The Milwaukee Bucks have told teams they intend to be buyers ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline d...

<p>The Milwaukee Bucks have told teams they intend to be buyers ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline despite languishing in the final play-in spot in the Eastern Conference, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6890775/2025/12/15/bucks-giannis-antetokounmpo-nba-trade-season/">The Athletic's Eric Nehm</a>.</p><p>The Bucks have lost 11 of 14 and are 1-7 in eight games without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> during that span because of a calf strain. Antetokounmpo and Milwaukee's front office have also reportedly discussed his future with the organization.</p><p>A determination on whether Antetokounmpo will remain in Milwaukee is expected well ahead of the deadline, sources told <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3417789" href="https://thescore.com/news/3417789">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Still, the Bucks are aiming to add so Doc Rivers feels less of a need to use mismatched lineups, Nehm adds. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/24646" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/24646">Taurean Prince</a>'s absence due to a neck injury and subsequent surgery has contributed to a dearth of wings on the roster.</p><p>The Bucks reportedly inquired about the availability of Sacramento Kings guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30738" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30738">Zach LaVine</a>, who've they long had an interest in, according to Nehm.</p><p>Milwaukee has limited cap space beneath the first and second aprons after stretching the $112.6 million the team owed to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> across five years, though the roster is short on tradable assets. The Bucks are also only permitted to move one of their existing first-round picks at the deadline, according to Nehm.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - OCTOBER 24: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts scoring a three point basket against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at Scotiabank Arena on October 24, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Bucks looking to buy at trade deadline

An MRI confirmed Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs sustained a left hip contusion, the team announc...

<p>An MRI confirmed Orlando Magic guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96087">Jalen Suggs</a> sustained a left hip contusion, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Suggs' return to action is dependent on his response to treatment.</p><p>The fifth-year combo guard sustained the injury in Saturday's NBA Cup semifinal defeat to the New York Knicks. He exited in the fourth quarter due to left hip soreness and did not return.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Suggs' injury is the latest setback for a Magic squad that's dealt with absences from several key contributors this season.</p><p>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96086" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96086">Franz Wagner</a> is currently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3422291" href="https://thescore.com/news/3422291">unavailable</a> due to a high ankle sprain suffered in another defeat to the Knicks on Dec. 8. There's no timeline for Wagner's return, but an MRI revealed no structural damage. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102767" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102767">Paolo Banchero</a> was also sidelined for 10 games with a left groin strain before returning Dec. 5.</p><p>The Magic sit fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 15-11 record ahead of Thursday's meeting with the Denver Nuggets.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 13: Jalen Suggs #4 of the Orlando Magic drives to the basket as Mikal Bridges #25 of the New York Knicks plays defense during the game during the Emirates NBA Cup Semifinal game on December 13, 2025 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Magic's Suggs sidelined with hip contusion

The latest chapter in an on-court feud between LeBron James and Dillon Brooks resulted in the Pho...

<p>The latest chapter in an on-court feud between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/39256" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/39256">Dillon Brooks</a> resulted in the Phoenix Suns forward's ejection in the final minute of Sunday's 116-114 home defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers.</p><p>Phoenix trailed 99-79 with 7:48 left and then mounted a comeback. With 12.2 seconds remaining, Brooks nailed a 3-pointer over James that made it 114-113 for the Suns.</p><p>James bowled over Brooks on the follow-through of his closeout. The Suns veteran appeared upset that no foul was called and then confronted James chest to chest. Referees adjudged Brooks to have committed a technical foul on the play - his second of the night, which resulted in an automatic ejection.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dillon Brooks has been ejected. <br><br> <a href="https://t.co/EPZgaeVTUY">pic.twitter.com/EPZgaeVTUY</a></p>— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHoopCentral/status/2000412698555920601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I mean, shit, he brought his antics and tonight it cost him," Lakers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60415" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60415">Jarred Vanderbilt</a> told reporters, according to <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2000433336599359746">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><p>James was fouled on a 3-point attempt by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a> with 3.9 seconds left on the next possession. James missed the first free throw before making the final two to give the Lakers a 115-114 lead.</p><p>James was animated earlier in the fourth quarter after he and Brooks came together on the baseline. The 40-year-old made contact with the ref during the ensuing stoppage in play and was assessed a technical foul.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">LEBRON JUST PUSHED AND SCREAMED AT THE REF??? <br> <br>We've seen Dillon Brooks get under dude's skins before, but this something else from LeBron... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBA</a> <a href="https://t.co/1K98UkayhL">pic.twitter.com/1K98UkayhL</a></p>— ESPN Australia &amp; NZ (@ESPNAusNZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNAusNZ/status/2000399281237155967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"He's going to compete. I'm going to compete. We're going to get up in each other's face. Tried not to go borderline with it. I don't really take it there. But we just competed," James told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/mcten/status/2000432738709725342">McMenamin</a>. "And did that almost all the way to the end of the game."</p><p>Brooks <a href="https://x.com/nbabzyy/status/2000389040559030670?s=20">received</a> his first technical foul at the 10:36 mark of the first quarter for making contact with James after a made field goal for the Suns. The two also jawed at each other throughout the game.</p><p>"It's never one play that determines anything. It's never one play to get the emotion to that level," Suns coach Jordan Ott told reporters, per <a href="https://x.com/DuaneRankin/status/2000447494464135384">AZ Central's Duane Rankin</a>.</p><p>Sunday was the latest in a string of on-court incidents between Brooks and James. Following a game in Los Angeles on Dec. 2, Brooks addressed the feud, which had reignited during the Suns forward's 33-point display in a 125-108 victory. "He likes people who bow down. I don't bow down. That either entices him or aggravates him," Brooks told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/MarkG_Medina/status/1995739060443152571?s=20">Lakers insider Mark Medina</a>.</p><p>Brooks was also <a href="https://x.com/espn/status/1649980359545872384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1649980359545872384%7Ctwgr%5Ef568132bd0f55d95301f6aa0f2b3828fe830a8f5%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.silverscreenandroll.com%2F2023%2F4%2F22%2F23694548%2Fdillon-brooks-ejected-lakers-vs-grizzlies-punch-video-balls-poke-bear">ejected</a> in 2023 for a flagrant-2 foul for striking James in a 40-point defeat in Game 4 of a playoff sweep while with the Memphis Grizzlies.</p><p>"People always say everything's too friendly in the NBA, and then Dillon comes around and now it's too much. … I'd rather it be the other way. I'd rather it be too much," Booker told reporters after Sunday's game, per <a href="https://x.com/HaydenCilley/status/2000428521177690552?s=20">ClutchPoints' Hayden Cilley</a>.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 14: Lebron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Dillon Brooks #3 of the Phoenix Suns get together after a play during the second half of a game at Mortgage Matchup Center on December 14, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Brooks' feud with LeBron 'cost him' in Suns' loss to Lakers

Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube demanded more from the team's leadership group in the wake...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube demanded more from the team's leadership group in the wake of Saturday's 6-3 home defeat to the Edmonton Oilers.</p><p>"Our leaders have to take control of it a lot more than they are right now," Berube told reporters, according to the <a href="https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/craig-berubes-frustrated-as-edmonton-oilers-stars-dominate-while-maple-leafs-leaders-disappear">Toronto Sun's Terry Koshan</a>. "It's all a mindset. Whether down a goal, you have to have more urgency and being more direct in how we want to play."</p><p>The contest was a tight affair heading into the final frame after Darnell Nurse's goal at the 19:29 mark of the second period gave the Oilers a 3-2 advantage heading into the intermission. Edmonton then took over in the third period, with two goals from Vasily Podkolzin and a tally from former Maple Leaf winger Zach Hyman putting the visiting team out of sight.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>If Toronto's leadership group was quiet on the night, Edmonton's core was anything but. Connor McDavid finished the game with two goals and an assist. Leon Draisaitl chipped in with three helpers for the Oilers.</p><p>Berube did provide an excuse for William Nylander, who was "not even close to 75%" for the contest due to illness.</p><p>Berube said much of the Leafs' poor display can be chalked up to a lack of urgency in the third period.</p><p>"Third periods, it's been two games in a row at home, where we're flat," Berube added. "That's the bottom line for me. Whatever it is, we should've been coming out and dictating how we're going to play that period and how we wanted to play it."</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 8: Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube looks on against the Tampa Bay Lightning at the Scotiabank Arena on December 8, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Berube criticizes Leafs' leaders after loss to Oilers

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant returned to the lineup for Friday's 130-126 defeat to the Utah ...

<p>Memphis Grizzlies guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> returned to the lineup for Friday's 130-126 defeat to the Utah Jazz following a 10-game absence due to a calf injury.</p><p>The 26-year-old posted a double-double of 21 points and a team-best 10 assists to go with four rebounds in 25 minutes.</p><p>Morant had not played since he suffered a Grade 1 right calf strain in the first quarter of a 108-100 defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Nov. 15.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The two-time All-Star entered Friday averaging 18.2 points on a career-low 35.8% shooting in 13 games for the Grizzlies. His 28.5 minutes per game is also the lowest mark of his seven-year NBA career.</p><p>The 11-13 Grizzlies welcomed the Jazz to the FedEx Forum in Memphis with wins in seven of their last nine outings. They are 7-4 in 11 games without the guard in the lineup this season.</p><p>Morant was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3384342" href="https://thescore.com/news/3384342">suspended</a> one game in November for conduct detrimental to the team after making postgame remarks following a defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers. Morant responded to a question about what the Grizzlies could have done differently in the defeat, saying, "According to (the coaching staff), probably don't play me, honestly. That's basically what the message was after, so it's cool."</p>

MEMPHIS, TN - OCTOBER 22: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on October 22, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Morant returns from 10-game absence in Grizzlies' loss to Jazz

The New Orleans Pelicans aren't interested in trading in-demand wing Herb Jones, sources told The...

<p>The New Orleans Pelicans aren't interested in trading in-demand wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96122">Herb Jones</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6881281/2025/12/11/lakers-defense-trades-nba-cup-loss/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Dan Woike</a>.</p><p>Jones has recently been linked with the Los Angeles Lakers, who rank 21st in the league in defensive rating (117.7) and would benefit from a two-way player of his skill set.</p><p>Any potential offer from the Lakers would likely need to include an expiring contract and a future first-round pick, which could potentially come in the 2031 or 2032 drafts, Woike adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jones can't be traded until after Jan. 14, per league rules, following his three-year, $68-million <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3310373" href="https://thescore.com/news/3310373">extension</a> with the Pelicans in July.</p><p>The 27-year-old is averaging 9.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.6 steals across 17 games this season for New Orleans. He earned NBA All-Defensive first-team honors in 2024 after being selected to the All-Rookie second team in 2022.</p><p>The 3-22 Pelicans sit last in the Western Conference and are expected to be sellers at the Feb. 5 trade deadline.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LA - NOVEMBER 14: Herbert Jones #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans handles the ball during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2025 - 2026 Emirates Cup Game on November 14, 2025 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Pelicans not entertaining trade offers for Jones

The Golden State Warriors expect Stephen Curry to return for Friday's game against the Minnesota ...

