Tag: Kevin Durant

  • Bam Adebayo’s all-time NBA five list sparks debate after leaving out LeBron James

    Bam Adebayo’s all-time NBA five list sparks debate after leaving out LeBron James

    Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo found himself at the center of an NBA debate after revealing his personal list of the five greatest players in league history, with his selections drawing attention not only for the legends he included but also for the superstar names left off the list.

     

    Adebayo recently received the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Social Justice Champion Award, an honor presented to an NBA player who uses their platform to promote social change and make a meaningful impact beyond basketball. During the event, the Heat forward was asked to name his top five NBA players of all time.

     

    The 29-year-old big man named Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, and Tim Duncan as his selections.

     

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    “Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, and Tim Duncan,” Adebayo said when asked about his all-time NBA five.

     

    While the players included in Adebayo’s list have all built legendary careers and earned their place among basketball’s elite, the choices immediately sparked discussion among fans and analysts because of the notable omissions.

    Among the biggest names missing from his list was LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and one of the most decorated players in league history. James’ absence became a major talking point, especially given his long-standing relationship with Adebayo and their time together representing Team USA on the international stage.

     

    Adebayo also left out his current Miami Heat teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player, NBA champion, and one of the league’s most dominant players of the modern era.

     

    Despite the reactions surrounding his selections, Adebayo’s choices still represent a group of players who have defined different generations of the NBA. Bryant’s championship pedigree and competitive legacy, Curry’s revolutionary impact on the game with his shooting, Jordan’s unmatched influence and six NBA titles, Durant’s scoring brilliance, and Duncan’s consistency and five championships all make them strong candidates in any all-time discussion.

     

    Although Adebayo did not elaborate on the criteria behind his list, he did share his thoughts on James’ recent decision to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers after the Heat had been considered one of the teams with interest in acquiring the future Hall of Famer.

     

    Adebayo spoke highly of his relationship with James, describing the four-time NBA champion as more than just a fellow player.

     

    “I’m cool with Bron. I consider Bron like a brother honestly. We have been Olympic teammates, but even before that we have always had down-to-earth conversations. I’m happy for him. You want what’s best for somebody. That’s really how you go from there,” Adebayo said.

     

    The Heat forward’s comments highlighted the respect and friendship between the two players, even as James continues his career away from Miami.

     

    Ultimately, Adebayo’s all-time list reflects the subjective nature of ranking NBA greatness. With generations of legendary players competing in different eras and leaving unique marks on the sport, debates over the greatest players in basketball history are likely to continue long after the final buzzer of their careers.

     

     

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  • Kevin Durant rules out teaming up with LeBron James in the NBA

    Kevin Durant rules out teaming up with LeBron James in the NBA

    The NBA offseason has been dominated by one storyline: LeBron James’ decision to part ways with the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons, a move that has instantly reshaped the league’s landscape and fueled widespread speculation about where the four-time NBA champion will continue his illustrious career.

     

    With James entering free agency ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season, several contenders are expected to pursue the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Among the franchises frequently linked to the 21-time All-Star are the Golden State Warriors, who have long been rumored as a potential landing spot.

     

    The Warriors have explored the possibility of pairing James with longtime rival Stephen Curry in previous seasons, and reports have once again connected the franchise to the future Hall of Famer. Such a partnership would unite two of the defining players of their generation and instantly transform Golden State into one of the league’s top championship contenders.

     

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    While speculation continues to grow, another player who knows James as well as anyone has offered his own thoughts on where the NBA icon could ultimately land.

     

    Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant, who has spent nearly two decades battling James on basketball’s biggest stages, believes only two teams stand out as realistic destinations for the four-time MVP.

     

    “That’s the million-dollar question, I wish I knew. In my heart of hearts, if I had to choose one, I would say Cleveland. But Philly (Philadelphia 76ers) has got a big chance, too,” Durant said in a recent media interaction.

    A return to the Cleveland Cavaliers would carry significant emotional weight for James, who delivered the franchise its first NBA championship in 2016 after engineering one of the greatest comebacks in Finals history. Rejoining the Cavaliers would represent a full-circle moment for the Akron native, whose legacy in Ohio remains unmatched.

