basketball - The Latremie Post

76ers’ Joel Embiid 3-ball completes big career milestone vs. Cavs

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid added another accolade to his illustrious career during their game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

The 76ers got off to a slow start, with the Cavaliers dominating the first quarter 33-18. Embiid’s only basket in the opening frame was a memorable three-pointer, marking a significant milestone as he reached 13,000 career points.

Embiid has remained healthy over the past few games, delivering monster numbers alongside teammate Tyrese Maxey. Their combined efforts have helped the 76ers achieve a 6-2 record in their last 10 games.

In the second quarter, the 76ers woke up and gradually chipped away at Cleveland’s lead, bringing the halftime score to 60-47 in favor of the Cavaliers. At the half, Embiid had contributed 13 points, three rebounds, and two assists, although he also recorded five turnovers.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/philadelphia-76ers/76ers-news-joel-embiid-3-ball-career-milestone-cavs

Where Grizzlies expect Cedric Coward to help calm ‘crunch time’ chaos

The final minutes of a close NBA game are a unique brand of chaos. The pace tightens, the pressure mounts, and every possession becomes a high-stakes chess match where experience is the most valued currency. For Tuomas Iisalo’s drama-driven Memphis Grizzlies, finding players who can not only survive but thrive in that “crunch time” environment is a constant pursuit.

For a rookie wing like Cedric Coward, those minutes are usually supposed to be overwhelming, not news-making moments. Instead, they are becoming the 22-year-old’s proving ground. In fact, Coward’s effectiveness as a championship piece shows up most in the areas the Grizzlies have struggled with when games slow down. Focusing on defensive containment, ball movement, and not making the moment bigger than the play is the best way for any rookie to earn the team’s trust when games are on the line.

“The thing about experience is you only get it by doing it,” Iisalo smiled. “I thought Cedric had a very good game [vs. the Oklahoma City Thunder]. He guarded Jalen Williams very well, especially in the first half. [Coward] had several really good possessions and several things that he can improve on offensively. That is clear.”

Iisalo’s postgame comments made it clear the Grizzlies view Cedric Coward’s Mamba Mentality as more than just another developmental piece. They see him as a potential Kawhi Leonard-level stabilizer when things get frantic.

Scoring 21 points, grabbing eight boards, and going 8-for-15 from the field (5-for-10 from three-point range) is becoming common. That was Coward’s stat line in the bounce-back game, shaking off a 3-for-9 night (13 points) against the Thunder.

“[Coward] is a first-year player coming out of college, but is picking his spots,” Iisalo noted. “Overall, I would talk about our very good offense for stretches. He was a part of those, making quick decisions off the catch. Ball movement was great; he was finding open players. Those are the things we’ve got to build on and also look to use in crunch time.”

Pouting over the one-point loss to the Thunder was not an option. In the following five-point win over the Brooklyn Nets, Coward came through in the clutch. His three-pointer at the 59-second mark and defensive rebounding with 30 seconds left got the job done.

“It does say a lot about him that he is not afraid of that moment,” Iisalo explained. “He hasn’t been [all season]. He has gotten a couple of looks. I think it was the Philly game he got that open look, and he is completely undeterred. He knows that he can get that shot off. I think he is going to grow into a really nice closer in the future because he has not only that mindset, but he also has the game where he can create space and the skill set to knock those down.”

By placing the new guy in these high-leverage situations now, Iisalo is making a calculated investment. The short-term risk of rookie mistakes is outweighed by the long-term gain of developing a player whose instincts are forged in fire.

The Grizzlies aren’t just asking him to survive crunch time; they are challenging their most recent first-round pick to help redefine it, transforming chaos into composed, collective execution.

For Cedric Coward, the classroom is the court, the homework is film, and the final exam happens with the game on the line. The Grizzlies are betting that his quick decisions and team-first approach will soon make him not a liability in the clutch, but a calming presence eager to make the winning play.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/memphis-grizzlies/grizzlies-expect-cedric-coward-help-calm-crunch-time-chaos

Moe Wagner set for Magic return after 13 months after suffering torn ACL

The Magic are set for a major boost as Moe Wagner prepares to make his season debut on Sunday against the Pelicans in Orlando, the team announced Saturday. Wagner has been sidelined since tearing his ACL in a December 21, 2024, win over the Miami Heat.

