Unheralded bench player Lonnie Walker led a fourth-quarter rally as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Golden State Warriors to leave the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;champions on the brink of elimination from the playoffs on Monday. The 24-year-old Walker erupted for 15 fourth-quarter points as the Lakers completed a dramatic 104-101 victory to put them one win away from clinching the best-of-seven Western Conference second-round series.

Walker, who has struggled to establish himself since joining the Lakers on a one-year contract last year after battling a series of injuries, was mobbed by LeBron James and other Lakers teammates after the victory. James, who scored 27 points in the victory, said he had urged Walker before the game to be ready to help out.

"I've been telling him 'Lonnie you stay ready. We're going to need you at some point'," James said.&nbsp; "For him to be as young as he is, to have that professionalism, to come out and stay ready when his number was called -- we don't win this game without Lonnie Walker tonight, that's for sure."

Walker said he had been primed to make a contribution. "It means the world to me, truly," Walker said. "By the grace of god I was given an opportunity to play. Night-in, night-out I've been going to the gym, everyone's been telling me to stay ready -- Bron, coach, all of them. So when the call came I was locked in the entire time."

The Lakers will take a 3-1 series lead to San Francisco for game five on Wednesday with the Warriors needing to win to keep the series alive. For long periods of Monday's game it looked as if the champions were poised to square the series.&nbsp;

Stephen Curry finished with 31 points, 10 rebounds and 14 assists in a dazzling playmaking performance that helped Golden State take an 84-77 lead into the fourth quarter. But the introduction of Walker changed the game, with the unlikely hero scoring 15 points as the Lakers outscored their opponents 27-17 in the final frame to clinch victory.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-jim-furyk-named-as-third-us-vice-captain-for-ryder-cup-590489">Golf: Jim Furyk named as third U.S. vice-captain for Ryder Cup</a>

<h2>- 'A resilient bunch' -</h2>

"We're just a resilient bunch," James said. "They hit us with haymaker after haymaker after haymaker, trying to get us to fall.&nbsp;"We just stayed in the fight. It's a 48-minute game, a 12-round boxing match. And we stayed in it for 12 rounds and were able to pull through."

Warriors coach Steve Kerr paid tribute to Walker's fourth-quarter performance. "I don't know whether he scored all their points in the fourth quarter but it felt like it," Kerr said. "He made a huge impact. "A lot of times that's what the playoffs are about. A close game and somebody comes in who you don't expect to make an impact. The fourth was about Walker."

In Monday's other playoff game, Jimmy Butler scored 27 points as the Miami Heat outmuscled the New York Knicks to take a commanding 3-1 lead in their Eastern Conference playoff series. Butler was one of five Miami players to finish in double digits as the Heat edged to a 109-101 victory that leaves the eighth seeds just one win away from a place in the Eastern Conference finals.

It was another ruthlessly clinical performance from Miami, who looked hungrier and sharper throughout at both ends of the court. Miami hauled down 13 offensive rebounds to New York's eight and out-hustled New York defensively with 31 defensive rebounds to the Knicks' 27.

Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said his team was now reaping dividends from their resilience forged in the regular season, when they were forced to battle through the play-in tournament to reach the playoffs. "We found the value in the grind of the regular season, the grind and the struggle," Spoelstra said.&nbsp; "Without that struggle -- where we had to find different solutions to win, with different guys stepping up for these kind of moments -- if we didn't do that in the regular season you have zero chance to be able to do that in the playoffs."

Butler finished with 27 points, 10 assists and six rebounds while Bam Adebayo produced another towering defensive display with 23 points and 13 rebounds. Jalen Brunson led New York's scorers with 32 points, while RJ Barrett added 24 and Julius Randle 20. The Knicks now must win all three of their remaining games to stay alive in the playoffs, while Miami can book their place in the conference finals with a win in game five in New York on Wednesday.

Unheralded bench player Lonnie Walker led a fourth-quarter rally as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Golden State Warriors to leave the NBA champions on the brink of elimination from the playoffs on Monday.

Unheralded bench player Lonnie Walker led a fourth-quarter rally as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Golden State Warriors to leave the NBA champions on the brink of elimination from the playoffs on Monday. The 24-year-old Walker erupted for 15 fourth-quarter points as the Lakers completed a dramatic 104-101 victory to put them one win away from clinching the best-of-seven Western Conference second-round series. Walker, who has struggled to establish himself since joining the Lakers on a one-year contract last year after battling a series of injuries, was mobbed by LeBron James and other Lakers teammates after the victory. James, who scored 27 points in the victory, said he had urged Walker before the game to be ready to help out. "I've been telling him 'Lonnie you stay ready. We're going to need you at some point'," James said. "For him to be as young as he is, to have that professionalism, to come out and stay ready when his number was called -- we don't win this game without Lonnie Walker tonight, that's for sure." Walker said he had been primed to make a contribution. "It means the world to me, truly," Walker said. "By the grace of god I was given an opportunity to play. Night-in, night-out I've been going to the gym, everyone's been telling me to stay ready -- Bron, coach, all of them. So when the call came I was locked in the entire time." The Lakers will take a 3-1 series lead to San Francisco for game five on Wednesday with the Warriors needing to win to keep the series alive. For long periods of Monday's game it looked as if the champions were poised to square the series. Stephen Curry finished with 31 points, 10 rebounds and 14 assists in a dazzling playmaking performance that helped Golden State take an 84-77 lead into the fourth quarter. But the introduction of Walker changed the game, with the unlikely hero scoring 15 points as the Lakers outscored their opponents 27-17 in the final frame to clinch victory. Also Read: Golf: Jim Furyk named as third U.S. vice-captain for Ryder Cup - 'A resilient bunch' - "We're just a resilient bunch," James said. "They hit us with haymaker after haymaker after haymaker, trying to get us to fall. "We just stayed in the fight. It's a 48-minute game, a 12-round boxing match. And we stayed in it for 12 rounds and were able to pull through." Warriors coach Steve Kerr paid tribute to Walker's fourth-quarter performance. "I don't know whether he scored all their points in the fourth quarter but it felt like it," Kerr said. "He made a huge impact. "A lot of times that's what the playoffs are about. A close game and somebody comes in who you don't expect to make an impact. The fourth was about Walker." In Monday's other playoff game, Jimmy Butler scored 27 points as the Miami Heat outmuscled the New York Knicks to take a commanding 3-1 lead in their Eastern Conference playoff series. Butler was one of five Miami players to finish in double digits as the Heat edged to a 109-101 victory that leaves the eighth seeds just one win away from a place in the Eastern Conference finals. It was another ruthlessly clinical performance from Miami, who looked hungrier and sharper throughout at both ends of the court. Miami hauled down 13 offensive rebounds to New York's eight and out-hustled New York defensively with 31 defensive rebounds to the Knicks' 27. Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said his team was now reaping dividends from their resilience forged in the regular season, when they were forced to battle through the play-in tournament to reach the playoffs. "We found the value in the grind of the regular season, the grind and the struggle," Spoelstra said. "Without that struggle -- where we had to find different solutions to win, with different guys stepping up for these kind of moments -- if we didn't do that in the regular season you have zero chance to be able to do that in the playoffs." Butler finished with 27 points, 10 assists and six rebounds while Bam Adebayo produced another towering defensive display with 23 points and 13 rebounds. Jalen Brunson led New York's scorers with 32 points, while RJ Barrett added 24 and Julius Randle 20. The Knicks now must win all three of their remaining games to stay alive in the playoffs, while Miami can book their place in the conference finals with a win in game five in New York on Wednesday.

NBA: Unheralded Lonnie Walker sparks LA Lakers rally as Golden State Warriors wobble

Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis had a monster Game 3 against the Golden State Warriors in NBA Playoffs 2023 as he scored a double-double of 25 points and 13 rebounds to help Los Angeles win 127-97.

Davis, however, is following strange trend of scoring more in odd games this postseason than the even games. When asked after Game 3 about the trend, the Lakers center shrugged it off, calling it just a regular thing to happen.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-butler-returns-as-heat-down-knicks-for-2-1-lead-589870">Butler returns as Heat down Knicks for 2-1 lead</a>

"It's a miss or make league. The same shots I had in Game 1, I had in Game 2. I made them in Game 1 and I missed them in Game 2. The same The same shots I had in Game 2, I had in Game 3. I missed in Game 2 and I made in Game 3," he said.

"I look at it as I just missed shots. I didn't do anything differently, I didn't change anything up, so it is what it is," added Davis. Have a look at Davis' performance in Game 3 vs the Warriors:

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Another dominant Anthony Davis performance. 
 
💪: 25 PTS, 13 REB, 3 AST, 3 STL, 4 BLK 
 
Lakers take Game 3 in LA 🗣️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBAPlayoffs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBAPlayoffs</a> presented by <a href="https://twitter.com/GooglePixel_US?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GooglePixel_US</a> <a href="https://t.co/uUFJ0sUoi2">pic.twitter.com/uUFJ0sUoi2</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1655053124225183744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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While Davis might have shrugged off the trend, the stats definitely speak differently about this being just a regular thing. In the nine games (Six against the Grizzlies in Round 1 and three so far against the Warriors) Davis has played so far during 2023 NBA Playoffs, he has scored 21.22 points on an average.

However, in odd games, Game 1, 3, and 5 against the Grizzlies and Game 1 &amp; 3 against the Warriors, Davis averages 27.8 which is a whopping 14.8 more than 13 he averages in four even games, that is, Game 2, 4 &amp; 6 against Memphis and Game 2 against the Golden State.

Davis has also scored more than 20 points in every odd game played this postseason while his even-game scores read 13, 12, 16 and 11 so far.

Whatever may be the reason behind these numbers, the Lakers would still be happy even if high-scoring Davis shows up every other game in the playoffs.

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Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis had a monster Game 3 against the Golden State Warriors in NBA Playoffs 2023 as he scored a double-double of 25 points and 13 rebounds to help Los Angeles win 127-97.

Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis had a monster Game 3 against the Golden State Warriors in NBA Playoffs 2023 as he scored a double-double of 25 points and 13 rebounds to help Los Angeles win 127-97. Davis, however, is following strange trend of scoring more in odd games this postseason than the even games. When asked after Game 3 about the trend, the Lakers center shrugged it off, calling it just a regular thing to happen. Also Read: Butler returns as Heat down Knicks for 2-1 lead "It's a miss or make league. The same shots I had in Game 1, I had in Game 2. I made them in Game 1 and I missed them in Game 2. The same The same shots I had in Game 2, I had in Game 3. I missed in Game 2 and I made in Game 3," he said. "I look at it as I just missed shots. I didn't do anything differently, I didn't change anything up, so it is what it is," added Davis. Have a look at Davis' performance in Game 3 vs the Warriors: Another dominant Anthony Davis performance. 💪: 25 PTS, 13 REB, 3 AST, 3 STL, 4 BLK Lakers take Game 3 in LA 🗣️#NBAPlayoffs presented by @GooglePixel_US pic.twitter.com/uUFJ0sUoi2 — NBA (@NBA) May 7, 2023 × While Davis might have shrugged off the trend, the stats definitely speak differently about this being just a regular thing. In the nine games (Six against the Grizzlies in Round 1 and three so far against the Warriors) Davis has played so far during 2023 NBA Playoffs, he has scored 21.22 points on an average. However, in odd games, Game 1, 3, and 5 against the Grizzlies and Game 1 & 3 against the Warriors, Davis averages 27.8 which is a whopping 14.8 more than 13 he averages in four even games, that is, Game 2, 4 & 6 against Memphis and Game 2 against the Golden State. Davis has also scored more than 20 points in every odd game played this postseason while his even-game scores read 13, 12, 16 and 11 so far. Whatever may be the reason behind these numbers, the Lakers would still be happy even if high-scoring Davis shows up every other game in the playoffs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Lakers' Anthony Davis on scoring more in odd games than even ones this postseason

Jimmy Butler made a triumphant return from injury as the Miami Heat downed the New York Knicks 105-86 on Saturday to take a 2-1 lead in their NBA Eastern Conference playoff series.

