The Celtics opened the game against the Hornets last night with a 45 point first quarter and cruised to their 17th win of the season. Jayson Tatum had 35 and Marcus Smart chipped in with a career high 15 dimes. The Sixers got their 12th win of the year with a 104 – 101 win over the Hawks. Joel Embiid had 30 for the Sixers. Kristaps Porzingas paced the Wizards to a 142 – 127 win over the T Wolves with 41 points, a career high.
The Nets pulled even to .500 as Kevin Durant exploded for 45 points the victory over the Magic. The Cavs stumbled to the Raptors losing 100 – 88. O.G. Anunoby was the high scorer for the Raps. Zion Williamson had 23 to lead the Pelicans over the Thunder en route to their 12th win of the year. Shai Gilgeous – Alexander led all scorers in the loss with 31. Demar Derozan dropped 26 on the Jazz to lead the Bulls to 9th win of the year. Lauri Markkanen tallied 32 points for the Jazz.
Nikola Jokic approached a triple double with 32 points, 12 boards and 8 dimes to lead the Nuggets to their 13th victory of the year in a 129 – 113 win over the Rockets. The Suns held off the Kings for a 122 – 117 win. Devin Booker went for 44 points for the Suns and Malik Monk had 30 for the Kings in the loss. Tyrese Haliburton had 24 for the Pacers but at three at the buzzer by Andrew Nembhard was the difference as they squeaked out a 116 – 115 win over the Lakers.