Last season, Wagner emerged as a strong Sixth Man of the Year candidate before his injury, averaging 19.9 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. His return comes at a crucial time for the Magic, who have struggled recently, posting a 6-6 record over their last 12 games. Currently, the team holds the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference with a 21-18 record.

Despite Wagner’s return, the Magic will still be without Jalen Suggs for Sunday’s game. Suggs will miss his fifth straight game due to an MCL contusion. Additionally, Franz Wagner, Moe’s brother and teammate, remains sidelined with an ankle sprain he suffered in a December 7 loss to the New York Knicks.

Franz Wagner had gotten off to a strong start this season, averaging 22.7 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, putting himself in the conversation for his first All-Star appearance. However, his injury has halted that momentum.

Moe Wagner is entering his seventh NBA season. He was originally drafted with the No. 25 overall pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018. The Magic will be looking to capitalize on his return as they push forward this season.
https://nypost.com/2026/01/10/sports/moe-wagner-set-for-magic-return-after-torn-acl/

Timberwolves hang on to beat depleted Pacers 114-110, after Edwards exits early with tight hamstring

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Julius Randle scored 20 of his 31 points in the first half, and Rudy Gobert contributed 14 points and 19 rebounds to help the Minnesota Timberwolves hold on and defeat the depleted Indiana Pacers 114-110 on Sunday night.

The game took a hit for Minnesota early when star Anthony Edwards exited with hamstring tightness just 3:08 into the game. Despite his absence, the Timberwolves managed to maintain control. Donte DiVincenzo stepped up with 17 points to stabilize the Pacers’ backcourt, while Naz Reid added a strong performance with 16 points and 10 rebounds.

For Indiana, Pascal Siakam led the charge with 33 points. He hit a crucial 3-pointer with 42 seconds left to narrow the deficit to 110-108. However, Jaden McDaniels responded with a finger-roll basket to extend Minnesota’s lead to four with 20 seconds remaining, securing the win for the Timberwolves. Aaron Nesmith also contributed 18 points for the Pacers.

The Pacers are facing significant challenges this season. They are without Tyrese Haliburton, who is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon that ended his NBA Finals run, and they lost current leading scorer Bennedict Mathurin to a sprained toe the previous night in Memphis. Additionally, Andrew Nembhard, the primary point guard during Haliburton’s absence, missed his second straight game with a shoulder strain. In total, seven players were unavailable, forcing Indiana to deploy a starting lineup featuring journeyman Jay Huff, little-used big man Isaiah Jackson, and young guard Ben Sheppard.

The home opener in Minnesota carried extra excitement with the introduction of stage-style lighting on the court and the return of the all-black uniforms with pine-tree trim, reminiscent of the Kevin Garnett era. Nevertheless, the early loss of Edwards tempered the energy. The Timberwolves took control in the third quarter, outscoring the Pacers 28-17 and drawing 11 fouls while committing only three.

With the win, Minnesota improves to 2-1, while Indiana falls to 0-3 after their opener was a double-overtime loss to the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder.

Looking ahead, Indiana will play at Dallas on Wednesday, and Minnesota will host Denver on Monday.

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AP NBA
https://wtop.com/sports/2025/10/timberwolves-hang-on-to-beat-depleted-pacers-114-110-after-edwards-exits-early-with-tight-hamstring/

Cunningham scores 25, helps Pistons overcome slow start and Brown’s 41 points to top Celtics 119-113

DETROIT (AP) — Cade Cunningham scored 25 points and Jalen Duren added 24 to lead the Detroit Pistons to a 119-113 victory over the Boston Celtics on Sunday.

The Celtics started strong, jumping out to a 14-2 lead in the opening minutes and building a lead as large as 17 points. However, Detroit battled back, with Ausar Thompson contributing 21 points and the Pistons dominating the boards to score 30 second-chance points. Thompson himself secured four of those crucial points in the closing minutes.

Boston’s defense tightened compared to their previous games, avoiding giving up 42 points in a quarter as they had in their first two losses. Nevertheless, Detroit managed to score a combined 70 points over the second and third quarters, allowing the Pistons to carry a 13-point lead into the fourth.

