Rookie Kon Knueppel became the fastest player to reach 200 three-pointers in NBA history as the Charlotte Hornets defeated the Chicago Bulls 131-99.

The 20-year-old American scored 21 points, including three three-pointers, while Brandon Miller added 23 as the visiting Hornets condemned the Bulls to a 10th consecutive defeat for the first time since the 2018-19 season.

Knueppel needed only 58 games to tally up his 200th three-pointer - 11 less than previous record holder Duncan Robinson - and is also just the second rookie to reach the milestone.

With a league-leading 201 three-pointers, Knueppel only needs six more to break Keegan Murray's record of 206 in 2022-23 for the Sacramento Kings for the most threes made by a rookie in their first season.

Having played college basketball for the Duke Blue Devils, Knueppel was drafted as a fourth overall pick by the Hornets in the 2025 draft.

"It is exciting and refreshing [to coach Knueppel]," said head coach Charles Lee after the Hornets' eighth straight win on the road.

"It elevates our whole culture when you have a guy who is that good but that humble and has no ego, and it becomes contagious throughout the whole organisation."

Meanwhile, new signing James Harden scored 20 points as the Cleveland Cavaliers returned to winning ways with a 109-94 victory over the New York Knicks.

The result helped them draw level on 37 wins and 22 losses with the Knicks, who are third in the Eastern Conference.

Harden, who left the Los Angeles Clippers this month, is an 11-time NBA All-Star and regarded as one of the greatest guards in history, but the 36-year-old has never won an NBA title.

"We're working to build something special, and each game is an opportunity to get better," said Harden. "Tonight was a good step for us."

The Boston Celtics consolidated second place with a 97-81 win over the Phoenix Suns while the Philadelphia 76ers posted a 135-114 win against the Indiana Pacers, who are bottom of the Eastern Conference after reaching the NBA Finals last year.

Western Conference leaders Oklahoma City Thunder overcame the Toronto Raptors 116-107 while sixth-placed Los Angeles Lakers were edged by Orlando Magic 110-109 and the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 124-121.

Every game after the All-Star break feels like it carries more weight, especially for a team that is within striking distance of the first seed, and another that can still secure home-court advantage in the first round. 

The San Antonio Spurs are the hottest team in the NBA with nine straight wins, five of which have come on the road. They may not be champions, but they have a target on their backs because of their talent and the noise they’ve made so far. 

This will be the second and final matchup between these teams, with the Spurs having claimed the first in San Antonio on Oct. 27 without their All-Star point guard. Similar to the Spurs, the Toronto Raptors are tough to cover because they move the ball well and average a low time of possession and seconds per touch.

Notably, the Raptors have been vulnerable at home this year, logging a 16-14 record in Scotiabank Arena. They are an average-to-below-level rebounding team, so the Spurs will have an opportunity to punish them by coming up with extra possessions.

San Antonio Spurs (41-16) at Toronto Raptors (34-24)

Feb. 24, 2026 | 6:30 PM CT

Watch: FanDuel | Listen: WOAI 1200

Spurs injuries: Harrison Ingram (G-League- Two-Way) Out, David Jones Garcia (G-League- Two-Way) Out, Emmanuel Miller (G-League- Two-Way) Out, Mason Plumlee (Return to competition reconditioning) Out 

Raptors injuries: Not due until noon CT

What to watch for

• The Raptors will be on the second night of a back-to-back, yet they are a fast, long and athletic team that can collapse on the paint quickly, like the Spurs. But teams can have success attacking from the outside, then in. Toronto has poor three-point defense, allowing opponents to make 39.2 percent of wide-open shots, making it the perfect opportunity for the snipers.
• Scottie Barnes is Toronto’s biggest player with quick foot speed to put on Victor Wembanyama. He had the second-most defensive minutes on Wemby in their first matchup, and that shouldn’t change on Wednesday. Still, the release point will be too high for him to disrupt, and the Spurs could make life easier for their big man by getting Barnes off of him through an inverted pick-and-roll.
• The Raptors only run screen rolls for 17.1 percent of their time on offense. They understand better than most that the pass is faster than the dribble to expose openings, and their offense includes a steady dose of attacking through transition. Notably, they are second in the NBA in potential assists created (53.3).
• Could this be Sandro Mamukelashvili’s revenge? He was practically invisible the last time they played, but the public should always be on the lookout for guys who want to remind their old teams of what they are missing. If he gets significant time, he’ll be a threat because defenses usually let him roam while helping on others. This makes him dangerous off the catch. Keep in mind that Mamu has logged double-figure points in five of his last seven games. 
• Despite Toronto’s eagerness to shut off the lane, they have the bad habit of fouling too often. Castle even got to the line for 14 attempts, making nine, in the first matchup, as well. Don’t be surprised if there’s an encore, or if De’Aaron Fox lives at the line because of his inclination to attack the body.

