James espn.com and his daughter Zhuri enjoyed a successful journey as the Lakers secured a win. The Pelicans espn.com also earned a victory over the Jazz, though they lost forward Zion Williamson to an ankle tweak in the second quarter.
Rookie Achievements
Kon Knueppel espn.com broke Keegan Murray's NBA rookie record for 3-pointers, making his 207th on Thursday night against the Pacers. The young guard continues to impress in his debut season, setting new standards for first-year players.
Controversial Moments
Nuggets star Nikola Jokic espn.com angrily confronted Thunder guard Lu Dort after the latter was called for a flagrant foul 2 and ejected from Friday night's game. Jokic called Dort's play "an unnecessary move" after the guard appeared to trip the reigning MVP during the contest.
Coaching & Team Updates
Warriors coach Steve Kerr espn.com walked back comments on center Kristaps Porzingis' diagnosis, who will miss a fourth straight game due to general illness. Meanwhile, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich espn.com has added veteran Mason Plumlee for the remainder of the season to bolster his roster depth.
Olympic Speculation
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra espn.com says it's incredible to think of Kevin Durant on the 2028 Olympic team if the 15-time All-Star still wants to play. The veteran forward has been a key figure for Team USA in previous international competitions.
Contract News
The Warriors espn.com signed starting forward Gui Santos to a three-year, $15 million contract extension on Saturday, sources told ESPN. The young Brazilian wing has shown promise in his limited NBA minutes and will now have security with his new deal.
Player Appreciation
Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton espn.com shared appreciation for birthday wishes, speaking about being born on a leap year and noting it's "just as good" when it's not technically his birthday. The All-Star guard continues to be one of the league's most engaging personalities.