Butler, who sat out Miami's game two defeat in New York on Tuesday after rolling his ankle in game one, showed no sign of the problem as&nbsp;he once again led the Heat's scoring with 28 points, adding four rebounds and three assists.

Butler was one of four Miami players to finish in double figures in a game that the eighth-seeded Heat led from start-to-finish.

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Max Strus finished with 19 points, including three three-pointers, while defensive linchpin Bam Adebayo weighed in with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Kyle Lowry added 14 points for Miami.

"It feels good to get a dub (W) on our home floor in front of our fans. We're going to take that and roll with it," said Butler, whose dazzling form helped eliminate the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the post-season.

"I'm comfortable, I'm confident and I work extremely hard at my craft," Butler said. "My teammates have got a lot to do with that.

"They always make sure I'm catching the ball in spots where I'm comfortable and letting me be aggressive."&nbsp;

Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said Butler's return to the lineup had infused his teammates with confidence.

"You can't put an analytic to it. It's just the overall confidence level your team has -- that you can always get the ball to him and know that we'll get something efficient and coherent," Spoelstra said of Butler.

"We have a bunch of guys stepping up. We're more dangerous when a lot of guys are putting their fingerprints on the win at both ends of the court.&nbsp;

"But you need a guy like Jimmy when you're playing against a good team like this."

Jalen Brunson led New York with 20 points as the Knicks were outmuscled by a combative Miami lineup that outscored their opponents in all four quarters.

New York's problems were compounded by a dismal shooting performance, with the Knicks making just 31-of-91 from the field.

"The start of the game we got back on our heels, their aggressiveness ... we couldn't get stops early, so we didn't get any easy buckets, so we paid the price," Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said after the loss.

"We got bogged down and offense was hard. But credit to them, they played great defense.

"Defensively we were solid, but offensively we didn't play the way we wanted to. I don't put that on one player. It's a collective effort."

Miami's robust approach led to tempers flaring in the third quarter when Cody Zeller shoved over Randle as the two grappled under the basket, prompting a melee involving players from both sides.

Game four in the best-of-seven series takes place in Miami on Monday.

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Jimmy Butler made a triumphant return from injury as the Miami Heat downed the New York Knicks 105-86 on Saturday to take a 2-1 lead in their NBA Eastern Conference playoff series.

Jimmy Butler made a triumphant return from injury as the Miami Heat downed the New York Knicks 105-86 on Saturday to take a 2-1 lead in their NBA Eastern Conference playoff series. Butler, who sat out Miami's game two defeat in New York on Tuesday after rolling his ankle in game one, showed no sign of the problem as he once again led the Heat's scoring with 28 points, adding four rebounds and three assists. Butler was one of four Miami players to finish in double figures in a game that the eighth-seeded Heat led from start-to-finish. Also Read: Javier Castellano rides Mage to win 149th Kentucky Derby Max Strus finished with 19 points, including three three-pointers, while defensive linchpin Bam Adebayo weighed in with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Kyle Lowry added 14 points for Miami. "It feels good to get a dub (W) on our home floor in front of our fans. We're going to take that and roll with it," said Butler, whose dazzling form helped eliminate the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the post-season. "I'm comfortable, I'm confident and I work extremely hard at my craft," Butler said. "My teammates have got a lot to do with that. "They always make sure I'm catching the ball in spots where I'm comfortable and letting me be aggressive." Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said Butler's return to the lineup had infused his teammates with confidence. "You can't put an analytic to it. It's just the overall confidence level your team has -- that you can always get the ball to him and know that we'll get something efficient and coherent," Spoelstra said of Butler. "We have a bunch of guys stepping up. We're more dangerous when a lot of guys are putting their fingerprints on the win at both ends of the court. "But you need a guy like Jimmy when you're playing against a good team like this." Jalen Brunson led New York with 20 points as the Knicks were outmuscled by a combative Miami lineup that outscored their opponents in all four quarters. New York's problems were compounded by a dismal shooting performance, with the Knicks making just 31-of-91 from the field. "The start of the game we got back on our heels, their aggressiveness ... we couldn't get stops early, so we didn't get any easy buckets, so we paid the price," Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said after the loss. "We got bogged down and offense was hard. But credit to them, they played great defense. "Defensively we were solid, but offensively we didn't play the way we wanted to. I don't put that on one player. It's a collective effort." Miami's robust approach led to tempers flaring in the third quarter when Cody Zeller shoved over Randle as the two grappled under the basket, prompting a melee involving players from both sides. Game four in the best-of-seven series takes place in Miami on Monday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Butler returns as Heat down Knicks for 2-1 lead

Devin Booker scored 47 points and Kevin Durant added 39 as the Phoenix Suns clawed back into their&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Western Conference semi-final series on Friday with a 121-114 victory over the Denver Nuggets.

The Suns, who dropped the first two games of the best-of-seven series in Denver, held firm at home despite the injury absence of veteran point guard Chris Paul.

Phoenix were up by 15 at halftime, but the Nuggets -- led by a triple-double of 30 points, 17 rebounds and 17 assists from two-time&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic -- didn't back down.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-sunil-gavaskar-says-ms-dhoni-could-take-over-india-coaching-role-in-future-589578">IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar says MS Dhoni 'could take over India coaching role' in future</a>

They edged ahead three times in the third quarter, but every time the Suns had an answer.

"It's that time of year," said Booker, who added six rebounds, nine assists, three steals and a blocked shot. "We dropped a couple of games on their home floor and we just want to protect ours."

Phoenix scored the first nine points of the fourth quarter and never trailed in the final period as they pulled within 2-1 in the best-of-seven series.

Durant, who missed eight of his first nine shot attempts, made just 12 of 31 from the field but sunk 14 of 16 free throws and had 11 points in the fourth quarter.

Jamal Murray led Denver's scoring with 32 points and Michael Porter Jr. added 21 and 12 rebounds, but the Nuggets couldn't contain Booker and Durant and the Suns will have a chance to level the series when they host game four on Sunday.

In the Eastern Conference, Jayson Tatum scored 27 points to lead six Boston players in double figures as the Celtics beat the 76ers 114-102 in Philadelphia to take a 2-1 lead in their series.

Jaylen Brown added 23 points and Al Horford scored 17 for the Celtics, who regained home-court advantage with a second straight victory after dropping game one in Boston.

An emotional night in Philadelphia saw Sixers center Joel Embiid accept his Most Valuable Player trophy from&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;commissioner Adam Silver in a pregame ceremony.

Chants of "M-V-P" rang out for Cameroon's Embiid, who celebrated with his parents as he held his toddler son, Arthur -- who was clad in a "My dad is the MVP" T-shirt.

The Celtics cut short the celebrations, however, powering to a quick 14-4 lead.

Tatum, who scored just seven points in game two, bounced back with a vengeance adding 10 rebounds five assists, two steals and a blocked shot.

The Sixers, however, kept it close and led by one after the first quarter.

Embiid scored 30 points with 13 rebounds and four blocked shots in his second game back from a sprained knee.

But teammates James Harden and Tyrese Maxey struggled. Harden connected on just three of 14 shots on the way to 16 points while Maxey scored 13 points on 4-for-16 shooting.

<h2>Awareness and poise</h2>

Philadelphia were down by seven at halftime and never led after the break.

"We knew we could win," Tatum told broadcaster ESPN. "This is a great team, the crowd's electric, you love being in that environment.

"But we are not surprised. To win a championship you've got to win one on the road. We'll take it."

"The guys just kept an awareness and a poise," said Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla, who said he expects game four in Philly on Sunday to be an "absolute war".

Celtics forward Grant Williams got a scare in the fourth quarter, when a falling Embiid accidentally stepped on his head on a loose ball play.

Williams was bloodied, but made light of the incident.

"I'm just thankful he didn't fully lean his weight on it because he definitely got me pretty badly, but then I think he felt like he landed on something so he picked his foot up," Williams said.

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Devin Booker scored 47 points and Kevin Durant added 39 as the Phoenix Suns clawed back into their NBA Western Conference semi-final series on Friday with a 121-114 victory over the Denver Nuggets.

Devin Booker scored 47 points and Kevin Durant added 39 as the Phoenix Suns clawed back into their NBA Western Conference semi-final series on Friday with a 121-114 victory over the Denver Nuggets. The Suns, who dropped the first two games of the best-of-seven series in Denver, held firm at home despite the injury absence of veteran point guard Chris Paul. Phoenix were up by 15 at halftime, but the Nuggets -- led by a triple-double of 30 points, 17 rebounds and 17 assists from two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic -- didn't back down. Also Read: IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar says MS Dhoni 'could take over India coaching role' in future They edged ahead three times in the third quarter, but every time the Suns had an answer. "It's that time of year," said Booker, who added six rebounds, nine assists, three steals and a blocked shot. "We dropped a couple of games on their home floor and we just want to protect ours." Phoenix scored the first nine points of the fourth quarter and never trailed in the final period as they pulled within 2-1 in the best-of-seven series. Durant, who missed eight of his first nine shot attempts, made just 12 of 31 from the field but sunk 14 of 16 free throws and had 11 points in the fourth quarter. Jamal Murray led Denver's scoring with 32 points and Michael Porter Jr. added 21 and 12 rebounds, but the Nuggets couldn't contain Booker and Durant and the Suns will have a chance to level the series when they host game four on Sunday. In the Eastern Conference, Jayson Tatum scored 27 points to lead six Boston players in double figures as the Celtics beat the 76ers 114-102 in Philadelphia to take a 2-1 lead in their series. Jaylen Brown added 23 points and Al Horford scored 17 for the Celtics, who regained home-court advantage with a second straight victory after dropping game one in Boston. An emotional night in Philadelphia saw Sixers center Joel Embiid accept his Most Valuable Player trophy from NBA commissioner Adam Silver in a pregame ceremony. Chants of "M-V-P" rang out for Cameroon's Embiid, who celebrated with his parents as he held his toddler son, Arthur -- who was clad in a "My dad is the MVP" T-shirt. The Celtics cut short the celebrations, however, powering to a quick 14-4 lead. Tatum, who scored just seven points in game two, bounced back with a vengeance adding 10 rebounds five assists, two steals and a blocked shot. The Sixers, however, kept it close and led by one after the first quarter. Embiid scored 30 points with 13 rebounds and four blocked shots in his second game back from a sprained knee. But teammates James Harden and Tyrese Maxey struggled. Harden connected on just three of 14 shots on the way to 16 points while Maxey scored 13 points on 4-for-16 shooting. Awareness and poise Philadelphia were down by seven at halftime and never led after the break. "We knew we could win," Tatum told broadcaster ESPN. "This is a great team, the crowd's electric, you love being in that environment. "But we are not surprised. To win a championship you've got to win one on the road. We'll take it." "The guys just kept an awareness and a poise," said Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla, who said he expects game four in Philly on Sunday to be an "absolute war". Celtics forward Grant Williams got a scare in the fourth quarter, when a falling Embiid accidentally stepped on his head on a loose ball play. Williams was bloodied, but made light of the incident. "I'm just thankful he didn't fully lean his weight on it because he definitely got me pretty badly, but then I think he felt like he landed on something so he picked his foot up," Williams said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Suns bounce back to win against Nuggets, Celtics take 2-1 lead over Sixers

The Los Angeles Lakers started off the 2023 NBA Western Conference semifinals with a win against the Golden State Warriors, beating them 117-112 to take a 1-0 lead in the seven-game series.

Both the teams have had a rough road so far in the playoffs with the Warriors winning the Round 1 series 4-3 against the Sacramento Kings while the Lakers entered the playoffs only after winning the 2023 NBA Play-in tournament.

