NBA Recap: November 20, 2024

The NBA saw action in eight games on Wednesday:

Milwaukee Bucks 122, Chicago Bulls 106

Giannis Antetokounmpo dominated with 41 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to a commanding win over the Chicago Bulls. Despite a strong first-half showing by Zach LaVine, who scored 20 of his 27 points early, the Bucks pulled away in the fourth quarter with contributions from Brook Lopez, Damian Lillard, and AJ Green. Milwaukee’s interior dominance was evident with a 54-34 edge in the paint and a key 16-0 run that set the tone early. The Bucks have now won four of their last five games.

Cleveland Cavaliers 128, New Orleans Pelicans 100

Ty Jerome’s career-high 29 points, including seven three-pointers in the first half, propelled the Cleveland Cavaliers to a dominant win over the injury-depleted New Orleans Pelicans. Cleveland showcased its depth, with Georges Niang and rookie Jaylon Tyson contributing strong performances, while Jarrett Allen added a double-double. The Cavaliers, now 16-1, held the lead wire-to-wire, with Jerome’s red-hot shooting fueling a decisive second-quarter surge. The Pelicans, missing their top-six scorers, leaned on rookie Antonio Reeves’ impressive 34-point outing but couldn’t keep pace.

Oklahoma City Thunder 109, Portland Trail Blazers 99

Jalen Williams scored 30 points, and Isaiah Hartenstein made an immediate impact in his season debut as the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Portland Trail Blazers. Hartenstein’s presence, highlighted by 13 points, 14 rebounds, and four blocks, helped Oklahoma City control the paint and end a two-game skid. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 28 points, converting all 14 free throws, while the Thunder’s bench outscored Portland’s 44-31. The Thunder sealed the game with a dominant fourth-quarter run after three tightly contested periods.

Memphis Grizzlies 117, Philadelphia 76ers 111

The Memphis Grizzlies set a season-high with 19 three-pointers as Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane combined for 46 points in a victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite Joel Embiid’s 35-point effort, the 76ers fell short, losing their fifth straight game. Memphis capitalized on eight second-quarter threes and a strong fourth-quarter rally to secure the win. Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins made history with his 215th victory, becoming the franchise's winningest coach. Philadelphia’s injury struggles continued as Paul George left with a hyperextended knee.

Houston Rockets 130, Indiana Pacers 113

Alperen Şengün delivered a season-best performance with 31 points and 12 rebounds, leading the Houston Rockets to a decisive victory over the Indiana Pacers. A dominant third-quarter run extended Houston's lead to 21, allowing them to cruise to their sixth win in seven games. Jabari Smith Jr. and Fred VanVleet added strong contributions, while Indiana's Quenton Jackson scored a career-high 24 points. The Rockets’ balanced scoring and defensive energy continue to fuel their impressive early-season success.

Golden State Warriors 120, Atlanta Hawks 97

Andrew Wiggins scored 27 points, and Stephen Curry chipped in with 23 points and eight assists as the Golden State Warriors overwhelmed the Atlanta Hawks. Golden State jumped out to a 41-22 lead after the first quarter and never looked back, capitalizing on 11 first-half turnovers by Atlanta. Jalen Johnson’s double-double wasn’t enough for the Hawks, who struggled to keep up offensively. The Warriors showcased their depth, with Trayce Jackson-Davis and Buddy Hield providing valuable bench production.

New York Knicks 138, Phoenix Suns 122

Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns combined for 70 points to power the New York Knicks to their fourth straight win, outpacing the injury-plagued Phoenix Suns. New York’s hot shooting started early, with an 18-for-23 first quarter setting the tone for the night. Devin Booker scored 33 for the Suns, who were missing Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, but Phoenix struggled defensively and never recovered from a 76-58 halftime deficit. The Knicks’ potent starting lineup continues to prove challenging for opponents.

Los Angeles Clippers 104, Orlando Magic 93

James Harden scored 24 points and spearheaded a third-quarter surge as the Los Angeles Clippers snapped the Orlando Magic’s six-game winning streak. Harden’s efficient free-throw shooting and strong rebounding helped offset a low shooting percentage, while Amir Coffey and Ivica Zubac provided key support. Orlando, despite five players in double figures, couldn’t overcome their struggles on the boards and poor second-chance defense. The Clippers have now won six straight at their new arena, showcasing resilience despite injuries to key players.

Click here to view the NBA full standings.