The Lakers had one of the more odd streaks come to an end this season. Despite being a very average team for the season, the Lakers were undefeated when leading into the fourth. They also still sported a sterling 16-3 record in clutch games.

Both stats were outliers that took a hit on Tuesday. LA led by one entering the final frame and was in a back-and-forth game down the stretch before losing. While they still have the best win percentage in the league in clutch games, it brings them a little closer to what this team actually is, which is mid.

So, let’s dive into the loss. As always, grades are based on expectations for each player. A “B” grade represents the average performance for that player.

LeBron James

32 minutes, 21 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks, 5 turnovers, 2 fouls, 8-13 FG, 2-6 3PT, 3-4 FT, -1

LeBron opened the game with 10 points in the first six minutes and looked on pace for a great night. Instead, he was quiet for the next two-and-a-half quarters and missed a free throw late that proved costly. A really promising start turned into a pretty disappointing game.

Grade: B

Marcus Smart

23 minutes, 3 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block, 1-2 FG, 1-2 FT, +8

A ho-hum game from Smart, who didn’t have much of an impact in the game.

Grade: C+

Deandre Ayton

32 minutes, 21 points, 13 rebounds, 1 steal, 2 turnovers, 3 fouls, 8-11 FG, 5-5 FT, -2

One of Ayton’s best games in a really long time went to waste. He spent the second quarter punishing the Magic for switching a smaller defender onto him. He was also strong on the boards for most of this one.

Grade: A

Austin Reaves

35 minutes, 18 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 2 turnovers, 1 foul, 6-16 FG, 2-5 3PT, 4-4 FT, -4

While he’s had some standout performances against the Sixers and Clippers since returning from injury, it doesn’t feel like Reaves has really found his rhythm. He was a complete bystander in the first half before hitting some big shots in the second half.

Grade: B-

Luka Dončić

38 minutes, 22 points, 9 rebounds, 15 assists, 1 block, 2 turnovers, 3 fouls, 8-24 FG, 2-10 3PT, 4-9 FT, +1

Luka’s night is going to be remembered for the shot he didn’t take at the end of the game, though if his stat line is anything to go off, he would have missed it anyway. It was a pretty inefficient shooting night made better by great playmaking, many of those to Ayton after switches.

But completely passing up the three to win it is just too much to overcome in my books.

Grade: C-

Jake LaRavia

16 minutes, 3 points, 2 rebounds, 3 fouls, 1-4 FG, 1-3 3PT, +0

LaRavia’s three in the second half of this one was just his second made three since the All-Star break. His 3-point shot absolutely cratering this season has been a really tough blow.

Grade: D

Maxi Kleber

11 minutes, 3 rebounds, 1 turnover, 2 fouls, +1

With Hayes out, Kleber got some short stints in this one. Orlando’s size in the front court was a pretty tough matchup.

Grade: C

Rui Hachimura

26 minutes, 10 points, 2 steals, 1 block, 2 fouls, 4-7 FG, 2-5 3PT, -3

Another player whose night might be defined by the shot he didn’t make. Rui had a chance late to put the Lakers up after Luka found him open in the corner for three. The shot wasn’t even close.

It overshadowed him hitting a pretty big three two minutes prior, but even then, it was too quiet of a night from Rui.

Grade: C

Luka Kennard

15 minutes, 9 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist, 3-4 FG, 3-4 FT, +1

Kennard has had a pretty funny start to his Lakers career. Most viewed him as a 3-point weapon when the Lakers acquired him, yet he didn’t take a single shot from range on Tuesday. So far, he’s taken 22 twos and 16 threes with the Lakers.

