NBA roundup: James Harden scores Clippers-record 55 in win
Sun Nov 23 2:19am ET
Field Level Media
James Harden went on an early scoring tear and scored a franchise-record 55 points as the Los Angeles Clippers snapped a three-game losing streak by defeating the host Charlotte Hornets 131-116 on Saturday afternoon.
Harden made 10 of 16 shots from 3-point range and was 17 of 26 overall from the field, while going 11 of 14 on free throws. The 36-year-old made 12 of 17 shots from the field in the first half while ringing up 35 points, then drained a 3-pointer in the opening minute of the third quarter. His first-half total marked the most for any NBA player this season.
The Clippers led 62-57 at the break, boosted by 53.5% shooting from the field. Harden had 10 of the Clippers' first 18 points and 27 of the team's 38 first-quarter points. Ivica Zubac added 18 points with nine rebounds, Brook Lopez had 11 points off the bench and John Collins finished with 10 points.
Kon Knueppel scored 26 points for the Hornets, who are on a season-worst five-game losing streak. Charlotte had Brandon Miller on the court for the first time since Oct. 22 and he provided 21 points in a starting role. Miles Bridges had 19 points, while LaMelo Ball and Collin Sexton each ended with 18. Ball was in action for just the third time since Nov. 1.
Pistons 129, Bucks 116
Cade Cunningham recorded 29 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds and Detroit won its 12th consecutive game with a victory over host Milwaukee.
Jalen Duren scored 19 points and Tobias Harris added 18 as the Pistons halted a 13-game skid against the Bucks. It marked just the second time in the last 27 meetings that Detroit beat Milwaukee.
Duncan Robinson had 15 points on five 3-pointers and Jaden Ivey scored 10 points off the bench for the Pistons, who have won 14 of their first 16 games this season. Ryan Rollins had 24 points and seven assists and Bobby Portis Jr. added 18 points and seven rebounds for the Bucks, who lost their fourth straight game. Star Giannis Antetokounmpo (groin) missed his second straight contest.
Magic 133, Knicks 121
Franz Wagner scored a season-high 37 points, and Orlando used a big fourth-quarter run to close out a 3-0 homestand with a defeat of New York.
Orlando scored 13 unanswered in a span of less than two minutes in the final period, part of a larger 20-6 run that gave the Magic an 18-point lead. Jalen Suggs surpassed his previous season high of 23 points on Thursday with 26 points. Desmond Bane scored 27 and accounted for three of Orlando's 13 made 3-pointers on 33 attempts.
Jalen Brunson buoyed New York with 33 points and a game-high 11 assists. Karl-Anthony Towns scored 18 of his 24 points in the second half, with much of his work coming at the foul line, going 10-of-11 at the charity stripe.
Kings 128, Nuggets 123
Russell Westbrook scored 21 points, including two late buckets, Dennis Schroder also had 21 and visiting Sacramento beat Denver, ending an eight-game losing streak.
Keegan Murray scored 19 points in his second game back from injury. DeMar DeRozan scored 17 points, including five in the final 12 seconds for Sacramento. Zach LaVine added 15 points and Malik Monk 12 for the Kings, who took the last of three games against Denver this season.
Nikola Jokic had 44 points and 13 rebounds, Jamal Murray scored 23 points, Cameron Johnson had 20 and Peyton Watson finished with 15 for the Nuggets, who played without Aaron Gordon due to a right hamstring injury suffered in Friday night's win in Houston.
Hawks 115, Pelicans 98
Kristaps Porzingis scored a season-high 30 points and Vit Krejci added 21 points on seven 3-pointers off the bench as Atlanta handed host New Orleans its ninth straight loss.
Jalen Johnson had a near-triple-double with 18 points, 11 rebounds and nine assists, Dyson Daniels recorded 14 points and eight rebounds and Nickeil Alexander-Walker chipped in 10 points as the Hawks snapped a two-game losing streak.
Derik Queen led the Pelicans with 20 points and nine rebounds. Trey Murphy III scored 19, Saddiq Bey tallied 18 and Jeremiah Fears recorded 11 as the Pelicans dropped to 0-5 under interim coach James Borrego.
Grizzlies 102, Mavericks 96
Santi Aldama had 20 points, eight rebounds and four assists and Cam Spencer came off the bench to add 17 points and five assists as Memphis defeated Dallas to win back-to-back games for the first time this season.
Zach Edey contributed his first double-double of the season with 12 points and 15 rebounds and Vince Williams Jr., forced into a point guard role because of multiple Memphis injuries at the position, added 10 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.
Klay Thompson scored a season-high 22 points to lead the Mavericks and Brandon Williams added 18. P.J. Washington contributed 15 points and eight boards.