As for the Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals, it was in balance throughout the four quarters with the Warriors taking a two-point first quarter lead by outscoring the Lakers 31-29.

The Showtime Lakers hit back resoundingly in the second quarter, edging past the Warriors 36-33. The box score read 66-65 at the half-time in Los Angeles' favour and they kept on the pressure going into the third quarter as well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sixers-joel-embiid-named-nba-most-valuable-player-588350">Sixers' Joel Embiid named NBA Most Valuable Player</a>

Los Angeles took a decisive lead of seven points in the first quarter after the half-time as they outscored Golden State 31-24. With a eight-point deficit staring them in the face, the Warriors put in all their energy in the final 12 minutes and outscored the Lakers 24-21 but it wasn't suffice to win the game.

As for the individual performance, Lakers center Anthony Davis had a monster game as he dropped 30 points and caught 23 rebounds along with five assists. Los Angeles star LeBron James also had a double-double, scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds apart from four assists. Apart from them, D'Angelo Russell and Dennis Schroder scored 19 apiece.

For the Warriors, Stephen Curry, the Game 7 Round 1 hero against the Kings, top scored with 27 points while Klay Thompson dropped 25. Kevin Looney had a double-double of 10 points and 23 rebounds. Jordan Poole also dropped 21 points but all these efforts went in vain with the Lakers winning the game.

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The Los Angeles Lakers started off the 2023 NBA Western Conference semifinals with a win against the Golden State Warriors, beating them 117-112 to take a 1-0 lead in the seven-game series.

The Los Angeles Lakers started off the 2023 NBA Western Conference semifinals with a win against the Golden State Warriors, beating them 117-112 to take a 1-0 lead in the seven-game series. Both the teams have had a rough road so far in the playoffs with the Warriors winning the Round 1 series 4-3 against the Sacramento Kings while the Lakers entered the playoffs only after winning the 2023 NBA Play-in tournament. As for the Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals, it was in balance throughout the four quarters with the Warriors taking a two-point first quarter lead by outscoring the Lakers 31-29. The Showtime Lakers hit back resoundingly in the second quarter, edging past the Warriors 36-33. The box score read 66-65 at the half-time in Los Angeles' favour and they kept on the pressure going into the third quarter as well. Also Read: Sixers' Joel Embiid named NBA Most Valuable Player Los Angeles took a decisive lead of seven points in the first quarter after the half-time as they outscored Golden State 31-24. With a eight-point deficit staring them in the face, the Warriors put in all their energy in the final 12 minutes and outscored the Lakers 24-21 but it wasn't suffice to win the game. As for the individual performance, Lakers center Anthony Davis had a monster game as he dropped 30 points and caught 23 rebounds along with five assists. Los Angeles star LeBron James also had a double-double, scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds apart from four assists. Apart from them, D'Angelo Russell and Dennis Schroder scored 19 apiece. For the Warriors, Stephen Curry, the Game 7 Round 1 hero against the Kings, top scored with 27 points while Klay Thompson dropped 25. Kevin Looney had a double-double of 10 points and 23 rebounds. Jordan Poole also dropped 21 points but all these efforts went in vain with the Lakers winning the game. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Lakers beat Warriors in Game 1 of Western Conference semifinals

James Harden scored 45 points as the Philadelphia 76ers stunned the Boston Celtics in the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;playoffs on Monday before Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets took a commanding 2-0 series lead over the Phoenix Suns. &nbsp;

In a pulsating Eastern Conference duel in Boston, Harden produced a vintage performance -– including a pivotal go-ahead three-pointer with 8.4 seconds remaining -- to leave the TD Garden in stunned silence as the Sixers snatched a 119-115 game-one victory.

The Sixers' win was achieved without their best player, injured talisman Joel Embiid, who watched from the bench after failing to recover from a knee injury.

"We're just a resilient team," Harden said. "Even without Joel, we've got the confidence to come here and win games.&nbsp;

"We've been doing it all year long, that's a good one for us."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/belgiums-luca-brecel-becomes-first-continental-europe-player-to-win-snooker-world-championship-588014">Belgium's Luca Brecel becomes first continental Europe player to win snooker World Championship</a>

Harden's points haul came from 17-of-30 shooting and included seven three-pointers.

"He was awesome," Sixers coach Doc Rivers said. "Kept his cool, knew when to attack, knew when to give it up."

Tyrese Maxey provided offensive support with 26 points while Tobias Harris added 18 and De’Anthony Melton 17.

The Celtics were led by 39 points from Jayson Tatum while Jaylen Brown chipped in with 23 points and Malcolm Brogdon 20.

With Boston exploiting the absence of Embiid to score freely in the paint, the Celtics jumped out to lead by 12 in the second quarter.

But Harden and Maxey's scoring ensured that the Sixers remained in touch coming down the stretch with only a handful of points separating the two teams in the closing stages.

A loose pass from Brogdon with 32 seconds left on the clock handed Maxey an easy uncontested layup to put Philadelphia 114-113 up, before Tatum hit back with two free throws to give Boston a slender 115-114 advantage.

But with the clock running down, Harden advanced up the court and took his time before nervelessly sinking a sublime three-pointer from 25 feet to give Philadelphia a 117-115 lead with just seconds remaining.&nbsp;

Rivers said Harden's ice-cool three-pointer at the death was a rebuttal to critics who have long accused the 33-year-old former&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Most Valuable Player of folding under pressure.

"I thought he had just the perfect mindset tonight," Rivers said. "I'm so happy for him because it just tells you what he can do on a given night.&nbsp;

"It's amazing -- the guy's a Hall-of-Famer and all you hear is the other stuff about him. He's fantastic."

Game two of the best-of-seven series takes place in Boston on Wednesday.

<h2>Suns eclipsed</h2>

In Monday's other playoff game, Denver's reigning two-time&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;MVP Jokic finished with 39 points as the Nuggets staged a fourth-quarter rally to eclipse the Phoenix Suns 97-87 and take a 2-0 series lead.

Devin Booker finished with 35 points for Phoenix while Kevin Durant added 24, but the Suns were unable to respond as Denver pulled away to outscore the visitors 27-14 in the fourth quarter.

Jokic's 39-point haul included 26 after half-time as the Nuggets took control of a low-scoring contest that saw Phoenix lead by eight points in the third quarter.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope delivered a crucial cameo for Denver with a flurry of three three-pointers in the fourth quarter, helping to take the game away from Phoenix as the clock ran down.

A gloomy night for Phoenix was compounded by an injury to veteran Chris Paul, who limped to the locker room near the end of the third quarter after appearing to injure his groin.

"Both teams didn't shoot well, it was a low-scoring game 87-97, it was a tough, rough game -- but we won the game and that's the most important thing," Jokic said.

The victory came as Jokic prepares to discover on Tuesday whether he has won the&nbsp;NBA's regular season MVP award for a third straight year.

Nuggets coach Michael Malone said Jokic had delivered an MVP-caliber performance to drag Denver over the line.

"Nikola's an MVP for a reason. He can take over a game. He can beat you in a lot of ways. I love an aggressive Nikola Jokic," Malone said.

The Denver coach said Jokic however was only focused on ending the Nuggets' wait for a first&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Championship.

"I know what motivates Nikola Jokic, myself, and the rest of the guys in that locker room - it's not the MVP," Malone said.&nbsp;

"If he wins it, we'll be celebrating and very happy for him because it's a huge accomplishment, three years in a row.&nbsp;

"And if he doesn't win it I'm going to give him a hug because he's still the MVP in my eyes."

The series now heads back to Arizona for game three on Friday.

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James Harden scored 45 points as the Philadelphia 76ers stunned the Boston Celtics in the NBA playoffs on Monday before Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets took a commanding 2-0 series lead over the Phoenix Suns.

James Harden scored 45 points as the Philadelphia 76ers stunned the Boston Celtics in the NBA playoffs on Monday before Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets took a commanding 2-0 series lead over the Phoenix Suns. In a pulsating Eastern Conference duel in Boston, Harden produced a vintage performance -– including a pivotal go-ahead three-pointer with 8.4 seconds remaining -- to leave the TD Garden in stunned silence as the Sixers snatched a 119-115 game-one victory. The Sixers' win was achieved without their best player, injured talisman Joel Embiid, who watched from the bench after failing to recover from a knee injury. "We're just a resilient team," Harden said. "Even without Joel, we've got the confidence to come here and win games. "We've been doing it all year long, that's a good one for us." Also Read: Belgium's Luca Brecel becomes first continental Europe player to win snooker World Championship Harden's points haul came from 17-of-30 shooting and included seven three-pointers. "He was awesome," Sixers coach Doc Rivers said. "Kept his cool, knew when to attack, knew when to give it up." Tyrese Maxey provided offensive support with 26 points while Tobias Harris added 18 and De’Anthony Melton 17. The Celtics were led by 39 points from Jayson Tatum while Jaylen Brown chipped in with 23 points and Malcolm Brogdon 20. With Boston exploiting the absence of Embiid to score freely in the paint, the Celtics jumped out to lead by 12 in the second quarter. But Harden and Maxey's scoring ensured that the Sixers remained in touch coming down the stretch with only a handful of points separating the two teams in the closing stages. A loose pass from Brogdon with 32 seconds left on the clock handed Maxey an easy uncontested layup to put Philadelphia 114-113 up, before Tatum hit back with two free throws to give Boston a slender 115-114 advantage. But with the clock running down, Harden advanced up the court and took his time before nervelessly sinking a sublime three-pointer from 25 feet to give Philadelphia a 117-115 lead with just seconds remaining. Rivers said Harden's ice-cool three-pointer at the death was a rebuttal to critics who have long accused the 33-year-old former NBA Most Valuable Player of folding under pressure. "I thought he had just the perfect mindset tonight," Rivers said. "I'm so happy for him because it just tells you what he can do on a given night. "It's amazing -- the guy's a Hall-of-Famer and all you hear is the other stuff about him. He's fantastic." Game two of the best-of-seven series takes place in Boston on Wednesday. Suns eclipsed In Monday's other playoff game, Denver's reigning two-time NBA MVP Jokic finished with 39 points as the Nuggets staged a fourth-quarter rally to eclipse the Phoenix Suns 97-87 and take a 2-0 series lead. Devin Booker finished with 35 points for Phoenix while Kevin Durant added 24, but the Suns were unable to respond as Denver pulled away to outscore the visitors 27-14 in the fourth quarter. Jokic's 39-point haul included 26 after half-time as the Nuggets took control of a low-scoring contest that saw Phoenix lead by eight points in the third quarter. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope delivered a crucial cameo for Denver with a flurry of three three-pointers in the fourth quarter, helping to take the game away from Phoenix as the clock ran down. A gloomy night for Phoenix was compounded by an injury to veteran Chris Paul, who limped to the locker room near the end of the third quarter after appearing to injure his groin. "Both teams didn't shoot well, it was a low-scoring game 87-97, it was a tough, rough game -- but we won the game and that's the most important thing," Jokic said. The victory came as Jokic prepares to discover on Tuesday whether he has won the NBA's regular season MVP award for a third straight year. Nuggets coach Michael Malone said Jokic had delivered an MVP-caliber performance to drag Denver over the line. "Nikola's an MVP for a reason. He can take over a game. He can beat you in a lot of ways. I love an aggressive Nikola Jokic," Malone said. The Denver coach said Jokic however was only focused on ending the Nuggets' wait for a first NBA Championship. "I know what motivates Nikola Jokic, myself, and the rest of the guys in that locker room - it's not the MVP," Malone said. "If he wins it, we'll be celebrating and very happy for him because it's a huge accomplishment, three years in a row. "And if he doesn't win it I'm going to give him a hug because he's still the MVP in my eyes." The series now heads back to Arizona for game three on Friday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: 76ers ride on vintage Harden to beat Celtics, Jokic eclipses Suns

James Harden exploded for 45 points in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals as the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Boston Celtics 119-115. The win becomes more precious as the Sixers beat Boston without Joel Embiid playing.

