MORE FROM Kyle Irving

Clippers need a new answer to stop Doncic

Luka Doncic torched the Clippers with a 30-point triple-double to steal Game 1 on the road, taking full advantage of LA's switches on defence to pick and choose his matchups. Analytics tell the story of a Clippers team with major adjustments to make ahead of Game 2, as centre Ivica Zubac was left on an island with Doncic all too often. Can LA find an answer to contain the 21-year-old phenom before falling too far behind in the series?

Kyle Irving

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What to watch for: Monday's Game 2s

There are two Game 2s on tap for Monday, with the Heat looking to even the series against the Bucks and the Nuggets trying to come away with one home win against the Trail Blazers. What are the keys to each of these games?

Kyle Irving

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Davis shoulders blame for Lakers' Game 1 loss

Following a lacklustre performance in the Lakers' Game 1 loss to the Suns, star forward Anthony Davis took the blame for his team's efforts. Davis only scored 13 points with seven rebounds, being outplayed by Deandre Ayton to fall behind 1-0 in the series.

Kyle Irving

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Booker stars in playoff debut as Suns handle Lakers

Making his highly anticipated playoff debut, Devin Booker starred by scoring a franchise record-setting 34 points in his first postseason game. He and his co-star Deandre Ayton, who was also making his playoff debut, held it down for the ailing Chris Paul to defeat the Lakers.

Kyle Irving

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Harris' career game leads 76ers to Game 1 win

Tobias Harris came out in attack mode in this one, going off for a playoff career-best 37 points to lead the 76ers over the Wizards in Game 1. His efforts combined with 30 points from Joel Embiid and a career-high 15 assists from Ben Simmons proved to be too much for Washington to handle.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Knicks-Hawks a clash of opposite powers

The Knicks swept the Hawks 3-0 in the regular season series but Atlanta displayed a rotation that hardly resembles the lineups that are clicking heading into the postseason in two of those matchups. New York's defence versus Atlanta's offence makes for a true clash of opposite powers in what should be a thrilling playoff series.

Kyle Irving

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Luka's triple-double leads Mavericks to Game 1 win

The legacy of Luka Doncic continues as the 22-year-old phenom dropped a triple-double of 31 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds to lead the Mavericks past the Clippers for a Game 1 win.

Kyle Irving

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Holiday's impact felt in Game 1 win

The Bucks turned heads when they traded a massive hall for defensive-minded guard Jrue Holiday this past offseason, but it only took one playoff game to justify the move. Although Khris Middleton's game-winning shot stole the show, Holiday heavily impacted Game 1 to help the Bucks come away with a win.

Kyle Irving

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Which players have most to prove this playoffs?

With the 2021 NBA Playoffs starting up on Saturday, players will have the opportunity to shine on the bright stage and step up for their teams in pursuit of a championship. But as we've seen before legacies can be defined in the postseason, so you better bring your A-game. Who are the players that have the most to prove this playoffs?

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Heat look to down Bucks once again

The Heat upset the Bucks in a shocking five-game fashion last postseason, using the series to gain momentum and eventually make a run to the NBA Finals. Milwaukee will be back with a vengeance this time around, but as we saw last year, Miami isn't going to go down without a fight.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Can Celtics keep up with Nets Big 3?

The reward for the Celtics claiming the No. 7 seed in the East by winning their Play-In Game? A matchup against the powerhouse Nets. Can Jayson Tatum and Kemba Walker produce enough firepower to keep up with Brooklyn's Big 3 of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden?

Kyle Irving

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Celtics will go as far as Tatum can carry them

Without his All-Star partner Jaylen Brown, superstar forward Jayson Tatum knew he needed to elevate his game if the Celtics were going to have a chance of making any noise this postseason. After scoring 50 points against the Wizards in the Play-In Game to lead Boston to the No. 7 seed in the East, it's becoming clear that this team will only go as far as the 23-year-old can take them.

Kyle Irving

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Key takeaways from a rollercoaster Raptors season

The Raptors season came to an end on Sunday when they faced the Pacers. At the year's end, our NBA.com Staff takes a look at some of the biggest takeaways from one of the most unique seasons in the history of the franchise and the league.

Kyle Irving

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Biggest X-factors in Play-In Tournament

The stage is set for the first-ever expanded Play-In Tournament! You know who the stars are on each team in the Play-In games, but who are the biggest X-factors set to play a role in their team's chances of qualifying for the playoffs?

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Raptors season finale vs. Pacers

The Raptors will close their 2020-21 season against the Pacers, who are still jockeying for seeding in the Eastern Conference Play-In Tournament.

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: Analyzing the WNBA's new looks

In celebration of its 25th season, the WNBA is going to have quite a few new looks in 2021 – 36 to be exact. With each of the league's 12 teams receiving three new uniforms, NBA.com's Gil McGregor and Kyle Irving are back to break down what each means while discussing a few of their favourites from the bunch.

Kyle Irving

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Ionescu's comeback season on horizon

Sabrina Ionescu, the record-shattering college basketball superstar and No. 1 pick in the 2020 WNBA Draft, had her rookie season cut short three games in by a devastating ankle injury. The Liberty went on to finish with a league-worst 2-20 record, but have reloaded their roster around the 23-year-old floor general with much higher aspirations for the upcoming WNBA season.

Kyle Irving

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Who should be Rookie of the Year?

Welcome back to the final NBA Rookie Ladder of the 2020-21 NBA season! This time around, we will provide you with our final rankings for the 2021 Rookie of the Year race, with the players in the top-five of the ladder projected as our pick to make the All-Rookie First Team. Take a look and see how the final results shaped out.

Kyle Irving

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Report: J. Cole to play in Basketball Africa League

The Basketball Africa League is set to tip off its inaugural season on Sunday, May 16. According to ESPN's Marc J. Spears, the Rwanda Patriots are signing American rapper J. Cole for the upcoming season.

Kyle Irving

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Pelicans' guide to 2021 NBA Draft

The Pelicans have missed the playoffs for the third straight season. What's next? An interesting offseason where they'll have to navigate the restricted free agency of two important players in Lonzo Ball and Josh Hart.

Kyle Irving

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Oladipo to have season-ending surgery

The Heat announced on Wednesday that Victor Oladipo will receive season-ending surgery on his right quadriceps tendon. The 29-year-old is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

Kyle Irving

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Who would be First Team All-MIP?

There's only one award for MIP, but what if the NBA elected an entire team like they do with All-NBA or All-Rookie? Here's a look at the players that should be acknowledged for their improvement this season.

Kyle Irving

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Kawhi, Clippers rout shorthanded Raptors

The Clippers needed this win in order to maintain their one-game lead over the Nuggets for the No. 3 seed in the West and they got the job done. Behind 20 points from Kawhi Leonard, LA had more than enough in the tank to take care of business against the shorthanded Raptors.

Kyle Irving

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Heat clinch a top-six seed in playoffs

After defeating the Celtics for the second-consecutive game in a row, the Heat have paved their own path into the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Do the reigning Eastern Conference champions have another NBA Finals run in them?

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Clippers earn wire-to-wire win over Raptors

The Clippers come away with a dominant victory over the Raptors to maintain their one-game lead over the Denver Nuggets for the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference playoff picture.

Kyle Irving

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Report: LeBron (ankle) to return this week

A high ankle sprain caused LeBron James to miss 20 consecutive games from the end of March to the end of April. He returned for two games of action before feeling discomfort, returning to the sidelines for another four games. Reports indicate that James is set to suit up again this week.