     

    Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers have also been mentioned as a potential contender should they pursue another superstar to complement their existing core. James’ playmaking, leadership, and championship pedigree could instantly elevate any roster with title aspirations.

     

    Durant’s comments carry added significance given the long history between the two NBA legends. The pair have squared off in multiple high-profile playoff series and NBA Finals, with Durant famously leading the Warriors past James and the Cavaliers in the 2017 and 2018 NBA Finals.

     

    Despite their fierce rivalry, the two superstars have also enjoyed success as teammates on the international stage. James and Durant helped Team USA capture Olympic gold medals at the 2012 London Olympics and again at the 2024 Paris Games, showcasing the chemistry that many fans have long hoped to see at the NBA level.

     

    Although basketball fans have often dreamed of seeing two of the greatest players of their era share an NBA locker room, Durant made it clear that such a partnership is unlikely to ever happen.

    “Well you gonna be waiting for the rest of your life forever. I don’t think that’s happening. We both are 40 years old, man,” he added.

     

    Durant’s response appears to put an end to any speculation that he and James could eventually join forces in the NBA. While the two have developed a close friendship over the years and continue to share mutual respect, both are entering the twilight of their Hall of Fame careers and appear focused on pursuing championships through separate paths.

     

    For now, the basketball world remains focused on where James will sign next. Whether he returns to familiar surroundings in Cleveland, begins a new chapter in Philadelphia, joins another contender such as Golden State, or surprises the league with an unexpected destination, his decision is expected to be the defining move of the NBA offseason.

     

    Until then, every comment from players, executives, and league insiders will continue to fuel speculation surrounding one of the most consequential free-agent decisions in NBA history.

     

     

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  • Kevin Durant’s return sparks Rockets’ stunning 21-Point comeback over Suns

    Kevin Durant’s return sparks Rockets’ stunning 21-Point comeback over Suns

    Kevin Durant returned to Phoenix Suns with mixed emotions, but it was his new home that stole the spotlight on Wednesday (PHT). 


    The Houston Rockets staged a dramatic comeback to claim a 119-105 victory, overcoming a 21-point first-quarter deficit in a game that sealed Phoenix’s fate regarding automatic playoff qualification in the Western Conference.

     

    Durant, traded from Phoenix to Houston last year, remained a focal point on the floor, finishing with 24 points. 

     

    Houston’s resilience was evident in the fourth quarter, where they outscored Phoenix 38-21 to secure the win. The Rockets shot 45% from the field and dominated the boards 55-34, turning 24 offensive rebounds into 37 second-chance points.

     

    Amen Thompson spearheaded the comeback with 22 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, while Jabari Smith Jr. added 20 points, including five three-pointers, as Houston extended its winning streak to seven games and nine victories in 11 outings. 

     

    Alperen Sengun contributed 12 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists, though foul trouble limited him to 28 minutes.

     

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    Phoenix had their moments, starting strong and building a 21-point lead early. 

     

    Devin Booker excelled from the line, hitting 15 of 16 free throws, while Kevin Williams contributed 5 of 6. The Suns converted 34 of 39 free throws, both season highs, but struggled from the field at 42.7%. 

     

    Their 24-0 run in the third quarter, the franchise’s longest since 1997-98, briefly threatened Houston’s rally, with Williams scoring 10 points in that stretch.

     

    The contest wasn’t without tension. Durant and Dillon Brooks exchanged words in a chippy second quarter, and technical fouls were assessed to Booker and Houston’s Jae’Sean Tate within a minute of each other. 

     

    Durant’s 11 points in the second quarter helped Houston close the gap to 57-54 at halftime. The Suns held a slim 84-81 advantage entering the fourth, but the Rockets’ relentless pressure ultimately tipped the game in their favor.

     

    Houston’s comeback underscores their growth as a cohesive unit, while Phoenix’s loss marks the end of their chance for a direct playoff berth, leaving the team to navigate the play-in tournament instead.