The most iconic of Harden's shots on the night was a go-ahead three-pointer with eight seconds left on the clock in the fourth quarter. Boston's Al Horford was putting up screen around Harden outside the paint and Harden just leapt in the air to drain a three to tilt the scores in favour of the Sixers 117-115. Have a look at the shot:

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HE HAS 45. <a href="https://t.co/9FVH9RLh33">https://t.co/9FVH9RLh33</a> <a href="https://t.co/jnjc2Odrfu">pic.twitter.com/jnjc2Odrfu</a>
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) <a href="https://twitter.com/sixers/status/1653215393874427905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Harden, at the post-game press conference, spoke about the shot and said that he just thought to himself that 'this is what he does everyday and just take the best available shot.' Listen Harden explain the entire sequence here:

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James Harden walks through the game-winning 3 that gave him 45 PTS 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NBAPlayoffs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NBAPlayoffs</a> presented by Google Pixel <a href="https://t.co/PgMK8gebJb">pic.twitter.com/PgMK8gebJb</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1653226792449110016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Apart from a mammoth 45 points, Harden also had six assists and caught one rebound. Aside from him, Tyrese Maxey also chipped in with 26 points. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum had a double-double of 39 points and 11 rebounds while Jaylen Brown dropped 23.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/belgiums-luca-brecel-becomes-first-continental-europe-player-to-win-snooker-world-championship-588014">Belgium's Luca Brecel becomes first continental Europe player to win snooker World Championship</a>

Boston, however, had early lead in the game as they led the first quarter 38-31 against the Sixers. Philadelphia came out strong in the second quarter with 32 points against Boston's 28 but still had a deficit of three points at the half-time with the scores reading 66-63 in the Celtics' favour.

In the first quarter of the second half, the 76ers erased that three-point deficit and brought the game at 87 apiece as they outscored the Celtics 24-21. The fourth quarter was all to fight for and Boston was running away with it before the 76ers scored the final five points in the game, including Harden's go-ahead three-pointer.&nbsp;

Boston were outscored 32-28 in the last quarter despite leading the game 28-27 with just 13 seconds left on the clock and gave Philadelphia a 1-0 lead in the seven-game series.

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James Harden exploded for 45 points in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals as the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Boston Celtics 119-115. The win becomes more precious as the Sixers beat Boston without Joel Embiid playing.

James Harden exploded for 45 points in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals as the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Boston Celtics 119-115. The win becomes more precious as the Sixers beat Boston without Joel Embiid playing. The most iconic of Harden's shots on the night was a go-ahead three-pointer with eight seconds left on the clock in the fourth quarter. Boston's Al Horford was putting up screen around Harden outside the paint and Harden just leapt in the air to drain a three to tilt the scores in favour of the Sixers 117-115. Have a look at the shot: HE HAS 45. https://t.co/9FVH9RLh33 pic.twitter.com/jnjc2Odrfu — Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) May 2, 2023 × Harden, at the post-game press conference, spoke about the shot and said that he just thought to himself that 'this is what he does everyday and just take the best available shot.' Listen Harden explain the entire sequence here: James Harden walks through the game-winning 3 that gave him 45 PTS 👀#NBAPlayoffs presented by Google Pixel pic.twitter.com/PgMK8gebJb — NBA (@NBA) May 2, 2023 × Apart from a mammoth 45 points, Harden also had six assists and caught one rebound. Aside from him, Tyrese Maxey also chipped in with 26 points. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum had a double-double of 39 points and 11 rebounds while Jaylen Brown dropped 23. Also Read: Belgium's Luca Brecel becomes first continental Europe player to win snooker World Championship Boston, however, had early lead in the game as they led the first quarter 38-31 against the Sixers. Philadelphia came out strong in the second quarter with 32 points against Boston's 28 but still had a deficit of three points at the half-time with the scores reading 66-63 in the Celtics' favour. In the first quarter of the second half, the 76ers erased that three-point deficit and brought the game at 87 apiece as they outscored the Celtics 24-21. The fourth quarter was all to fight for and Boston was running away with it before the 76ers scored the final five points in the game, including Harden's go-ahead three-pointer. Boston were outscored 32-28 in the last quarter despite leading the game 28-27 with just 13 seconds left on the clock and gave Philadelphia a 1-0 lead in the seven-game series. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: James Harden drops 45 points, go-ahead 3-pointer in 76ers vs Celtics Game 1 - WATCH

Stephen Curry scored 50 points in a record-shattering performance Sunday to send the defending champion Golden State Warriors into the second round of the NBA playoffs while a Jimmy Butler ankle injury raised tensions for the triumphant Miami Heat.

Curry, a four-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Most Valuable Player, was nearly unstoppable as the Warriors won 120-100 at Sacramento to capture their best-of-seven Western Conference series 4-3.

"I just wanted to come out and look for shots early, get my teammates going throughout the game," Curry said. "But when I'm looking for shots, it usually works in our favor."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pl-diogo-jota-scores-a-stoppage-time-winner-to-hand-liverpool-a-close-4-3-win-over-tottenham-hotspur-587643">PL: Diogo Jota scores a stoppage-time winner to hand Liverpool a close 4-3 win over Tottenham Hotspur</a>

The 35-year-old guard delivered an incredible performance, hitting 20 of a career-high 38 shot attempts and going 7-of-18 from 3-point range and 3-of-5 from the free throw line.

"It was about being aggressive," Curry said. "I got 38 shots for a reason. We started to see where the holes were and I could be ultra aggressive and it worked."

Curry also added eight rebounds and six assists.

"Steph was elite. He put these guys on his back and said, 'We're not losing,'" Kings coach Mike Brown said. "Give Steph a ton of credit for doing exactly what he's supposed to do. Heck of a performance."

Curry's 50 points were a career playoff high and the most points in any NBA game seven -- breaking the&nbsp;old mark of 48 set by Kevin Durant for Brooklyn in a 2021 loss to Milwaukee.

"What an incredible all-time performance," Curry's backcourt teammate Klay Thompson said. "This is a game seven I'll forever remember as the Steph Curry game."

The Warriors next face LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers in a Western Conference semi-final matchup starting on Tuesday. Golden State faced a James-led Cleveland in four straight NBA Finals, winning three of them.

"It's special from the first series we played him in Cleveland," Curry said. "We're blessed to be playing at this level still and excited about a new chapter."

In Sunday's other playoff contest, Butler scored 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead Miami over the host New York Knicks 108-101 in their Eastern Conference second-round opener but suffered a right ankle injury.

The series continues Tuesday at New York but Butler's status will steal the spotlight until then.

"No idea," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "You just don't know with ankle sprains. I don't even know if we will know more by tomorrow. We'll just have to wait and see. It will be a waiting game."

Asked how the ankle felt, Butler said, "Like a rolled ankle."

At Sacramento, the Kings had no answer for Curry in the winner-take-all battle. After 20 first-half points, he pressed the attack in the third quarter as the Warriors pulled away along with Kevon Looney, who grabbed 21 rebounds.

"It's huge for us," Curry said. "In each series he makes an impact. It's not loud. It's all the dirty work and we love him for it."

Thompson completed a four-point play with 1.4 seconds remaining in the third quarter to give Golden State a 91-81 edge entering the fourth. The Warriors stretched the lead to 104-83 with 6:30 remaining and cruised from there.

Domantas Sabonis led the Kings with 22 points but had only six in the second half.

<h2>Heat sizzle late</h2>

There was an intense atmosphere at Madison Square Garden, which had not seen a second-round playoff contest since 2013.

The game and Butler's ankle turned when Butler fell to the court with the Heat up 95-92 and 5:05 to play.

As Butler planted his right foot to drive to the basket, falling Knicks defender Josh Hart's foot struck Butler's foot. Butler limped to the bench but returned to make two free throws and remained in the game.

"He did not want to come out of the game so we left him in," Spoelstra said.

Often standing in a corner far from the run of play, Butler was largely stationary.

"Find a way to win," Butler said of his reason for staying on the court. "Be out there. Be a presence. I didn't do too much except airball a three. But I'll take the dub (W)."

Butler's teammates stepped up. Gabe Vincent made a 3-pointer and Bam Adebayo and reserve Kyle Lowry, who scored 12 of his 18 in the second half, added hoops in a pivotal 7-0 run for a 104-94 Miami edge.

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Stephen Curry scored 50 points in a record-shattering performance Sunday to send the defending champion Golden State Warriors into the second round of the NBA playoffs while a Jimmy Butler ankle injury raised tensions for the triumphant Miami Heat.

Stephen Curry scored 50 points in a record-shattering performance Sunday to send the defending champion Golden State Warriors into the second round of the NBA playoffs while a Jimmy Butler ankle injury raised tensions for the triumphant Miami Heat. Curry, a four-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Most Valuable Player, was nearly unstoppable as the Warriors won 120-100 at Sacramento to capture their best-of-seven Western Conference series 4-3. "I just wanted to come out and look for shots early, get my teammates going throughout the game," Curry said. "But when I'm looking for shots, it usually works in our favor." Also Read: PL: Diogo Jota scores a stoppage-time winner to hand Liverpool a close 4-3 win over Tottenham Hotspur The 35-year-old guard delivered an incredible performance, hitting 20 of a career-high 38 shot attempts and going 7-of-18 from 3-point range and 3-of-5 from the free throw line. "It was about being aggressive," Curry said. "I got 38 shots for a reason. We started to see where the holes were and I could be ultra aggressive and it worked." Curry also added eight rebounds and six assists. "Steph was elite. He put these guys on his back and said, 'We're not losing,'" Kings coach Mike Brown said. "Give Steph a ton of credit for doing exactly what he's supposed to do. Heck of a performance." Curry's 50 points were a career playoff high and the most points in any NBA game seven -- breaking the old mark of 48 set by Kevin Durant for Brooklyn in a 2021 loss to Milwaukee. "What an incredible all-time performance," Curry's backcourt teammate Klay Thompson said. "This is a game seven I'll forever remember as the Steph Curry game." The Warriors next face LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers in a Western Conference semi-final matchup starting on Tuesday. Golden State faced a James-led Cleveland in four straight NBA Finals, winning three of them. "It's special from the first series we played him in Cleveland," Curry said. "We're blessed to be playing at this level still and excited about a new chapter." In Sunday's other playoff contest, Butler scored 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead Miami over the host New York Knicks 108-101 in their Eastern Conference second-round opener but suffered a right ankle injury. The series continues Tuesday at New York but Butler's status will steal the spotlight until then. "No idea," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "You just don't know with ankle sprains. I don't even know if we will know more by tomorrow. We'll just have to wait and see. It will be a waiting game." Asked how the ankle felt, Butler said, "Like a rolled ankle." At Sacramento, the Kings had no answer for Curry in the winner-take-all battle. After 20 first-half points, he pressed the attack in the third quarter as the Warriors pulled away along with Kevon Looney, who grabbed 21 rebounds. "It's huge for us," Curry said. "In each series he makes an impact. It's not loud. It's all the dirty work and we love him for it." Thompson completed a four-point play with 1.4 seconds remaining in the third quarter to give Golden State a 91-81 edge entering the fourth. The Warriors stretched the lead to 104-83 with 6:30 remaining and cruised from there. Domantas Sabonis led the Kings with 22 points but had only six in the second half. Heat sizzle late There was an intense atmosphere at Madison Square Garden, which had not seen a second-round playoff contest since 2013. The game and Butler's ankle turned when Butler fell to the court with the Heat up 95-92 and 5:05 to play. As Butler planted his right foot to drive to the basket, falling Knicks defender Josh Hart's foot struck Butler's foot. Butler limped to the bench but returned to make two free throws and remained in the game. "He did not want to come out of the game so we left him in," Spoelstra said. Often standing in a corner far from the run of play, Butler was largely stationary. "Find a way to win," Butler said of his reason for staying on the court. "Be out there. Be a presence. I didn't do too much except airball a three. But I'll take the dub (W)." Butler's teammates stepped up. Gabe Vincent made a 3-pointer and Bam Adebayo and reserve Kyle Lowry, who scored 12 of his 18 in the second half, added hoops in a pivotal 7-0 run for a 104-94 Miami edge. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Curry drops 50 as Warriors beat Kings 4-3, Heat take first game in Round 2

Stephen Curry led the Golden State Warriors in Game 7 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 against the Sacramento Kings to enter the Western Conference semifinals.