His shots are going in at a crazy clip (65.8%) so you can’t complain too much. It’s just not been what anyone expected.

Grade: B+

Jarred Vanderbilt

12 minutes, 2 points, 2 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 block, 1-2 FG, -6

Vando’s minutes are going down again and so is his impact, creating a chicken-and-the-egg conundrum. So long as teams can sag off Vando and force him to shoot threes, the more his minutes will fluctuate based on matchup.

Grade: D

JJ Redick

Redick drew up a couple of plays late that led to open threes to take the lead. One was an airball and one wasn’t even taken. The Lakers had no answer for Paolo Banchero defensively and the zone defense was a mess at times.

Grade: C

Tuesday’s DNPs: Kobe Bufkin, Dalton Knecht, Drew Timme

Tuesday’s inactives: Jaxson Hayes, Nick Smith Jr., Bronny James, Adou Thiero, Chris Mañon

You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude or on Bluesky at @jacobrude.bsky.social.

Los Angeles Lakers (34-23, sixth in the Western Conference) vs. Phoenix Suns (33-26, seventh in the Western Conference)

Phoenix; Thursday, 9 p.m. EST

BOTTOM LINE: Los Angeles faces Phoenix in Western Conference action Thursday.

The Suns have gone 22-18 against Western Conference opponents. Phoenix is 16-13 in games decided by 10 or more points.

The Lakers are 6-6 against the rest of their division. Los Angeles is eighth in the Western Conference with 25.3 assists per game led by Luka Doncic averaging 8.6.

The Suns average 14.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.3 more made shots on average than the 13.2 per game the Lakers allow. The Lakers are shooting 49.8% from the field, 2.9% higher than the 46.9% the Suns' opponents have shot this season.

The teams play for the fourth time this season. In the last meeting on Dec. 24 the Suns won 132-108 led by 25 points from Dillon Brooks, while LeBron James scored 23 points for the Lakers.

TOP PERFORMERS: Collin Gillespie is shooting 43.1% and averaging 13.4 points for the Suns. Royce O'Neale is averaging 2.6 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Doncic is averaging 32.5 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.6 assists for the Lakers. James is averaging 18.8 points and 7.5 assists over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Suns: 3-7, averaging 101.7 points, 43.5 rebounds, 22.5 assists, 8.6 steals and 3.2 blocks per game while shooting 41.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 111.9 points per game.

Lakers: 5-5, averaging 111.4 points, 38.5 rebounds, 25.8 assists, 7.7 steals and 4.1 blocks per game while shooting 49.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 113.7 points.

INJURIES: Suns: Cole Anthony: out (not injury related), Jordan Goodwin: out (calf), Devin Booker: out (hip), Dillon Brooks: out (hand), Haywood Highsmith: out (knee).

Lakers: Jaxson Hayes: out (ankle).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Miami Heat (31-28, eighth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (32-26, sixth in the Eastern Conference)

Philadelphia; Thursday, 7 p.m. EST

BOTTOM LINE: Tyrese Maxey and the Philadelphia 76ers host Bam Adebayo and the Miami Heat in Eastern Conference play.

The 76ers are 20-19 against Eastern Conference opponents. Philadelphia ranks seventh in the Eastern Conference with 16.4 fast break points per game led by Maxey averaging 5.6.

The Heat are 16-17 against Eastern Conference opponents. Miami ranks third in the league scoring 18.0 fast break points per game led by Norman Powell averaging 3.6.

The 76ers are shooting 46.0% from the field this season, 0.2 percentage points higher than the 45.8% the Heat allow to opponents. The Heat average 120.0 points per game, 4.1 more than the 115.9 the 76ers give up to opponents.

The teams square off for the second time this season. The Heat won 127-117 in the last matchup on Nov. 23. Powell led the Heat with 32 points, and Maxey led the 76ers with 27 points.

TOP PERFORMERS: Maxey is shooting 46.7% and averaging 29.1 points for the 76ers. Kelly Oubre Jr. is averaging 2.2 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Adebayo is averaging 18.3 points and 9.8 rebounds for the Heat. Andrew Wiggins is averaging 15.1 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: 76ers: 5-5, averaging 116.0 points, 42.2 rebounds, 23.6 assists, 10.5 steals and 5.1 blocks per game while shooting 46.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 116.7 points per game.