     

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  • KD makes history: Durant passes Michael Jordan to move fifth on NBA’s all-time scoring list

    KD makes history: Durant passes Michael Jordan to move fifth on NBA’s all-time scoring list

    Kevin Durant continues to cement his legacy as one of basketball’s all-time greats, adding another milestone to his already historic career. Now starring for the Houston Rockets, the 37-year-old forward shows no signs of slowing down, delivering elite performances deep into his career.

     

    Durant made headlines once again during Houston’s thrilling 123–122 win over the Miami Heat at the Toyota Center on Sunday (March 22, Philippine Standard Time). He poured in 27 points, surpassing Michael Jordan to move into fifth place on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.

     

    The achievement caps a remarkable season for Durant, who has also climbed past Wilt Chamberlain and Dirk Nowitzki in the rankings. He now trails only Kobe Bryant, who sits fourth with 33,643 career points.

     

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    “It’s pretty sweet to be in the same category with the greats. A lot of these guys have inspired me to work on my game as much as I can and contribute to a team in a positive way. MJ is in a world of his own and somebody I look up to and respect, who basically shaped the game for me. Grateful for everybody that invested in me; all of my friends, family, teammates, coaches. I couldn’t be here without them,” Durant said after the game.

    “I love making shots. No matter how difficult they are, no matter what angle from the floor they are. I just like seeing the ball go through the rim, so I work on that as much as I can. Making shots makes it tougher on the opposing team to come down and get easy baskets. But I shoot all bad shots, to be honest – like damn, when I think about it, I just learned how to make those shots,” he added.

     

    Durant’s scoring brilliance has long been defined by versatility and adaptability. From his early years alongside Russell Westbrook with the Oklahoma City Thunder, to championship runs with Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors, and later stints with Devin Booker at the Phoenix Suns and James Harden and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn Nets, Durant has thrived in every system. His ability to seamlessly integrate into different offenses while maintaining elite production underscores his all-time greatness.

     

    Rockets head coach Ime Udoka emphasized both the magnitude of the milestone and Durant’s focus on team success.

     

    “It’s an honor for everyone to be a part of that. All these accolades that are getting passed, I don’t think he cares much about it in the moment. He’s focused on the season and what we are trying to accomplish. But don’t want to make it an afterthought, to be top five of all time in scoring, the efficiency and professionalism he plays with, you take it for granted. Passing a name like Michael Jordan is a huge accomplishment and we celebrated that with him. He will have some more to chop off next,” Udoka said.

     

    Durant’s résumé remains one of the most decorated in league history. A four-time scoring champion, two-time NBA champion, and two-time Finals MVP, he also claimed the 2014 NBA MVP award and the 2008 Rookie of the Year honor. With 16 All-Star selections to his name, his sustained excellence and longevity continue to set him apart in the modern era.

     

     

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  • Kevin Durant is close to surpassing Michael Jordan and making the NBA’s top-5 all-time scoring list

    Kevin Durant is close to surpassing Michael Jordan and making the NBA’s top-5 all-time scoring list

    Houston Rockets superstar Kevin Durant is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in National Basketball Association (NBA) history and among the most prolific scorers the league has ever seen. Even at 37 years old, Durant continues to perform at an elite level, proving that age has yet to slow down one of basketball’s most skilled forwards.

     

    Durant is on the cusp of another historic milestone: surpassing basketball icon Michael Jordan to enter the top-five on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. The superstar needs just 51 points to move past Jordan, who finished his career with 32,292 points, a number that has stood as a benchmark for excellence in the sport for decades.

     

    “It’s pretty cool to be in the same category as some of the greats that ever played the game. They have added so much to the game that have inspired me to stick around this long,” Durant said during a media interaction. The forward’s acknowledgment of the legends who came before him reflects his deep respect for the history and evolution of basketball.

     

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    Like many players of his generation, Durant never got to see Jordan in his prime. Instead, he relied on videos and highlight reels to study the game of one of basketball’s most celebrated icons. Still, he had the opportunity to see Jordan in person once, during the former Chicago Bulls star’s final season with the Washington Wizards.