The Celtics pulled within four points with 1:13 remaining after Jaylen Brown hit two free throws. Brown led Boston with 41 points, while Payton Pritchard added 21, Derrick White had 15, and reserve Anfernee Simons chipped in 12. However, Tobias Harris stepped up for Detroit, scoring on an offensive rebound on the very next possession to help seal the win. Harris finished with 18 points, marking him as the Pistons’ fourth player in double figures.

Duren also dominated the glass with 17 rebounds, Thompson grabbed 12, and Cunningham dished out eight assists for Detroit.

The Celtics, adjusting to the absence of injured star Jayson Tatum and the departure of key players Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford, have now dropped their first three games of the season. On the other hand, the Pistons improved to two wins in a row following their season-opening loss at Chicago.

Ahead of the game, Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff emphasized the importance of NBA players and coaches being mindful about conversations outside their organizations that might carry gambling implications. The NBA’s gambling scandal remains a hot topic in Detroit, a city with a rich basketball history highlighted by Chauncey Billups, who helped the Pistons win the 2004 title and earned NBA Finals MVP honors.

Up Next:
– Celtics: At New Orleans on Monday
– Pistons: Host Cleveland on Monday

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AP NBA
https://wtop.com/sports/2025/10/cunningham-scores-25-helps-pistons-overcome-slow-start-and-browns-41-points-to-top-celtics-119-113/

Takeaways: Lakers flatten Timberwolves as Luka Doncic scores 49 points

**Lakers Dominate Timberwolves 128-110 in LeBron James’ Absence**

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers secured a convincing 128-110 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night, despite missing their superstar LeBron James. The matchup marked the second meeting between the teams this season and was a rematch of last year’s first-round playoff series.

Luka Doncic was the star of the night, delivering an outstanding performance with 49 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists. The Lakers showcased their offensive prowess by shooting an impressive 59.2% from the field.

### Early Timberwolves Lead Fades Quickly

The Timberwolves started strong, building a double-digit lead in the first quarter. They executed a fast-paced game plan, pushing the ball aggressively after makes and misses, which helped them settle into an early rhythm. Minnesota raced out to a 28-17 lead by hitting 11 of their first 14 shots.

Anthony Edwards led the Wolves’ offense with 31 points, while Julius Randle contributed 26. Despite their early success, the Timberwolves’ defense struggled to contain the Lakers, especially when Doncic was on the floor.

### Lakers Rally in Second Quarter

With Doncic resting on the bench during the second quarter, the Timberwolves’ defensive issues became more evident, as the Lakers clawed back to erase the double-digit deficit and tied the game at 60. The Lakers took a 68-63 lead into halftime with Doncic already tallying 32 points.

### Lakers Extend Lead in Second Half

The third quarter painted a stark picture for Minnesota. After allowing Portland to score 95 points by the end of three quarters earlier in the week, the Wolves gave up an even more daunting 108 points to the Lakers through three quarters on Friday.

Defensive lapses were plentiful, with late rotations, open shooters, and frequent falls for pump fakes. The Lakers kept the pressure on, extending their lead to 14 points early in the fourth quarter.

### Impact of LeBron’s Absence

LeBron James, 40, sat out due to a nerve injury that could keep him sidelined for Wednesday’s game against Minnesota at the Target Center. Without him, Doncic has taken on a heavy offensive load, following up his 43-point debut against Golden State with Friday’s dominant 49-point outing.

### Supporting Cast Steps Up

The Lakers received strong contributions beyond Doncic. Austin Reaves, who the Wolves had limited effectively in the playoffs last season, scored 25 points and provided 11 assists. Rui Hachimura also impressed, scoring 23 points on a highly efficient 10-for-13 shooting.

### Timberwolves’ Rotation and Dillingham’s Debut

Timberwolves coach Chris Finch continued his deep rotation, using 10 players throughout the game. Second-year guard Rob Dillingham, the No. 8 pick in the 2024 NBA draft, was initially left out of the rotation. Finch opted to use Bones Hyland for backup point guard minutes when Mike Conley picked up three first-half fouls. Hyland contributed nine points off the bench, with Jaylen Clark adding another nine.