<p>The Golden State Warriors expect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> to return for Friday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves after missing five contests with a thigh contusion.</p><p>"It's looking good," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Wednesday, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47272970/warriors-curry-thigh-expected-return-friday-vs-wolves">ESPN's Anthony Slater</a>.</p><p>Curry didn't travel with the Warriors on their recent three-game road swing, which culminated with Sunday's 123-91 battering of the Chicago Bulls. Golden State went 3-2 in the 37-year-old's absence.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 11-time All-Star was a full participant in Wednesday's practice and will take part in Thursday's team duties before receiving approval to play against the T-Wolves, Slater reports.</p><p>Curry is averaging 27.9 points on 47.1% shooting in 16 outings this season.</p><p>Warriors veteran Draymond Green also missed the last two contests and wasn't at Wednesday's practice because of a personal matter. However, Kerr said he expects Green to return to the team Thursday and could be in the lineup against Minnesota.</p>

SAN ANTONIO, TX - NOVEMBER 12: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors celebrates during the game against the San Antonio Spurs on November 12, 2025 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Curry expected back Friday vs. T-Wolves after 5-game absence

A high ankle sprain will keep Orlando Magic star Franz Wagner on the sidelines, the team announce...

<p>A high ankle sprain will keep Orlando Magic star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96086" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96086">Franz Wagner</a> on the sidelines, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Orlando didn't provide a recovery timeline for Wagner, but an MRI revealed no structural damage, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1998110920875385114?s=20">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>"His return will depend on how he responds to treatment," the Magic said in a statement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wagner suffered the injury in the first quarter of Sunday's 106-100 road loss to the New York Knicks. The 24-year-old leapt for a dunk on an alley-oop pass from Anthony Black when center Ariel Hukporti fouled him with 4:43 remaining in the frame.</p><p>"You never want to see anybody go down, but that hurt my heart, watching him hit the floor," Magic coach Jamahl Mosley <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3421403" href="https://thescore.com/news/3421403">told</a> The Associated Press postgame.</p><p>Wagner's injury follows a 10-game stretch in which teammate Paolo Banchero was out due to a groin injury. The loss to the Knicks marked Banchero's second game back.</p><p>Wagner leads the Magic in scoring with 22.7 points per game on 49% shooting across 24 contests this season. The German international also has a career-high 6.1 rebounds to pair with 3.7 assists and 1.2 steals.</p>

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 03: Franz Wagner #22 of the Orlando Magic looks on against the San Antonio Spurs during the third quarter at Kia Center on December 03, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Wagner sidelined with high ankle sprain

The NBA All-Star Game needed a lifeline, and the league hopes that the introduction of a USA-vers...

<p>The NBA All-Star Game needed a lifeline, and the league hopes that the introduction of a USA-versus-World format will provide exactly that.</p><p>The annual showcase will still feature 24 players selected by votes from fans (weighted at 50%), players (25%), and media (25%), with the only change being the elimination of frontcourt and backcourt position designations. Selections will be divided by conference as usual, and commissioner Adam Silver will then add players, if needed, to ensure there are 16 U.S. and eight international players.</p><p>A round-robin tournament comprised of three teams with eight players each will determine which two teams will square off in the final. There will be one team made up of international players and two evenly distributed with American stars. The league's process for assigning players to the two Team USA squads will be determined at a later date.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Now that one-quarter of the campaign is in the books, here's a look at our picks for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game. These selections are based on merit and how likely voters are to reward reputation.</p><h3>Team USA (Team A)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="TEAM UNITED STATES 1 (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-l1f2C" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/l1f2C/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="419" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The senior member of this squad is Kevin Durant, who merits a 16th All-Star selection for his stellar start in Houston despite his scoring average (25.3) being the lowest since his first season with the Warriors. The other forward, Jaylen Brown, deserves inclusion for his career-high 29.1 points per game for the shorthanded Celtics.</p><p>The four-man backcourt is stacked with elite scorers and facilitators. There should be little doubt that Devin Booker, Jalen Brunson, Anthony Edwards, and Donovan Mitchell have earned their places and should garner consideration from fans, fellow players, and media alike.</p><p>The selection of Chet Holmgren is also a no-brainer, considering the Thunder's exceptional record and the fact that Oklahoma City's 2025 first-time All-Star, Jalen Williams, missed the first 19 games of the season due to injury. Joining Holmgren in the frontcourt is New Jersey-born Karl-Anthony Towns, who meets the criteria despite playing internationally for the Dominican Republic.</p><h3>Team USA (Team B)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="TEAM UNITED STATES 2 (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-oc7SD" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/oc7SD/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="419" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The second Team USA group is a mix of up-and-coming superstars and some of the game's most legendary names. LeBron James will obviously get selected for a record-extending 22nd All-Star Game despite missing the first 14 games of the regular season due to sciatica.</p><p>Also included are<strong> </strong>four of the league's top 12 scorers this season, with Tyrese Maxey (31.5), Steph Curry (27.9), Cade Cunningham (27.5), and James Harden (26.8) forming a formidable backcourt quartet. Cunningham's Pistons teammate Jalen Duren gets his first nod for his contributions to the upstart Eastern Conference leaders. Raptors Swiss Army knife Scottie Barnes also gets the call for his role as the fulcrum of a surprisingly strong Toronto squad.</p><p>There's no shortage of stars who could miss out on the U.S. teams based on the new criteria. Julius Randle (Timberwolves),<strong> </strong>Brandon Ingram (Raptors),<strong> </strong>Evan Mobley (Cavaliers), Austin Reaves (Lakers), Paolo Banchero (Magic), Amen Thompson (Rockets), and Jalen Johnson (Hawks) are some of the best players who could be free to take a mid-February vacation.</p><h3>Team World</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="TEAM INTERNATIONAL (2026) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9Tsrg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9Tsrg/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="464" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The dominance of foreign-born players on the Most Valuable Player award is reflected in this side, which features six of the last seven winners (Cameroon-born 2022-23 recipient Joel Embiid not included). This might also be the most balanced of the three hypothetical All-Star rosters.</p><p>All of the names here are obvious choices. Josh Giddey, who's nearly averaging a triple-double with the Bulls, edges three-time All-Star Pascal Siakam because a) the group needs another guard, and b) the Pacers are horrible. Giddey joins Ben Simmons and Kyrie Irving as the only Australia-born players to make an All-Star Game. Teaming with him in the backcourt are Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic, forming a trio of guards capable of playing on and off the ball.</p><p>Thoughts and prayers for the Team USA frontcourts that have to deal with a menacing trio of Nikola Jokic, Alperen Sengun, and Victor Wembanyama. Jokic, a three-time MVP, is the NBA's best passing big man, and Sengun is no slouch in that department either with 7.1 assists per game, second only to Jokic among centers. They are going to find shooters. And then there's the task of guarding 7-foot-4 Wembanyama, who led the league in rebounds and blocks before being sidelined with a calf strain in November.<em> </em>He's already shown that he takes the All-Star Game more seriously than his peers.</p><p>There are several All-Star caliber international players who miss out in this scenario. Chief among them are Pascal Siakam, Franz Wagner (Magic), Deni Avdija (Blazers), and Jamal Murray (Nuggets). RJ Barrett (Raptors), Nikola Vucevic (Bulls), OG Anunoby (Knicks), Shaedon Sharpe (Blazers), and Dyson Daniels (Hawks) are among the names who would be in contention if the field was expanded to two international teams.</p>