    “I just remember the excitement in the building, the excitement around town. The reaction to Mike was just different, man,” Durant recalled. “It was clear that what Jordan brought to the game wasn’t just about skill—it was about aura, about the way he made fans, teammates, and even opponents feel.”

     

    Durant’s scoring prowess is marked by his versatility and adaptability. Throughout his career, he has consistently found ways to put points on the board regardless of the team, system, or coaching staff. Whether teaming up with Russell Westbrook at the Oklahoma City Thunder, sharing the floor with Stephen Curry at the Golden State Warriors, collaborating with Devin Booker at the Phoenix Suns, or pairing with James Harden and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn, Durant has proven himself capable of blending seamlessly into any offensive scheme while still producing at a historic level.

     

    Over his career, Durant has amassed a remarkable collection of accolades. A four-time NBA scoring champion, he is also a two-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP). Additionally, Durant earned the 2014 NBA MVP award, the 2008 NBA Rookie of the Year award, and has been selected to 16 NBA All-Star games, cementing his status among the sport’s elite. Beyond the awards, his consistency and longevity set him apart, allowing him to maintain a level of excellence rarely seen in professional basketball.

     

    Durant’s offensive arsenal, which includes a deadly combination of size, shooting ability, and basketball IQ, allows him to score from virtually anywhere on the court. He remains a threat in isolation situations, excels in pick-and-roll scenarios, and has developed a reliable mid-range game that complements his three-point shooting. His skill set, combined with an unwavering work ethic, ensures that he continues to climb the scoring ranks and remain relevant in an ever-evolving NBA landscape.

     

    As Durant inches closer to passing Jordan, his legacy as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history becomes even more secure. Yet, for Durant, it’s not only about the numbers—it’s about contributing to his team, inspiring the next generation, and leaving a lasting impact on the game he has dominated for nearly two decades.

     

     

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  • Kevin Durant eyes return for Team USA at 2028 Olympics

    Kevin Durant eyes return for Team USA at 2028 Olympics

    For many basketball legends, the Olympics serve as a farewell stage. For Kevin Durant, it might be another proving ground.

     

    The four-time Olympic gold medalist has his sights set on the 2028 Los Angeles Games. By then, Durant will be 39 years old, an age when most players are long retired or reduced to ceremonial roles. But if the team calls, he is open to giving it another shot at his fifth Olympic gold medal.

     

    “Hell yeah, I want to play,” Durant said. “I would love to, but I’ve got to stay on top of my game. I’m not expecting, I want to produce on the floor and make Grant and whoever is making the decisions, want to put me on the team. I don’t want — not just for seniority. I want to still prove I can help the team win.”

     

    Durant’s mindset reflects the same competitive edge that made him one of the most awarded players in Olympic history. 

     

    His international track record includes pivotal performances in London, Rio, Tokyo, and Paris, where his scoring punch repeatedly bailed out Team USA in tight moments. 

     

    Throughout the years the 2x NBA champion has carved himself as Team USA’s most reliable scorer, as he became the all-time leading scorer in team history edging out Carmelo Anthony who previously held the record. 

     

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    During the 2024 Paris Olympics, Durant showcased his scoring prowess dropping 21 points against Serbia, starting 8/8 from the field in the first half of the 110-84 rout. 

     

    He then continued to average 13.8 points per game during the tournament as he averaged 18.5 points per game in all Olympic appearances for the red, white, and blue, which is good for second in points per game average in Team USA history. 

     

    Even amid speculation that the 2024 Paris Games would mark a “last dance” for veterans like Durant, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry, Durant denied the narrative.

     

    “You guys, the media, have projected that,” Durant said recently. “That narrative, where did the last dance thing come from? I didn’t say I wasn’t playing. LeBron said he wasn’t. You didn’t hear that from me or Steph.”

     

    While Curry, who is turning 38 years old this March, faces an uncertain future in international play and James, at 41 years old, has already ruled himself out, Durant is keeping the door wide open. His motivation goes beyond medal counts, it’s also about defending the evolving identity of American basketball.