With the series tied at 3-3, it was do or die for both the teams and the game began in cut-throat fashion. Both, the Warriors and the Kings went neck-to-neck in the first quarter with Sacramento edging Golden State 31-30.

Come second quarter, the game again went down to wire with the Kings just going past the Warriors 27-26. The score read 58-56 at half-time and the Warriors had a bit to think about.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-arrayah-barrett-2-year-old-daughter-tampa-bay-buccaneers-lb-shaquil-barrett-dies-drowning-in-family-pool-587774">NFL: 2-year-old daughter of Tampa Bay Buccaneers LB Shaquil Barrett dies after drowning in family pool</a>

Golden State came out charging in the third quarter and scored a mammoth 35 points against the Kings' 23. The tables had turned by the time the last quarter of the last game of the seven-game series began with the Warriors leading by 10 points.

Sacramento, who had played brilliantly throughout the series, making the defending champions run for their money, lost steam in the final 12 minutes of their first playoff appearance in 17 years. The Warriors scored 29 points against Sacramento's 19, winning the game 120-100 and moving into the second round of the playoffs.

Stephen Curry was definitely the hero for the Golden State, scoring 50 points. Everyone else from the Warriors, played a second fiddle to Curry with Andrew Wiggins scoring 17, Klay Thompson scoring 16 and Kevon Looney scoring 11 points. Have a look at all the Curry's playoff career-high 50 points:

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All 50 points from Steph's Game 7 masterclass 🔥 
 
GSW win to advance... they'll face LAL in Round 2. 
 
📺 Game 1: 10pm/et Tuesday on TNT 
 
For more, download the NBA App ⤵ 
📲 <a href="https://t.co/YfWXkZJEWF">https://t.co/YfWXkZJEWF</a> <a href="https://t.co/jJ7ougqXPz">pic.twitter.com/jJ7ougqXPz</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1652930855721992193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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For the Kings, Domantas Sabonis was the top scorer with 22 points, De'Aaron Fox scored 16 while Malik Monk and Trey Lyles scored 14 each.&nbsp;

How well the game was fought by the Kings can be ascertained by the difference in various stats like free throw percentage which stands 59.3% for the Kings against the Warriors 63.3%.&nbsp;

For three points, Sacramento didn't do too bad, draining 12 from 47 in comparison with the Warriors, who despite having legendary three-point dropper Step Curry, could drop 15 of their 46 attempts.

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Stephen Curry led the Golden State Warriors in Game 7 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 against the Sacramento Kings to enter the Western Conference semifinals. With the series tied at 3-3, it was do or die for both the teams and the game began in cut-throat fashion.

Stephen Curry led the Golden State Warriors in Game 7 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 against the Sacramento Kings to enter the Western Conference semifinals. With the series tied at 3-3, it was do or die for both the teams and the game began in cut-throat fashion. Both, the Warriors and the Kings went neck-to-neck in the first quarter with Sacramento edging Golden State 31-30. Come second quarter, the game again went down to wire with the Kings just going past the Warriors 27-26. The score read 58-56 at half-time and the Warriors had a bit to think about. Also Read: NFL: 2-year-old daughter of Tampa Bay Buccaneers LB Shaquil Barrett dies after drowning in family pool Golden State came out charging in the third quarter and scored a mammoth 35 points against the Kings' 23. The tables had turned by the time the last quarter of the last game of the seven-game series began with the Warriors leading by 10 points. Sacramento, who had played brilliantly throughout the series, making the defending champions run for their money, lost steam in the final 12 minutes of their first playoff appearance in 17 years. The Warriors scored 29 points against Sacramento's 19, winning the game 120-100 and moving into the second round of the playoffs. Stephen Curry was definitely the hero for the Golden State, scoring 50 points. Everyone else from the Warriors, played a second fiddle to Curry with Andrew Wiggins scoring 17, Klay Thompson scoring 16 and Kevon Looney scoring 11 points. Have a look at all the Curry's playoff career-high 50 points: All 50 points from Steph's Game 7 masterclass 🔥 GSW win to advance... they'll face LAL in Round 2. 📺 Game 1: 10pm/et Tuesday on TNT For more, download the NBA App ⤵ 📲 https://t.co/YfWXkZJEWF pic.twitter.com/jJ7ougqXPz — NBA (@NBA) May 1, 2023 × For the Kings, Domantas Sabonis was the top scorer with 22 points, De'Aaron Fox scored 16 while Malik Monk and Trey Lyles scored 14 each. How well the game was fought by the Kings can be ascertained by the difference in various stats like free throw percentage which stands 59.3% for the Kings against the Warriors 63.3%. For three points, Sacramento didn't do too bad, draining 12 from 47 in comparison with the Warriors, who despite having legendary three-point dropper Step Curry, could drop 15 of their 46 attempts. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Stephen Curry drop playoff career-high 50 points in Warriors vs Kings Game 7 - WATCH

Trae Young, with the Hawks trailing by one point against the Boston Celtics, dropped a three with 1.8 second left on the clock in the game. The shot was enough to get the game over and take Atlanta to Game 6 in the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 series. The final scores were 119-117 in Atlanta's favour and the series stands at 3-2, advantage Boston.

As for the shot, the clock had seven something left until the game got over and Boston got through the semis. Young, meanwhile, got the ball, he dribbled a bit, moved up court, faked to move further and then took a step back to drain a three, leaving TD Garden stunned in silence. Have a look at the shot here:

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WHO ELSE <a href="https://t.co/SO7yyxZ0jw">pic.twitter.com/SO7yyxZ0jw</a>
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As for the rest of the game, Atlanta knew they had to win at all cost to keep the series alive and they came out all guns blazing against the Celtics. The Hawks soared high over Boston as they took a three-point in the first quarter with the box score reading 30-27 in their favour.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-nuggets-vs-timberwolves-suns-vs-clippers-game-5-score-result-highlights-and-more-586232">NBA Playoffs 2023: Nuggets vs Timberwolves, Suns vs Clippers Game 5 score, result, highlights and more</a>

The flight was a short lived one though as Boston took the Hawks down in the second quarter, scoring 39 against Atlanta's 28. In the third quarter, the scoreboard battle was on throughout the entire span but Boston managed to steal two points more than Atlanta's 24.&nbsp;

Come last quarter, the Hawks went wild and picked on the Celtics at will, scoring 37 points against Boston's 25 and won the game 119-117. Talking about the individual performances, Jaylen Brown scored 35 for Boston while Jayson Tatum and Derrick White managed 19 and 18, respectively which clearly were less then the requirement.

As for the Hawks, Trae Young scored a double-double of 38 points and 13 assists while John Collins managed 22 in Atlanta's thrilling win.

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Trae Young, with the Hawks trailing by one point against the Boston Celtics, dropped a three with 1.8 second left on the clock in the game. The shot was enough to get the game over and take Atlanta to Game 6 in the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 series.

Trae Young, with the Hawks trailing by one point against the Boston Celtics, dropped a three with 1.8 second left on the clock in the game. The shot was enough to get the game over and take Atlanta to Game 6 in the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 series. The final scores were 119-117 in Atlanta's favour and the series stands at 3-2, advantage Boston. As for the shot, the clock had seven something left until the game got over and Boston got through the semis. Young, meanwhile, got the ball, he dribbled a bit, moved up court, faked to move further and then took a step back to drain a three, leaving TD Garden stunned in silence. Have a look at the shot here: WHO ELSE pic.twitter.com/SO7yyxZ0jw — Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) April 26, 2023 × As for the rest of the game, Atlanta knew they had to win at all cost to keep the series alive and they came out all guns blazing against the Celtics. The Hawks soared high over Boston as they took a three-point in the first quarter with the box score reading 30-27 in their favour. Also Read: NBA Playoffs 2023: Nuggets vs Timberwolves, Suns vs Clippers Game 5 score, result, highlights and more The flight was a short lived one though as Boston took the Hawks down in the second quarter, scoring 39 against Atlanta's 28. In the third quarter, the scoreboard battle was on throughout the entire span but Boston managed to steal two points more than Atlanta's 24. Come last quarter, the Hawks went wild and picked on the Celtics at will, scoring 37 points against Boston's 25 and won the game 119-117. Talking about the individual performances, Jaylen Brown scored 35 for Boston while Jayson Tatum and Derrick White managed 19 and 18, respectively which clearly were less then the requirement. As for the Hawks, Trae Young scored a double-double of 38 points and 13 assists while John Collins managed 22 in Atlanta's thrilling win. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Hawks' Trae Young drains game-winning three-pointer against Celtics in Game 5 - WATCH

Trae Young nailed a last-gasp three-pointer as the Atlanta Hawks stunned the Boston Celtics 119-117 to keep their Eastern Conference playoff series alive on Tuesday.

Young drained a 29-footer with just 1.8 seconds remaining to silence Boston's TD Garden and ensure a game six back in Atlanta on Thursday.

Young, who finished with 38 points, 13 assists and four rebounds, said the Hawks had been determined to extend the series following the suspension of key guard Dejounte Murray.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-kyle-anderson-on-verge-of-being-naturalised-to-represent-china-at-fiba-basketball-wc-586015">Kyle Anderson on verge of being naturalised to represent China at FIBA basketball WC</a>

Murray was suspended after a clash with a referee after game four on Sunday.

"We were missing a big piece of ours and we want him to play game six, so we want to go back home and have him with us," Young said of Murray.

"I didn't feel there was any pressure on me. Obviously we were without (Murray) but we all had to step our game up another level -- not just me, we all did tonight. Total team win."

The Celtics, leading the series 3-1, had looked to be cruising to victory after dominating for most of the second half to lead by 13 points midway through the fourth quarter.

But with Boston poised to wrap up a 4-1 series victory, Young and the Hawks took over with a startling late rally in the closing minutes that whittled away the Celtics lead.

Young nailed back-to-back three-pointers to level the scores at 111-111 with 2:42 remaining and then hit three free throws to help Atlanta take a 114-113 lead.

Robert Williams handed Boston a one-point advantage to make it 115-114 to the Celtics with 25.6 seconds left on the clock.

But a rash foul by Boston's Marcus Smart presented Young with two more free throws to edge the Hawks into a 116-115 lead.

Young then had a nervous moment after conceding a foul on Derrick White, who shot two free throws to put the Celtics 117-116 ahead with 7.3 seconds left on the clock.&nbsp;

Young however responded superbly, calmly bringing the ball up court before launching a pullup three-pointer to give Atlanta a 119-117 lead before Boston's final desperate last attack fizzled.

Young's 38-point tally included 16 in the fourth quarter, while John Collins provided offensive backup with 22 points. Bogdan Bogdanovic finished with 18 points.

Boston's scoring was led by Jaylen Brown with 35 points while Jayson Tatum added 19. Four other Boston players finished in double figures.

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Trae Young nailed a last-gasp three-pointer as the Atlanta Hawks stunned the Boston Celtics 119-117 to keep their Eastern Conference playoff series alive on Tuesday.