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Projecting rosters for USA vs. World All-Star Game

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been ruled out for Sunday's game against ...

<p>Oklahoma City Thunder guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Utah Jazz due to left elbow bursitis.</p><p>The absence will be Gilgeous-Alexander's first of the 2025-26 campaign.</p><p>The Thunder will also be without guards Lu Dort, Alex Caruso, and Isaiah Joe due to various injuries. Center Isaiah Hartenstein was also ruled out because of a right calf strain.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The reigning MVP scored 33 points on 10-of-12 shooting in three quarters during Friday's 132-111 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City's 14th straight win.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 32.8 points, 6.4 assists and 4.7 rebounds and has scored at least 20 points in 95 straight games.</p><p>After facing the Jazz, the 22-1 Thunder will have two days off ahead of Wednesday's visit from the Phoenix Suns.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - DECEMBER 5: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on December 5, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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SGA to miss 1st game of season vs. Jazz due to elbow issue

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo will be out two-to-four weeks after suffering a rig...

<p>Milwaukee Bucks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> will be out two-to-four weeks after suffering a right calf strain in Wednesday's victory over the Detroit Pistons, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1996623806916633028">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The two-time MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3418126" href="https://thescore.com/news/3418126">exited</a> three minutes into the first quarter after collapsing to the floor while running back on defense. He left the court under his own power.</p><p>Antetokounmpo's injury comes at a perilous time for the Bucks, who are 2-8 in their last 10 outings and hold the 10th and final play-in spot in the Eastern Conference.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The injury follows <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3417789" href="https://thescore.com/news/3417789">reports</a> of ongoing discussions between Milwaukee and the nine-time All-Star about his future with the franchise. A resolution is expected in the coming weeks and will determine whether the 30-year-old is available prior to the Feb. 5 trade deadline, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47191857/sources-giannis-antetokounmpo-bucks-discussing-future">Charania</a>.</p><p>Antetokounmpo reportedly explored his options in the summer and was open to joining the New York Knicks in August. Several teams are expected to be in the running for the former Finals MVP should he move on from Milwaukee.</p><p>Antetokounmpo is averaging 28.9 points on 63.9% shooting in 17 games this season. The 2020 Defensive Player of the Year is also recording 10.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game.</p>

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Report: Giannis out at least 2 weeks due to calf strain

The Montreal Canadiens have signed defenseman Mike Matheson to a five-year extension carrying an ...

<p>The Montreal Canadiens have signed defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4508" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4508">Mike Matheson</a> to a five-year extension carrying an annual cap hit of $6 million, the team announced.</p><p>Matheson's new terms kick in ahead of next season and run through 2030-31.</p><p>The 31-year-old was in the final season of an eight-year contract with a $4.88-million AAV. He was slated to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Matheson has recorded four goals and 14 points in 22 games this season, averaging 24:50 of ice time. He's scored 78 goals and tallied 279 points in 649 career games across 11 seasons with the Canadiens, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Florida Panthers.</p><p>Montreal acquired Matheson from the Penguins in 2022 in exchange for defenseman Jeff Petry and forward Ryan Poehling.</p>

MONTREAL, CANADA - NOVEMBER 22: Mike Matheson #8 of the Montréal Canadiens skates during the second period against the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Bell Centre on November 22, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Montréal Canadiens defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-2.