Bulls 121, Wizards 120
Nikola Vucevic had 28 points and 12 rebounds and Josh Giddey contributed 18 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists as host Chicago rallied to defeat skidding Washington.
Washington led for 42 minutes but relinquished the advantage down the stretch en route to its 14th straight loss. Corey Kispert and reserve Cam Whitmore paced the Wizards with 20 points apiece.
Tre Jones (10 points off the bench) swished a pair of free throws with 34 seconds left to take the Bulls from a one-point deficit to a one-point lead and provide the final margin. Jones' pressure on Washington's final possession helped force Kyshawn George into a turnover that sealed the game.
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Denver Nuggets' C Nikola Jokic recorded a double-double, scoring 44 points and grabbing 13 rebounds in a 123-128 loss to the Kings on Saturday, Nov. 22.
Bulls' G Josh Giddey recorded a triple-double, finishing with 18 points, 11 assists and 12 rebounds in a 121-120 win over the Wizards on Saturday, Nov. 22.
Los Angeles Clippers' G James Harden scored 55 points on 17-of-26 shooting in a 131-116 win over Charlotte on Saturday, Nov. 22.
According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (ankle) is expected to return on Sunday in Cleveland. The 34-year-old wasn't available for Saturday's win over the Charlotte Hornets. Fortunately, it appears he'll be back from his 10-game layoff versus the 11-6 Cavaliers. Leonard had played well before going down with the injury, averaging 24.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.5 steals while shooting 40.0% from behind the arc. There hasn't been any word about a minutes cap, although it's possible. However, even with the potential for limited action, Leonard can be plugged back into all fantasy lineups.
Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris (ankle) is questionable for Saturday at Milwaukee after missing nine straight games. He has appeared in only six games this season but still produced 13.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 32.2 minutes. If he's cleared to return, he slots back in as a reliable rotation piece who can contribute across categories without creating efficiency issues or turnovers. His return would reshape Detroit's forward rotation, likely reducing opportunities for Ron Holland IIand Javonte Green while tightening Isaiah Stewart's path to minutes at the four and five.
Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey (reconditioning) is listed as questionable for Saturday's matchup in Milwaukee, putting him on the verge of his first appearance of the season. The third-year guard averaged 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in 29.9 minutes last year, giving him steady counting-stat appeal despite efficiency swings and light defensive output. If cleared, he should immediately slide into Detroit's guard rotation behind Cade Cunningham and Duncan Robinson, likely trimming Daniss Jenkins' workload and reducing minutes for Ron Holland IIon the wing. Managers in competitive leagues should be prepared to add or activate Ivey, since his points and assists help balance deeper builds despite the efficiency tradeoffs.
Charlotte Hornets guard Tre Mann (ankle) is questionable for Saturday's matchup with the Clippers after sitting out Wednesday's loss at Indiana. The reserve guard has played a volatile role this season, averaging 10.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 22.0 minutes on 36.5 percent from the field. His recent stretch has been modest, averaging 8.4 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 21.2 minutes, but the three-point attempts remain steady enough for deeper formats. If he's cleared, Mann should slide back into his reserve guard slot behind LaMelo Ball and Collin Sexton, which would trim KJ Simpson's minutes and slightly curb Sion James' secondary touches. He profiles more as a situational option, offering streaming appeal for threes and light assists when the minutes are there.
Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (ankle) will miss Saturday's matchup in Charlotte, marking his 10th consecutive absence. Leonard opened the season in peak form, putting up 24.3 points with 5.7 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 33.5 minutes while shooting 50.5 percent from the field. His continued absence, paired with Derrick Jones Jr. (knee) being out multiple weeks, leaves the Clippers thin at both forward spots. James Harden absorbs more of the scoring and creation load, while John Collins and Ivica Zubac take on steadier touches. Nicolas Batum and Bogdan Bogdanovic remain the primary wing replacements, and Kobe Sanders should continue holding a larger rotation role.
Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis (ankle) exited Friday's loss to Miami after 18 minutes and did not return. The second-year forward has averaged 14.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 27.7 minutes, with a recent five-game run of 13.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists on 45.5 percent shooting. If Buzelis misses time, Patrick Williams and Jalen Smith should take most of the frontcourt workload. Kevin Huerter may see extra run in smaller lineups, and Josh Giddey and Ayo Dosunmu could get minor usage bumps. Managers should continue holding Buzelis, as his current role and production remain secure once he's healthy.
Denver Nuggets forward/center Aaron Gordon (hamstring) exited Friday's win at Houston after just three minutes and is expected to miss time, according to head coach David Adelman. Gordon has been in and out of the lineup recently, sitting two games earlier in the month. He was in the middle of a strong season, averaging 18.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 28.3 minutes. His last five games included 16.6 points and 6.8 rebounds on 50.9 percent shooting and 40.9 percent from deep. Peyton Watson should be the primary beneficiary, with Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown gaining wing minutes and Jonas Valanciunas seeing a small bump.