Kyle Irving

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Biggest storylines of final week of season

Heading into the final week of the 2020-21 NBA regular season, there are still plenty of marquee matchups as the playoff picture is far from set in stone. Take a look at some of the biggest storylines as the regular season comes to a close.

Kyle Irving

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Siakam surprises mom on Mother's Day

The Raptors star forward made a heartfelt post on Mother's Day, surprising his mom with a new house.

Kyle Irving

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Play-In Tournament looms large for Celtics

When the Celtics comeback came up short against the Heat on Sunday, they not only sacrificed the tiebreaker in the season series, they also put themselves two games back from the Miami for the No. 6 seed in the East. With the Play-In Tournament now looming large for Boston, can it respond with a much-needed win against the Heat in their very next contest?

Kyle Irving

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Underrated draft class set to make playoff impact

Prior to the 2020 NBA Draft, this rookie class was said to be low on talent with a lot of high-risk players with volatile ceilings and floors. As the 2020-21 NBA season has played out, that could not appear to be more incorrect, as a number of rookies are poised to make an impact on this year's playoff race and postseason.

Kyle Irving

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Key takeaways from grueling Raptors road trip

The Raptors embarked on their final West Coast road trip of the 2020-21 season and came back with a 1-3 record, defeating the Lakers and falling to the Nuggets, Jazz and Clippers. Trailing the Wizards by 3.5 games for 10th place in the Eastern Conference standings with just six games remaining, Toronto faces an uphill battle when it comes to making the Play-In Tournament.

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: End-of-season fashion awards

With the 2020-21 NBA season coming to a close, end-of-season awards are on the horizon. In this edition of Cloth Talk – where we delve into all things style – we'll make our award selections strictly based on players' fashion. From Rookie of the Year to All-NBA to MVP, take a look and see which players had award-worthy seasons on the pregame runway.

Kyle Irving

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One Play: Comparing Giddey's playmaking to LaMelo

Comparisons between Josh Giddey and LaMelo Ball are inevitable as two big, playmaking guards that went through the NBL's Next Stars program to achieve their dreams of being drafted into the NBA. Take a look at one play that depicts the similarity in the biggest strength of these two young guards.

Kyle Irving

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Nuggets lock up spot in 2021 Playoffs

After falling just a few wins shy of reaching the NBA Finals for just the first time in franchise history last season, the Nuggets will get another shot at a deep postseason run after clinching a spot in the 2021 NBA Playoffs.

Kyle Irving

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DeRozan's evolving game keeping Spurs in playoff picture

The Spurs had their NBA record of 22-consecutive playoff appearances snapped last season, but behind a crop of promising young players and a savvy veteran in DeMar DeRozan, who has adapted his game for the betterment of his team, San Antonio is poised to return to the postseason in the form of the Play-In Tournament.

Kyle Irving

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What did we learn in showdown between Durant and Giannis?

Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant both returned from one-game absences ahead of this marquee matchup between the Bucks and Nets and it did not disappoint. Antetokounmpo went for 49 points while Durant went for 42 points in a heavyweight battle between two of the best teams in the league.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Raptors take on full-strength Lakers

The Raptors have their hands full just one day removed from a heartbreaking loss to the Jazz, now set to take on the defending champion Lakers in Los Angeles. With both Anthony Davis and LeBron James expected to be back in action, can Toronto pick up a win to keep their playoff hopes alive?

Kyle Irving

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Magic sign Canadian Brazdeikis to 10-day

The Magic announced on Sunday that they have signed Canadian Ignas Brazdeikis to a 10-day contract.

Kyle Irving

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Bogdanovic, VanVleet battle as Jazz edge Raptors

The Raptors came up with a number of big stops late in the fourth quarter of Saturday's contest against the Jazz, but they couldn't cash in on the offensive end to come away with a win. In a duel between Fred VanVleet and Bojan Bogdanovic, Utah came away with a hard-fought victory.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Jazz hold off spirited effort from Raptors

Fred VanVleet showed out with 30 points but the Raptors couldn't make enough big shots down the stretch to come away with a win in Utah. The Jazz got a game-high 34 points from Bojan Boganovic but it was the bench that significantly outplayed Toronto's second unit to prove to be the biggest difference-maker.

Kyle Irving

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How did LaMelo look in first game back?

After missing the last 21 games with a fractured wrist, the Hornets star guard LaMelo Ball returned to action in Saturday's contest against the Pistons. How did the Rookie of the Year-hopeful play in his first game back?

Kyle Irving

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How have traded Raptors been playing?

Toronto traded three players at the 2021 trade deadline in Norman Powell, Matt Thomas and Terence Davis. How have the trio of former Raptors fared since being moved?

Kyle Irving

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Westbrook is a Play-In Tournament nightmare

As the Wizards are in hot pursuit of one of the final spots in the Play-In Tournament, Russell Westbrook has elevated his game to a level we haven't seen since his 2017 MVP season. Once again averaging a triple-double, the nine-time All-Star is gaining a full head of steam at just the right time and opposing teams will not want to see this version of Westbrook in a win-or-go-home Play-In game.

Kyle Irving

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Nets' supporting cast downs Raptors with tough road stretch ahead

The Raptors held Kevin Durant to 17 points and Kyrie Irving to just nine points, but Jeff Green and Blake Griffin stepped up to give the Nets the victory. Toronto couldn't overcome cold shooting nights from Pascal Siakam and Fred VanVleet, lacking the firepower to keep up with Brooklyn's depth.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Nets supporting cast takes care of Raptors

The Raptors did a solid job defending Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, but the rest of the Nets' roster did their job to come away with a win. As a result of the victory, Brooklyn becomes the first Eastern Conference team to clinch a playoff spot.

Kyle Irving

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Irving's one-of-a-kind wizardry in three plays

Nets star guard Kyrie Irving is a magician on the court, that is well documented by now. His ball-on-a-string handles, tough-shot-making ability and feathery touch on layups and floaters often has viewers befuddled and lost in the artistry that is one of the most unique styles of play the game has ever seen.

Kyle Irving

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How did Durant look in his first game back?

All-Star forward Kevin Durant missed a total of 26 games from February to April due to a hamstring injury. Once he finally returned to play, he appeared in four games before suffering a thigh contusion that would force him to miss another three contests. Returning to action sooner than expected, the four-time scoring champion picked up right where he left off to help lead the Nets past the Suns.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Canadian Shittu to sign two-way deal with Knicks

The Burlington, Ontario product has reportedly landed a two-way deal with the Knicks following a strong season in the G League bubble.

Kyle Irving

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Ignite land five-star prospect Foster

Michael Foster, a McDonald's All-American and the No. 7-ranked player in the class of 2021, will forgo his college eligibility and sign with the G League Ignite for the 2021-22 season.

Kyle Irving

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Flynn, Gillespie show out for rookie initiation

There's nothing quite like rookie initiation. Raptors first-year players Malachi Flynn and Freddie Gillespie got to flash a bit of personality as they performed "Party In the USA" by Miley Cyrus in front of their coaches and teammates.

Kyle Irving

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VanVleet speaks on similarities to Flynn

Rookie guard Malachi Flynn has been getting Fred VanVleet comparisons even before he was selected by the Raptors in the 2020 NBA Draft. VanVleet spoke to the media about the striking similarities between he and Flynn, Flynn's nickname and how he's taken the 22-year-old under his wing in his first NBA season.

Kyle Irving

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With return on horizon, can Ball catch Edwards?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. There wasn't any movement in the top five this week, but with LaMelo Ball's return on the horizon, the star guard has his work cut out for him if he's going to catch Anthony Edwards.