Dillingham finally got his first minutes of the season with the Wolves trailing 117-98 and just over eight minutes remaining. Unfortunately, his night was cut short after only 59 seconds due to a bloody nose.

### Doncic’s Masterclass

No matter the defensive assignment—be it Jaden McDaniels, Jaylen Clark, or Anthony Edwards—Doncic consistently found open shots, drew fouls, or set up teammates for easy baskets. His masterful performance left the Wolves powerless to stop him and was the defining factor in the Lakers’ dominant win.

The Timberwolves are now 1-1 on the West Coast trip and will return home for their season opener against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Lakers look to continue their strong start as they prepare for upcoming matchups without LeBron James.
https://www.startribune.com/takeaways-lakers-flatten-timberwolves-as-luka-doncic-scores-49-points/601461891

Hornets’ Kon Knueppel drops ‘potluck’ claim after Charlotte’s 136-point explosion

It was an explosive start to the season as the Charlotte Hornets’ offense came alive in a 136-117 victory over the Brooklyn Nets. Impressively, all five starters for Charlotte scored in double digits, and four bench players also contributed 10 or more points in the Hornets’ season opener.

Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel described the team’s balanced scoring effort, saying, “It was kind of like a potluck tonight. Everybody was eating. That’s fun basketball, and that’s how it’s supposed to be played. So, hopefully, we can keep that going.”

Expectations for the Hornets were low heading into the season, with many analysts predicting a bottom-of-the-standings finish. However, Charlotte showcased something special in their dominant win over the Nets, giving their fans plenty to celebrate. In fact, the Hornets set a franchise record for most points in a season-opening game, according to Sam Perley of Hornets.com.

Leading the charge was Brandon Miller, who tallied 25 points on 8-for-19 shooting. LaMelo Ball also had a strong showing with 20 points and eight assists, while Miles Bridges added 18 points and 11 rebounds.

Rookie Kon Knueppel made an impressive debut, contributing 11 points on 4-for-6 shooting, including 3-for-4 from beyond the arc. Fellow rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner recorded a double-double in his NBA regular-season debut, posting 10 points and 11 rebounds.

Off the bench, Collin Sexton led with 15 points on 4-for-9 shooting. Moussa Diabate added 13 points on 5-for-7 shooting, Tre Mann chipped in 12, and Tidjane Salaun finished with 10 points.

The Hornets’ balanced scoring played a major role in their big win. Beyond their shooting success, Charlotte also dominated the boards, winning the rebound battle 50-38—another key factor in the blowout victory.

With the season opener now behind them, the Hornets turn their attention to their next challenge. Charlotte will travel to Philadelphia to face the 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center, aiming to build on their impressive start and continue improving their position in the standings.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/charlotte-hornets/hornets-kon-knueppel-potluck-claim-charlotte-136-point-explosion

Lakers Coach JJ Redick Gives Encouraging Update on Luka Doncic’s Injury

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick shared a promising update on Luka Doncic‘s injury ahead of Friday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Doncic was favoring his right groin late in the Lakers’ opening night loss to the Golden State Warriors. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, coach JJ Redick told reporters after Wednesday’s practice that Doncic was a full participant. Redick described the injury as minor, but the Slovenian superstar did undergo treatment.

“He seems to be fine. I don’t think it’s anything major. He got some treatment this morning, and we didn’t practice long, but he was a participant in practice,” Redick said.

This was an encouraging update, considering Doncic’s previous issues with muscle-related injuries last season. He underwent a different offseason regimen this past summer, focusing on his body, health, and conditioning. The hard work and dedication paid off based on how well Doncic performed for Slovenia at the 2025 EuroBasket.

He also looked fantastic in the Lakers’ season opener against the Warriors, finishing with 43 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists. However, it wasn’t enough to prevent a 119-109 defeat.

### Doncic Downplays Injury

Speaking at the postgame press conference on Tuesday, Luka Doncic was asked about his injury and whether it was serious. Doncic downplayed the issue and called it “nothing.” He said it was a hip issue but sounded very optimistic.

“It’s probably nothing. Just felt it a little bit because my hip went (the opposite) way. Felt it a little bit, but it’s probably nothing,” Doncic said.

Obviously, some Lakers fans were concerned to see Doncic uncomfortable and in pain. The franchise has heavily invested in “The Don” this offseason, signing him to a three-year, $165 million extension, according to Spotrac.