Timberwolves' G Anthony Edwards scored 41 points on 14-of-24 shooting in a 113-114 loss to Phoenix on Friday, Nov. 21.
Nets' C Nicolas Claxton recorded a triple-double, finishing with 18 points, 12 assists and 11 rebounds in a 113-105 win over Boston on Friday, Nov. 21.
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (hamstring) won't return to Friday's NBA Cup clash with the Houston Rockets. The 30-year-old didn't suit up for the win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. While he received the green light to get on the floor on Friday, his night came to an abrupt end due to a right hamstring strain after only three minutes of work. Gordon is having the best season of his career, averaging 20.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 45.2% shooting from behind the arc. With that in mind, if he ends up missing time, Tim Hardaway Jr. or Bruce Brown could find themselves in the starting lineup, with Spencer Jones getting more minutes from off the bench. Of course, Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray should continue to lead the way offensively.
Atlanta Hawks forward/center Onyeka Okongwu (ankle) is questionable for Saturday's game in New Orleans. Okongwu has averaged 16.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists across 29 minutes, and he posted 15 points, seven rebounds, and five assists in his most recent game. Managers should be ready if he sits, as he has been steady across his last five games, highlighted by a 32-point outing. If he doesn't suit up, Kristaps Porzingis absorbs most of the interior workload while Mouhamed Gueye becomes a deeper-league streaming option. Vit Krejci and Luke Kennard also gain marginal stability with Atlanta already missing Trae Young (knee). Okongwu remains a hold in standard formats given his consistent playing time and production.
Chicago Bulls guard Tre Jones (ankle) has been upgraded to available for Friday's meeting with the Heat, though head coach Billy Donovan noted he will be capped at roughly 20-24 minutes in his return. Jones had been productive before the injury, averaging 13.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 2.1 steals, but the lighter workload will keep expectations in check. His activation comes on the same night Coby White (calf) has been ruled out, leaving Chicago short on creation but not empty-handed. With Jones operating in a controlled role, Ayo Dosunmu is still positioned for extra touches, and Kevin Huerter should see a cleaner path to shots.
Dallas Mavericks guard D'Angelo Russell (illness) is out for Friday's matchup with the New Orleans Pelicans, marking his first absence of the season. Russell has delivered 12.6 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.9 rebounds in 22 minutes, but his usage has fluctuated, and Dallas now shifts to a deeper guard rotation. Brandon Williams should take on primary ball-handling duties, while Max Christie is positioned for a steadier workload after logging seven rebounds and 15 points in his last outing. Jaden Hardy becomes a viable deep-league streamer for scoring after producing 17 points in his recent matchup against Minnesota.
Memphis Grizzlies forward/center Jaren Jackson Jr. (ankle) is doubtful for Saturday's matchup against the Mavericks after already missing Thursday's win over Sacramento. Jackson has averaged 17.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 29 minutes this season, but his absence again would push Santi Aldama into another start after he delivered 29 points, five rebounds, and three assists in 27 minutes on Thursday. Zach Edey and Jock Landale also produced well in expanded roles and remain useful streamers for blocks and boards if Jackson sits. Managers should treat Aldama as the priority add, with Edey offering upside in deeper formats while the frontcourt redistributes minutes and usage without Jackson.
Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (calf) has been ruled out for Friday's matchup with the Heat, pausing a strong stretch in which he averaged 26.0 points and 7.5 assists over his last two appearances. His absence removes a major scoring and creation piece on the second night of a back-to-back. Tre Jones (ankle), however, has been upgraded to available, giving Chicago a much-needed stabilizer in the backcourt. With White sidelined, Ayo Dosunmu and Kevin Huerter should see expanded roles, while Josh Giddey is expected to take on more initiation responsibilities. White remains a hold given his recent form and the chance he returns to meaningful minutes once healthy.
Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (wrist) will play on Friday versus the Suns. He's had an exceptional season, averaging a career-high 17.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 1.0 steals while shooting an impressive 52.1% from deep. Fortunately, his absence was short-lived. All things considered, McDaniels can automatically be plugged back into all fantasy lineups, with Mike Conley in line to return to the bench.
Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (finger) won't play in Friday's Central Division showdown with the Indiana Pacers. He was listed as questionable heading into this contest because of a sprained right finger. Unfortunately, the injury will keep him off the floor for the first time this season. The 27-year-old has played as well as expected, averaging 14.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.1 steals in 14 appearances. While Allen is currently shooting a career-low 57.7% from the field, his absence will leave a significant void for fantasy managers. With Allen sidelined, Evan Mobley will presumably shift to the five, with Dean Wade, Nae'Qwan Tomlin, and Larry Nance Jr. in line to see extra minutes.