     

    In recent years, the global gap has narrowed. Durant, however, bristles at the growing narrative that European development systems have surpassed American basketball culture.

     

    “I just don’t like the talk around the USA versus European style of how you approach the game,” Durant said. “All I hear is, ‘AAU is destroying the game; the Euros do it right while the Americans do it wrong.’”

     

    The 2028 Olympics could mark the symbolic passing of the torch to a new generation. But if Durant has his way, the torch won’t be handed over quietly. It will be defended one more time by a player still determined to prove that he belongs.

     

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  • NBA scoring streaks: Wilt Chamberlain, LeBron James, and the modern chase

    NBA scoring streaks: Wilt Chamberlain, LeBron James, and the modern chase

    In the history of the NBA, scoring feats have always captured the imagination of fans. But when it comes to jaw-dropping numbers, a question lingers: what is more impressive—scoring 100 points in a single game, or putting up 60-plus points in three straight games, twice, in the span of just six weeks?

     

    Wilt Chamberlain accomplished both during a dominant stretch of the 1961-62 NBA season, cementing his legacy as one of the league’s most prolific scorers. His scoring prowess remains the benchmark against which modern-day stars are measured. Chamberlain didn’t just put up points—he obliterated records in a way that few players before or since have come close to replicating.

     

    Fast forward more than six decades, and another scoring phenom is chasing Chamberlain’s marks. Reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder has been on a remarkable run of consistency, showcasing his own ability to produce points night in and night out. On November 30, 2025, SGA scored 26 points in a 123-115 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, marking his 93rd consecutive game with 20-plus points.

     

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    With that achievement, Gilgeous-Alexander moved into second place all-time for consecutive 20-point games, trailing only Chamberlain’s legendary 126-game streak from 1961 to 1963. SGA’s streak, still active, is a testament to his scoring versatility and durability in a league that increasingly prioritizes pace, three-point shooting, and shared offensive responsibility.

     

    While Gilgeous-Alexander’s streak is ongoing, another incredible run recently came to an end. In December 2025, LeBron James, the former king of consecutive scoring, saw his streak of 1,297 straight games with at least 10 points snapped after scoring just eight points in a win against the Toronto Raptors. LeBron’s streak, which spanned nearly two decades from 2007 to 2025, is a testament to his longevity, consistency, and adaptability across generations of NBA play.

     

    To put these streaks in context, here’s a look at the NBA’s most remarkable consecutive scoring streaks across different point thresholds:

    Most Consecutive Games with 10+ Points

    • 1,297 – LeBron James, 2007-2025 
    • 866 – Michael Jordan, 1986-2001 
    • 787 – Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, 1977-87 
    • 575 – Karl Malone, 1991-99 
    • 562 – Kevin Durant, 2009-17 

    Most Consecutive Games with 20+ Points

    • 126 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1961-63 
    • 114 – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, 2024-present 
    • 92 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1963-64 
    • 79 – Oscar Robertson, 1963-64 
    • 72 – Kevin Durant, 2015-16 
    • 72 – Michael Jordan, 1987-88 

    Most Consecutive Games with 30+ Points

    • 65 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1961-62 
    • 32 – James Harden, 2018-19 
    • 31 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1962 
    • 25 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1960 
    • 22 – Joel Embiid, 2023-24 

    Most Consecutive Games with 40+ Points

    • 14 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1962 
    • 14 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1961 
    • 10 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1962 
    • 9 – Kobe Bryant, 2003 
    • 9 – Michael Jordan, 1986 

    Most Consecutive Games with 50+ Points

    • 7 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1961 
    • 6 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1962 
    • 5 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1962 
    • 5 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1961 
    • 4 – Kobe Bryant, 2007 
    • 4 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1962 

    Most Consecutive Games with 60+ Points

    • 4 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1962 
    • 3 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1962 
    • 2 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1962 
    • 2 – Wilt Chamberlain, 1961 

    The sheer dominance of Chamberlain’s streaks highlights why he remains an all-time scoring legend. Few players in NBA history, including LeBron James, Michael Jordan, and Kevin Durant, have matched his combination of volume and consistency. Yet, modern stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are writing their own chapters, showing that elite scoring streaks are not just a relic of the past—they are alive in today’s game.