Heat: 5-5, averaging 121.0 points, 52.1 rebounds, 30.0 assists, 9.6 steals and 4.3 blocks per game while shooting 45.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 111.3 points.

INJURIES: 76ers: Johni Broome: day to day (knee).

Heat: Nikola Jovic: day to day (back).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Oklahoma City Thunder (45-14, first in the Western Conference) vs. Detroit Pistons (42-14, first in the Eastern Conference)

Detroit; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Pistons -7.5; over/under is 218.5

BOTTOM LINE: Oklahoma City will try to extend its three-game win streak with a victory over Detroit.

The Pistons are 22-7 in home games. Detroit is the top team in the Eastern Conference averaging 57.2 points in the paint. Jalen Duren leads the Pistons with 13.7.

The Thunder are 21-7 in road games. Oklahoma City is 2-6 in one-possession games.

The Pistons make 47.8% of their shots from the field this season, which is 4.3 percentage points higher than the Thunder have allowed to their opponents (43.5%). The Thunder average 10.0 more points per game (119.4) than the Pistons allow their opponents to score (109.4).

TOP PERFORMERS: Cade Cunningham is averaging 25.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 9.8 assists and 1.5 steals for the Pistons. Duncan Robinson is averaging 14.3 points over the last 10 games.

Chet Holmgren is averaging 17.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks for the Thunder. Isaiah Joe is averaging 16.6 points and 1.6 steals over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Pistons: 8-2, averaging 119.8 points, 46.7 rebounds, 27.3 assists, 11.0 steals and 5.7 blocks per game while shooting 47.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 106.2 points per game.

Thunder: 7-3, averaging 115.1 points, 44.8 rebounds, 26.0 assists, 9.8 steals and 4.4 blocks per game while shooting 46.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 106.6 points.

INJURIES: Pistons: None listed.

Thunder: Ajay Mitchell: out (abdomen), Jalen Williams: out (hamstring), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: out (abdomen), Thomas Sorber: out for season (knee).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Cleveland Cavaliers (37-22, fourth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Milwaukee Bucks (25-31, 11th in the Eastern Conference)

Milwaukee; Wednesday, 8 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Cavaliers -9; over/under is 227.5

BOTTOM LINE: Ryan Rollins and the Milwaukee Bucks host Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Bucks have gone 7-4 against division opponents. Milwaukee gives up 115.4 points to opponents and has been outscored by 3.1 points per game.

The Cavaliers are 7-3 against the rest of their division. Cleveland is fourth in the NBA scoring 119.5 points per game while shooting 47.7%.

The Bucks score 112.3 points per game, 2.7 fewer points than the 115.0 the Cavaliers allow. The Cavaliers are shooting 47.7% from the field, 1.3% higher than the 46.4% the Bucks' opponents have shot this season.

The teams play for the third time this season. The Cavaliers won the last meeting 118-106 on Nov. 18. Mitchell scored 37 points to help lead the Cavaliers to the victory.

TOP PERFORMERS: Rollins is shooting 46.7% and averaging 17.2 points for the Bucks. AJ Green is averaging 3.0 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Mitchell is averaging 28.5 points, 5.8 assists and 1.6 steals for the Cavaliers. Jarrett Allen is averaging 20.5 points and 11.4 rebounds over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Bucks: 7-3, averaging 114.2 points, 44.4 rebounds, 24.7 assists, 6.3 steals and 4.0 blocks per game while shooting 48.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 113.4 points per game.

Cavaliers: 8-2, averaging 120.8 points, 43.7 rebounds, 29.2 assists, 10.6 steals and 5.1 blocks per game while shooting 50.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 109.6 points.

INJURIES: Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo: day to day (calf), Taurean Prince: out (neck).

Cavaliers: Max Strus: out (foot).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Portland Trail Blazers (28-31, ninth in the Western Conference) vs. Chicago Bulls (24-35, 12th in the Eastern Conference)

Chicago; Thursday, 8 p.m. EST

BOTTOM LINE: Chicago comes into the matchup against Portland as losers of 10 games in a row.

