NBA News

Chicago Bulls Defeat Cleveland Cavaliers 127–111 at Home, Halt Skid and Tighten Eastern Playoff Race

The scoreboard at FedExForum ultimately froze at 110–116, as the Minnesota Timberwolves fell short in a hard-fought battle. For the Timberwolves, the reasons behind this loss were multifaceted, but one unavoidable focal point was the performance of the team’s new addition, Julius Randle.

Regarding whether the Thunder can become a superteam comparable to the Warriors, Yang Yi said: “The Thunder’s core roster is already complete. The three key players—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren—are all under contract through 2031.

Boston sits 8th in the Eastern Conference with an 11–9 record, averaging 114.9 points per game while allowing 110.9 points. Their home record stands at 6–4.

Yesterday, the 76ers suffered a dramatic 134–142 double-overtime loss to the Hawks. But beyond the final score, this game carried deeper meaning: after more than eight months, Embiid, George, and Maxey finally shared the floor again.

Toronto has emerged as one of this season’s biggest surprises, posting a strong 14–7 record to sit fourth in the Eastern Conference and at one point pushing hard behind the conference-leading Pistons. But their momentum has cooled: back-to-back losses to the Hornets and Knicks have dropped them into a two-game skid.

In the NBA regular season, the Houston Rockets defeated the Utah Jazz 129–100. It was an enjoyable and dominant performance for Houston, as they held a large lead throughout the first three quarters and ultimately secured a comfortable victory. After the game, the Rockets walked away with four major positives.

Giannis Antetokounmpo (left groin strain): Confirmed out, second consecutive game, MVP-level core (32.1 PPG + 10.8 RPG + 6.8 APG), impact: -20 points ⚠️ Torrion Prince (knee injury): Confirmed out, starting small forward (12.3 PPG + 4.5 RPG), impact: -5 points

Victor Wembanyama (calf strain): Confirmed out, key center (27.5 PPG + 12.8 RPG + 3.2 APG), impact: -20 points Keegan Murray (hip strain): Confirmed out, starting point guard (14.5 PPG + 6.0 RPG + 8.5 APG), impact: -7 points Chris Harper (left calf): Confirmed out, backup guard (8.2 PPG + 3.0 RPG + 4.0 APG), impact: -3 points

Offensively, Portland has been explosive, averaging 121.5 points per game—fifth in the league—posing a serious threat to any opponent. Their ability to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes ranks sixth in the league, while their steal rate sits seventh. This team plays like a group of sharp-eyed hunters, always ready to pounce on turnovers and ignite lightning-fast transitions. ⚡

This success has been driven by the dynamic backcourt duo of Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, who have shouldered huge usage rates and delivered outstanding production. New addition Deandre Ayton has strengthened their interior presence, while Marcus Smart’s arrival has added balance on both ends of the floor.

Hawks’ Recent Form The Hawks enter this game on a five-game winning streak, having swept their four-game Western Conference road trip. Their 9–5 record has propelled them to fourth place in the East. Notably, Atlanta has continued to improve even without Trae Young, demonstrating impressive resilience and adaptability.