Trae Young nailed a last-gasp three-pointer as the Atlanta Hawks stunned the Boston Celtics 119-117 to keep their Eastern Conference playoff series alive on Tuesday. Young drained a 29-footer with just 1.8 seconds remaining to silence Boston's TD Garden and ensure a game six back in Atlanta on Thursday. Young, who finished with 38 points, 13 assists and four rebounds, said the Hawks had been determined to extend the series following the suspension of key guard Dejounte Murray. Also Read: Kyle Anderson on verge of being naturalised to represent China at FIBA basketball WC Murray was suspended after a clash with a referee after game four on Sunday. "We were missing a big piece of ours and we want him to play game six, so we want to go back home and have him with us," Young said of Murray. "I didn't feel there was any pressure on me. Obviously we were without (Murray) but we all had to step our game up another level -- not just me, we all did tonight. Total team win." The Celtics, leading the series 3-1, had looked to be cruising to victory after dominating for most of the second half to lead by 13 points midway through the fourth quarter. But with Boston poised to wrap up a 4-1 series victory, Young and the Hawks took over with a startling late rally in the closing minutes that whittled away the Celtics lead. Young nailed back-to-back three-pointers to level the scores at 111-111 with 2:42 remaining and then hit three free throws to help Atlanta take a 114-113 lead. Robert Williams handed Boston a one-point advantage to make it 115-114 to the Celtics with 25.6 seconds left on the clock. But a rash foul by Boston's Marcus Smart presented Young with two more free throws to edge the Hawks into a 116-115 lead. Young then had a nervous moment after conceding a foul on Derrick White, who shot two free throws to put the Celtics 117-116 ahead with 7.3 seconds left on the clock. Young however responded superbly, calmly bringing the ball up court before launching a pullup three-pointer to give Atlanta a 119-117 lead before Boston's final desperate last attack fizzled. Young's 38-point tally included 16 in the fourth quarter, while John Collins provided offensive backup with 22 points. Bogdan Bogdanovic finished with 18 points. Boston's scoring was led by Jaylen Brown with 35 points while Jayson Tatum added 19. Four other Boston players finished in double figures. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Trae Young's three in Game 5 wins it for Hawks against Celtics

The 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 saw two more teams qualifying for the next round as Denver Nuggets beat Minnesota Timberwolves and Phoenix Suns beat Los Angeles Clippers. In the first game of the day, the Hawks survived another day against the Celtics as Trae Young made a buzzer-beater three to get the series to 3-2.

Here are the recaps from both the Eastern Conference games:

Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves

The Wolves tried their best to survive another day but Denver proved to be just good enough to hold them at a three-point deficit to win the game 112-109. Minnesota started the first quarter well and outscored the Nuggets 29-22 only to let the advantage slip in the second quarter as Denver scored 26 against their 18.

The third quarter again saw the Wolves coming out with a one point lead over the Nuggets as the teams scored 30 and 29 points, respectively. In the fourth quarter, each team played ferociously for every point but Denver eventually scored three more than the Wolves' 32 and those three points made the difference in the end.

With the win, Denver won the seven-game 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 series 4-1 and moved into the next round. In Game 5, Jamal Murray scored 35 while Nikola Jokic scored a double-double of 28 points and 17 rebounds for Denver. From Minnesota, Anthony Edwards dropped 29 and Karl-Anthony Towns scored 26 but all in vain.

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Phoenix Suns vs Los Angeles Clippers

The Suns eventually eclipsed the Clippers after taking time to rise in the series. Such was the dominance of Phoenix in the game that they won the it despite being outscored by 11 points in the last quarter.

The first quarter was fought closely as the Suns scored 32 against the Clippers' 30. Los Angeles responded in LA style as they dumped 40 in the second quarter against Phoenix's 29. But the Suns responded with even more heat as they dropped 50 in the third quarter while LA could manage only 24.&nbsp;

The Clippers were made to bow out of the 2023 NBA Playoffs with a 136-130 game loss and 4-1 series loss. As for the individual performances, Devin Booker exploded for 47 points while Kevin Durant scored 31 for the Suns. From the Clippers, Norman Powell was the highest scorer with 27 points and behind him was Nicolas Batum with 19 points.

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The 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 saw two more teams qualifying for the next round as Denver Nuggets beat Minnesota Timberwolves and Phoenix Suns beat Los Angeles Clippers.

The 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 saw two more teams qualifying for the next round as Denver Nuggets beat Minnesota Timberwolves and Phoenix Suns beat Los Angeles Clippers. In the first game of the day, the Hawks survived another day against the Celtics as Trae Young made a buzzer-beater three to get the series to 3-2. Here are the recaps from both the Eastern Conference games: Denver Nuggets vs Minnesota Timberwolves The Wolves tried their best to survive another day but Denver proved to be just good enough to hold them at a three-point deficit to win the game 112-109. Minnesota started the first quarter well and outscored the Nuggets 29-22 only to let the advantage slip in the second quarter as Denver scored 26 against their 18. The third quarter again saw the Wolves coming out with a one point lead over the Nuggets as the teams scored 30 and 29 points, respectively. In the fourth quarter, each team played ferociously for every point but Denver eventually scored three more than the Wolves' 32 and those three points made the difference in the end. With the win, Denver won the seven-game 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 series 4-1 and moved into the next round. In Game 5, Jamal Murray scored 35 while Nikola Jokic scored a double-double of 28 points and 17 rebounds for Denver. From Minnesota, Anthony Edwards dropped 29 and Karl-Anthony Towns scored 26 but all in vain. Also Read: NBA Playoffs 2023: Trae Young's buzzer-beater three in Game 5 wins it for Hawks against Celtics Phoenix Suns vs Los Angeles Clippers The Suns eventually eclipsed the Clippers after taking time to rise in the series. Such was the dominance of Phoenix in the game that they won the it despite being outscored by 11 points in the last quarter. The first quarter was fought closely as the Suns scored 32 against the Clippers' 30. Los Angeles responded in LA style as they dumped 40 in the second quarter against Phoenix's 29. But the Suns responded with even more heat as they dropped 50 in the third quarter while LA could manage only 24. The Clippers were made to bow out of the 2023 NBA Playoffs with a 136-130 game loss and 4-1 series loss. As for the individual performances, Devin Booker exploded for 47 points while Kevin Durant scored 31 for the Suns. From the Clippers, Norman Powell was the highest scorer with 27 points and behind him was Nicolas Batum with 19 points. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Nuggets vs Timberwolves, Suns vs Clippers Game 5 score, result, highlights and more

Jimmy Butler produced a scintillating 56-point performance as the Miami Heat scored a stunning come-from-behind victory to leave the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks on the brink of elimination from the NBA playoffs on Monday.

In an electrifying battle at Miami's Kaseya Center, Butler all but single-handedly led Miami to a 119-114 win that leaves the Bucks 3-1 down in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference first-round series.

Milwaukee, who welcomed Giannis Antetokounmpo back into their lineup after a two-game injury absence, had looked to be cruising towards victory after leading from the opening seconds and keeping Miami at arm's length throughout.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-warriors-steph-curry-makes-costly-timeout-call-vs-kings-in-game-4-watch-585610">Warriors' Steph Curry makes COSTLY timeout call vs Kings in Game 4&nbsp;</a>

Milwaukee led by 14 points early in the fourth quarter and seemed to be poised to square the series at two games apiece after a ruthless shooting performance from Brook Lopez with Antetokounmpo providing scoring support.

But Butler led an astonishing late 13-0 run to transform the contest and with the crowd roaring him on, scored a jaw-dropping 21 points in the fourth quarter to leave the Bucks shellshocked in defeat.

Butler's points haul was the fourth-highest individual scoring performance in an NBA playoff game ever.&nbsp;

Only Michael Jordan (63 points), Elgin Baylor (61) and Donovan Mitchell (57) have scored more in a postseason game.

"For my team to get this (win), in this way, in this atmosphere, in this city, is huge," an exhausted Butler said.

Butler is now relishing the chance of possibly eliminating the Bucks from the postseason in Milwaukee in game five on Wednesday.

"To play basketball in Milwaukee, in front of their crowd, to be together, on the road -- that's where championships are won. And we've got a shot," Butler said.

Miami coach Erik Spoelstra saluted Butler's basketball intelligence.

"He's one of the most intelligent basketball players in this association," said Spoelstra.

"You can't do what he does on both ends of the court just by running around and trying to figure things out.&nbsp;

"He understands what we're trying to do and he understands what they're trying to do -- and they're a very good team."

Butler's tally came from 19-of-28 shooting with three three-pointers.&nbsp;

Crucially, Butler's haul included 22 points in the first quarter, a burst of scoring that helped Miami stay just in touch.

No other Miami player broke 20 points, with Bam Adebayo the next highest Miami scorer with 15 points. Only two other Miami players cracked double figures.

Milwaukee were left stunned at how victory had eluded them.

Lopez finished with 36 points and 11 rebounds while Antetokounmpo made a triple double on his return with 26 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists.

"We had our opportunities in the fourth quarter but we didn't make enough plays at either end, and they did," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said.

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Jimmy Butler produced a scintillating 56-point performance as the Miami Heat scored a stunning come-from-behind victory to leave the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks on the brink of elimination from the NBA playoffs on Monday.

Jimmy Butler produced a scintillating 56-point performance as the Miami Heat scored a stunning come-from-behind victory to leave the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks on the brink of elimination from the NBA playoffs on Monday. In an electrifying battle at Miami's Kaseya Center, Butler all but single-handedly led Miami to a 119-114 win that leaves the Bucks 3-1 down in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference first-round series. Milwaukee, who welcomed Giannis Antetokounmpo back into their lineup after a two-game injury absence, had looked to be cruising towards victory after leading from the opening seconds and keeping Miami at arm's length throughout. Also Watch: Warriors' Steph Curry makes COSTLY timeout call vs Kings in Game 4 Milwaukee led by 14 points early in the fourth quarter and seemed to be poised to square the series at two games apiece after a ruthless shooting performance from Brook Lopez with Antetokounmpo providing scoring support. But Butler led an astonishing late 13-0 run to transform the contest and with the crowd roaring him on, scored a jaw-dropping 21 points in the fourth quarter to leave the Bucks shellshocked in defeat. Butler's points haul was the fourth-highest individual scoring performance in an NBA playoff game ever. Only Michael Jordan (63 points), Elgin Baylor (61) and Donovan Mitchell (57) have scored more in a postseason game. "For my team to get this (win), in this way, in this atmosphere, in this city, is huge," an exhausted Butler said. Butler is now relishing the chance of possibly eliminating the Bucks from the postseason in Milwaukee in game five on Wednesday. "To play basketball in Milwaukee, in front of their crowd, to be together, on the road -- that's where championships are won. And we've got a shot," Butler said. Miami coach Erik Spoelstra saluted Butler's basketball intelligence. "He's one of the most intelligent basketball players in this association," said Spoelstra. "You can't do what he does on both ends of the court just by running around and trying to figure things out. "He understands what we're trying to do and he understands what they're trying to do -- and they're a very good team." Butler's tally came from 19-of-28 shooting with three three-pointers. Crucially, Butler's haul included 22 points in the first quarter, a burst of scoring that helped Miami stay just in touch. No other Miami player broke 20 points, with Bam Adebayo the next highest Miami scorer with 15 points. Only two other Miami players cracked double figures. Milwaukee were left stunned at how victory had eluded them. Lopez finished with 36 points and 11 rebounds while Antetokounmpo made a triple double on his return with 26 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists. "We had our opportunities in the fourth quarter but we didn't make enough plays at either end, and they did," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Butler 56 as Heat beat Bucks to take 3-1 lead

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was in beast mode during Game 4 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 against the Memphis Grizzlies. LeBron was the architect of the Lakers' overtime victory as he dropped 20 points.

James, with nearly seven seconds left on clock in the fourth quarter and the Lakers' training by two points, made a clutch lay-up as he pushed the game into the OT. LeBron, while making the game-pushed-in-OT play, took the ball up court before laying it up for two points. The ball bounced on the rim a bit before sinking down, sending everyone at Crypto.com arena. Have a look at the video here:

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Once the game was in the OT, LeBron and Lakers didn't relent and outscored the Grizzlies 13-7 to win the game 117-111. The last two games of the seven-game series have been quite chirpy from Grizzlies' side at least.&nbsp;

Memphis guard Dillon Brooks was, in fact, ejected in Game 3 after hitting LeBron in groin area. The league, however, refrained from suspending Brooks. Earlier, after Game 2, Brooks had called LeBron 'old' but LeBron didn't reply to any of the talks from Brooks instead showed what is he capable of in Game 4.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-lebron-james-leads-lakers-past-grizzlies-in-game-4-585921">LeBron James leads Lakers past Grizzlies in Game 4</a>

For the Lakers, LeBron scored a double-double - his first 20-20 in his 1,691 career games, as he dropped 22 points and caught 20 rebounds. Apart from him, Austin Reaves scored 23 points while Anthony Davis also scored a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds. LeBron, at 38 years and 115 days old, also became the oldest player in NBA history to record 20+ points and 20+ rebounds in a Playoff Game. &nbsp;Wilt Chamberlain at 36 years and 262 days old had set the previous record on May 10, 1973.&nbsp;

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LeBron James (38 years, 115 days old) becomes the oldest player in NBA history to record 20+ points and 20+ rebounds in a Playoff Game. 
 
Wilt Chamberlain (36 years, 262 days old) set the previous record on May 10, 1973. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PLAYOFFMODE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PLAYOFFMODE</a> <a href="https://t.co/3FO4jxSuTl">pic.twitter.com/3FO4jxSuTl</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1650730749002121217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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For the Memphis Grizzlies, Desmond Bane scored 36 points while Ja Morant could manage only 19 as Memphis lost the game and now are on the brink of getting out of the 2023 NBA Playoffs.

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was in beast mode during Game 4 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 against the Memphis Grizzlies. LeBron was the architect of the Lakers' overtime victory as he dropped 20 points.

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was in beast mode during Game 4 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 against the Memphis Grizzlies. LeBron was the architect of the Lakers' overtime victory as he dropped 20 points. James, with nearly seven seconds left on clock in the fourth quarter and the Lakers' training by two points, made a clutch lay-up as he pushed the game into the OT. LeBron, while making the game-pushed-in-OT play, took the ball up court before laying it up for two points. The ball bounced on the rim a bit before sinking down, sending everyone at Crypto.com arena. Have a look at the video here: The King sends it to OT pic.twitter.com/EhmqQHLbrn — Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) April 25, 2023 × Once the game was in the OT, LeBron and Lakers didn't relent and outscored the Grizzlies 13-7 to win the game 117-111. The last two games of the seven-game series have been quite chirpy from Grizzlies' side at least. Memphis guard Dillon Brooks was, in fact, ejected in Game 3 after hitting LeBron in groin area. The league, however, refrained from suspending Brooks. Earlier, after Game 2, Brooks had called LeBron 'old' but LeBron didn't reply to any of the talks from Brooks instead showed what is he capable of in Game 4. Also Read: LeBron James leads Lakers past Grizzlies in Game 4 For the Lakers, LeBron scored a double-double - his first 20-20 in his 1,691 career games, as he dropped 22 points and caught 20 rebounds. Apart from him, Austin Reaves scored 23 points while Anthony Davis also scored a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds. LeBron, at 38 years and 115 days old, also became the oldest player in NBA history to record 20+ points and 20+ rebounds in a Playoff Game. Wilt Chamberlain at 36 years and 262 days old had set the previous record on May 10, 1973. LeBron James (38 years, 115 days old) becomes the oldest player in NBA history to record 20+ points and 20+ rebounds in a Playoff Game. Wilt Chamberlain (36 years, 262 days old) set the previous record on May 10, 1973. #PLAYOFFMODE pic.twitter.com/3FO4jxSuTl — NBA (@NBA) April 25, 2023 × For the Memphis Grizzlies, Desmond Bane scored 36 points while Ja Morant could manage only 19 as Memphis lost the game and now are on the brink of getting out of the 2023 NBA Playoffs.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Lakers' LeBron makes clutch shot to send Game 4 vs Grizzlies into OT - WATCH

Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James brushed aside Ja Morant, Dillon Brooks and Memphis Grizzlies as they won Game 4 117-111 in overtime to take a 3-1 lead in the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 series.

Notably, Morant had scored 45 points in the last game against the Lakers, albeit in a loss. Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks, on the other hand, was ejected in Game 3 for hitting LeBron James in the groin after calling him 'old' post Game 2.

In Game 4 though, LeBron schooled the Grizzlies as he scored clutch points in overtime to take the Lakers on the brink of the next round of NBA Playoffs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-butler-56-as-heat-beat-bucks-to-take-3-1-lead-585838">Butler 56 as Heat beat Bucks to take 3-1 lead</a>

The game started with Lakers coming out with an attitude to win, outscoring Grizzlies 29-23 in the first quarter. The Grizzlies came roaring back in the second quarter as thy outscored the Showtime Lakers 29-25. Los Angeles, however, still had a lead of one point at the half-time though.

Come second half, Memphis started well and managed 31 points in the third quarter against the Lakers' 27. Now, with the Grizzlies with their nose in the front, the Lakers hit back.

Los Angeles did everything in their power to erase the two-point deficit and managed 23 points against the Grizzlies' 21, taking the game into the OT. And it was none other than 'old' LeBron James who made a pivotal shot for the Lakers to send the game into the overtime.

In OT, the Lakers and LeBron were unstoppable as they outscored Memphis 13-7 to win the game. For the Lakers, LeBron scored a double-double - his first 20-20 in his 1,691 career games, as he dropped 22 points and caught 20 rebounds. Apart from him, Austin Reaves scored 23 points while Anthony Davis also scored a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds.

For the Grizzlies, Desmond Bane scored 36 points while Ja Morant could manage only 19 as Memphis lost the game and now are on the brink of getting out of the 2023 NBA Playoffs.

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Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James brushed aside Ja Morant, Dillon Brooks and Memphis Grizzlies as they won Game 4 117-111 in overtime to take a 3-1 lead in the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 series.

Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James brushed aside Ja Morant, Dillon Brooks and Memphis Grizzlies as they won Game 4 117-111 in overtime to take a 3-1 lead in the 2023 NBA Playoffs Round 1 series. Notably, Morant had scored 45 points in the last game against the Lakers, albeit in a loss. Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks, on the other hand, was ejected in Game 3 for hitting LeBron James in the groin after calling him 'old' post Game 2. In Game 4 though, LeBron schooled the Grizzlies as he scored clutch points in overtime to take the Lakers on the brink of the next round of NBA Playoffs. Also Read: Butler 56 as Heat beat Bucks to take 3-1 lead The game started with Lakers coming out with an attitude to win, outscoring Grizzlies 29-23 in the first quarter. The Grizzlies came roaring back in the second quarter as thy outscored the Showtime Lakers 29-25. Los Angeles, however, still had a lead of one point at the half-time though. Come second half, Memphis started well and managed 31 points in the third quarter against the Lakers' 27. Now, with the Grizzlies with their nose in the front, the Lakers hit back. Los Angeles did everything in their power to erase the two-point deficit and managed 23 points against the Grizzlies' 21, taking the game into the OT. And it was none other than 'old' LeBron James who made a pivotal shot for the Lakers to send the game into the overtime. In OT, the Lakers and LeBron were unstoppable as they outscored Memphis 13-7 to win the game. For the Lakers, LeBron scored a double-double - his first 20-20 in his 1,691 career games, as he dropped 22 points and caught 20 rebounds. Apart from him, Austin Reaves scored 23 points while Anthony Davis also scored a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds. For the Grizzlies, Desmond Bane scored 36 points while Ja Morant could manage only 19 as Memphis lost the game and now are on the brink of getting out of the 2023 NBA Playoffs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: LeBron James leads Lakers past Grizzlies in Game 4

Stephen Curry scored 32 points as the Golden State Warriors held off a ferocious fourth-quarter fightback from the Sacramento Kings to secure a series-leveling 126-125 victory in the NBA playoffs on Sunday.

Harrison Barnes almost snatched victory for Sacramento on the buzzer, but his long-range effort bounced off the rim to leave the NBA champions celebrating a result that leaves them tied at 2-2 in the best-of-seven series after dropping games one and two.

In the East, meanwhile, the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics moved within a victory of advancing, the Knicks beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 102-93 and the Celtics downing Atlanta 129-121 to each take 3-1 series leads.

Curry breathed a sigh of relief after two uncharacteristic blunders in a frenetic finale at the Chase Center.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-grizzlies-dillon-brooks-hits-lakers-lebron-james-in-groin-in-game-3-gets-ejected-watch-585292">Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks hits Lakers' LeBron James in groin in Game 3, gets ejected</a>

The Warriors talisman missed a wide-open three-pointer with his team leading 126-121 with less than a minute remaining.

Curry compounded that rare miss by erroneously calling a time out when the Warriors had none left, earning a technical foul and allowing Sacramento's Malik Monk to make it a four-point game with a free throw.

A superb De’Aaron Fox three-pointer from 28 feet then left Sacramento within one at 126-125, and when Curry missed another floater, the Kings had a chance to win it only to see Barnes's late effort bounce out.

"I ain't gonna lie, I thought it was the smartest play in the world," Curry said of his timeout call after a failed challenge had cost the Warriors their last time out. "I looked over at the bench and everybody was shaking their head.

"But we did what we needed to do defensively in those last 10 seconds," a relieved Curry said. "We've protected home court, and now we move on."

Barnes's late miss was the final act of a thrilling battle between the Western Conference rivals that saw the lead change hands no fewer than 19 times as momentum ebbed and flowed throughout.&nbsp;

Golden State looked to have turned the screw decisively in the third quarter, outscoring the Kings 37-23 to start the fourth with a 10-point advantage.

Sacramento, however, came surging back with a 7-0 run to start the final quarter and only a handful of points separated the two teams in the waning seconds.

Curry led the Warriors' scoring with 32 points while Klay Thompson added 26, including four three-pointers, and Jordan Poole had 22.&nbsp;

Andrew Wiggins added 18 points while Draymond Green, returning after suspension, had 12 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists off the bench.

Fox produced a dazzling performance for Sacramento with 38 points while Keegan Murray added 23 and Monk 16.

The Kings host game five on Wednesday.

<h2>Knicks almost there</h2>

In New York, Jalen Brunson drained five three-pointers on the way to 29 points for the Knicks, who again electrified Madison Square Garden.

With just one win from three more games the Knicks can advance past the first round for the first time since 2013.

New York led by as many as 15 on the way to a nine-point halftime lead.

A big third quarter saw the Cavs sneak into a narrow lead before a sustained Knicks rally in the fourth.

Brunson was one of four players in double figures with R.J. Barrett providing offensive support with 26 points.

Darius Garland led Cleveland 23 points but Donovan Mitchell had a game to forget after finishing with just 11 points -- only two in the second half.

The Cavs will try to extend the series when they host game five on Wednesday.

The Celtics can wrap up their series at home on Tuesday after bouncing back from a disappointing game-three defeat with a convincing victory in Atlanta.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown scored 31 points apiece for the Celtics, each delivering a dunk in the final minute as the Celtics thwarted the Hawks' final rally bid.

Hawks star Trae Young finished with a game-high 35 points and handed out 14 assists.

But Boston stepped up their defensive intensity and had an answer for every Atlanta run, never trailing after the first quarter.

