Ja Morant

NBA Roundup: Hornets Break Losing Streak, Thunder Topple Celtics, and More


January 4, 2024 8:25 am

In an action-packed night in the NBA, several teams stood out with remarkable performances, notably the Charlotte Hornets who ended their 11-game losing streak with a victory over the Sacramento Kings.

The Hornets’ 111-104 win was fueled by Terry Rozier’s impressive 34 points, and Miles Bridges’ contribution of 27 points. This victory, marked by a 36-point final quarter where they shot 75 percent from the field, is their first since December 8. Follow your favourite NBA team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet, one of the best basketball gambling sites

P.J. Washington also played a pivotal role, scoring 17 points off the bench. The Kings, despite a strong performance from De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, were hampered by turnovers, ultimately contributing to their defeat.

In another headline game, the Oklahoma City Thunder edged out the Boston Celtics 127-123. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 36 points, supported by Josh Giddey’s season-high 23 points. The Celtics, led by Kristaps Porzingis’ 34 points, saw their six-game winning streak snapped, while the Thunder extended their own streak to five games.

The Philadelphia 76ers secured a 110-97 win against the Chicago Bulls, with Joel Embiid’s triple-double of 31 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists being the highlight. Embiid’s return from an 11-day absence was marked by his 14th consecutive game with at least 30 points and 10 rebounds. The Bulls, missing key players, couldn’t match the 76ers’ intensity despite solid performances from DeMar DeRozan and others.

The New Orleans Pelicans also had a notable night, dominating the Brooklyn Nets 112-85. CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 16 points in a balanced team effort, ensuring they never trailed throughout the game. The Nets, facing their fourth straight loss, were led by Cameron Johnson but couldn’t counter the Pelicans’ offensive onslaught.

In San Francisco, the Golden State Warriors snapped their three-game losing streak by defeating the Orlando Magic 121-115. Stephen Curry’s game-high 36 points and six assists were crucial for the Warriors, while Paolo Banchero led the Magic with 27 points and 12 rebounds.

Lastly, the Memphis Grizzlies overcame the San Antonio Spurs 106-98, with Ja Morant scoring 26 points and dishing out 10 assists. This victory ended the Grizzlies’ three-game losing streak, while the Spurs suffered their third consecutive defeat.

The night’s games showcased the dynamic nature of the NBA, with teams like the Hornets and Thunder making significant statements with their victories, while others like the Celtics and Spurs faced setbacks. As the season progresses, these results could have lasting implications on the standings and the morale of the teams involved. Get the latest updates from the world of basketball only on Nextbet Sports.