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Canadiens extend Matheson on 5-year, $30M deal

A month into the 2025-26 campaign, here are 10 candidates who have made the strongest early cases...

<p><em>A month into the 2025-26 campaign, here are 10 candidates who have made the strongest early cases for the NBA's most prestigious individual accolade.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: SENGUN 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-evk2i" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/evk2i/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> Not ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>22.4</td>
<td>9.7</td>
<td>7.1</td>
<td>49</td>
<td>44.2</td>
<td>74.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Kevin Durant is the No. 1 scoring option the ascending Rockets desperately needed in clutch situations, but Sengun is the two-way force that makes the team click. The Turkish center has improved in nearly all facets of his game after earning his first All-Star selection last year. He's averaging a career-high 22.4 points despite not having familiar pick-and-roll partner Fred VanVleet on the court.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sengun has helped compensate for Houston's lack of a starting point guard through his growth as a playmaker. His 7.1 assists per game are tops among all frontcourt players not named Nikola Jokic, and he's stretching the floor with much-improved 3-point shooting; he's at 49% on 2.9 attempts per game after shooting 23.3% last season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: MITCHELL (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-wRv9f" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wRv9f/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>Not ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>29.9</td>
<td>4.8</td>
<td>5.5</td>
<td>50.3</td>
<td>38.3</td>
<td>83.2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Cavaliers have been inconsistent, and other guards around the league are emerging onto the scene, but don't forget about Mitchell, who's quietly off to his best start yet. He's averaging a career-best 29.9 points on an efficient 50.3% shooting from the field, the highest mark of his decorated nine-season career.</p><p>Cleveland is 12 points better per 100 possessions with Mitchell on the court than off, and its 118.9 offensive rating with him on the floor would lead the NBA. The six-time All-Star has kept the 12-7 Cavs afloat with Darius Garland playing in only five games and Evan Mobley's offensive inconsistencies persisting.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: MAXEY 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-YV2E6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/YV2E6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> Not ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>4.6</td>
<td>7.8</td>
<td>47.1</td>
<td>41.5</td>
<td>88</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It's a miracle that the 76ers are flirting with a top-six spot in the Eastern Conference. Joel Embiid and Paul George are a costly $110-million band of bumps and bruises, and the team's defense plummets to the league's second worst in the absence of the former, whose offensive contributions have withered. Maxey is now the present and future of the organization.</p><p>The 25-year-old guard leads the league in minutes (40.4) and is second in scoring with 33 points per game. His career-high 54-point performance in Thursday's thrilling overtime win versus the Bucks cemented his status as Philadelphia's focal point. Maxey also recorded nine assists, three steals, and three blocks in the outing, making him just the fourth player in NBA history to total 500-plus points and 100-plus assists in the first 15 games of a season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: EDWARDS 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-x3EMl" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/x3EMl/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 6</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>27.8</td>
<td>4.5</td>
<td>3.5</td>
<td>47.5</td>
<td>38.2</td>
<td>83.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Julius Randle has arguably been as important for the Timberwolves as Edwards this season, especially because the latter has missed a few games due to injury. But make no mistake, Edwards is still the engine that makes Minnesota run. While his assists, 3-point volume, and percentage are slightly down from the last campaign, the three-time All-Star leads the team in scoring.</p><p>He's the driving force on the league's fourth-best offense and regularly delivers superstar performances, like when he dropped an efficient 41 points during the T-Wolves' season opener versus the Trail Blazers or when he scored another 41 against the Suns on Friday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: WEMBY 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-kvxjP" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/kvxjP/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 5</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>26.2</td>
<td>12.9</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>50.2</td>
<td>34.5</td>
<td>85.7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Much like last season, Wembanyama's candidacy for awards is at risk due to injury. Nonetheless, the Frenchman has taken another leap in his third campaign, and the Spurs are a far improved team, which invariably validates his claim to hardware. Much of that is thanks to his growth as a player, as the center is attempting 4.8 threes per contest, down from 8.8 a season ago. That's a sign of Wembanyama identifying inefficiencies in his game.</p><p>In a Nov. 10 victory over the Bulls, Wembanyama became the first player in NBA history with at least 35 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, five blocks, and five 3-pointers in a game. He followed that showing two nights later with a 31-point triple-double versus the Warriors. Those are MVP numbers from a talent who's certain to be in the discussion for years to come.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: CADE 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gcm5F" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gcm5F/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> Not ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>27.1</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>9.6</td>
<td>44.4</td>
<td>28.4</td>
<td>82.1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>After making his first All-NBA appearance last season, Cunningham has leaped from star to superstar to open this campaign. As a result, the Pistons have gone from tying an NBA-record 28 straight losses to first place in the East in two seasons. Cunningham's averaging career highs in points and assists despite shooting a career-low 28.4% from deep.</p><p>He's emerged as one of the best pick-and-roll prowlers in the NBA, processing layers of defense and making the right reads at his highest level since entering the league in 2021. Cunningham makes everyone around him better, explaining why Detroit is 15-2 despite dealing with multiple injuries.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: GIANNIS 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-bniMc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/bniMc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 4</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>31.2</td>
<td>10.8</td>
<td>6.8</td>
<td>62.9</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>63.6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Antetokounmpo's hopeful short-term absence due to a groin injury should emphasize how important he is to a Bucks team that lacks a dependable support cast. In 13 games this season, the two-time MVP has recorded fewer than 30 points on just three occasions, and one of those was a 14-minute outing versus the Cavs in which he sustained the injury.</p><p>Antetokounmpo is posting a league-high 12 made field goals per game on a career-best 62.9% field-goal percentage. That's astounding when taking into account that Milwaukee doesn't have another All-Star, meaning he's constantly seeing double-teams. No player on this list shoulders a bigger burden than Antetokounmpo.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: DONCIC 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-da2SZ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/da2SZ/4/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 3</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>34.5</td>
<td>8.8</td>
<td>8.9</td>
<td>46.7</td>
<td>31.1</td>
<td>79.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Doncic leads the NBA in points per game and is fourth in assists per contest. He's carried a Lakers offense that relies heavily on his pick-and-roll brilliance. With Austin Reaves emerging as a reliable secondary option and LeBron James returning from injury, Los Angeles looks like a contender at 12-4.</p><p>Doncic is posting the highest usage rate of his career at 39.6% and is nearly averaging a triple-double. He's scored at least 40 points in one-third of his games played and leads the league in pick-and-roll points. Doncic is one of the very best players in the world, and a team that revolves around him deserves respect as a title threat.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: SGA 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-vlSDI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vlSDI/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 2</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>32.2</td>
<td>4.9</td>
<td>6.6</td>
<td>54.3</td>
<td>41.2</td>
<td>89.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Thunder are on pace to eclipse last season's 68-14 mark and join the 1995-96 Bulls and 2015-16 Warriors as the only teams to win 70-plus games, due in no small part to Gilgeous-Alexander's contributions. Oklahoma City's 17-1 start is even more impressive when considering that Jalen Williams, who was the team's second-leading scorer in 2024-25, hasn't played yet.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander is scoring 32.2 points per game on 54.3% shooting. It's also important to note his tidiness with the ball, as his 1.8 turnovers per contest (3.72 assist-to-turnover ratio) are a remarkably low return for a primary ball-handler who's averaging 33.1 minutes. And keep in mind, he's sat the entire fourth quarter in<strong> </strong>11 of 18 games, so his numbers could be much higher.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: JOKIC 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-tyQcy" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/tyQcy/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 1</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>29.6</td>
<td>12.8</td>
<td>11.1</td>
<td>62.6</td>
<td>43.4</td>
<td>85.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Somehow, after winning three MVPs, Jokic continues to elevate his game every year. He's averaging a triple-double with 29.6 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 11.1 assists while shooting 43.4% from three. His true shooting percentage of 73.6% is on pace for the best single-season mark in NBA history. He's the NBA's most efficient post player, scoring a whopping 1.39 points per post-up. By comparison, Sengun, who's having an All-NBA season and is the only player who earns more post possessions per game than Jokic, averages 0.93 points per post touch.</p><p>The 2023 Finals MVP leads the league in virtually every individual advanced statistic, including player impact estimate, despite his usage rate not ranking in the top 30. Jokic generates a quality shot for himself or a teammate on nearly every possession regardless of the defensive coverage. He's led the Nuggets to a 13-4 start. For all his success, this is the best start to a season in Jokic's career.</p>