The Bulls have gone 15-16 at home. Chicago is eighth in the Eastern Conference scoring 115.8 points while shooting 46.8% from the field.

The Trail Blazers have gone 12-16 away from home. Portland ranks third in the Western Conference with 45.8 rebounds per game led by Donovan Clingan averaging 11.5.

The Bulls are shooting 46.8% from the field this season, 0.8 percentage points lower than the 47.6% the Trail Blazers allow to opponents. The Trail Blazers' 45.2% shooting percentage from the field this season is 2.6 percentage points lower than the Bulls have given up to their opponents (47.8%).

The teams play for the second time this season. The Bulls won the last matchup 122-121 on Nov. 20. Isaac Okoro scored 13 points to help lead the Bulls to the victory.

TOP PERFORMERS: Matas Buzelis is shooting 47.4% and averaging 15.3 points for the Bulls. Guerschon Yabusele is averaging 1.9 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Clingan is averaging 11.9 points, 11.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks for the Trail Blazers. Jerami Grant is averaging 18.3 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Bulls: 0-10, averaging 106.2 points, 41.1 rebounds, 23.5 assists, 8.7 steals and 5.8 blocks per game while shooting 42.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 124.3 points per game.

Trail Blazers: 5-5, averaging 118.8 points, 46.8 rebounds, 27.6 assists, 7.8 steals and 5.8 blocks per game while shooting 47.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 121.8 points.

INJURIES: Bulls: Anfernee Simons: day to day (wrist), Noa Essengue: out for season (shoulder), Jaden Ivey: out (knee), Zach Collins: out for season (toe), Jalen Smith: day to day (calf).

Trail Blazers: Deni Avdija: out (back), Shaedon Sharpe: out (calf), Robert Williams III: out (foot), Damian Lillard: out for season (achilles).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

New Orleans Pelicans (17-42, 14th in the Western Conference) vs. Utah Jazz (18-40, 13th in the Western Conference)

Salt Lake City; Thursday, 9 p.m. EST

BOTTOM LINE: Utah looks to end its three-game slide when the Jazz play New Orleans.

The Jazz are 10-27 in Western Conference games. Utah is fifth in the Western Conference with 11.8 offensive rebounds per game led by Walker Kessler averaging 4.6.

The Pelicans are 10-26 in conference games. New Orleans is the league leader in inside scoring, averaging 57.6 points per game in the paint this season. Zion Williamson leads the team with 16.0 points per game in the paint.

The Jazz average 12.9 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.6 fewer makes per game than the Pelicans give up (14.5). The Jazz average 114.8 points per game, 11.1 fewer points than the 125.9 the Jazz give up.

TOP PERFORMERS: Keyonte George is shooting 45.8% and averaging 23.8 points for the Jazz. Brice Sensabaugh is averaging 2.5 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Trey Murphy III is averaging 22.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.5 steals for the Pelicans. Williamson is averaging 21.7 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Jazz: 3-7, averaging 114.0 points, 46.3 rebounds, 27.5 assists, 10.7 steals and 3.9 blocks per game while shooting 46.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 116.6 points per game.

Pelicans: 5-5, averaging 116.7 points, 42.3 rebounds, 25.5 assists, 8.1 steals and 5.8 blocks per game while shooting 47.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 116.4 points.

INJURIES: Jazz: Vince Williams Jr.: out for season (acl), Keyonte George: day to day (ankle), Walker Kessler: out for season (shoulder), Jusuf Nurkic: out for season (nose), Jaren Jackson Jr.: out for season (knee).

Pelicans: Yves Missi: day to day (calf), Trey Murphy III: day to day (shoulder), Micah Peavy: day to day (toe).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

San Antonio Spurs (41-16, second in the Western Conference) vs. Toronto Raptors (34-24, fifth in the Eastern Conference)

Toronto; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Spurs -7.5; over/under is 229.5

BOTTOM LINE: San Antonio is looking to build upon its nine-game win streak with a victory against Toronto.

The Raptors have gone 16-14 at home. Toronto scores 113.7 points while outscoring opponents by 1.9 points per game.