     

    As Gilgeous-Alexander continues his streak, fans are reminded that basketball greatness comes not only from singular historic games but also from relentless night-to-night consistency—the kind that defines eras and cements legacies.

     

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  • Kevin Durant surpasses Wilt Chamberlain to move 7th on NBA all-time scoring list

    Kevin Durant surpasses Wilt Chamberlain to move 7th on NBA all-time scoring list

    The Houston Rockets fell short of expectations against the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday, January 10 (Philippine Standard Time) at the Moda Center, dropping a 111-105 decision in the ongoing 2025-26 NBA season.

     

    Despite the loss, the night belonged to Kevin Durant, who etched his name further into NBA history by surpassing Wilt Chamberlain to move into seventh place on the league’s all-time scoring list. Durant achieved the milestone with a jumper at 7:57 remaining in the third quarter. Entering the game needing 15 points to pass Chamberlain’s 31,422 career points, Durant now trails only Dirk Nowitzki, who sits sixth with 31,560 points.

     

    “To be amongst the greats is always an honor. Wilt is somebody I studied and tried to look up to as much as I can, a player like that. Like I always say, he set a standard for NBA players and I’m grateful to reach that and inspired by what he produced for the game of basketball. These milestones always have me reflecting on the people that helped me get to this point, the journey that I have been through, the close calls, and the things that could have gone wrong plenty of times in my life,” Durant said after the game.

     

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    “So to be here, very, very grateful, and Portland is such a classy, classy city for recognizing me in that moment and honoring me,” he added.

    Durant, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation, also passed the 8,000-rebound mark during the game, adding another milestone to his illustrious career. Selected as the second overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, Durant has also played for the Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets, Phoenix Suns, and now the Houston Rockets.

     

    At 37 years old, Durant’s resume speaks for itself. He is a two-time NBA champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, 2014 NBA MVP, two-time NBA All-Star Game MVP, 2008 NBA Rookie of the Year, four-time NBA scoring champion, and a 15-time NBA All-Star, among many other honors.

     

    Top 10 All-Time NBA Scorers

    1. LeBron James – 42,575 points 
    2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 38,387 points 
    3. Karl Malone – 36,928 points 
    4. Kobe Bryant – 33,643 points 
    5. Michael Jordan – 32,292 points 
    6. Dirk Nowitzki – 31,560 points 
    7. Kevin Durant – 31,435 points 
    8. Wilt Chamberlain – 31,419 points 
    9. Shaquille O’Neal – 28,596 points 
    10. James Harden – 28,563 points 

    While the Rockets will look to regroup after Saturday’s setback, Durant’s personal achievement served as a bright spot for Houston and a reminder of his enduring greatness in the league.

     

     

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  • NBA Roundup: Pistons cruise, Kevin Durant game-winner, and Nuggets survive in OT

    NBA Roundup: Pistons cruise, Kevin Durant game-winner, and Nuggets survive in OT

    A compelling Tuesday slate delivered standout performances, veteran poise, and dramatic finishes as teams continued to jockey for position in January—highlighted by Detroit’s dominant win, a late Kevin Durant dagger, and a gutsy overtime victory by Denver.

     

    Pistons Dominate Knicks with Balanced Attack

     

    Detroit 121, New York 90

    The Pistons made a strong statement in the Eastern Conference, overpowering the Knicks behind an efficient offensive night and stifling defense. Cade Cunningham orchestrated Detroit’s offense with authority, finishing 29 points and 13 assists, leading a first-half surge that propelled the Pistons to a commanding lead. Their defensive intensity limited New York to just 15 points in the pivotal third quarter, effectively sealing the outcome before the final period. The Knicks fell behind early, unable to consistently break Detroit’s pressure despite Mikal McBride’s 17 points. Detroit’s win keeps them atop the East standings, showcasing their ongoing rise as a contender this season.