Kyle Irving

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Raptors' star power shines through in win over Nets

The Raptors finally had their core group back in the lineup together and what a difference it made. Behind 27 points from Pascal Siakam and 25 points from OG Anunoby, Toronto was able to counterpunch a near-triple-double from Kyrie Irving to hold off the Nets and pick up a victory.

Kyle Irving

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Boucher to receive MRI on knee injury

Chris Boucher left Wednesday's game against the Nets with a knee injury after landing awkwardly going for a rebound. He did not return to the contest and after the game, head coach Nick Nurse told the media he will receive an MRI to determine the severity of the injury.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Raptors stars show out to defeat Nets

What a difference having all of your best players makes. Despite a slow start, the Raptors core group of Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, Kyle Lowry and Fred VanVleet stepped up big to make a major second-half comeback to defeat the Nets.

Kyle Irving

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Must-add players for fantasy playoffs

Whether you're in the final week of the regular season, first week of the playoffs or the playoffs are already under way in your fantasy basketball league, check your waiver wire to see if these players are available to help your pursuit for a championship.

Kyle Irving

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This week's games with Play-In implications

With around 15 games remaining in the season for each team, every contest begins to hold more meaning when you look at the weekly schedule. Which games this upcoming week have heavy implications on how the Play-In Tournament will shape out?

Kyle Irving

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Ranking 10 best games of MJ's career

On the anniversary of Michael Jordan's greatest performances, we look back at the 10 best games of his legendary career. As you might expect, it was pretty hard to pick just 10.

Kyle Irving

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🇨🇦 Wiggins, Thompson elevating play at the right time

The Celtics are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, winning seven of their last eight games. The Warriors are also riding a hot streak, winning four of their last five games. While stars like Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Stephen Curry draw all the praise, Canadians Tristan Thompson and Andrew Wiggins have stepped up for their respective teams to contribute to recent success.

Kyle Irving

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Watson speaks on sharpshooting career night

Raptors forward Paul Watson turned the game on its head in the third quarter of Toronto's win over the Magic on Friday, going off for 20 of his career-high 30 points with six 3s in one frame. After the game, he spoke on his breakout performance and the support he received from his teammates.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Mitchell (ankle) to miss 'several' games

Jazz All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell suffered an ankle injury in the third quarter of their game against the Pacers on Friday. He was unable to walk to the locker room under his own power, being helped by his teammates. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Mitchell's MRI revealed no structural damage, but he is expected to miss "several" games upon his return.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Potential VanVleet return vs. Magic?

The Raptors will be shorthanded yet again, as Kyle Lowry, Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby are all resting for this contest against the Magic, while Gary Trent Jr. is doubtful with an ankle injury. But one noticeable name that was absent from the injury report? Fred VanVleet, who may be ready to step in against the team he scored a franchise-record 54 points against earlier this season.

Kyle Irving

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DeRozan speaks on Anunoby's growth

OG Anunoby's play on both sides of the ball was the biggest component to the Raptors' victory over the Spurs, leading his team in scoring while defending a familiar foe in DeMar DeRozan on the other end. After the game, DeRozan had plenty to say about his budding former teammate.

Kyle Irving

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Anunoby shines as Raptors hold off DeRozan's Spurs

The Raptors were down three starters in Kyle Lowry, Fred VanVleet and Gary Trent Jr., and they were still able to come away with a win behind the stellar two-way play of OG Anunoby. DeMar DeRozan finished with 19 points and 11 assists, but the Spurs didn't have enough juice to complete a comeback.

Kyle Irving

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Jackie Robinson the ... basketball player?

April 15 is celebrated annually by Major League Baseball as Jackie Robinson Day, the anniversary of when one of the game's all-time greats is honoured for breaking the league's colour barrier back in 1947. But did you know that the sport's paramount pioneer had a lengthy list of opportunities to choose professional basketball instead of baseball? This is the story of Jackie Robinson, the basketball player.

Kyle Irving

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Running Diary: Raptors halt Spurs comeback

The shorthanded Raptors muscled up in this one with a number of players stepping into bigger roles. OG Anunoby's stellar two-way play, scoring 22 points while also defending DeMar DeRozan, played a huge factor, as did some strong minutes from the two new frontcourt additions.

Kyle Irving

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Playoff picture top-of-mind during Celtics pivotal week

With three-consecutive nationally televised games against tough Western Conference opponents in the Trail Blazers, Lakers and Warriors, the Celtics will put their current hot streak to the test with an opportunity to shake up the Eastern Conference playoff picture with the entire NBA world watching.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Raptors' playoff pursuit continues vs. Hawks

The Raptors came up short against the Knicks on Sunday but they have an opportunity to bounce back on Tuesday when they host the surging Hawks. With the Bulls losing on Monday, Toronto is now only 1.5 games back from the final spot in the 2021 Play-In Tournament.

Kyle Irving

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What is NBA Top Shot?

NBA Top Shot is the future of the trading card market. Virtual packs can be purchased and either 'showcased' or re-sold on the virtual marketplace with some highlights currently selling for as much as $100,000 USD.

Kyle Irving

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Three stats to know from Trent's career night

44 points on 19 shots. Gary Trent Jr. had the hot hand against the Cavaliers, notching a career-high in scoring on rarely-before-seen efficiency to help lead the shorthanded Raptors to victory.

Kyle Irving

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Trent's career-high 44 leads scorching Raptors past Cavaliers

The shorthanded Raptors took care of business on the road against the Cavaliers behind a franchise record-setting first half, an explosion of a career-high 44 points from Gary Trent Jr. and the best game of Malachi Flynn's young career with a 20-point double-double.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Trent, Flynn career nights lead Raptors to win

No Kyle Lowry, no Fred VanVleet, no Pascal Siakam, no problem. The Raptors young backcourt tandem of Gary Trent Jr. and Malachi Flynn erupted for career nights to lead Toronto past the Cavaliers to pick up a much-needed victory.

Kyle Irving

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Who is Lakers' go-to option without LeBron and AD?

The Lakers are trying to keep their season afloat while LeBron James and Anthony Davis recover from injury, but who is stepping up in their absence as the team's go-to guy? There are four different players vying for that title but the team as a whole is looking to avoid sliding further down the standings with only 20 games remaining.

Kyle Irving

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Rookie Ladder: Who took the top spot from injured Ball?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. LaMelo Ball's injury has paved the way for a different first-year player to take the top rank since the first week of this ladder, but who claimed that spot? Also, a new rookie enters the top five for their first time this season.

Kyle Irving

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Boucher: 'I've been getting bullied and I've had enough of that'

With the Raptors already lacking frontcourt depth and shorthanded due to injuries and health and safety protocols, Montreal, QC product Chris Boucher needed to step up against the Bulls All-Star centre Nikola Vucevic in a game that had heavy playoff implications. Despite the loss, Boucher came through with the best performance of his career.

Kyle Irving

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CP3 is making a Nash-like run at MVP

Nash was an outlier when he won the 2005 NBA MVP. Averaging just 15.5 points per game, he ranked fourth on his own team in scoring, but his undeniable impact in leading the Suns to the best record in the Western Conference still allowed him to retain the award. They say history repeats itself and over a decade later, Chris Paul is following that same blueprint with the same franchise, looking to bring Phoenix back to a place they haven't been since Nash left. If the Suns grab the top seed in the West, how can CP3 be ignored from MVP conversations?

