WASHINGTON WIZARDS NEWS | Sporting News Canada

Trail Blazers, Wizards among teams that narrowly missed on Victor Wembanyama sweepstakes

Portland and Washington just needed one more ping-pong ball to fall their way.

Jacob Camenker

Wizards vs. Raptors odds, picks, predictions

We break down Thursday night's Wizards-Raptors matchup, providing our best bets and a DraftKings Showdown lineup for this Eastern Conference matchup.

Nick Musial

Lakers land former top-10 pick to bolster wing depth

The Lakers will reportedly acquire Rui Hachimura from the Wizards for Kendrick Nunn and three second-round picks.

Kyle Irving

Grading the Lakers move to acquire Rui Hachimura

How did each team fare in the deal? The Sporting News has trade grades for both the Lakers and Wizards below.

Gilbert McGregor

Steve Kerr says Stephen Curry is the modern Michael Jordan

The Washington crowd reigned down MVP chants for Stephen Curry as he turned in an impressive 41-point performance against the Wizards on MLK Day.

Benyam Kidane

The latest on Bradley Beal's hamstring injury

Here is what we know about Bradley Beal's injury and what it means moving forward.

Scott Rafferty

Is Rui Hachimura turning the corner for the Wizards?

Rui Hachimura has shown flashes of this type of production before, but he looks like he may have finally put everything together.

Stephen Noh

Deandre Ayton downplays spat with Monty Williams: 'We a family'

Deandre Ayton and head coach Monty Williams were seen getting into it on the sidelines during Tuesday's game against the Wizards.

Kyle Irving

Davis makes statement with double-nickel vs. Wizards

Davis followed up his 44-point performance against the Bucks with a 55-point outing against the Wizards.

Benyam Kidane

Revisiting the trade that sent Russell Westbrook to the Lakers

As Westbrook and the Lakers return to Washington for the second time since the trade, there's no better time to revisit the deal that sent him to Los Angeles.

Gilbert McGregor

Grading Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's cold-blooded game-winner

How impressive was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's late-game heroics against Washington? Let's break it down.

Scott Rafferty

Southeast Division Preview: Best team, biggest X-factor and more

Will the Heat continue their run of dominance? Or can another team knock Miami down the division standings?

Jordan Greer

Why MJ's return with the Wizards was more impressive than you think

On the 21st anniversary of Michael Jordan's announcement that he would be coming out of retirement to play for the Wizards, let's break down what he actually did in Washington.

Jordan Greer

Which NBA players have a no-trade clause?

Not many NBA players enjoy the luxury of having a no-trade clause in their contract.

Nick Metallinos

The numbers behind Beal's monster deal with Wizards

Bradley Beal is now among the league's highest-paid players after signing a lucrative five-year extension with the Washington Wizards.

Benyam Kidane

TSN Archives: Wes Unseld Offers Off-Court Assists (March 27, 1976)

Washington icon Wes Unseld’s impact off the court was measured by his treatment of a severely injured college player from the D.C. area, The Sporting News wrote in March 1976.

TSN Archives

For Monte Morris and Will Barton, trade to Wizards represents a homecoming in more ways than one

Home is a place. But it's also a feeling. And for Monté Morris and Will Barton, playing in Washington is an opportunity to get in touch with their homes once more.

David Suggs

Beal debunks report on entering free agency

After reports emerged that Beal would enter free agency, the Wizards star took to Twitter to share that it was news to him.

Benyam Kidane

LeBron James' Lakers vs. Michael Jordan's Wizards: Fact, fiction in latest GOAT debate

Which team was better? Or worse? The Sporting News sorts out yet another facet of the MJ vs. LeBron debate.

Bill Bender

Kendrick Perkins, NBA players react to LeBron James passing Karl Malone for second on all-time scoring list

In the first half of the Lakers' game against the Wizards, LeBron James moved past Karl Malone into second all-time in scoring.

Benyam Kidane

Kristaps Porzingis looks right at home in DC after impressive debut for Wizards

Kristaps Porzingis was all smiles after his debut game in his new home city, and after stints in New York and Dallas, the Latvian 'unicorn' may have finally found a home in the NBA.

Nick Metallinos

Full details on Porzingis to Wizards

According to multiple reports, the Wizards have acquired Kristaps Porzingis from the Mavericks in exchange for Spencer Dinwiddie and Davis Bertans.

Gilbert McGregor

NBA trade rumors: News updates, possible trades, players and teams involved at 2022 trade deadline

The 2021-22 NBA Trade Deadline is a day away, set for Thursday, Feb. 10.

Kyle Irving

Bradley Beal injury update: Wizards star to undergo season-ending wrist surgery

According to a report from ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Bradley Beal plans to undergo season-ending surgery on his left wrist.

Kyle Irving

Latest rumors on Simmons for Beal swap

Bradley Beal is reportedly conflicted about his future with the Wizards, but neither him nor his representatives have "officially asked for him to be moved" in the days leading up to the trade deadline.

Scott Rafferty

Antetokounmpo passes Jordan for most career triple-doubles

Giannis Antetokounmpo tallied his 29th-career triple-double to move past Michael Jordan on the NBA's all-time list.

Yash Matange

Clippers complete second-largest comeback in NBA history

With the 35-point comeback, the Clippers made franchise history and turned in the second-largest comeback in NBA history.

Gilbert McGregor

Barnes' career-high 27 points leads Raptors past Wizards

Scottie Barnes went for a career-high 27 points as the Raptors edged the Wizards in a game of runs.

Kyle Irving

Kyrie finding offensive rhythm at the right time

Irving poured in a season-high 30 points to lead the Nets to a 119-118 win over the Wizards in DC.

Benyam Kidane

NBA honours Dr. King's life and legacy

From pregame addresses to halftime performances, Dr. Martin Luther King was honoured throughout the NBA action on the holiday.

Gilbert McGregor

Kuzma flashing full potential during recent hot streak

Kyle Kuzma has played the best basketball of his career over the last few weeks, dropping seven double-doubles along with a 20-point, 20-rebound game.

Kyle Irving

What did Wizards announcer say about Rockets' Kevin Porter Jr.? LeBron James responds to 'insensitive' commentary

While Kevin Porter Jr. stunned the Wizards with a game-winner, commentary from Wizards announcer Glenn Consor that has incensed a number of basketball minds.

Gilbert McGregor

All-Star Moment: DeRozan hits another buzzer-beater

DeMar DeRozan makes history as the first player to hit walk-off buzzer beaters in back-to-back games. DeRozan beat the Pacers with an end-of-game winner on Dec. 31, and followed it up with a last second 3-pointer to beat the Wizards.

Nick Metallinos

Bulls' DeMar DeRozan hits another buzzer-beater

DeMar DeRozan makes history as the first player to hit walk-off buzzer beaters in back-to-back games. DeRozan beat the Pacers with an end-of-game winner on Dec. 31, and followed it up with a last second three-pointer to beat the Wizards.

Nick Metallinos

Kemba makes case to stay in Knicks' lineup with 44-point night

Kemba Walker is making a strong case to remain in the Knicks rotation even when teammates return from the NBA's health and safety protocols.

Kyle Irving

Kemba explodes for 44 points: Should he stay in Knicks' rotation?

Kemba Walker is making a strong case to remain in the Knicks rotation even when teammates return from the NBA's health and safety protocols.

Kyle Irving

Magic-Raptors among five postponements

The next games for the Cavaliers, Magic and Nets as well as the next two games for the Nets have been postponed, the NBA announced.

Official Release

Jokic ejected late, falls short of huge triple-double

Nikola Jokic was tossed from the game midway through the fourth quarter, finishing with 28 points, 19 rebounds and nine assists.

Benyam Kidane

Jokic ejected late vs. Wizards

Nikola Jokic was tossed from the game midway through the fourth quarter, finishing with 28 points, 19 rebounds and nine assists.

Benyam Kidane

Spicy P's monster night leads Raptors past Wizards

The Raptors have won back-to-back games for the first time in over a month. Pascal Siakam led the way with 31 points as Toronto handled the Wizards at home.

Kane Pitman

Preview: Raptors continue homestand vs. Wizards

The Raptors will host the Wizards for the fourth game of a seven-game homestand.

Gilbert McGregor

Darius Garland joins elite Cavs company

Darius Garland did something we haven't seen since Kyrie Irving and LeBron James.

Nick Metallinos

Darius Garland joins elite Cavaliers company

Darius Garland did something we haven't seen since Kyrie Irving and LeBron James.

Nick Metallinos

Towns declared OUT vs. Nets

Towns was declared OUT against the Nets due to a bruised tailbone, an injury he suffered against in the team's previous game against the Washington Wizards.

Benyam Kidane

LeBron, AD roast Kuzma's giant pink sweater

Kyle Kuzma arrived at Capital One Arena with the world's biggest pink sweater and he sure had social media buzzing.

Benyam Kidane

Kuzma's giant pink sweater lights up Twitter

Kyle Kuzma arrived at Capital One Arena with the world's biggest pink sweater and he sure had social media buzzing.

Benyam Kidane

Saturday's top highlights and best performers

Nine games on Saturday night included a historic performance by the reigning Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo as eight of the nine home teams recorded wins. In case you missed any of the action, here's a recap with the best game, top performance and highlight from the slate.

NBA.com Staff

Heat Check: Will the Wizards be a playoff team?

The Wizards got out to one of the hottest starts of any team in the NBA, but is it sustainable over the course of an 82-game season?

Kyle Irving

Thursday's (ET) best game, top fantasy performers

Just six games on Thursday night but plenty of action and competitive games to look back on. In case you missed anything, we got you covered with the top highlight, best game and top fantasy performers.

NBA.com Staff

Will the Wizards be a playoff team?

The Wizards got out to one of the hottest starts of any team in the NBA, but is it sustainable over the course of an 82-game season?

Kyle Irving

LaMelo's playmaking growth on full display

LaMelo Ball dished out a career-high 14 assists to lead the Hornets to a 97-87 win over the Washington Wizards.

Benyam Kidane

Wednesday's (ET) best game, top fantasy performers

A huge 11-game slate filled the NBA schedule, with plenty of highlight performances to go around, headlined by the marquee contest in Milwaukee between the two most recent NBA Champions in the Bucks and Lakers.

Yash Matange

Soundsystem: Did the Wizards win the Westbrook trade?

NBA.com's Carlan Gay and Scott Rafferty break down the latest topics in the NBA and beyond on the LIVE edition of NBA Soundsystem.

NBA.com Staff

Monday's best game, top fantasy performers

A huge 10-game slate filled the NBA schedule, with plenty of highlight performances to go around. Catch up on the best game, highlight and fantasy performances from another busy day around the league including big nights for Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Devin Booker and many more.

Kane Pitman

Saturday's best game & top fantasy performers

Saturday's seven-game slate served up plenty of big performances! If you missed any of the action, we've got you covered with the best game, highlight, performance, fantasy performers and more below.

Benyam Kidane

Is it time to panic about the Bucks?

The Bucks are struggling out the gate, holding just a 4-6 record with a difficult road trip to come. A dominant force in the regular season over the last three campaigns, is it time to panic about defending champions?

Kane Pitman

Sunday's best game & top fantasy performers

An exciting eight games cap-off the first week of November as the NBA schedule slowly heads towards its first holiday - Thanksgiving. Catch up on all the news, scores and highlights right here.

NBA.com Staff

Milwaukee Bucks title defense off to shaky start but is it time to panic?

The Bucks are struggling out the gate, holding just a 4-6 record with a difficult road trip to come. A dominant force in the regular season over the last three campaigns, is it time to panic about defending champions?

Kane Pitman

VanVleet enjoying team's winning streak

Fred VanVleet says he's not taking the Raptors current five-game winning streak for granted as they continue to climb the Eastern Conference standings.

Nick Metallinos

VanVleet takes over as Raps extend winning streak

The Raptors just keep on winning. Led by a season-high 33 points from Fred VanVleet, Toronto handled the Washington Wizards on the road to extend a franchise best start away from home.

Kane Pitman

Wednesday's best game & top fantasy performers

What a night of hoops it was around the NBA with eleven games on the slate. Three games where decided by one possession, with monster performances across the league. Catch up on all the news, scores and highlights right here.

Kane Pitman

Raptors stay hot behind big night for FVV

The Raptors made it five straight wins as they concluded a three game road trip in Washington against the Wizards. Scottie Barnes and Pascal Siakam remained out for Toronto, as Fred VanVleet picked up the slack to finish with a season-high 33 points.

Kane Pitman

Preview: Can Raptors make it five in a row?

Following a big win over the Knicks in which OG Anunoby scored a career-best 36 points, the Raptors travel to Washington in search of their fifth straight victory.

Scott Rafferty

Wizards' depth huge key to early success

Six games in, they sit atop the Eastern Conference as one of three teams with a 5-1 record. What's working? Is their secret to early success sustainable?

Yash Matange

Harden's season is off to puzzling start

Slowing down James Harden has been practically impossible over the course of his career. A three-time scoring champ, Harden has gotten buckets with ease, which is what makes his slow start to 2021-22 so shocking.

Kane Pitman

Tatum's big night highlights thrilling night of action

Nine games filled the slate on Monday night (ET), as the Chicago Bulls and Charlotte Hornets looked to remain undefeated in the early going. If you missed any of the action jump in right here for all the news, highlights and recaps of the day's play.

Kane Pitman

James Harden's quiet start continues as free-throw attempts plummet

James Harden's offensive struggles continued against the Washington Wizards. While his scoring efficiency has plummeted, it's the dip in free-throw attempts that has the basketball world talking.

Kane Pitman

Highlights, final scores from Wednesday's action

An entertaining opening night was followed by an action-packed 11-game slate on Day 2 of the NBA's 75th anniversary season. Follow along for all your final scores, stats, news, highlights and top fantasy performers from each game.

Yash Matange

Raptors go down in season opener

The Raptors got their season off to a losing start, despite a spirited fourth-quarter comeback, going down 98-83 to the Wizards. NBA.com has you covered with live all the live updates, scores and stats from tonight's game.

Benyam Kidane

What to watch on League Pass tonight

The 2021-22 NBA season is underway and there are 11 games of action with 22 teams making their season debut. We have you covered with the perfect plan of attack to consume as many games as possible.

Kyle Irving

Bell Game of the Week: Raptors are back in Toronto

The Bell Game of the Week sees the Raptors open the 2021-22 season at home against the Wizards, marking the first game played in Toronto since February 2020. The game is set to tip at 7:30 p.m. on TSN.

Gilbert McGregor

Preview: Raptors open season vs. Wizards

The new-look Raptors host the new-look Wizards to open the 2021-22 NBA season. Here is what you need to know about tuning in to the season opener.

Gilbert McGregor

Raptors betting odds, predictions for Opening Night

The Raptors open the season against the Wizards in their first game back at Scotiabank Arena since February of 2020. Take a look at a few interesting betting lines to start the year.

Kyle Irving

Beal exits vs. Knicks with knee contusion

Bradley Beal exited the Washington Wizards preseason finale with a knee contusion. Head coach Wes Unseld Jr. is hopeful the injury won't cause the star guard to miss the regular season opener.

Kane Pitman

Top performers, highlights from Day 13 of preseason

The 2021-22 preseason is in the books, as the final eight games were completed. A number of stars completed their preparation for the regular season, with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jimmy Butler and Jayson Tatum all putting up big stat lines.

Kane Pitman

Beal exits vs. Knicks with knee contusion

Bradley Beal exited the Washington Wizards preseason finale with a knee contusion. Head coach Wes Unseld Jr. is hopeful the injury won't cause the star guard to miss the regular season opener.

Kane Pitman

Preview: Raptors close out preseason vs. Wizards

Coming off of a win over the Rockets on Monday, the Raptors will look to cap off their preseason schedule on a strong note on the road against the Wizards.

Kyle Irving

How to watch Wizards games without cable: Full TV schedule, streams for 2021-22 season

Can Bradley Beal lead the Washington Wizards to the postseason with his new supporting cast? Here's how you can watch the Wizards this season without cable.

Benyam Kidane

Top performers, highlights from Day 7 of preseason

The Celtics, Hawks and Knicks picked up wins on Saturday's three-game preseason slate. Catch up on all the key storylines, stats and highlights from Day 7 right here.

Benyam Kidane

Top performers, highlights from Day 3 of preseason

The four-game slate on Day 3 of the 2021-22 NBA preseason saw eight teams get their first taste of competitive basketball. We got you covered with the top performers, biggest storylines, highlights and the final scores from Tuesday (ET).

NBA.com Staff

2021-22 NBA season preview: Southeast Division

The Southeast Division is in for a competitive year with the Hawks returning nearly the same roster that went to the Eastern Conference Finals a season ago, the Heat adding Kyle Lowry and the Hornets loading up with new pieces. Who will emerge as the division's best?

Kyle Irving

Raptors announce 2021 preseason schedule

The Raptors today announced their five-game preseason schedule, which opens with the team hosting the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday, Oct. 4 at Scotiabank Arena.

NBA.com Staff

Ranking the new NBA head coaching hires

Which NBA franchise made the best coaching hire this past offseason?

Jordan Greer

Westbrook rejected idea of Clippers-Wizards trade

Westbrook never demanded a trade, Wizards general manager Tommy Sheppard said, but he was open to joining the Lakers.

Jordan Greer

On this date: Jordan signs with Wizards in 2001

The announcement came just 21 months after the six-time NBA Champion had taken over as the President of Basketball Operations for the Wizards. In January of 1999, Jordan was famously quoted saying he was “99.9 percent certain” he would never return to the NBA.

Yash Matange

TSN Archives: A teammate's view of Michael Jordan's comeback with the Wizards

Two decades ago, Michael Jordan made his second NBA comeback, joining the Wizards after previously serving as an executive. Here's how former Washington guard Chris Whitney described the "Air Jordan" experience.

Sean Deveney

Our predictions for this season's scoring leader

Ahead of the 2021-22 NBA season, our NBA.com Staff shares their opinions on which player will lead the league in scoring. Will Stephen Curry go back-to-back or will someone else take the crown?

NBA.com Staff

What to make of the new-look Wizards

The Washington Wizards have overhauled their roster this offseason thanks to the Russell Westbrook trade. Bringing in a number of veteran role players the Wizards are suddenly one of the deepest teams in the Eastern Conference, but are they in the race for the postseason?

Kane Pitman

Are retooled Wizards ready to take next step?

A lot of new faces in Washington, including a new first-year head coach, surround a veteran franchise superstar in Bradley Beal. Can the retooled Wizards make some noise in the East this season?

Yash Matange

Wizards depth chart for 2021-22 season

The Washington Wizards are second only to the Memphis Grizzlies with respect to the number of players acquired via trade in the 2021 offseason. With each of them set to play a key role in the Wizards' rotation, how and where do they fit in the team's depth chart alongside the rest of the roster?

Yash Matange

Teams primed to surprise in 2021-22

The Raptors and Hornets are two of the teams our NBA.com Staff believe could be better than expected in the upcoming NBA season.

NBA.com Staff

Reflecting on 9/11: A brother, his family and Jordan

Shaun Powell shares how a meeting with Michael Jordan helped his family heal after his brother died on Sept. 11.

Shaun Powell

List of female assistant coaches in the NBA history

In NBA history, there have been 15 women to have served as assistant coaches. Of the 15, seven are currently with the NBA teams for the landmark 75th anniversary season led by Becky Hammon, who is the longest-serving female assistant coach in NBA history

Yash Matange

The Big O's big take on Russell Westbrook

In his lone season with the Wizards, Westbrook averaged 22.2 points, 11.7 assists and 11.5 rebounds per game, and passed Robertson as the all-time leader in triple-doubles.

Jordan Greer

Raptors among teams with intriguing positional logjams

As the 2021-22 NBA season approaches, six teams in particular stand out as having positional logjams on their respective rosters. From the Raptors frontcourt to the Magic's guards and the Jazz's forwards, take a closer look at the potential implications.

Matthew Blum

Report: Dinwiddie traded as part of 5-team deal

The 28-year-old guard reportedly will join Washington as part of a five-team trade.

NBA.com Staff

Grading Westbrook trade for Lakers and Wizards

What does this trade mean for the Lakers and Wizards? Here is a breakdown of the draft-day deal.

Jordan Greer

Report: Lakers to acquire Westbrook from Wizards

According to reports from Shams Charania of The Athletic and ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Lakers are set to acquire Russell Westbrook from the Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and the No. 22 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.

Gilbert McGregor

Kendrick Perkins thinks Westbrook makes LA title favourites

ESPN's Kendrick Perkins wasted little time picking his champion for next season calling the Los Angeles Lakers favourites after they reportedly addedd Russell Westbrook via trade.

Carlan Gay

Potential trade destinations for Ben Simmons

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the 76ers have "opened up" trade conversations surrounding Ben Simmons. With the 76ers reportedly looking to acquire an All-Star-calibre player in return, which teams are in a position to pursue the three-time All-Star?

Scott Rafferty

What a Beal trade request would mean

According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, Bradley Beal is "considering requesting a trade" from the Wizards prior to the 2021 NBA Draft. If he does request a trade, there will be no shortage of interest in the three-time All-Star around the league.

Scott Rafferty

Watanabe, Hachimura lead Japan past France in exhibition

Raptors forward Yuta Watanabe and Washington Wizards forward Rui Hachimura combined to score 37 points as the host of the upcoming Olympic Games earned a six-point victory over the French Senior Men's National Team.

Gilbert McGregor

Wes Unseld Jr. hired as Wizards coach

Unseld previously spent time in the Wizards organization, including six seasons as an assistant coach from 2005-11.

Zac Al-Khateeb

Wizards sign Unseld Jr. as next head coach

The Wizards announced that they have reached an agreement with Nuggets' associate head coach Wes Unseld Jr. to become their new head coach. Unseld Jr. spent the last six seasons with the Nuggets, but returns to where his NBA coaching career began, as a former assistant for the Wizards from 2005 to 2011.

Kyle Irving

Wizards' Beal to miss Tokyo Olympics

Having entered USA Basketball's health and safety protocols, it's been announced that Wizards star Bradley Beal will be unable to participate in the Tokyo Olympics.

Scott Rafferty

Bradley Beal says he's in for Tokyo Olympics

The runner-up for the 2020-21 NBA scoring title is heading to the 2021 Olympics.

Jacob Camenker

Report: Brooks, Wizards agree to part ways

Washington reportedly was unable to come to an agreement on a contract extension with the veteran coach. Scott Brooks posted a record of 183-207 over five seasons with Washington since 2016.

NBA.com Staff

Wizards' guide to 2021 NBA Draft

The Wizards saw their season come to an end with a first-round loss to the 76ers in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Washington can now turn its attention to what is shaping up to be another important offseason.

Scott Rafferty

Vote for NBA Cares Seasonlong Community Assist Award

The seasonlong award honors a player’s continued commitment to positively impact his community through sustained efforts and difference-making work over the course of the season.

Official Release

Rivers lauds team effort in win without Embiid

Without Embiid, six different 76ers played finished in double figures - an effort that helped them overcome 32-point performance from Bradley Beal and a 24-point, 10-assist double-double from Russell Westbrook. Their 129-112 Game 5 win helps them advance to their third Conference Semifinals in the last four seasons.

Yash Matange

How to watch Wednesday's Game 5s

Highlighted by a pivotal Game 5 between the Clippers and Mavericks, a full night of playoff action also sees the 76ers, Hawks and Jazz embark upon opportunities to advance past the opening round.

Gilbert McGregor

What Embiid's injury means for 76ers

76ers centre Joel Embiid was forced to leave Game 4 early with right knee soreness, resulting in Philadelphia's first loss of the series as Washington avoided a sweep. What does this injury mean for the top-seeded Sixers moving forward if Embiid is forced to miss time?

Kyle Irving

Joel Embiid injury update: 76ers star 'doubtful' for Game 5 against the Wizards

There are questions about the health of the 76ers' big man after his early exit in Philadelphia's Game 4 loss to Washington.

Jacob Camenker

Simmons struggles at free throw line in loss to Wizards

Washington kept hacking at Simmons, and it kept working.

Zac Al-Khateeb

Wizards rip fan who ran on court during game vs. 76ers: 'Your thinking is barbaric'

For yet another night, an NBA fan made waves at a game for poor in-arena behavior.

Jacob Camenker

Westbrook reminds us he's one-of-a-kind

It wasn't Russell Westbrook's most efficient game of the season, but he made history with a 19-point, 21-rebound, 14-assist triple-double in Game 4, leading the Wizards to a much-needed win along the way. Westbrook has been getting triple-doubles in his sleep this season, but his 21 rebounds were a reminder of what makes him one-of-a-kind.

Scott Rafferty

Doc Rivers breaks down biggest issues in Game 4 loss

"I thought the foul trouble was more," 76ers head coach Doc Rivers said after the 122-114 Game 4 loss. "Obviously, losing Joel is No. 1 right and then being in foul trouble as well. Those are the two things that hurt us."

Yash Matange

Embiid exits Game 4 with knee soreness

Joel Embiid appeared to have suffered the injury late in the first quarter and after spending all of the second quarter in the locker room, he was declared unavailable for return by the team during halftime. He finished with eight points, six rebounds, two assists and a block in 11 minutes of action.

Yash Matange

Westbrook, Beal keep Washington's season alive

The Washington Wizards avoid the sweep on their home floor with a nail-biting 122-114 win over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 4.

Benyam Kidane

Can 76ers possibly improve on Game 3 masterpiece?

Led by Joel Embiid's playoff career-high 36 points, the Sixers set an exceptionally high bar with their overpowering performance in Game 3.

Steve Aschburner

What to watch for in Monday's Game 4s

After an action-packed weekend of playoff hoops with eight games, it's time to shift focus to significant Game 4s slated for Monday night. The Wizards aim to stay alive and force a Game 5 while the Jazz hope to take a dominant 3-1 series lead. Here are a few things to watch out for in these couple of games.

Yash Matange

Embiid puts new and improved post game on full display

Joel Embiid dominated the Wizards in Game 3 with a playoff career-high 36 points on 14-for-18 shooting from the field. Embiid was been lighting up defenses all season long, but it's the way he did it in Game 3 that stood out.

Scott Rafferty

Embiid destroys Wizards as 76ers take 3-0 lead

The Philadelphia 76ers have one foot in the second round after blowing out the Washington Wizards to take a 3-0 lead in the series. Joel Embiid posted a career postseason high 36 points, in the continuation of a dominant series for the big man.

Kane Pitman

What to watch for in Saturday's playoff games

Saturday's busy slate consists of four playoff games, a pair of Game 4s and a pair of Game 3s. The Bucks will look to sweep the Heat, the Trail Blazers will try and even the series with the Nuggets, the 76ers look to keep the Wizards winless and the Grizzlies and Jazz aim to take a one-game lead in their series. Here are a couple of things to watch for in Saturday's games.

Kyle Irving

Popcorn incident with Westbrook gave Metta 'Malice' flashbacks

Metta Sandiford-Artest, formerly known as Ron Artest, was brought back to his "Malice in the Palace" days when he saw a 76ers fan dump popcorn on Wizards guard Russell Westbrook.

Jacob Camenker

Sixers apologize to Westbrook, ban fan who threw popcorn

The fan who threw popcorn at Russell Westbrook will have his season tickets revoked.

Official Release

Will Russell Westbrook be back for Game 3?

Westbrook left Wednesday's game with an ankle injury.

Edward Sutelan

76ers fan ejected from Game 2 after throwing popcorn at Wizards' Russell Westbrook

The incident occurred when Westbrook walked back to Washington's locker room after suffering an ankle injury in the fourth quarter.

Jordan Greer

Thybulle making history with his defence

Matisse Thybulle is the first player in NBA history with four steals and five blocks in under 20 minutes of any game — regular season or postseason.

Benyam Kidane

Simmons powers 76ers to 2-0 lead

Simmons was in attack mode in Game 2, flirting with a triple-double as the 76ers cruised to a 120-95 win over the Wizards.

Benyam Kidane

Keys to Wednesday's Game 2s

The 2021 NBA Playoffs roll on with three Game 2s on Wednesday. The Wizards are trying to steal a win in Philadelphia, the Hawks are looking to take another one from the Knicks at Madison Square Garden and the highly anticipated return of Donovan Mitchell sets the table for a big one between the Jazz and Grizzlies.

Kyle Irving

Raptors fan guide to the playoffs

If you're the type of fan that enjoys the game much more when you do have a team to cheer for, there are plenty of viable teams for Raptors fans to temporarily root for in the 2021 Playoffs. In addition to the four teams that feature Canadian talent – three, if you could never cheer for Boston – there are several former Raptors set to take the floor for their respective teams. And once a Raptor, always a Raptor, right?

Gilbert McGregor

A complete history of first-round series upsets

Since the NBA expanded the playoffs to include eight teams per conference in 1984, teams seeded 1 or 2 have failed to advance past the first round just 10 times.

Gilbert McGregor

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

Wizards' Russell Westbrook details speech that helped spark Washington's playoff run

Russell Westbrook carried the Wizards to the NBA playoffs on the court, and his leadership off the court helped them get there as well.

Jacob Camenker

Beal, Wizards clinch final playoff spot in the East

The Washington Wizards cruised by the Indiana Pacers, securing the final playoff seed in the Eastern Conference. The Wizards will now meet the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round.

Kane Pitman

Russ discusses bounce-back mentality in Play-In

"In Boston, I was terrible. I let my teammates down and I knew it. Coming into tonight, I wanted to set the tone in all aspects of the game," Russell Westbrook said after the Wizards clinched the eighth and final seed in the East with a 142-115 win over the Indiana Pacers.

Yash Matange

Wizards dominate Pacers, earn final spot in East playoff bracket

Sporting News provided live scoring updates and highlights from Pacers vs. Wizards on Thursday. Check out all of the highlights you missed right here.

Jordan Greer

What channel is Pacers vs. Wizards on today? TV schedule, start time for NBA play-in tournament

Here is everything you need to know to watch Pacers vs. Wizards, including the tipoff time and TV channel for Thursday's game.

Jordan Greer

Wizards host Pacers in battle for the No. 8 seed

The equation is simple for the Washington Wizards and Indiana Pacers — win or go home. The winner of the Play-In Tournament game will move on to face the Philadelphia 76ers in a seven game series beginning this weekend.

Kane Pitman

Celtics vs. Wizards score, results: Tatum drops 50 points in Boston's win

Sporting News provided live scoring updates and highlights from Celtics vs. Wizards on Tuesday night. Check out all of the highlights you missed right here.

Jordan Greer

Tatum drops 50 points as Celtics seal No. 7 seed

Jayson Tatum put the Celtics on his back, with his third 50-point game of the season as they claimed a 118-100 win over the Washington Wizards to set up a first round playoff matchup with the Brooklyn Nets.

What channel is Celtics vs. Wizards on today? TV schedule, start time for NBA play-in tournament

Here is everything you need to know to watch Wizards vs. Celtics, including the tipoff time and TV channel for Tuesday's game.

Jordan Greer

One reason to watch each Play-In team

There will be six Play-In games to decide which teams get the No. 7 and No. 8 seeds in each conference. If the high stakes of each game wasn't enough, here's one reason to pay attention to each team in this season's Play-In Tournament, from LaMelo Ball's audacious passes to LeBron James' transition game.

Scott Rafferty

Can Tatum keep up with Westbrook, Beal?

The Celtics and Wizards will battle to secure the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference. Each team enters the game trending in a different direction, with the Celtics stumbling towards the postseason while the Wizards hit the one-off matchup in season-best form.

Kane Pitman

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

How Sunday's results impacted playoff picture

It was a busy season finale. There was a lot to be determined in regards to playoff positioning on a 15-game slate. If you missed any of the action, jump in and catch up on the scores from each contest, as well as how each result impacted the playoff picture.

NBA.com Staff

Wizards' Scott Brooks pokes fun at LeBron James with play-in tournament comments

Wizards coach Scott Brooks tweaked King James after Washington clinched the No. 8 seed in the East.

Jacob Camenker

Guide to Play-In scenarios

The race to either avoid or secure a Play-In spot in each conference is red hot. Heading into the final day of the season, we break down all you need to know as teams look to make it to the postseason.

Gilbert McGregor

Storylines that will be settled on Sunday

From solidifying the playoff bracket to settling the 2020-21 scoring race, there's still plenty to play for in Sunday's regular season finale.

Shaun Powell

History of closest scoring title races

Warriors All-Star guard Stephen Curry and Wizards All-Star guard Bradley Beal have been offensive juggernauts all season long, shaping up for a photo finish for the 2020-21 NBA scoring title. In respect to some of the other closest scoring title battles in league history, where does this one fit in?

Juan Estevez

Wizards' Russell Westbrook matches two all-time greats while carrying team to play-in berth

Russell Westbrook put up another triple-double and matched a feat accomplished only by two Hall of Famers as he carried the Wizards to the play-in tournament,

Jacob Camenker

Russ honoured as Wiz' clinch Play-In spot

The remarkable season for Russell Westbrook has continued, with the guard tallying another triple-double as the Washington Wizards clinched a spot in the Play-In Tournament with a win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Kane Pitman

Highlights, scores from Friday's action

Just three days remained in the 2020-21 regular season and we got an eight-game slate with 16 teams in action. Check in below to catch up on the best from each contest.

NBA.com Staff

Highlights, scores from Wednesday's action

The Lakers kept their chances of avoiding the Play-In Tournament alive, while the Blazers and Mavericks edge closer to securing their playoff spots. Catch up on Wednesday's games below.

NBA.com Staff

Fact or Fiction: Westbrook's record is unbreakable

Russell Westbrook did the seemingly impossible, breaking the all-time triple-doubles record, but will anyone else come close to reaching those numbers? Our NBA.com Staff discusses in a game of Fact or Fiction.

NBA.com Staff

Bradley Beal rips Kent Bazemore for injury comments; Warriors forward responds

An exciting race for the 2020-21 NBA scoring title took a strange turn Monday.

Jordan Greer

By The Numbers: Russ sets NBA's triple-double record

Russell Westbrook breaks Oscar Robertson's 47-year NBA record, once considered among the untouchable feats.

Yash Matange

NBA family congratulates Westbrook for all-time feat

A host of former NBA players - current and former - including Oscar Robertson himself, congratulated Russell Westbrook on passing the all-time triple-double tally of 181.

Yash Matange

Highlights, top performers from Monday's action

As the race for playoff seeding heats up, we had a busy six-game slate on deck for Monday. Take a look back at all the action from the six games.

NBA.com Staff

Reactions to Russ's career triple-double

Russell Westbrook stands alone in NBA history with 182 career triple-doubles.

Zac Al-Khateeb

Westbrook ties Robertson's triple-double record

With his 35th triple-double of the season and 181st of his career, Russell Westbrook sits alongside Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson at the top of the NBA's all-time triple-double list.

Benyam Kidane

Wizards withstand career night from Siakam

Despite a career-high-tying 44 points from Pascal Siakam, the Wizards earned a gritty overtime win over the Raptors, who are now in serious danger of being eliminated from contention for the East's final spot in the Play-In Tournament.

Gilbert McGregor

Running Diary: Wizards edge Raptors in OT thriller

The Washington Wizards earned a 131-129 overtime victory over the Toronto Raptors on Thursday night to strengthen their hold on the East's final Play-In spot. With just over a week remaining in the regular season, Washington now has a four-game lead over Toronto in the standings.

Gilbert McGregor

Highlights, top performers from Thursday's action

With seven NBA games to look forward to on Thursday, there was plenty on the line including a battle in Los Angeles between the Lakers and Clippers. If you missed any of the action we've got you covered below for live updates, stats and highlights from each contest.

NBA.com Staff

Scarier Play-In team: Raptors or Wizards?

The Raptors and Wizards are set to face off in a game with heavy playoff implications on Thursday. Washington holds a three-game lead on Toronto for the final spot in the Play-In Tournament, making this a last chance of sorts for the Raptors. Our NBA.com staff discusses which team would be a scarier opponent in the Play-In games.

NBA.com Staff

Preview: Raptors face Wizards in pivotal game

Sitting three games behind the Wizards for 10th place in the Eastern Conference standings, a win against Washington on Thursday would keep Toronto's Play-In Tournament dreams alive with six games remaining in its season.

Scott Rafferty

Nurse speaks on importance of Wizards matchup

Following a four-game Western Conference road trip, the Raptors return to Tampa to play the Wizards. Not only is it a meeting with one of the hottest teams in the league right now, it could be Toronto's last chance at keeping its Play-In hopes alive.

Scott Rafferty

Curious case of losses in Beal's 40-pt games continues

Bradley Beal, the league's second-leading scorer, dropped 42 including the team's final eight points with Wizards continuing their struggles when he scores 40 or more as they stumbled 135-134 in a back-and-forth contest in Milwaukee.

Yash Matange

By The Numbers: Westbrook's monster triple-double

The Washington Wizards continue their charge behind the extraordinary play of Russell Westbrook. The former MVP recorded yet another triple-double against the Indiana Pacers, producing one of the biggest lines of his career.

Kane Pitman

Highlights, top performers from Monday's action

There were eight NBA games to look forward to on Monday. If you missed any of the action or big performances we've got you covered with stats, highlights and of course all the scores!

NBA.com Staff

Doncic drops historic 20-assist triple-double

Luka Doncic became the second-fastest player to 35 career triple-doubles, needing just 190 games as he poured in 31 points, 12 rebounds and a career-high 20 assists in the Mavericks' 125-124 win over the Wizards.

Benyam Kidane

Highlights from Saturday's action

Saturday's 10-game slate delivered plenty of memorable performances as the race for playoff seeding continues to take shape. Catch up on all the action below.

NBA.com Staff

Lakers' LeBron James pretends to cry after heckler calls him 'big baby'

James remains out indefinitely as he recovers from an ankle injury, so the four-time NBA MVP has to find other ways to stay engaged down the final stretch of the regular season.

Jordan Greer

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

AD finds rhythm but Lakers fall to Wizards

Anthony Davis looked in great touch late. He scored 14 of his team-high 26 in the fourth quarter was responsible for 19 of the team's 30 fourth-quarter points but it was too little too late in the Capital as Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal ensured the Wizards picked up their 10th win in the last 12 games.

Yash Matange

Top performers, highlights from Wednesday's games

Ten games filled the schedule on Wednesday night, with playoff implications littered throughout. Play-In tournament seeding and postseason clinches were all on the line in a series of intriguing matchups. Keep up to date with all the final scores, news, highlights and top performers right here!

NBA.com Staff

Superstars dazzle in Spurs-Wiz OT thriller

The Spurs and Wizards battled it out in D.C., putting up one of the best offensive showdowns in the league this season. At the final buzzer, the streaking Spurs come out on top 146-143.

Yash Matange

Highlights, top performers from Sunday's action

There were seven games of NBA action with plenty of storylines to follow in a big matchup between the Celtics and Hornets, Kevin Durant's return for the Nets versus the Suns and other games with playoff implications like Grizzlies-Blazers and Bucks-Hawks.

NBA.com Staff

Russ and the Wizards stay hot

Russell Westbrook tallied another triple-double and the Washington Wizards have now won seven straight to take another step towards the Play-In Tournament.

Kane Pitman

Highlights, top performers from Friday's action

Seven games on the Friday night slate, with a host of teams in action that find themselves in a fight for Play-In Tournament seeding.

NBA.com Staff

Wiggins reaches 10,000 career points

Andrew Wiggins is now one of only two Canadians in NBA history to reach 10,000 career points, the other being Hall of Fame point guard Steve Nash, who finished his career with 17,387 points.

Scott Rafferty

Highlights, top performers from Wednesday's action

With a packed 12-game slate on tap, there were plenty of marquee matchups to catch up on if you missed any of the stars in action!

NBA.com Staff

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

Westbrook makes history with triple-double vs. OKC

A 13-11-17 triple-double against his former team - the Oklahoma City Thunder - helped make NBA history and bring up his 172nd career triple-double. He is now only nine shy of Oscar Robertson's all-time tally of 182 and has 15 games left this season to pass it.

Yash Matange