The Spurs have gone 20-10 away from home. San Antonio is the Western Conference leader with 35.3 defensive rebounds per game led by Victor Wembanyama averaging 9.3.

The Raptors score 113.7 points per game, 1.8 more points than the 111.9 the Spurs allow. The Spurs are shooting 47.8% from the field, 1.8% higher than the 46.0% the Raptors' opponents have shot this season.

The teams play for the second time this season. The Spurs won the last matchup 121-103 on Oct. 28. Wembanyama scored 24 points to help lead the Spurs to the victory.

TOP PERFORMERS: Brandon Ingram is averaging 21.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.8 assists for the Raptors. Immanuel Quickley is averaging 17.8 points over the last 10 games.

Wembanyama is averaging 24.2 points, 11.3 rebounds and 2.8 blocks for the Spurs. Harrison Barnes is averaging 2.2 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Raptors: 5-5, averaging 112.4 points, 41.3 rebounds, 27.9 assists, 9.8 steals and 6.4 blocks per game while shooting 46.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 111.2 points per game.

Spurs: 9-1, averaging 124.3 points, 48.6 rebounds, 31.0 assists, 7.7 steals and 7.4 blocks per game while shooting 50.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 110.8 points.

INJURIES: Raptors: Jakob Poeltl: day to day (injury management), Scottie Barnes: day to day (quad).

Spurs: David Jones Garcia: out for season (ankle), Mason Plumlee: out (reconditioning).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

LOS ANGELES — As Alijah Arenas walked off the Pauley Pavilion court after picking up his third foul just four minutes into the second half of USC's rivalry game against UCLA on Tuesday night, he slammed his hands on the bench in frustration.

It was that kind of night for Arenas, and that kind of night for the Trojans in general as they lost, 81-62, to their archrivals. And maybe that kind of season.

USC was ice cold from the floor all night, struggling to find any real offensive contribution from anyone other than Chad Baker-Mazara, who led the team with 25 points. His 14 points in the first half made him the only Trojan to that point with more than two made field goals. Arenas had four points in the first — all from the free-throw line — in only nine minutes after picking up two early fouls.

It was a game that USC simply could not afford to lose as one of the first four teams out in USA TODAY Sports' latest Bracketology. The Trojans now drop their fourth consecutive Big Ten game, and second consecutive Quad 1 matchup after blowing a late lead to Oregon on Saturday.

Even with the bumps expected since making his freshman debut in late January — five months after tearing his right meniscus practice in July — Arenas continues to flash the potential that made him a five-star recruit and potential lottery pick entering the season.

If it doesn't show in the stat sheet, it shows in the little things: dribbling out of double teams, getting to the line, grabbing boards and setting his teammates up for open looks. Arenas also added six points down the final stretch to finish the game as the only Trojan besides Baker-Mazara to score in double figures.

Here's how Alijah Arenas fared in Tuesday's loss to UCLA:

After a disappointing home loss to the Joel Embiid-less Philadelphia 76ers, the Minnesota Timberwolves begin their trifecta of matchups during a west coast road trip with the Portland Trail Blazers, who will be without Shaedon Sharpe and first-time all-star Deni Avdija. Minnesota started the break with a home win against the Mavericks, but followed it up with a dreadful battle against the Sixers.

Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid return to the lineup after missing the previous game due to suspension and injury, respectively. The front-court troops were thin on Sunday, and having two key pieces back should help them a lot with the impending matchup. Rudy Gobert will have his hands full with Donovan Clingan, who has been playing extremely well as of late and is a massive presence down low and on the glass. It’s a great opportunity for the Wolves to recollect and start this interesting road trip against very competitive teams with a bang.

The game opened with the arena seeming a little bit hazy, but it did not seem to impact either team as it was a close one throughout, with Minnesota holding a slight edge for the majority of the quarter. The Timberwolves, as they tend to do, had too many turnovers early on, but Ant and Jaden answered the bell to keep the pressure on and maintain the lead.

Kris Murray and Scoot Henderson carried the Blazers’ scoring load early, for a team bereft of scorers with the absence of Deni Avdija and Shaedon Sharpe. Jaden McDaniels stole the show in the first, hitting three 3s and adding an insane four blocks to his stat line. The Timberwolves used Slim’s dominance to hold a 33-27 lead in the first.

Julius Randle began the second quarter off on a sour note, picking up the third foul that forced him out of the game early in the second. A lightning-quick 8-0 run spurred by Donte DiVincenzo helped Minnesota to grow the lead, but Portland was able to slow the game down by drawing fouls and making their free throws to stay within striking distance.

Jaden McDaniels continued to wreak havoc, and Anthony Edwards answered every Blazers bucket with one of their own. Ant was nearly flawless in the first 24 minutes; he shot 8/12 with 25 points, including 4/8 from beyond the arc. Despite shooting well and seemingly having control over much of the second quarter, Minnesota only led 62-59 at the break.

The Trail Blazers came out swinging in the third in what would be a tug-of-war frame with both sides having their moments. Jaden McDaniels continued his awe-inspiring dominance on both ends to help the Wolves take a larger edge a couple of times throughout the third, but Minnesota wasn’t able to keep the momentum going as the Blazers kept fighting their way back in it with offensive rebounds and a boost of Scoot Henderson energy. Donte DiVincenzo ended a lackluster third quarter from the Timberwolves with a bang, ripping the ball away from Scoot Henderson and going in for a slam to give Minnesota the slight 96-94 edge.

Another nail-biter was in store for the Minnesota Timberwolves after allowing the shorthanded Blazers to stay in the game. The fourth quarter was no different, with both teams throwing punches trying to gain the upper hand. For the start of the quarter, the Timberwolves were getting killed on the offensive glass and allowing the Trail Blazers to get extra opportunities.

That’s when Coach Finch turned to Rudy Gobert. Rudy had a dominant fourth quarter, controlling the glass, contesting shots, and most importantly, rebounding Ant’s misses as he went cold down the stretch. Gobert controlled the game and helped the Timberwolves to score points in the clutch when their usual ace in the hole was a bit off line.

Jaw Dropping Jaden

We’ve seen these types of performances by Jaden McDaniels in the past – uber-efficient, lockdown defense on the perimeter and at the rim, closed out by his bounce dunk that is nearly patented at this point. This was another chapter in the long book of awe-inspiring McDaniels performances. He scored 29 points on 12/16 shooting, added six rebounds, five blocks, and three steals. Definition of stuffing the stat sheet.

Fans have gotten used to Jaden’s stoic coldness as he wreaks havoc on opponents’ shots and dashes their dreams of coming out with a victory. While we can all appreciate that, it is fun to see a little flair in his emphatic dunk that can and should call attention to a performance that deserves its (Portland) roses.

Rudy Gobert’s Fourth Quarter

Minnesota let the Trail Blazers hang around for a lot longer than they should have. When this happens, the less talented team starts to feel themself. One of the worst ways that this can manifest is by hounding the offensive glass. The best way to make up a talent deficit is to shoot more shots, which usually come easier off an offensive rebound.

As the fourth quarter started, that was exploited – the Trail Blazers were getting multiple shots per possession, and one was bound to find its way into the hoop. That is when Chris Finch turned to Rudy Gobert. Rudy understood the assignment: end possessions. But he had a much larger impact than that. Gobert not only helped keep the massive Donovan Clingan off the boards, while ending Portland’s offensive possessions after one shot, but he also impacted every drive that they had during the stretch.

This led to runouts and an easier time managing Portland’s pressure. Finally, Anthony Edwards went on a cold streak to close this one. When your alpha doesn’t have it, things can get scary. Rudy Gobert took it upon himself to help gut out those offensive possessions.

He attacked the offensive glass and generated extra possessions while also finishing plays himself (including a 2/2 trip to the free throw line). Rudy’s ability to control games in this way is big-time, and a big reason they finished this game with a win.

Up Next

The Timberwolves will face off against Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers in another late 9 PM CT tipoff on Thursday night. This will be another nationally televised game on Prime Video, but also available on Fanduel Sports Network.

Highlights

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Anthony Edwards scored 34 points and made five 3-pointers to help the Minnesota Timberwolves hold off the Portland Trail Blazers 124-121 on Tuesday night, their fourth win in their last five games.

Jaden McDaniels added 27 points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals and five blocks for the Timberwolves.