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NBA MVP Rankings: Young guns enter the fray

The Dallas Wings won the 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery on Sunday and will select first overall for a se...

<p>The Dallas Wings won the 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery on Sunday and will select first overall for a second straight year.</p><p>Following the Wings in April's draft will be the Minnesota Lynx, Seattle Storm, Washington Mystics, and Chicago Sky.</p><p>The odds for landing the No. 1 pick were determined by the cumulative records over the last two seasons of the five teams that didn't make the playoffs in 2025.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pick</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>No. 1 odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Dallas Wings</td>
<td>42.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Minnesota Lynx (via CHI)</td>
<td>26.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Seattle Storm (via LA)</td>
<td>16.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Washington Mystics</td>
<td>9.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Chicago Sky (via CON)</td>
<td>5.5%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The WNBA's 2026 expansion franchises, the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, will receive the first non-lottery selections at Nos. 6 and 7. The league will decide the order of those picks by a coin flip at a later date.</p><p>The rest of the first round is as follows.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pick</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Toronto Tempo/Portland Fire</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Toronto Tempo/Portland Fire</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Golden State Valkyries</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Washington Mystics (via SEA)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Indiana Fever</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>Washington Mystics (via NY)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>Connecticut Sun (via PHX)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>Atlanta Dream</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>Seattle Storm (via LV)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>Connecticut Sun (via MIN)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>Toronto and Portland will also take part in an expansion draft, though its date has yet to be announced. Details surrounding the event are pending the formulation of a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA).</em></p><p>Forward Maddy Siegrist represented Dallas at the lottery. The Villanova product was also in attendance last year when the Wings won the No. 1 pick that became <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/171763" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/171763">Paige Bueckers</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Maddy Siegrist does it again 🤗<br><br>The <a href="https://twitter.com/DallasWings?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dallaswings</a> will get the No.1 Pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft! <a href="https://t.co/ooWCH7eTa2">pic.twitter.com/ooWCH7eTa2</a></p>— WNBA (@WNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WNBA/status/1992746794552610816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>UCLA center Lauren Betts, TCU playmaker Olivia Miles, and UConn shooting guard Azzi Fudd are considered among the best North American players likely to be available during the 2026 draft, while Spanish center Awa Fam is also potentially in play with at No. 1. The event, which will take place April 13, is comprised of 45 picks across three rounds.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Year</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Chance</th>
<th>1st Pick</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2025</td>
<td>Wings</td>
<td>22.7%</td>
<td>Paige Bueckers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2024</td>
<td>Fever</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Caitlin Clark</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2023</td>
<td>Fever</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Aliyah Boston</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2022</td>
<td>Mystics (traded to Dream)</td>
<td>17.8%</td>
<td>Rhyne Howard</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2021</td>
<td>Liberty (traded to Wings)</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Charli Collier</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2020</td>
<td>Liberty</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Sabrina Ionescu</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2019</td>
<td>Aces</td>
<td>27.6%</td>
<td>Jackie Young</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2018</td>
<td>Aces</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>A'ja Wilson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2017</td>
<td>Stars</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Kelsey Plum</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2016</td>
<td>Storm</td>
<td>44.2%</td>
<td>Breanna Stewart</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The previous 10 first overall selections include several players who have found considerable success as pros. Only one hasn't made an All-Star game (Charli Collier), with the other nine combining for 35 such appearances. Each of the last four top picks - and six of the 10 (A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart) - won Rookie of the Year. Wilson (four) and Stewart (two) have six combined MVP honors as well.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 23: Maddy Siegrist of the Dallas Wings holds up the number 1 sign as the Dallas Wings wins the first pick during the 2026 WNBA draft lottery on November 23, 2025 at the ESPN studios in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is sidelined due to a hamstring strain and will be re-evaluat...