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Raptors-Bulls has heavy playoff implications

The Raptors trail the Bulls by 2.0 games for the final spot the the Easter Conference Play-In Tournament with just over 20 games remaining in the season. With Chicago taking the first of three meetings, it has a chance to take the season series and playoff tiebreaker with a win in this one. Can a shorthanded Toronto squad muscle up and come away with one of its biggest wins of the season?

Kyle Irving

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Lakers snap seven-year losing streak vs. Raptors

The last time the Lakers beat the Raptors? Nov. 30, 2014, when Kobe Bryant dropped a 31-point triple-double to pull off a win. Toronto had won 11 consecutive games against Los Angeles since then, until Marc Gasol and the Lakers got revenge in his first game against his former team to snap the streak.

Kyle Irving

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Raptors praise Gasol's impact in first game against former team

It wasn't the most traditional return game for Marc Gasol, who faced off against his former team in Tampa, Florida as opposed to a rocking Scotiabank Arena crowd in Toronto. But the veteran centre stepped up when his team needed him most and his former head coach and teammates spoke out on Gasol's impact on the game.

Kyle Irving

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Anunoby, Harrell ejected in first quarter

In the first quarter of Tuesday's matchup between the Raptors and Lakers, Dennis Schroder served a hard foul on OG Anunoby which sparked a bit of a scrap. As a result, Anunoby and Montrezl Harrell were ejected from the contest.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: 3-point barrage leads Lakers past Raptors

The Lakers buried 18 3-pointers, falling just one shy of tying their single game season-high. With the Raptors converting a season-low five 3s, that made all the difference in a tough loss for Toronto. With the win, Los Angeles snaps an 11-game losing streak against the Raptors that dated back to 2014.

Kyle Irving

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Get to know top prospects Green, Kuminga

With the NCAA Tournament nearing a close as the Final Four approaches, you've had plenty of time to get familiar with college basketball's top NBA prospects. But how well do you know the two potential top five picks that elected to forgo their college eligibility, opting to play in the NBA's development program for the G League Ignite? Smooth scoring guard Jalen Green and versatile two-way forward Jonathan Kuminga are coming off of impressive seasons in the G League bubble, ready to make an immediate impact at the next level.

Kyle Irving

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How the Hornets became must-see TV

When you're trying to decide what teams to watch on any given night, what are some of the deciding factors? As the combination of close games, intriguing players and a captivating narrative make for a must-watch product, look no further than the Hornets. With LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, Gordon Hayward and company, Charlotte has quickly become the League Pass darling of the 2020-21 NBA season.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Can Raptors bounce back vs. injury-riddled Thunder?

The Raptors losing streak extended to three games following a tough loss to the Pistons. With another young and energetic team that plays with purpose on tap in the Thunder, can Toronto right its wrongs from Monday night to bounce back with a win?

Kyle Irving

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Report: Cousins to sign 10-day contract with Clippers

According to reports from ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and The Athletic's Shams Charania, the LA Clippers are planning to sign veteran centre DeMarcus Cousins to a 10-day contract.

Kyle Irving

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Head-to-Head, Week 10: Breaking down each matchup

Welcome to Head-To-Head, a new fantasy game that is centred around how many points players score. Every Monday, five new matchups will be presented. All you have to do is pick which player you think will score more points in each matchup. What's on the line? Weekly and season-long prizes, including courtside tickets and a video call with an NBA All-Star.

Kyle Irving

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Pistons handle Raptors as another losing streak builds

The Raptors entered this game with hopes of snapping a two-game losing streak while trying to avoid being swept by the Pistons in their season-series. Detroit had other plans, routing Toronto with a 3-point shooting barrage as the Raptors losing streak grows to three.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Pistons sweep season-series vs. Raptors

The Raptors had no answer for the Pistons all season, dropping all three matchups against the team with the Eastern Conference's worst record. Detroit's hot 3-point shooting and bench scoring proved to be too much for Toronto, as the Raptors losing streak extends to three games.

Kyle Irving

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Lakers officially sign Drummond

Help is on the way for the injury-plagued defending champions, as ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that Andre Drummond will sign with the Lakers once he clears waivers.

Kyle Irving

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OT thriller: Suns survive late flurry from Hornets

The Suns were in the driver's seat of this contest, leading by 12 points with just over five minutes to play in the game, looking like they were going to cruise to a win. The Hornets came charging back with a 14-2 run led by Devonte' Graham to send the game into overtime, but Devin Booker and Phoenix would hold on to close things out.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Lillard to return vs. Raptors; Powell to remain starter

According to Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes, Damian Lillard (knee contusion) is set to return from a one-game absence against the Raptors. While belief was that would force Norman Powell to revert to a role off the bench, Haynes reports that the Blazers will keep their newly acquired scorer in the starting lineup.

Kyle Irving

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Why Raptors should re-sign Trent Jr. this offseason

In the Trade Deadline deal that sent Norman Powell to the Trail Blazers, the Raptors returned two pieces that should be poised to make an impact in Gary Trent Jr. and Rodney Hood. While Hood is a veteran at this stage in his career, Trent Jr. is just getting started on carving out his career as an NBA player, beginning to find his groove in the league. With restricted free agency facing Trent and Toronto this upcoming offseason, will the Raptors re-sign the 22-year-old?

Kyle Irving

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Powell's best moments with Raptors

The Raptors have traded Norman Powell to the Portland Trail Blazers. This potentially brings an end to a six-year run in Toronto which included playing a key role on the 2019 team that helped bring home the first NBA championship in franchise history. In honour of a strong career six seasons, take a look at Powell's best moments with the Raptors.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Can new-look Raptors knock off another top team in Suns?

The Raptors will look to build off of the momentum of snapping their nine-game losing streak prior to a hectic trade deadline, trying to take down another one of the Western Conference's top teams. With new acquisitions Gary Trent Jr. and Rodney Hood expected to be available, this is the first chance to catch the new-look Raptors.

Kyle Irving

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Fantasy implications of trade deadline moves

The deals made at the NBA Trade Deadline will always have a ripple effect on the Fantasy Basketball world, altering current and future roles for players on rosters and on the waiver wire. Which players were most affected by the deadline's trades and who should you keep an eye out for as a result?

Kyle Irving

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Fast facts on Hood

The Raptors have acquired Rodney Hood and Gary Trent Jr. in the deal that sent Norman Powell to the Trail Blazers. If you're unfamiliar with Hood, here's some fast facts to get you up to speed.

Kyle Irving

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What's next for the Raptors?

The highly anticipated 2020-21 NBA Trade Deadline has come and gone, and with Kyle Lowry still on the roster, the Raptors are poised to make a playoff push for the eight-consecutive season. With Norman Powell, Matt Thomas and Terence Davis on the way out, and Gary Trent Jr. and Rodney Hood on their way in, what will the remainder of this season look like for Toronto?

Kyle Irving

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Clippers acquire Rondo for Lou Williams

The Clippers have traded three-time Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams, two second-round picks and cash to the Hawks for two-time champion Rajon Rondo. How does this deal affect both teams as they pursue a playoff push?

Kyle Irving

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What can Celtics do with trade exception?

When the Celtics traded Gordon Hayward to the Hornets during 2020 free agency, it created a $28.5 million Traded Player Exception, the largest in league history. But what is a Traded Player Exception? And how can Boston use it to its advantage in trying to acquire talent at the trade deadline?

Kyle Irving

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Report: Trade talks heating up for Lowry, Powell

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Raptors are "hurtling toward a roster transformation" ahead of the Thursday, March 25 NBA Trade Deadline with Kyle Lowry and Norman Powell at the forefront of different deals.

