NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing

Team USA Outlook

Kevin Durant confirmed he intends to play in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, pushing back against critics. That future for USA Basketball includes a new coach and critical roster decisions as the program enters a new era.

MVP Buzz

Le Bron James stumped for Celtics star Jaylen Brown in the MVP conversation following Boston's victory over the Lakers on Sunday.

Injury Updates

Deni Avdija left Portland's win over Phoenix with a flare-up of his lower back issue. Anfernee Simons will undergo additional wrist imaging and consult a specialist. Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton will miss weeks after being diagnosed with shingles. Golden State ruled out Kristaps Porzingis (illness) and Draymond Green (back late for their game.

Game Highlights

Despite a historic 35-point, 20-rebound, 12-assist triple-double from Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets fell 128-117 to a short-handed Golden State Warriors squad. Earlier, Neemias Queta threw down a first-quarter dunk over Luka Doncic in Boston's win.

Lakers Honor

The Lakers unveiled a statue of legendary former coach Pat Riley outside Crypto.com Arena, depicting him in his signature Armani suit.