<p>Denver Nuggets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> is sidelined due to a hamstring strain and will be re-evaluated in four-to-six weeks, the team announced Sunday.</p><p>The Nuggets are now without two starters after ruling out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102793" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102793">Christian Braun</a> for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3398141" href="https://thescore.com/news/3398141">six weeks</a> with an ankle sprain in mid-November.</p><p>Gordon's averaging a career-high 18.8 points and 5.9 rebounds in 13 games for Denver this season. He's also posting a career-best 3-point percentage (44.4%) and is one of seven players averaging 15 points on 50-40-85 shooting, per ESPN Research.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 30-year-old played just 3:21 minutes in Friday's 112-109 road victory over the Houston Rockets and entered the contest dealing with bilateral hamstring issues, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1992638471782183220">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>. Denver then ruled Gordon out for Saturday's loss to the Sacramento Kings.</p><p>The 12-4 Nuggets sit second in the Western Conference and 3.5 games back of the Oklahoma City Thunder ahead of Monday's matchup with the Memphis Grizzlies.</p>

DENVER, CO - NOVEMBER 17: Aaron Gordon #32 of the Denver Nuggets drives to the basket during the game against the Chicago Bulls on November 17, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Nuggets' Gordon out at least 4 weeks with hamstring strain

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is officially the first player in NBA history to take the...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward <a href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> is officially the first player in NBA history to take the court for a 23rd season.</p><p>The 40-year-old made his season debut in Tuesday's 140-125 win over the Utah Jazz<em>,</em> posting 11 points with a team-high 12 assists to help JJ Redick's squad improve to 11-4 on the year. He missed the campaign's first 14 contests due to sciatica.</p><p>James previously shared the record for seasons played with Vince Carter, who retired in 2020 at age 43.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Redick told reporters after the game that James played with "the right spirit" in his return, according to <a href="https://x.com/MarkG_Medina/status/1991027382971736379">Mark Medina of Sports Central LA</a>.</p><p>"Better than expected," Redick <a href="https://x.com/MarkG_Medina/status/1991029025154974107">said</a> of James' conditioning, adding that he doesn't think it'll take long for the superstar to get back into "peak" shape.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> led L.A. with 37 points, giving him a seventh game with at least 35 in his 13 appearances this season. He added 10 assists of his own but had an off night from beyond the arc, where he was just 2-of-10. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> scored 26, continuing a hot start to the Lakers guard's fifth NBA season.</p><p>Tuesday's contest marked the 1,563rd regular-season game of James' career. Boston Celtics icon Robert Parish, who played 21 campaigns, holds the league record with 1,611 games played. James can surpass Parish by appearing in 49 more outings, a milestone he could reach this season.</p><p>James, who turns 41 in December, already owned the all-time NBA records for regular-season points (42,184), minutes played (59,041), All-Star selections (21), and All-NBA nods (21), among a litany of others when he stepped on the floor against the Jazz. He's also the only player to reach 10,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, and 10,000 assists.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 18: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Utah Jazz during the second quarter at Crypto.com Arena on November 18, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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The NBA issued a warning to Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green following an interaction...

<p>The NBA issued a warning to Golden State Warriors forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> following an interaction with a fan during Sunday's road victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47010502/source-nba-warns-warriors-draymond-green-fan-interaction">ESPN's Anthony Slater</a>.</p><p>Green approached a spectator seated courtside during the second quarter of the contest and stood nearly chest-to-chest before teammate Brandon Podziemski and referee Courtney Kirkland intervened.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Draymond had a bizarre interaction with a fan sitting courtside 😮 <a href="https://t.co/TVHDhBeZ9F">pic.twitter.com/TVHDhBeZ9F</a></p>— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSWarriors/status/1990230525366411384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The fan, identified as Sam Green, 35, of New Orleans, was wearing a black Pelicans polo and later admitted to heckling the Warriors' veteran forward with chants of "Angel Reese."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It was a good joke at first, but you can't keep calling me a woman," Green said postgame, according to Slater. "I got four kids, one on the way. You can't keep calling me a woman."</p><p>The fan claimed Green shouted profanity and threatened to punch him out if he continued the taunts referencing WNBA star Reese, who's known as a prolific rebounder. The fan received a warning but wasn't ejected from the game.</p><p>Green has been a frequent target of league fines and was <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/news/2352789">docked</a> $25,000 in May 2022 for giving the middle finger to a Memphis Grizzlies fan. The NBA also <a data-in-app-uri="" href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/news/2501573">fined</a> him $25,000 in December 2022 for "directing obscene language" at a Dallas Mavericks fan.</p><p>Green also garnered a $50,000 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285879" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285879">fine</a> last season for questioning the "integrity of game officials" following a playoff defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - NOVEMBER 16: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors gets into a verbal altercation with a fan during the second quarter of an NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on November 16, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis will not return from a calf injury until principal team owner...