Kyle Irving

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Ball (wrist) re-evaluated in four weeks

Hornets star guard LaMelo Ball suffered a fractured wrist in Saturday's loss to the Clippers, putting the remainder of his rookie season in jeopardy. Following surgery on his wrist injury, the team announced the Rookie of the Year front-runner may not be out for the season, after all, and is set to be re-evaluated in four weeks.

Kyle Irving

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All-female broadcast team to make history

History will be made when the Raptors host the Nuggets on Wednesday. For the first time in NBA history, TSN will have an all-female broadcasting team with Meghan McPeak and Kia Nurse on the call, Kayla Grey working the sideline and Kate Beirness and Amy Audibert as show hosts.

Kyle Irving

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VanVleet speaks on high number of minutes since return

After missing nearly three weeks of action, Fred VanVleet has picked up right where he left off in his role as the Raptors' spark plug. Playing over 40 minutes in three of his first four games, all of which have amounted to losses, Toronto's star guard speaks on how his body is feeling as he works his way back into game shape.

Kyle Irving

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LeBron out indefinitely with ankle sprain

LeBron James suffered an ankle injury in the second quarter of the Lakers contest against the Hawks and has been ruled out indefinitely with a high ankle sprain.

Kyle Irving

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When will Siakam's clutch-time shots start falling?

In Friday's loss to the Jazz, the Raptors had a chance to send the game into overtime with a potential game-tying 3-pointer from Pascal Siakam. The one-time All-Star forward's shot touched every part of the rim before popping out, resulting in a seventh-consecutive loss. It wasn't the first time that happened to Siakam this season, but his coach and teammates still believe in him as a closer.

Kyle Irving

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Blind Resume: Which player would you want?

Welcome to NBA Blind Resume, a game where you have an opportunity to put bias aside and select players based off of stat lines that are presented without context. Digest the numbers, read the case for each player and then place your vote before we reveal each player and the significance of the comparison.

Kyle Irving

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Mitchell's clutch play leads late comeback over Raptors

The Raptors led by five points with 1:25 to play in the game but couldn't close things out, dropping their seventh-consecutive game. Donovan Mitchell's 12 points in the fourth quarter was the catalyst of the Jazz's comeback victory.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Mitchell comes up clutch to defeat Raptors

The Raptors led by five points with under 90 seconds to play, but couldn't close out the game to snap their losing streak. Donovan Mitchell's clutch shooting down the stretch helped the Jazz come away with a win.

Kyle Irving

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Is Edwards challenging Ball for ROY?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. Is Anthony Edwards catching up to LaMelo Ball for the top spot? Where did first-year players end up following a top five shuffling?

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: Breaking down "Earned Edition" uniforms

Welcome into another edition of NBA Cloth Talk, where we delve into all things style in the league. This time around, were discussing the recently-revealed "Earned Edition" uniforms for the 16 teams that qualified for the playoffs in 2020.

Kyle Irving

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Powell's career night spoiled as Raptors comeback falls short

In Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam's first game back in the lineup following a six-game absence due to health and safety protocols, the Raptors couldn't snap their losing streak as the Pistons hand Toronto its sixth-consecutive loss despite a career-high 43 points from Norman Powell.

Kyle Irving

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Running Diary: Pistons fend off Raptors

Despite Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam returning to the lineup and a career-high 43 points from Norman Powell, the Raptors couldn't snap their losing streak, which has now extended to six games.

Kyle Irving

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Four Raptors to return vs. Pistons

The Raptors announced Wednesday that Fred VanVleet, Pascal Siakam, Patrick McCaw and Malachi Flynn, who have missed the last six games due to the league's health and safety protocols, will return against the Pistons.

Kyle Irving

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Four Raptors cleared for practice, Anunoby still out

The Raptors have been without Fred VanVleet, Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, Malachi Flynn and Patrick McCaw for five consecutive games due to the league's health and safety protocols. The team announced that all but Anunoby have been cleared to practice ahead of Wednesday's game against the Pistons.

Kyle Irving

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On This Date: McGee blocks 12 shots

In the past 20 years, there have only been three players that have blocked 12 shots in an NBA game. That is the most blocked shots by a player in a game in that timeframe.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Raptors look to bounce back vs. Hornets

The Raptors lost on a buzzer-beater in their first game back following the All-Star break while the Hornets closed out their first game back with a game-sealing floater from Terry Rozier. As two teams jockeying for position in the Eastern Conference playoff picture, this game could have heavy implications at a later date.

Kyle Irving

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Report: LeVert set to make Pacers debut vs. Suns

The Pacers acquired Caris LeVert in the four-team deal that sent James Harden to the Nets, but after LeVert's physical revealed a small mass in his kidney that required surgery, the scoring guard was forced to miss time as he recovered. Two months later, LeVert is ahead of schedule and ready to make his return.

Kyle Irving

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Nurse shoulders blame after Hawks loss

It was the first game back at the helm for Raptors head coach Nick Nurse, who missed the last three games due to health and safety protocols. Things didn't go as planned in his return, as he expressed his self-disappointment postgame for allowing Toronto to surrender a late lead in its heartbreaking loss to the Hawks.

Kyle Irving

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Snell's game-winning buzzer-beat spoils Raptors comeback

The Raptors trailed by as many as 19 points before completely turning the game around to put themselves in the drivers seat in the fourth quarter. The Hawks weren't going down without a fight, clawing back into the contest late in the fourth quarter before Trae Young set up Tony Snell on a game-winning buzzer-beater 3-pointer.

Kyle Irving

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Lowry passes Bosh for 2nd on Raptors all-time scoring list

In the second quarter of the Raptors contest against the Hawks, Kyle Lowry passed Chris Bosh for second on the franchise's all-time scoring list. He now only trails former teammate DeMar DeRozan.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Snell's game-winner beats Raptors

The Raptors clawed their way back into the game after trailing by as much as 19 in the first half. Building as much as a 12 point lead, Toronto was sitting comfortably until the Hawks fought their way back into the game in the fourth quarter, setting up for Tony Snell's game-winning buzzer beater 3-pointer.

Kyle Irving

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Lakeland Magic win G League championship

The Magic held the Blue Coats' G League standout Paul Reed to just 13 points on 6-for-18 shooting from the field in a defensive performance worthy of a championship. Lakeland guard Devin Cannady scored a team-high 22 points in the victory to take home G League Finals MVP.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Raptors open second half with Hawks

The Raptors will look to get things back on track for the second half of the season in a matchup against the Hawks. Atlanta and Toronto are only separated by one game in the Eastern Conference standings and with the Hawks taking the first meeting this season, this one becomes all that much more important for both sides.

Kyle Irving

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Murray's heating up, here come the Nuggets

Following their run to the Western Conference Finals last season, the Nuggets' 2020-21 campaign got out to a slower than expected start with Jamal Murray struggling to replicate his production in the NBA bubble. Just before the All-Star break, we began to see the Canadian guard return to that level, catching fire to help Denver get back into familiar territory as one of the best teams in the West.

Kyle Irving

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Fantasy Basketball injury updates

The second half of the 2020-21 NBA season is right around the corner and there are plenty of injury updates to get your team ready for the end of the fantasy season and playoff push.

Kyle Irving

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LaVine's rise from Dunk Contest to All-Star Game

For the first four years of his NBA career, Zach LaVine was primarily associated with his two legendary performances as the 2015 and 2016 Slam Dunk Contest champion. As he continues to grow as a player, the 26-year-old has proven to be much more than just a leaper, flashing a well-rounded skillset as a prolific scorer who has graduated to Sunday's main event for the first time.

