Scoreboard
Lakers 122, Suns 111
Nuggets 118, Wizards 104
Heat 127, Knicks 120
Pacers 118, Raptors 114
Warriors 127, Mavericks 125
76ers 116, Bulls 91
Grizzlies 130, Rockets 125
Timberwolves 125, Hawks 124
Trail Blazers 127, Jazz 115
What went down
Lakers fans are loving it right now as the L.A. squad earned a big win over the Phoenix Suns, 121-111, snapping a nine-game losing streak against their division rivals.
Anthony Davis led the way with his 27 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, including 14 points in an explosive third quarter after his quiet first half. Aside from Davis, D’Angelo Russell also got the job done for the Purple and Gold. He had a spectacular game with 26 points, six assists, and 9-for-13 from the field. D’Lo had everyone energized all night, hitting the big shots whenever the Lakers needed it.
What’s more interesting about the win is Coach Darwin Ham replacing Malik Beasley with Austin Reaves in the starting lineup. The crowd favorite Austin Reaves didn’t disappoint, finishing with 25 points, four rebounds, and a career-high 11 assists in the win. This was a good continuation of his career-high 35-point outing against the Orlando Magic last Sunday.
The Lakers have a hidden gem in Austin Reaves 🔥
— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) March 23, 2023
His last nine games:
16 PTS | 8 AST
17 PTS | 7 AST
18 PTS | 5 AST
13 PTS | 4 AST
14 PTS | 5 AST
24 PTS | 7 AST
16 PTS | 2 AST
35 PTS | 6 AST
25 PTS | 11 AST pic.twitter.com/ki365nw3Ro
Meanwhile, the Suns’ Devin Booker scored 25 of his 33 points in the second half. He was contained during the crucial moments though as Jarred Vanderbilt guarded him steadily, allowing the Lakers to maintain the lead in the last quarter. Chris Paul, after putting up 18 points for Phoenix, was vocal about the calls made during the game. Reaves’ 13 attempts down the free throw line sparked some controversy regarding the officiating.
“We've been seeing some crazy stuff in different situations,” Paul said. “I watch a lot of basketball, and ... we've got a guy (Booker) who goes (to the rim) night in and night out, and you don't necessarily see the same (calls). It's crazy. Crazy how some of (the officials), too, you can't even talk to them or approach them ... because that (communication) is horrible.”
With the victory, the Lakers have surged back to a tie for ninth place in the Western Conference postseason standings.
Big-time ballers
Steph Curry dropped a double-double as they stunned the Dallas Mavericks in the road win. Curry had 20 points, five rebounds, and 13 assists.
Luka Doncic was the hardest obstacle in the Dubs’ win as he returned after missing five games due to a thigh injury. He immediately got back to work with 30 points and 13 assists in the loss.
What he said
Zach LaVine says Joel Embiid is the MVP
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) March 22, 2023
“I think he shoulda won one already…I think Embiid has it wrapped up this year. He’s that good.”
(Via @KCJHoop ) pic.twitter.com/HgQAEFfJou
The 76ers officially clinched their spot in the playoffs and they owe a big chunk of credit to MVP candidate Joel Embiid.
Did you see that?
Ja Morant welcomes himself back at the rim after serving a league-imposed suspension.