Donte DiVincenzo had 19 points and made five 3-pointers, and Julius Randle had 13 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Rudy Gobert scored just 10 points but had 19 rebounds and changed the game defensively.

Jrue Holiday led the Blazers with 22 points. Jerami Grant had 18 points, and Donovan Clingan scored 11 points and grabbed 15 rebounds.

Scoot Henderson had 19 points, six rebounds and five assists off the bench.

It was a tight, physical, back-and-forth affair with 15 lead changes, but Minnesota’s 3-point shooting (17 of 35) was enough to hold off the Blazers, who were 14 of 35 from deep.

Up next

Trail Blazers: Face the Bulls in Chicago on Thursday night.

Timberwolves: Face the Clippers in Los Angeles on Thursday night.

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AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA

In a topsy-turvy fourth quarter, the Lakers came up short when LeBron James missed a last-second shot that sent them to a 110-109 loss to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night at Crypto.com Arena.

Luka Doncic had 22 points to lead the Lakers but was just eight for 24 from the field and two for 10 from three-point range. He was wide open behind the arc after taking the inbounds pass in the closing seconds, but he didn't shoot, passing to James with the clock running down.

James took a turnaround three that missed. He finished with 21 points, six rebounds and four assists.

The lead went back and forth most of the fourth quarter, each play more important than the previous one, each moment more intense, each possession more meaningful.

When Rui Hachimura drilled a three-pointer from the corner off a pass from Doncic for a 106-103 lead with 2 minutes 14 seconds left, the Lakers (34-23) looked to be in pretty good shape.

But Magic star Paolo Banchero scored in the paint, giving him a game-high 36 points, and was fouled by Deandre Ayton. Banchero missed the free throw, leaving the Lakers ahead 106-105 with 1:18 left.

Read more:New Lakers executive Lon Rosen discusses increased ticket prices, Magic Johnson

James went to work in the post over the smaller Anthony Black, drawing a foul. But James made just one of two free throws for a 107-105 lead

Magic guard Desmond Bane (22 points) answered with a three-pointer for a 108-107 lead that forced the Lakers to call a timeout with 34.6 seconds left.

Hachimura missed a three but the Lakers retained possession, and on the ensuing inbounds play Doncic found James cutting down the lane for a dunk for a 109-108 Lakers lead.

Banchero missed a jumper, but Wendell Carter Jr. grabbed the rebound and scored for a 110-109 Orlando lead with 6.7 seconds left. The Magic finished with 12 offensive rebounds.

The Lakers called another timeout and had one last opportunity, but this time they couldn’t get a good shot and time expired.

The good news was the Lakers sawa more engaged Ayton, a more active big man, a more involved player.

Doncic passed the ball inside to Ayton in the midpost early in the third quarter and watched his big center turn and shot over a smaller defender. Ayton missed the shot, but he collected the rebound and scored on a layup.

Ayton had 17 points on six-for-eight shooting and six rebounds in the first half and 21 points for the game to go along with 13 rebounds.

Doncic went down late in the first quarter after getting poked in his eye by Mo Wager, a red mark developing beneath his eye. Doncic stayed down for a while before eventually getting up with one minute and 59 seconds left in the first.

Read more:Lakers are trying to unlock the greatness in Deandre Ayton

On the very next possession, Doncic drilled a three-pointer, a sign that his vision was clear.

He finished the first quarter with 11 points on four-for-eight shooting, four rebounds and four assists.

After the end of the first, Doncic went to the Lakers’ locker room, but he returned to the bench early in the second quarter.

Early in that second quarter, the Lakers displayed hustle and defense.

James ran down Anthony Black and blocked his shot off the backboard. Banchero got the rebound, but he had his shot blocked by a hustling Marcus Smart.

The Lakers started the third quarter by giving their fans a highlight moment.

It began with Ayton getting the defensive rebound and passing the ball to James, who then whipped the ball to Austin Reaves and filled the lane on the fast break.

Reaves threw a lob to James for a dunk, bringing the crowd to its feet.

The Lakers even opened a 12-point lead in the third quarter, their defense on point and their offense looking good.

But the Magic didn’t stop coming after the Lakers.

Orlando closed out the third quarter hard and got to within 80-79 entering the fourth.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.