Kyle Irving

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Fantasy impact of Griffin signing with Nets

The Nets have signed six-time All-Star Blake Griffin and according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, they plan to use him as a "small-ball centre option off the bench." What does that mean for his fantasy impact and the other bigs on Brooklyn's roster?

Kyle Irving

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The One Year Away All-Stars

A number of players were left just short of achieving that first-time All-Star status this season. From playoff heroes like Fred VanVleet and Jamal Murray to emerging young talents like LaMelo Ball and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, there's no shortage of names sitting on the fringe. We examine all the players who are poised to make that jump to All-Star status next season.

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: 2021 All-Star Game and All-Star memories

Welcome to a special edition of NBA.com's Cloth Talk, where we delve into all things style in the NBA. With the 2021 All-Star Game upon us, NBA.com's Gilbert McGregor and Kyle Irving discuss their thoughts on this year's custom court honouring Historically Black Colleges and Universities as well as their favourite All-Star jerseys and sneakers of the past.

Kyle Irving

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Potential buyout destinations for Griffin

Six-time All-Star forward Blake Griffin has reached a buyout agreement with the Pistons. Teams will have the chance to claim Griffin off waivers before he becomes an unrestricted free agent on Sunday, March 7.

Kyle Irving

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Hits and Misses: Predictions on 2020 rookie class

With the All-Star break upon us, the 2020 rookie class has had half of a season to get accommodated to the next level. Looking back at some of his predictions before the 2020 NBA Draft, it's time to rehash where NBA.com's Kyle Irving was right and where he was wrong in assessing this crop of first-year players.

Kyle Irving

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Zion's biggest improvement in one play

Zion Williamson is a bulldozer when he drives to the basket, finishing in the paint at a historic rate with ease. The 20-year-old phenom has already taken the leap to All-Star status but his game is still improving, and his development as a playmaker should have the entire NBA trembling.

Kyle Irving

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Career nights for Lowry, Boucher not enough vs. Celtics

The shorthanded Raptors gave it everything they had but it wasn't enough to keep up with the Celtics All-Star tandem of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. A career-high 19 assists from Kyle Lowry and career-high 30 points from Chris Boucher kept Toronto in the contest, but without two key starters the Raptors dropped their second-straight game.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Raptors fall to Celtics 132-125

The shorthanded Raptors put up a great fight but fell to the Celtics 132-125. Kyle Lowry dished out a career-high and franchise-record-tying 19 assists, while Chris Boucher and Terence Davis combined for 52 points off the bench.

Kyle Irving

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Tatum's clutch gene is shining through

It's been an up-and-down season for the Celtics, but the ever-developing play of All-Star Jayson Tatum has been a consistent bright spot. Not only is he averaging a career-best 24.9 points and 4.4 assists per game, he's establishing himself as one of the league's best scorers when the game is on the line.

Kyle Irving

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Head-to-Head, Week 7: Breaking down each matchup

Welcome to Head-To-Head, a new fantasy game that is centred around how many points players score. Every Monday, five new matchups will be presented. All you have to do is pick which player you think will score more points in each matchup. What's on the line? Weekly and season-long prizes, including courtside tickets and a video call with an NBA All-Star.

Kyle Irving

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Report: Siakam (protocols) out through All-Star break

The Raptors will be without star forward Pascal Siakam, along with head coach Nick Nurse and five other coaches on the staff, for an undisclosed amount of time due to the league's health and safety protocols.

Kyle Irving

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Ignite head coach predicted Raptors' latest signing

The Raptors announced Friday that they have signed G League Ignite forward Donta Hall to a 10-day contract. In January when Hall first joined the Ignite, head coach Brian Shaw was adamant that the 23-year-old would not be in the G League long, anticipating an NBA team to call up the young forward.

Kyle Irving

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#NBATopShotThis: Dort's game-winner

Luguentz Dort is typically known for his defence but the Thunder's promising young wing came up clutch on the offensive end in Wednesday's win over the Spurs, knocking down a 3-pointer at the buzzer. This play earned our NBA Top Shot Moment of the Night.

Kyle Irving

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Heat star duo spoils Lowry's return in Raptors loss

The Heat's star duo – fresh off of All-Star snubs – came to play in this one as Jimmy Butler's near-triple-double and a big double-double from Bam Adebayo helped lead Miami past the Raptors. Despite a strong performance from Kyle Lowry in his first game back from injury, Toronto couldn't stop the Heat from picking up their fourth-straight victory.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Heat edge Raptors by eight

The Heat held off multiple comeback attempts from the Raptors to pick up their fourth-consecutive win as they work their way back into the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Despite the loss, Kyle Lowry was great in his first game back with 24 points, eight assists and seven rebounds.

Kyle Irving

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Head-to-Head, Week 6: Breaking down each matchup

Welcome to Head-To-Head, a new fantasy game that is centred around how many points players score. Every Monday, five new matchups will be presented. All you have to do is pick which player you think will score more points in each matchup. What's on the line? Weekly and season-long prizes, including courtside tickets and a video call with an NBA All-Star.

Kyle Irving

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BHM: John Thompson a generational inspiration

The late, great John Thompson made his mark on basketball history in 1984, becoming the first Black head coach to win an NCAA championship when his Georgetown Hoyas defeated the Houston Cougars. But his impact on the game and the players he coached and mentored went well beyond that achievement.

Kyle Irving

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Ignite announce Kai Sotto's future

Filipino centre Kai Sotto will not return to the G League Ignite, the team announced on Tuesday.

Kyle Irving

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Preview: Can Raptors knock off East's top team?

The Raptors are riding one of their best streaks of the season, winning three consecutive games to get back to .500 for the first time this year. With a pair of matchups against the best team in the Eastern Conference in the 76ers looming, can Toronto keep its momentum rolling?

Kyle Irving

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Challenging cases for All-Star reserves

The starters have been selected for the 2021 NBA All-Star Game, meaning the hardest decisions are coming up. Picking the reserves inevitably causes a conversation as deserving players are bound to get left out. Which players will get selected as an All-Star and which players will be left snubbed?

Kyle Irving

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Murray makes history with career-high 50 points

What a night it was for Jamal Murray, who went off for a career-high 50 points in Denver's win over Cleveland. While notching a career-high is impressive in itself, Murray also made league and franchise history with this performance. Take a closer look at the numbers behind his breakout game.

Kyle Irving

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Rookie Ladder: No. 1 pick Edwards is climbing

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. Who is the new rookie that entered the top five? How high did No. 1 overall pick Anthony Edwards climb up the ladder? The latest ladder may surprise you.

Kyle Irving

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What are the best BHM edition sneakers?

Welcome to a special edition of NBA.com's Cloth Talk, where NBA.com writers delve into all things style in the NBA. In celebration of Black History Month, NBA players have begun rocking special edition sneakers on the court which honor the ideals of Martin Luther King Jr., non-profit organizations like the Nike Ever Higher Fund, the African community and other iconic pieces of Black culture. Gilbert McGregor and Kyle Irving discuss the meaning behind these tributes, their all-time favourite "BHM" edition kicks and share some personal stories along the way.

Kyle Irving

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The pros and cons of Raptors' small-ball lineup

With OG Anunoby returning from a calf injury, Raptors head coach Nick Nurse elected to use a small-ball lineup to keep red-hot Norman Powell in the starting lineup. It's worked so far, but is that small-ball lineup the answer for the rest of the season?