     

    Celtics Top Bulls as Boston’s Depth Shows Up

     

    Boston 115, Chicago 101

    The Celtics leaned on a balanced offensive approach to subdue the Bulls in Boston. Anfernee Simons delivered a team-high 27 points, providing scoring punch when needed, while Boston’s role players contributed across the stat sheet. Chicago’s Nikola Vucevic posted a 15/15 double-double with seven assists, but the Bulls could not keep pace, particularly in the third quarter when Boston stretched its lead. The win adds momentum to a Celtics squad consistently near the top of the East and underscores their ability to win even when the bench needs to step up.

     

    Raptors Control Tempo in Comfortable Win Over Hawks

     

    Toronto 118, Atlanta 100

    At Scotiabank Arena, the Raptors delivered a cohesive performance that kept the Hawks at bay throughout. Toronto’s offense clicked inside and out, maintaining pressure and converting early to force Atlanta into a catch-up mode. Onyeka Okongwu recorded a 17-point, 12-rebound night for the Hawks, yet it wasn’t enough to counter Toronto’s balanced scoring and defensive stops. The Raptors’ depth has been a key to their success this season, helping them remain firmly in the playoff picture in the competitive Eastern Conference.

     

     

    Kevin Durant’s Clutch Heroics Lift Rockets

     

    Houston 100, Phoenix 97

    In a tightly contested battle, Kevin Durant hit the game-winning jumper with under four seconds left, preserving the Rockets’ edge over the Suns. Durant finished with 26 points and 10 rebounds, anchoring Houston’s offense when it mattered most. Phoenix’s Devin Booker scored 27, keeping the Suns within striking distance throughout, but durable late defense and execution in crunch time made the difference for Houston. The game evoked elements of a rivalry feel, with Durant and Booker trading momentum shifts throughout the night.

     

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    Hornets Roll Past Thunder in Lopsided Win

     

    Charlotte 124, Oklahoma City 97

    Charlotte delivered one of the night’s most impressive victories, cruising past the Thunder on both ends of the floor. The Hornets led by as many as 30 points, showcasing a remarkable offensive balance and defensive effort that kept OKC out of rhythm. Brandon Miller led Charlotte with 28 points and six rebounds, symbolizing a growing maturity in his role. Meanwhile, the Thunder, despite a strong overall record this season, continue to face questions about consistency—their effort on this night falling well short of expectations.

     

    Nuggets Outlast 76ers in Overtime Thriller

     

    Denver 125, Philadelphia 124 (OT)

    In one of the night’s most dramatic contests, the Denver Nuggets edged the 76ers in overtime thanks to a clutch performance despite significant roster limitations. With several key players unavailable, Jalen Pickett stepped up with a career-night 29 points and seven assists, while Denver mounted a late fourth-quarter rally to force extra time. The Nuggets overcame a double-digit fourth-quarter deficit and held off Philadelphia’s late surge, capped by a late decisive basket and defensive stand. Tyrese Maxey’s all-around 28 points, six rebounds, and six assists weren’t quite enough for the 76ers in this tightly contested showdown.

     

     

    Clippers Edge Warriors in Close Defensive Battle

     

    LA Clippers 103, Golden State 102

    In a low-scoring, tense clash, the Clippers outlasted the Warriors by a single point. Kawhi Leonard led LA with 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Stephen Curry nearly stole the game for Golden State with 27 points and six assists. Defensive intensity defined this matchup, with both teams battling for every possession down the stretch. The Clippers’ ability to make key stops in crunch time proved critical in a game that stood as a defensive chess match more than an offensive showcase.

     

    Trail Blazers’ Offense Too Much for Jazz

     

    Portland 137, Utah 117

    Portland closed the night with a high-flying offensive display, putting up 137 points in a rout of the Jazz. Deni Avdija erupted for 33 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists, pacing a Trail Blazers team that shot effectively from deep and dominated transition opportunities. The Jazz struggled to contain Portland’s scoring bursts, with Utah’s Jusuf Nurkić contributing a strong 21/12 double-double but unable to keep pace. Portland’s offensive fireworks brought them across the finish line in emphatic fashion.

     

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