<p>Dallas Mavericks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> will not return from a calf injury until principal team owner Patrick Dumont gives him the green light to do so, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46944562/sources-mavericks-anthony-davis-play-owner-ok">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>.</p><p>Davis has missed six consecutive games due to the ailment. He's expected to sit out once again when the Mavericks welcome the Phoenix Suns to the American Airlines Center on Wednesday, according to MacMahon.</p><p>Dumont has requested medical data on Davis' left calf strain to determine if the 10-time All-Star is at risk of aggravating the injury. Concerns are that Davis could potentially suffer a more serious injury if he returns before the existing strain is fully healed.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Mavs had initially targeted Saturday's road contest against the Washington Wizards for Davis' return. That plan was abandoned following a disagreement between team director of health and performance Johann Bilsborough and Davis' personal medical staff, MacMahon adds.</p><p>Davis sustained his calf strain in the first quarter of a 107-105 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Oct. 29. In five games prior to sustaining the injury, the 32-year-old averaged 20.8 points and 10.2 rebounds in 29.8 minutes.</p><p>Dumont's insistence that he be involved in the decision surrounding Davis' return stems from a rift between the owner and former Mavs general manager Nico Harrison, MacMahon adds. Harrison was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3395026" href="https://thescore.com/news/3395026">fired</a> Tuesday following a 3-8 start to the campaign.</p><p>Harrison was maligned for his role in Luka Doncic's trade to the Los Angeles Lakers in February. Davis, acquired from the Lakers in the stunning deal, appeared in only nine of a possible 33 regular-season games for the Mavs last season due to an adductor strain.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - OCTOBER 26: Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks walks backcourt during a game against the Toronto Raptors at American Airlines Center on October 26, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green appeared to aggravate his right hamstring injury in the first quar...

<p>Phoenix Suns guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96116" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96116">Jalen Green</a> appeared to aggravate his right hamstring injury in the first quarter of Saturday's contest versus the Los Angeles Clippers.</p><p>With under a minute remaining in the quarter, Green drove past Clippers guard James Harden toward the basket, kicked the ball out to the corner, and immediately came up limping. The fifth-year pro needed assistance getting to the locker room.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here’s the play where Jalen Green reinjured his hamstring injury that caused him to miss the first 8 games of the season. <br><br>He had to be helped off the court into the locker room. <a href="https://t.co/DqOYPYUWjO">pic.twitter.com/DqOYPYUWjO</a></p>— CantGuardBook (@CGBBURNER) <a href="https://twitter.com/CGBBURNER/status/1987372615606972475?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Suns subsequently ruled Green out for the remainder of the game, according to <a href="https://x.com/Amanda_Pflugrad/status/1987378823466524896?s=20">Suns reporter Amanda Pflugrad</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Saturday's matchup was Green's second appearance this season after he missed the campaign's first eight contests due to a hamstring injury. He scored 29 points on 10-of-20 shooting in Thursday's 115-102 victory over the Clippers.</p><p>Phoenix acquired Green from the Houston Rockets as part of the seven-team blockbuster deal for Kevin Durant.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - NOVEMBER 06: Jalen Green #4 of the Phoenix Suns drives the ball against Brook Lopez #11 of the LA Clippers during the first half of the NBA game at Mortgage Matchup Center on November 06, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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The Los Angeles Lakers will be without LeBron James for an upcoming five-game road trip as the 21...

<p>The Los Angeles Lakers will be without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> for an upcoming five-game road trip as the 21-time All-Star continues to recover from a sciatica issue, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46863749/lebron-eyes-live-5-5-make-lakers-road-trip">ESPN's Dave McMenamin</a>.</p><p>James hasn't appeared in a contest this season after the Lakers initially ruled the 40-year-old out in mid-October for three-to-four weeks with an injury to his lower back and right side.</p><p>The NBA's all-time leading scorer continues to work out on his own and is progressing toward live five-on-five activities during practice, McMenamin adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Obviously, this thing has to continue to progress with all of his return-to-play protocols," Lakers head coach JJ Redick said last week, per McMenamin.</p><p>"So we don't have, like, a target date. It's just somewhere in that general timeline. We hope that he's kind of checked all the boxes and is going to be back sometime in that second or third week in November."</p><p>The Lakers kick off a five-game swing Saturday against the Atlanta Hawks, followed by matchups against the Charlotte Hornets, Oklahoma City Thunder, New Orleans Pelicans, and Milwaukee Bucks.</p><p>James' reported recovery timeline indicates the earliest he could return to action is a home contest versus the Utah Jazz on Nov. 18 - the Lakers' 15th regular-season game of the 2025-26 campaign.</p><p>The four-time MVP's season debut will be historic, as James will become the first NBA player to compete in 23 seasons. He already shares the record for the longest NBA career with Vince Carter.</p><p>The Lakers are 6-2 ahead of Wednesday's visit from Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 2: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Miami Heat on November 2, 2025 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE