NBA Playoffs

Durant And Booker Eliminate Short-handed Clippers

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The first-round NBA playoff series between the Phoenix Suns and LA Clippers started out as an even series. The Clippers shocked the Suns in Game 1 before Phoenix righted the ship and evened the series in Game 2. Then things went off the rails for Los Angeles.

Already without Paul George, the Clippers saw Kawhi Leonard sidelined after Game 2. That put the weight of the series on the shoulders of Russell Westbrook and Normal Powell. The series moved to LA, where the Suns took Games 3 and 4 behind their power pairing of Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. As Game 5 took the series back to Phoenix, the Clippers faced elimination and needed a miracle.

Clippers Keep It Close But Crash Out Of The Playoffs

With Leonard still out, the Clippers needed career games from Westbrook and Powell. However, the two players were simply unable to run with the Suns. They combined for 41 points (27 for Powell, 14 for Westbrook), and 10 rebounds. However, they also missed 10 consecutive shots during one ice-cold shooting run. The Clippers bench provided some help, with Nicholas Batum and Mason Plumlee combining for 39 points. Ivica Zubac also finished with a double-double, with 16 points and 10 rebounds. The Clippers even led at the half, having put up 70 first-half points. 40 of those came in the second quarter alone. But it was simply not enough to slow down the Phoenix pain train.

Devin Booker and Kevin Durant became the first duo since 2003 Kobe and Shaq to each score 25 in their first five playoff games. They also became just the second duo to score 25 in every game of a best-of-seven since 1968 Elgin Baylor and Jerry West. Booker led all scorers with a 47-point double-double. Meanwhile, Durant added another 31 points of his own. Their biggest moment was a 38-point third quarter to help erase a 9-point halftime deficit. The Suns scored 50 total points in the quarter. The 136-130 final score was largely a result of the Suns’ bench struggling to put up meaningful points. However, it didn’t matter all that much as Phoenix sealed the win. They will now face #1 seed Denver in the Conference Semifinals. Denver completed their own 4-1 dismantling of the Timberwolves on Tuesday night.

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Giannis Antetokounmpo Needed IV Fluids After Bucks Loss

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Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks came up short in Game 4 against the Miami Heat. While the game is going to be long remembered for the performance of Heat star Jimmy Butler. However, Giannis appears to have given it everything that he could. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, Giannis needed IV’s after Monday’s game. The Bucks controlled most of the game. But the Heat were led by a heroic fourth quarter from Butler that ended any chance at a Bucks victory.

However, Giannis’ stat line is one to be remembered as well. The Bucks star finished the game with a triple double. But will be forgotten because of the final score. Giannis has dealt with an injury during this series as well. Back in Game 1, Giannis took a hard fall that had him exit the game The injury caused Giannis to miss Game 2 of the series. However, the Bucks took care of business without their top star. Although, one may wonder if the injury is causing issues elsewhere with Giannis.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Giving The Bucks Everything

Even though the final score didn’t go Milwaukee’s way. It’s hard to find any fault in Giannis’ attempt to avoid a 3-1 series deficit. Now the Bucks must do something that has rarely been completed in the NBA playoffs. At one point in time, coming back from a 3-1 deficit was almost impossible. Now the feat has been done, giving teams like Milwaukee hope that it is possible. However, another performance from Butler like the one on Monday, would seal the Bucks fate.

Game 5 of the series will take place on Friday. Expect Giannis and the Bucks to come out swinging from the opening tip. However, the Heat would love the chance to end the series on Friday. Because a Bucks win would move the series back to Milwaukee until a winner is decided. Do you believe Giannis Antetokounmpo can give another 100% performance in Game 5? Who do you believe will win the series? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here at HNHH.

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Richard Jefferson Scorches Memphis Grizzlies After Latest Actions

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Richard Jefferson is the latest media personality to share frustrations with the Memphis Grizzlies. The Grizzlies have become a hot talking point with their actions in back-to-back losses. After the Game 4 loss, Dillon Brooks and Ja Morant declined to speak to the media. Jefferson took the two stars to task on Tuesday’s edition of NBA Today. The NBA veteran didn’t hold back on his feelings toward the Grizzlies stars. Claiming that Brooks and Morant have to be able to handle these moments.

“You can’t talk the talk and then not walk the walk. … If you’re not going to talk to the media after two straight games, that to me is cowardice. And I don’t believe either of them are cowards.” Jefferson’s words are for sure to make headlines in the Memphis era. While he may not have come out and said that Morant and Brooks were cowards. However, Jefferson did mention that their actions were cowardly. Hold to separate the two terms with the way Jefferson laid out the situation.

Richard Jefferson Wants To See Grizzlies Handle Losses

The Grizzlies have become a team of trash-talkers this season. Brooks and Morant have led the charge with their firey personalities on the court. However, things are starting to look bleak for the young team. But that shouldn’t give them the mindset of shutting down when times are tough. Jefferson is looking for the Grizzlies to grow from this situation. However, putting your head down and not responding to the current situation is refusing to grow in the areas they need to grow.

The Grizzlies season could be over after their next game. The Lakers will be looking to end Memphis’ hopes of an NBA Finals run in the first round. However, the Grizzlies can overcome this deficit. But time is running out on if the comeback can actually happen. Do you believe the Grizzlies can win the series against the Lakers? Do you agree with Richard Jefferson on his thoughts on the issues in Memphis? Let us know what you think about the current state of the Grizzlies in our comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here at HNHH.

Charles Barkley’s High Praise For Jimmy Butler

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Charles Barkley was like every other fan watching the Miami Heat beat the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday night. The Heat’s victory gives the team a 3-1 series lead. Which many people didn’t believe would happen. However, the Heat have no interest in hearing what fans and the media have to say about their chances of eliminating the Bucks. Now Miami is in the driver’s seat to pull off the massive upset. Heat star Jimmy Butler is the leader of that bus. The Miami superstar carried his team to a victory on Monday. Which led to high praise from Barkley.

Butler’s 56-point performance was something you had to see to believe. Late in the fourth quarter, it felt like the Bucks were going to get the victory. However, Butler wasn’t going to allow the Bucks to leave Miami with a victory. Every offensive possession for the Heat in the fourth quarter was a can’t-miss moment. Fans were holding their breath while watching Butler put on a masterpiece performance. Including Barkley mentioning Butler as one of the greatest players to play in Miami.

Charles Barkley Dazzled By Butler Performance

“Jimmy Butler joins Alonzo Mourning and Dwyane Wade as the greatest Heat players ever.” Barkley’s statement is high praise for Butler. But the praise is rightfully so. Since arriving in Miami, Butler has led the team on a few great playoff journeys. The team made it to the NBA Finals in 2020, as well as the Eastern Conference Finals last summer. The Heat have been so close to the promised land and now are looking to create even a little bit more history.

However, the Bucks will not be going down without a fight. Milwaukee is the number-one seed in the Eastern Conference for a reason. But Milwaukee has had to deal with injuries to their star player Giannis. Winning this series for the Heat would put Butler high on the list of fan-favorite players in Miami. Where do you believe Butler belongs on the list of greatest Heat players? Is Charles Barkley right on Butler’s place in franchise history? Let us know what you think in the comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here with HNHH.

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Dillon Brooks Refuses To Speak With Media, Twitter Reacts

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Dillon Brooks may be wishing he could take back his words on LeBron James. Last week, the Grizzlies forward spoke to the media after a Memphis win with a ton of confidence. Brooks said he wouldn’t respect James until he scored 40 on the Grizzlies. Also, Brooks called one of the best to ever play the game “old.” Since those comments, the Lakers have dominated the Grizzlies in two straight games. On Monday night, The Lakers defeated the Grizzlies in overtime to secure a 3-1 series lead. After the game, Brooks didn’t have time to speak with the media about the game.

When Brooks was asked to speak with the media, he gave them two words “I’m out.” Before Game 4, Brooks told the media he felt that they were creating a villain profile. Something that he felt wasn’t true at all. However, calling a player on the opposing team old and claiming you don’t respect them may do that for you. Brooks has seemingly looked like a different player during the last two games with the Lakers. On Monday, Brooks finished with 11 points in over 40 minutes of play.

Dillon Brooks Visibly Frustrated

The Lakers have been rolling since the comments made by Brooks. Some may even say that James is turning back the clock. James’ Game 4 performance carried the Lakers to their 3-1 series lead. James finished the game with 22 points and 20 rebounds. Including the game-tying bucket that sent the game to overtime. However, the Lakers did have a scary moment with Anthony Davis nursing his hip on the sidelines. But Davis was able to return and be a strong asset for the team.

Prior to the star of Game 4, reports also came out that the Grizzlies were looking t move on from Brooks. According to the report, the Grizzlies have already attempted to move on from Brooks but have been unsuccessful. The Grizzlies are full of young talent, including Brooks. However, a first-round loss to the Lakers will most certainly have the franchise making moves this off-season. Do you believe that Dillon Brooks’ days are numbered in Memphis? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here at HNHH.

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Kawhi Leonard Out For Game 5 Against Phoenix

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Kawhi Leonard will once again be absent for the Los Angeles Clippers in their first-round matchup with the Phoenix Suns. Leonard, who missed Game 4 with a knee sprain, will miss Game 5 for the same reason. The news was reported by NBA insider Shams Charania. The Leonard injury is a massive blow to a Clippers team that will be fighting for their playoff lives. However, injuries are a part of the game, and the team will be more than ready to fight off elimination.

Last week, Russell Westbrook discussed Leonard’s injury with the media. During his interview, Westbrook mentioned just how unfortunate the injury is for Leonard. The Clippers will be without Leonard and Paul George. Two massive talents that would change the entire landscape of the series if they were healthy. However, the team will look to players like Westbrook to keep their season alive. The Clippers are just one of many teams that have faced derailing injuries during this postseason.

Kawhi Leonard Unavailable For Pivotal Playoff Game

Leonard’s recent injury has brought up an interesting debate on the Clippers star’s legacy. Last week, Stephen A. Smith created a social media wildfire with his comments on Leonard. Smith believes that Leonard is the worst superstar in NBA history. A confusing statement, but once Smith broke it down, it somewhat made more sense. Leonard has been hit with every injury imaginable in recent years. Now it seems his legacy is becoming an injured star. Instead of being the guy everyone once feared in the postseason.

Unfortunately, Leonard is dealing with off-the-court issues as well. The former Finals MVP is dealing with the heartbreaking news that his sister has been sentenced to life in prison on a murder charge. Piling the recent news onto a frustrated injury will surely have Leonard in a tough mental state. However, Leonard isn’t one to share his feelings with the media. Especially on such a close family issue. Do you believe that the Clippers have a chance to advance without Kawhi Leonard? How will you remember Leonard when his playing time is over? Let us know your thoughts on those questions in the comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here with HNHH.

Rick Pitino Forced To Change Number After Viral Moment

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Rick Pitino has made his so-called triumphant return to a well-known program in college basketball. Pitino was exiled from the University of Louisville after a slew of accusations were brought up against the program. In the end, Louisville had to take down their 2013 National Championship banner, and Pitino was seen as a black eye to college basketball. However, the Hall of Fame coach got a second chance. After a short stint at Iona, Pitino was offered the head coaching position with St. John’s. An offer that Pitino happily accepted.

Now Ricky P is back on the scene in the Big Apple. Pitino is looking to bring St. John’s back to the limelight. If any coach could pull off this challenge, it’s going to be Pitino. On Sunday, Pitino was among the many in Madison Square Garden taking in the Knicks and Cavaliers playoff matchup. Before the tip, ESPN locked in on Pitino speaking to someone courtside. However, it turns out that the shot of Pitino might have been too clear. Fans discovered that Pitino was giving his cell phone number to someone at the game. An unbelievable lip-reading feat for a disgusting fan.

Rick Pitino The Latest Victim Of Lip Reading

On Monday, Pitino announced on Twitter that his phone number had been compromised. “So yesterday I was enjoying the Knicks game n someone read my lips on TV giving out my phone number. Over 300 plus messages came in – here’s the bizarre news, 95% were nice n positive. I got a lead on 7 new recruits. My new cell is…..” How someone could figure out what Pitino was talking about is nearly laughable. However, for Pitino, it may not seem to be so funny. However, Pitino seems to be in good spirits about the whole ordeal.

The Knicks lit up the MSG crowd with their Game 4 victory. Now the Knicks will look to end the series on Friday at the Garden. However, Pitino may have been there just to scout out his future home. St. John’s will play many of their home games at the Garden. The combination of Pitino and New York has many believing the possibilities are endless for his return to the big show. Can Rick Pitino bring St. John’s out of the college basketball cellar? Let us know what you think in the comment section. For the latest news in sports, keep it right here with HNHH.

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De’Aaron Fox Fractures Finger, Doubtful For Game 5

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De’Aaron Fox has become a star during the first round of the NBA playoffs. Fox has shown a more extensive audience just what he can do on the hardwood. The Kings have been a highly contested matchup with the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors tied up the series on Sunday after the Kings missed the go-ahead final bucket. Now the Kings could be taking another loss. It was revealed on Monday that Fox fractured his index finger in his left shooting hand.

According to NBA insider Shams Charania, the 2022-23 Clutch Player of the Year is now doubtful for Game 5. Losing Fox would be detrimental to any chance the Kings would have in advancing past the first round. Fox has been the go-to guy for the Kings all season. Which is why the former Kentucky star earned the clutch award in its first season. However, now Fox and the Kings will have to overcome more than the Warriors. Fox has yet to comment on the injury. Although fans should expect his comments before Tuesday.

The Kings Losing De’Aaron Fox May Seal Their Fate

The Kings guard has been the heartbeat of the team all season. Along with college teammate Malik Monk and Domantas Sabonis, the Kings have been a feel-good story. However, the time for feel-good stories is long over. The Warriors have dealt with injuries and suspensions on their end as well. So the excuse of Fox not being available will not matter to anyone in the Warriors fanbase. Game 5 will take place on Wednesday night.

Fox will have a few days to test his finger before Game 5. However, the Kings will look to be incredibly cautious with the face of their franchise. Losing in the first round this season would be disappointing. However, worrying about the future may far outweigh what stands before them this season. The Kings seem to have a young and talented roster. Which means they don’t have to go all in for this season. Do you believe the injury to De’Aaron Fox is a series killer to the Kings? Let us know what you think in the comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here with HNHH.

Massive Rumor Regarding Dillon Brooks’ Future In Memphis

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Dillon Brooks has become a household name for the Memphis Grizzlies. However, the reasoning behind it isn’t for any good reason. Brooks has slowly become known as the Memphis trash talker. But recently, that trash-talk hasn’t helped Brooks or the team. Brooks’ recent comments directed toward Lebron James fired back in the worst way possible for him and his teammates. The Lakers answered the trash talk from Brooks with a dominating Game 3 performance over the Grizzlies. But that wasn’t even the tip of the iceberg for Brooks in Game 3.

The Grizzlies forward was ejected from the game after striking James in a delicate area. Brooks’ seemed to argue his early dismissal from the game. However, those words fell on deaf ears. as Brooks was escorted to the locker room. Brooks’ trash talk has caused heated debates among fans through social media. Many have wondered how Brooks can be such a trash-talker when the Grizzlies have yet to accomplish a successful playoff accolade. Now, it seems that maybe the Grizzlies are having second thoughts about Brooks being in Memphis.

Could Dillon Brooks Be In A Different Uniform Next Season?

According to Tim MacMahon of ESPN, Brooks’ days are potentially numbered in Memphis. MacMahon even reports that the Grizzlies have already tried moving on from Brooks. Now those in the know of the situation wonder if Brooks will even be on the team after the series against the Lakers. Life is coming at Brooks swiftly. The former Oregon Duck was once thought to be a centerpiece for this young Grizzlies team. Now it seems like a matter of time before he is in a different city.

If the Grizzlies are thinking of moving Brooks, one has to think they didn’t care for his comments about James. The Lakers definitely took notice of Brooks’ comments and let the Grizzlies know. The Game 3 contest between the teams was over after the first quarter. The Grizzlies being eliminated in the first round this season would definitely have the franchise reassessing their future. Do you believe the Grizzlies should move on from Dillon Brooks? Let us know what you think in the comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here with HNHH.

The Grizzlies Poked The Lakers Bear And Lost Bad

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Game 2 completely changed the Grizzlies-Lakers NBA playoff series. The Grizzlies’ win was highlighted by Dillion Brooks sounding off about LeBron. As part of his post-game comments, Brooks said he “pokes bears” and didn’t respect LeBron because he hadn’t “dropped 40” on the team.

LeBron played it cool, seemingly brushing off Brooks’ comments. However, that set up a pivotal game three for control of the series. What’s more, Ja Morant would be back for the Grizzlies after missing the second game of the series. Everything was set for a no-holds-barred match in LA. That game was the first sell-out playoff game for the Lakers in a decade.

Morant Shines But Grizzlies Falter

To begin with, the Brooks-LeBron beef was short-lived. Brooks was ejected less than 30 seconds into the third quarter for a flagrant 2 on LeBron. Similar to James Harden’s ejection earlier in the week, it was all due to Brooks hitting LeBron in the groin. Brooks played just 19 minutes, putting up 7 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 steal. That left the Grizzlies short-handed in the backcourt, a crucial issue as they tried to bounce back from a rough first half. However, they were able to rely on Morant. Returning from injury, Morant put up 45 points, shooting 50% from the field and 60% from three. He also added 13 assists in a great outing for the team leader. However, it just wasn’t enough. Anthony Davis scored 31 and LeBron put 25 as the Lakers cruised to a 111-101 win. The scoreline made the game seem closer than it was.

The Grizzlies scored just nine points in the first quarter and trailed by 16 at the half. While the second half was much better for them, they were never able to truly threaten the Lakers. Rui Hachimura had 16 off the bench, outscoring the entirety of the Grizzlies’ bench (12). However, after the game, LeBron dismissed any notion of beef between him and Brooks. “I didn’t make a statement,” James said. “I’ve been doing this too long. I’m not making any statements. We had the opportunity to come home and play well on our home floor, and we did that. No statement was made. We just wanted to play well, and we got a win. I don’t need to make statements.”

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