The Lakers were already without LeBron James, who has been dealing with sciatica since late July to early August. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported earlier this week that James is targeting a return to action by mid-November.

According to Fox Sports, Doncic has had multiple injuries to his calf, knee, back, ankle, groin, and quad since December 25, 2024.

### Lakers’ Depth In Question

The Lakers entered the 2025-26 NBA season filled with hope after Luka Doncic signed an extension and LeBron James opted into the final year of his contract. However, CBS Sports’ Brad Botkin pointed out after the Lakers’ opening night loss to the Warriors that the team’s depth isn’t strong.

With James out, coach JJ Redick cannot solely rely on Doncic and Austin Reaves for the majority of their offense.

“You simply cannot rely on two dudes combining for 69 points, 18 assists and 17 rebounds while logging a combined 76 minutes, especially if you’re still losing the game. Those are not sustainable numbers through any lens,” Botkin wrote.

Redick will have to find ways to get their role players going, especially Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent, who both started against the Warriors. Hachimura had nine points in 36 minutes, while Vincent produced just two points in 29 minutes.

The Lakers’ ability to find additional contributors will be crucial as they navigate the challenges of the season without their star players at full health.
https://heavy.com/sports/nba/los-angeles-lakers/jj-redick-update-luka-doncic-injury/

Rockets’ Kevin Durant delivers ‘no-brainer’ admission after signing $90 million extension

Although Kevin Durant remains one of the best scorers in the NBA today, he is nearing the end of his illustrious career. Ergo, the two-year, $90 million contract extension he signed with the Houston Rockets on Sunday could be the last deal he ever agrees to in this league. Such a decision cannot be made lightly.

The two-time Finals MVP is extremely confident in this union, however, identifying Space City as the most optimal path forward.

“I’m excited,” Durant told reporters on Monday, per Adam Wexler of SportsTalk 790. “That was the intent when I came here, was to try to be with this group as long as possible. It was a no-brainer to sign on that line.”

The future Hall of Famer took a discount to stay in Houston for the next few seasons, forgoing a chance to earn up to $120 million in order to give the organization added financial flexibility. The Rockets can now turn their attention to locking up versatile forward Tari Eason before Monday’s 6 p.m. ET deadline to sign players to rookie-scale extensions. Franchise pillar and All-Defensive First-Team selection Amen Thompson will be eligible for a new deal next summer.

Durant is willing to make this sacrifice because he, like many others, firmly believes this franchise can contend for a championship during the 2025-26 campaign. The 37-year-old can do his part to help that blueprint come to fruition—free from answering questions about money.

### Durant Is All In on the Rockets

“Just talking to [general manager Rafael Stone and head coach Ime Udoka], and how they wanted to build the team and how I see myself in this organization, I just thought it was a perfect contract for us,” Durant said. “I’m glad we can get that out of the way. We won’t have to worry about external noise throughout the season if I didn’t have a contract signed. So, we can just worry about basketball and focus on the season.”

Following the devastating Fred VanVleet injury, Kevin Durant is even more valuable to Houston. Besides the high-level offense he is expected to provide—26.6 points while shooting 52.7 percent from the field and 43.0 percent from behind the 3-point line last season—the six-time All-NBA First-Teamer brings loads of experience to a roster that still features plenty of young players.

Durant is not often heralded as a vocal leader, but he has a ton of hoops-based wisdom to offer. Houston will try to glean as much as it can from him over the next three years (including a $43 million player option for 2027-28). All the on-court contributions will definitely be of use as well.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/houston-rockets/rockets-news-kevin-durant-no-brainer-admission-90-million-extension

Gritty Archers rally to stall Warriors’ upset bid

Down goes another Archer. Just three days after Mason Amos’ unfortunate MCL injury in the Green Archers’ loss to National University, La Salle has been forced to deal with another key manpower issue.

Kean Baclaan went down with a knee injury in the fourth quarter of a tight duel against the University of the [opponent name missing]. This latest setback adds to the challenges faced by the Green Archers as they strive to remain competitive despite their injury woes.
https://sports.inquirer.net/644448/gritty-archers-rally-to-stall-warriors-upset-bid