NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Game Highlights
Nikola Jokic posted a 35-point, 20-rebound, 12-assist triple-double but his Nuggets fell 128-117 to the Warriors. The undermanned Warriors won despite missing key players. Neemias Queta threw down a dunk over Luka Doncic early in the Celtics-Lakers game. The 7-foot center is having his best season, averaging 9.7 points. 2 rebounds and 1.3 blocks.
Player Updates
Tyrese Haliburton was diagnosed with shingles and will miss a few weeks. The Pacers point guard's absence creates a significant void for Indiana. Deni Avdija exited Sunday's game against the Suns after his lower back issue flared up again. The Trail Blazers All-Star has been battling the injury for weeks. Anfernee Simons will have additional imaging on his injured left wrist Monday and see a hand specialist, according to coach Billy Donovan.
Off-Court News
Kevin Durant told ESPN he plans to play in the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles. The 12-time All-Star is eyeing another Olympic run. Jaylen Brown received an MVP endorsement from Le Bron James after fueling the Celtics' win over the Lakers on Sunday. The endorsement adds to Brown's growing MVP case. Pat Riley was honored with a statue outside Crypto.com Arena on Sunday. The legendary Lakers coach was immortalized wearing his signature Armani suit.
League Discipline
Scotty Pippen Jr. and Myron Gardner were each fined $35,000 for their scuffle in a game over the weekend. The NBA handed down the fines on Monday. Marques Johnson celebrated another year with his annual birthday dunk. The Hall of Fame finalist continues his tradition of proving he can still fly at his age.
Fantasy & Analysis
Keon Ellis and Moses Moody are among the fantasy basketball pickups for the homestretch. The article recommends adding these players to fill roster holes. USA Basketball faces a new era with the 2028 Los Angeles Games approaching. The program must navigate new coaching decisions and roster construction for the next Olympic cycle.