Kyle Irving

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Luka and Zion notch career-highs in must-see battle

In a matchup between the future superstars of the NBA, you knew Luka Doncic versus Zion Williamson was going to provide plenty of highlights and entertainment. The battle didn't disappoint as Doncic and Williamson each went off for career-highs in scoring as the Mavericks knocked off the Pelicans.

Kyle Irving

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All-Star Moment: Vucevic continues dominance with 42 points

You might not see the Magic as much as other teams around the NBA but Nikola Vucevic has been nothing short of incredible this season and he deserves your All-Star consideration following another monster performance against the Kings.

Kyle Irving

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Buy-low Fantasy Basketball trade targets

Looking for a way to help your fantasy team take a leap into the playoff picture or go from pretender to contender? Take a look at six players that are under-performing at the moment but should get back on track sooner than later, meaning you could get them for below their typical value on the trade market.

Kyle Irving

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How Powell can stay hot when Raptors at full strength

Norman Powell's recent play as a fill-in starter has made a major impact on the Raptors' recent stretch of success but with OG Anunoby's return on the horizon, the scoring wing will likely return to his role off the bench. How can Powell maintain this level of play if he reverts to his old role?

Kyle Irving

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Kuminga steals the show in Ignite debut

Jonathan Kuminga and Jalen Green, two potential top prospects in the 2021 NBA Draft, made their professional debut in the G League Ignite's first game against the Santa Cruz Warriors. How did the dynamic duo fare in their first NBA contest?

Kyle Irving

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Head-to-Head, Week 4: Breaking down each matchup

Welcome to Head-To-Head, a new fantasy game that is centered around how many points players score. Every Monday, five new matchups will be presented. All you have to do is pick which player you think will score more points in each matchup. What's on the line? Weekly and season-long prizes, including courtside tickets and a video call with an NBA All-Star.

Kyle Irving

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Ignite coach speaks on star prospects' improvements

With the start of the 2021 NBA G League bubble tipping off on Feb. 10, we'll get our first look at potential 2021 NBA Draft prospects Jalen Green and Jonathan Kuminga in action. Ahead of the start of the G League Ignite's season, the two stars and head coach Brian Shaw speak on where they could improve to get ready for the next level.

Kyle Irving

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How Ball starting, Rose trade affects Raptors playoff picture

The Raptors hold the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference with an 11-13 record but things are changing with the teams around them that are also fighting for playoff spots. LaMelo Ball has been awesome as a starter for the Hornets, De'Andre Hunter will miss significant time for the Hawks and the Knicks have traded for former MVP Derrick Rose. How do those things affect the Eastern Conference playoff picture?

Kyle Irving

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Power Rankings: Did Jazz take top spot?

The Jazz own the best record in the NBA after winning 15 of their last 16 games, but was it enough to take the top spot from the defending champion Lakers? Which teams made the biggest leap in this week's rankings and who is the new team that entered the top 10 for the first time this season?

Kyle Irving

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Young spoils Boucher's career-night as Hawks drop Raptors

Chris Boucher went off for a career-high 29 points but it wasn't enough as the Hawks' 3-point barrage proved to be too much for the Raptors. Trae Young's double-double of 28 points and 13 assists and Clint Capela's double-double of 23 points and 16 rebounds led the way as Atlanta snapped Toronto's three-game win streak.

Kyle Irving

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Hawks snap Raptors three-game win streak

The Raptors battled on the second night of a back-to-back but ultimately didn't have to enough to keep up with Trae Young's double-double of 28 points and 13 assists.

Kyle Irving

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ROY & MVP candidates duel in Kings win over Nuggets

The Kings' rookie guard Tyrese Haliburton posted a career-high 23 points to help Sacramento fend off a career-high 50 points from Most Valuable Player candidate Nikola Jokic.

Kyle Irving

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All-Star Matchup: Kawhi-PG or Tatum-Brown?

The Clippers host the Celtics on Friday night in a marquee matchup between potential All-Stars as Kawhi Leonard and Paul George go head-to-head with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Both of their meetings needed overtime to decide an outcome last season and with all four players elevating their game to another level this season, you won't want to miss this one.

Kyle Irving

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Did any rookie take the top spot from Ball?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. Did any rookie challenge LaMelo Ball for the top spot? Who are the new rookies making their first appearance on the ladder?

Kyle Irving

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Who should start at guard in the West?

In recent years, voting for the Western Conference has been particularly tough. This year specifically, selecting just two guards for the backcourt will be quite the challenge, as there are at least three players that deserve consideration. With this blind resume, you'll be able to put bias aside and pick strictly based off of numbers.

Kyle Irving

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Raptors sign GM Webster to multi-year extension

The Raptors announced on Thursday that they have signed general manager Bobby Webster to a multi-year contract extension. Per team policy, the terms of the deal were not released.

Kyle Irving

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Flynn assigned to 905 for G League bubble

The Raptors have assigned rookie guard and No. 29 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft Malachi Flynn to Raptors 905 to compete in the G League bubble.

Kyle Irving

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A closer look at VanVleet's historic night

Fred VanVleet torched the Magic for a franchise-record-setting 54 points on 11 3-pointers to help lead the Raptors to a win. Take a closer look at his historic performance by the numbers.

Kyle Irving

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The history behind the first all-Black starting five

On Dec. 26, 1964, head coach Red Auerbach needed to make an adjustment to the Celtics' starting lineup after forward Tommy Heinsohn suffered an injury in the team's Christmas Day game. When coach Auerbach elected to insert forward Willie Naulls into the starting five, NBA history was made.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary from VanVleet's historic night

It was the Fred VanVleet show in Orlando as the Raptors star guard set a new franchise record with 54 points on 11 3-pointers to lead Toronto to a strong win.

Kyle Irving

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to add for Week 7

This week's waiver wire pickups highlight a couple veterans that are thriving in a new opportunity and a pair of rookies that are starting to get comfortable in the league. Take a look and see what players to add to give you a boost for the upcoming week.

Kyle Irving

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Head-to-Head, Week 3: Breaking down each matchup

Welcome to Head-To-Head, a new fantasy game that is centered around how many points players score. Every Monday, five new matchups will be presented. All you have to do is pick which player you think will score more points in each matchup. What's on the line? Weekly and season-long prizes, including courtside tickets and a video call with an NBA All-Star.

Kyle Irving

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Next chapter of Lakers-Celtics rivalry is being written

Back in 2012, when 14-year-old Jayson Tatum tweeted at LeBron James for a follow back, the teenager could have never known what this matchup would become. Dunking on his idol in the Eastern Conference Finals six years later set the stage for future showdowns, but when LeBron elected to sign with the Lakers following that season, it started the next chapter in the historic Celtics-Lakers rivalry.

Kyle Irving

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Rookie Haliburton says VanVleet welcomed him to NBA

On JJ Redick's podcast, 'The Old Man & the Three', Rookie of the Year candidate and budding Kings star Tyrese Haliburton mentioned how Raptors guard Fred VanVleet gave him his 'welcome to the NBA' moment in their first matchup.

Kyle Irving

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to add for Week 6

This week's Waiver Wire Pickups provides some reliable and available options to replace Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, who are out for the time-being due to health and safety protocols. It also has a couple potential long-term options and some intriguing names to add to your watch list for the coming weeks.

Kyle Irving

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Eight Mamba Moments from Lakers title run

There were plenty of moments where the late, great Kobe Bryant's 'Mamba Mentality' was present in players on the Lakers roster during their 2020 NBA title run. From more intentional one's like wearing No. 24 finger sleeves, to subtle moments like Rajon Rondo's cold reaction to a buzzer-beater, the legend's aura often revealed itself if you were looking close enough.

Kyle Irving

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Head-to-Head, Week 2: Breaking down each matchup

Welcome to Head-To-Head, a new fantasy game that is centered around how many points players score. Every Monday, five new matchups will be presented. All you have to do is pick which player you think will score more points in each matchup. What's on the line? Weekly and season long prizes, including courtside tickets and a video call with an NBA All-Star.

Kyle Irving

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Clippers, Jazz climbing fast riding win streaks

Five weeks into the 2020-21 NBA season, we're beginning to see which teams are real and which teams are not. As our weekly Power Rankings begin to develop some consistency, there has still been plenty of movement among the top 10. How far did the Clippers and Jazz rise? How far did the Nets and Suns fall?

Kyle Irving

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Former Raptors coach Bjorkgren thriving as head coach in Indiana

On paper, the Pacers may look like the same team we've seen over the past couple seasons but under new head coach Nate Bjorkgren, Indiana is establishing itself as a legitimate threat in the Eastern Conference. With All-Star forward Domantas Sabonis and rising star Malcolm Brogdon running the show, Bjorkgren has the Pacers operating with similar principles to the winning ways he helped instill in the Raptors alongside head coach Nick Nurse.

Kyle Irving

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Anunoby joins Kawhi in Raptors franchise history

OG Anunoby was stellar offensively for the Raptors in their win over the Pacers, continuing what has been a blazing hot stretch for Toronto's forward. Scoring 30 points with eight rebounds and five steals, Anunoby placed himself alongside Kawhi Leonard in Raptors franchise history.

Kyle Irving

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Anunoby's offensive outburst leads short-handed Raptors past Pacers

OG Anunoby came up just short of his career-high in scoring 30 points to help the short-handed Raptors to victory over the Pacers. His recent offensive prowess has given Toronto some juice while Fred VanVleet's defensive efforts helped seal the game down the stretch.

Kyle Irving

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Lowry, Siakam ruled out Sunday vs. Pacers

The Raptors will be without their two All-Stars in Sunday's contest against the Pacers as Kyle Lowry (toe) and Pascal Siakam (knee) are both ruled out for the first of two consecutive meetings with Indiana.

Kyle Irving

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Anunoby's hot 3-point shooting leads Raptors past Heat

The Raptors needed a bounce-back win after falling to the Heat earlier this week and even without All-Star guard Kyle Lowry, they got it done. A season-high 21 points from OG Anunoby, a hot start from Norman Powell and strong play from Pascal Siakam propelled Toronto to its sixth win of the season.

Kyle Irving

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Capela rewrites history in consecutive games

Clint Capela has been on a tear as of late. After recording a double-double of 27 points and 26 rebounds just a game ago, the Hawks' centre followed that performance with a rare triple-double with 10 blocks in the team's win over the Timberwolves.

Kyle Irving

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Rookie Ladder: Did LaMelo take the top spot?

Welcome back to our 2020-21 NBA Rookie Ladder! Every other Friday, we will provide you with updated rankings to track which first-year players are leading the Rookie of the Year race. After previously coming in at No. 2, did LaMelo Ball take over the top spot? Which rookies fell out of the top-five and which rookies jumped into the top-five?

Kyle Irving

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Buy or Sell: Which fantasy players should you move?

One month into the 2020-21 NBA season, you're probably beginning to identify which players to keep or part ways with on your fantasy roster. As the trade market heats up, should you buy or sell players like Trae Young, Donovan Mitchell, Devin Booker and Julius Randle?

Kyle Irving

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Raptors win streak snapped by short-handed Heat

The Heat were missing Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro but a balanced effort led by a season-high 28 points off the bench from Kendrick Nunn helped snap the Raptors' three-game win streak.

Kyle Irving

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Running diary: Heat knock off Raptors

The Heat have snapped the Raptors three-game win streak thanks to strong performances from Kendrick Nunn, Bam Adebayo and Kelly Olynyk.

Kyle Irving

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Head-to-Head, Week 1: Breaking down each matchup

Welcome to Head-To-Head, a new fantasy game that is centered around how many points players score. Every Monday, five new matchups will be presented. All you have to do is pick which player you think will score more points in each matchup. What's on the line? Weekly and season long prizes, including courtside tickets and a video call with an NBA All-Star.

Kyle Irving

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Hawks earn win while honouring MLK

Hosting a game on Martin Luther King Jr. Day is nothing new to the Hawks but this holiday in particular had a little more meaning behind it, as they debuted their new MLK City Edition uniforms and court. With Dr. King's initials scripted proudly across Atlanta's uniforms, Trae Young and the Hawks were able to hold off the Timberwolves and scrap out a win on Dr. King's birthday.

Kyle Irving

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to add for Week 5

As postponed games begin to impact your fantasy team's roster, being on top of the trending players on the waiver wire become all that much more important. Our Week 5 waiver wire pickups provide you with a couple long-term options and a few streaming options to keep your team chugging along through schedule changes.

Kyle Irving

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Cloth Talk: A tribute fit for a King

Welcome to a special edition of NBA.com's Cloth Talk, where Gilbert McGregor and Kyle Irving delve into all things style in the NBA. As the league prepares to honour the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on MLK Day, we use this edition to take an even closer look at the special way his hometown Hawks will pay tribute to him throughout the season as they debut their MLK "City Edition" uniforms, as well as why the Memphis Grizzlies always play at home on MLK Day.

Kyle Irving

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Lowry comes up clutch, Raptors hold on to beat Hornets

After Kyle Lowry knocked down a clutch jumper to take a late lead, the Raptors nearly let another one slip away before holding on to defeat the Hornets. The win gives Toronto consecutive victories for the first time this season.

Kyle Irving

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Pacers' LeVert ruled out indefinitely

Recently acquired by the Pacers in the megadeal that sent James Harden to the Nets, Caris LeVert has been ruled out indefinitely after a small mass was found on his kidney during his physical with Indiana.

Kyle Irving

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Harden to make Nets debut vs. Magic

With the four-team megadeal now complete, one-time MVP James Harden will make his Brooklyn Nets debut against the Orlando Magic on Saturday.

Kyle Irving

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Analyzing fantasy impact of Harden megadeal

The Rockets trading James Harden to the Nets sent shockwaves around the league, but the one-time MVP wasn't the only player included in the deal. With Victor Oladipo, Caris LeVert and Jarrett Allen now in new places, what is the fantasy basketball fallout of the megatrade?

Kyle Irving

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10 overreactions to the start of the season

We're only 10ish games into the season but that doesn't mean it's too soon to make some bold statements. Based on performances that have been both impressive and underwhelming, here are our overreactions to what's going on around the NBA.

Kyle Irving

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to add for Week 4

Another week of fantasy basketball waiver wire pickups is here and there are a handful of names you won't want to miss out on. Highlighted by a pair of rookies taking on bigger roles and a certain centre that's graduated from the watch list to being a must-add, take a look at a list of players that will surely help improve your roster.

Kyle Irving

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Celtics, Suns climbing the rankings

Just three weeks into the NBA season, there has already been a ton of movement in our weekly NBA Power Rankings. Teams like the Celtics and Suns have made their way into the top five while both the Warriors and Mavericks re-enter the top 10. Take a look and see where your favourite team landed this week!

Kyle Irving

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Historic offensive outing propels Raptors over Kings

The Raptors have struggled to score the rock this season but that wasn't an issue in this one, putting up a regular season franchise record 144 points to defeat the Kings. A slow start defensively, a few lineup changes and some increased playing time for certain players parlayed with big showings from stars Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam headlined the action in a win.

Kyle Irving

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