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Stephen Curry scored 32 points as the Golden State Warriors held off a ferocious fourth-quarter fightback from the Sacramento Kings to secure a series-leveling 126-125 victory in the NBA playoffs on Sunday.

Stephen Curry scored 32 points as the Golden State Warriors held off a ferocious fourth-quarter fightback from the Sacramento Kings to secure a series-leveling 126-125 victory in the NBA playoffs on Sunday. Harrison Barnes almost snatched victory for Sacramento on the buzzer, but his long-range effort bounced off the rim to leave the NBA champions celebrating a result that leaves them tied at 2-2 in the best-of-seven series after dropping games one and two. In the East, meanwhile, the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics moved within a victory of advancing, the Knicks beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 102-93 and the Celtics downing Atlanta 129-121 to each take 3-1 series leads. Curry breathed a sigh of relief after two uncharacteristic blunders in a frenetic finale at the Chase Center. Also Watch: Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks hits Lakers' LeBron James in groin in Game 3, gets ejected The Warriors talisman missed a wide-open three-pointer with his team leading 126-121 with less than a minute remaining. Curry compounded that rare miss by erroneously calling a time out when the Warriors had none left, earning a technical foul and allowing Sacramento's Malik Monk to make it a four-point game with a free throw. A superb De’Aaron Fox three-pointer from 28 feet then left Sacramento within one at 126-125, and when Curry missed another floater, the Kings had a chance to win it only to see Barnes's late effort bounce out. "I ain't gonna lie, I thought it was the smartest play in the world," Curry said of his timeout call after a failed challenge had cost the Warriors their last time out. "I looked over at the bench and everybody was shaking their head. "But we did what we needed to do defensively in those last 10 seconds," a relieved Curry said. "We've protected home court, and now we move on." Barnes's late miss was the final act of a thrilling battle between the Western Conference rivals that saw the lead change hands no fewer than 19 times as momentum ebbed and flowed throughout. Golden State looked to have turned the screw decisively in the third quarter, outscoring the Kings 37-23 to start the fourth with a 10-point advantage. Sacramento, however, came surging back with a 7-0 run to start the final quarter and only a handful of points separated the two teams in the waning seconds. Curry led the Warriors' scoring with 32 points while Klay Thompson added 26, including four three-pointers, and Jordan Poole had 22. Andrew Wiggins added 18 points while Draymond Green, returning after suspension, had 12 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists off the bench. Fox produced a dazzling performance for Sacramento with 38 points while Keegan Murray added 23 and Monk 16. The Kings host game five on Wednesday. Knicks almost there In New York, Jalen Brunson drained five three-pointers on the way to 29 points for the Knicks, who again electrified Madison Square Garden. With just one win from three more games the Knicks can advance past the first round for the first time since 2013. New York led by as many as 15 on the way to a nine-point halftime lead. A big third quarter saw the Cavs sneak into a narrow lead before a sustained Knicks rally in the fourth. Brunson was one of four players in double figures with R.J. Barrett providing offensive support with 26 points. Darius Garland led Cleveland 23 points but Donovan Mitchell had a game to forget after finishing with just 11 points -- only two in the second half. The Cavs will try to extend the series when they host game five on Wednesday. The Celtics can wrap up their series at home on Tuesday after bouncing back from a disappointing game-three defeat with a convincing victory in Atlanta. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown scored 31 points apiece for the Celtics, each delivering a dunk in the final minute as the Celtics thwarted the Hawks' final rally bid. Hawks star Trae Young finished with a game-high 35 points and handed out 14 assists. But Boston stepped up their defensive intensity and had an answer for every Atlanta run, never trailing after the first quarter. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Curry guides Warriors to win over Kings; Knicks and Celtics take 3-1 lead

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry almost costed his team Game 4 against the Sacramento Kings as he called out a timeout in the fourth quarter which the Warriors didn't have.

Curry made the call for a timeout with the Warriors barely hanging on a five-point lead as the box-score read 126-121. With 42.4 remaining on the clock in the fourth quarter, Curry's call for the timeout resulted in a technical foul which gave the Kings a crucial possession. Have a look at the video here:

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Steph Curry pulled a Chris Webber and called a timeout for the Warriors <a href="https://t.co/psJJgacaq7">pic.twitter.com/psJJgacaq7</a>
— Oh no he didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) <a href="https://twitter.com/ohnohedidnt24/status/1650261180043214850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Sacramento's Malik Monk then made the free throw as the Kings reduced the deficit to four points and retained the possession. De'Aaron Fox then stepped up big time, first with the game-high 38 points then with a clutch three-pointer in the final seconds of the game as the score became 126-125.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-timberwolves-beat-nuggets-in-ot-in-game-4-to-keep-round-1-series-alive-585586">Timberwolves beat Nuggets in OT in Game 4 to keep Round 1 series alive</a>

Kings' Harrison Barnes, however, missed a game-winning shot for three points as the Warriors won the game, barely though, and equaled the seven-game Round 1 series at 2-2.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr although, took the responsibility for Curry's mental lapse, saying he should have told the guys that 'we don't anymore timeouts left.'

"As we're exiting the huddle, that's on me, I've got to remind the guys we're out of timeouts," Kerr said. "I didn't say that, so Steph wasn't aware," he added.

Notably, the Warriors had lost their last timeout two minutes before Curry called out for it when they challenged a foul call on their center Kevin Looney. The Golden State had lost both, the challenge and their final timeout.

Nonetheless, the Warriors went on to win the game and Curry scored 32 points. Apart from him, Klay Thompson also dropped 26 points while Jordan Poole scored 22.

For the Kings, De'Aaron Fox dropped 38 and Keegan Murray scored 23. The next game of the series is scheduled to played on Wednesday in Sacramento.

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Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry almost costed his team Game 4 against the Sacramento Kings as he called out a timeout in the fourth quarter which the Warriors didn't have.

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry almost costed his team Game 4 against the Sacramento Kings as he called out a timeout in the fourth quarter which the Warriors didn't have. Curry made the call for a timeout with the Warriors barely hanging on a five-point lead as the box-score read 126-121. With 42.4 remaining on the clock in the fourth quarter, Curry's call for the timeout resulted in a technical foul which gave the Kings a crucial possession. Have a look at the video here: Steph Curry pulled a Chris Webber and called a timeout for the Warriors pic.twitter.com/psJJgacaq7 — Oh no he didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) April 23, 2023 × Sacramento's Malik Monk then made the free throw as the Kings reduced the deficit to four points and retained the possession. De'Aaron Fox then stepped up big time, first with the game-high 38 points then with a clutch three-pointer in the final seconds of the game as the score became 126-125. Also Read: Timberwolves beat Nuggets in OT in Game 4 to keep Round 1 series alive Kings' Harrison Barnes, however, missed a game-winning shot for three points as the Warriors won the game, barely though, and equaled the seven-game Round 1 series at 2-2. Warriors coach Steve Kerr although, took the responsibility for Curry's mental lapse, saying he should have told the guys that 'we don't anymore timeouts left.' "As we're exiting the huddle, that's on me, I've got to remind the guys we're out of timeouts," Kerr said. "I didn't say that, so Steph wasn't aware," he added. Notably, the Warriors had lost their last timeout two minutes before Curry called out for it when they challenged a foul call on their center Kevin Looney. The Golden State had lost both, the challenge and their final timeout. Nonetheless, the Warriors went on to win the game and Curry scored 32 points. Apart from him, Klay Thompson also dropped 26 points while Jordan Poole scored 22. For the Kings, De'Aaron Fox dropped 38 and Keegan Murray scored 23. The next game of the series is scheduled to played on Wednesday in Sacramento. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Warriors' Steph Curry makes COSTLY timeout call vs Kings in Game 4 - WATCH

Minnesota Timberwolves beat the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 and saved their season with an overtime win. The seven-game series stands at 3-1 in Nuggets' favour as of now.

The Wolves came into the game with the season on line and played with their hearts out as they outscored the Nuggets in two of the four quarters apart from the overtime. The first quarter, however, was a close one with Minnesota scoring 23 against the Nuggets' 22.

In the second quarter, the Wolves tried be more attacking, but Denver put them on a leash, scoring 30 against their 25. In the process, the Nuggets not only erased the one-point deficit but also gained a four-point lead.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-curry-guides-warriors-to-win-over-kings-knicks-and-celtics-take-3-1-lead-585522">Curry guides Warriors to win over Kings; Knicks and Celtics take 3-1 lead</a>

The Timberwolves bounced back in the third quarter and did so in some style. Minnesota scored game-high 32 in the first quarter after half-time while the Nuggets could just manage 22. The game was hanging in balance with the box-score reading 80-74 in the Wolves' favour.

In the fourth quarter, both teams seem have to run out of steam with a total of 38 points being scored. The Wolves' would have won the game then and there only but the Nuggets persevered and scored six points more than Minnesota - exactly same as the deficit they were staring at before the beginning of the fourth quarter.

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Anthony Edwards shines in the <a href="https://twitter.com/Timberwolves?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Timberwolves</a> Game 4 win ✨ 
 
34 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST, 3 BLK, 2 STL, 5 3PM 
 
MIN/DEN Game 5: Tuesday, 9pm/et, NBA TV <a href="https://t.co/meOJfFhgIx">pic.twitter.com/meOJfFhgIx</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1650365041588224000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Wolves actually let the game slip away from their claws as the Nuggets scored all of final 12 points in the fourth quarter, taking the game into the overtime.

In the OT, however, Minnesota was the better team as they scored 18 points against Denver's 12 and won the game 114-108. With the win, Minnesota gave them another day to survive but they'd have to win all the remaining games in order to qualify for the next round of the NBA Playoffs. Denver on the other hand, require just one more win in the next three games to move into the next round.

In terms of personal scoring, Wolves guard Anthony Edwards scored 34 points while Mike Conley Jr. managed 19. Minnesota's star forward Karl-Anthony Towns also scored 17 points. For Nuggets, Nikola Jokic scored his playoff career-high 43 points along with 11 rebounds and six assists. Jamal Murray also chipped in with 19 points but all in all, Minnesota turned out to be a better team in the end.

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Minnesota Timberwolves beat the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 and saved their season with an overtime win. The seven-game series stands at 3-1 in Nuggets' favour as of now.

Minnesota Timberwolves beat the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 and saved their season with an overtime win. The seven-game series stands at 3-1 in Nuggets' favour as of now. The Wolves came into the game with the season on line and played with their hearts out as they outscored the Nuggets in two of the four quarters apart from the overtime. The first quarter, however, was a close one with Minnesota scoring 23 against the Nuggets' 22. In the second quarter, the Wolves tried be more attacking, but Denver put them on a leash, scoring 30 against their 25. In the process, the Nuggets not only erased the one-point deficit but also gained a four-point lead. Also Read: Curry guides Warriors to win over Kings; Knicks and Celtics take 3-1 lead The Timberwolves bounced back in the third quarter and did so in some style. Minnesota scored game-high 32 in the first quarter after half-time while the Nuggets could just manage 22. The game was hanging in balance with the box-score reading 80-74 in the Wolves' favour. In the fourth quarter, both teams seem have to run out of steam with a total of 38 points being scored. The Wolves' would have won the game then and there only but the Nuggets persevered and scored six points more than Minnesota - exactly same as the deficit they were staring at before the beginning of the fourth quarter. Anthony Edwards shines in the @Timberwolves Game 4 win ✨ 34 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST, 3 BLK, 2 STL, 5 3PM MIN/DEN Game 5: Tuesday, 9pm/et, NBA TV pic.twitter.com/meOJfFhgIx — NBA (@NBA) April 24, 2023 × The Wolves actually let the game slip away from their claws as the Nuggets scored all of final 12 points in the fourth quarter, taking the game into the overtime. In the OT, however, Minnesota was the better team as they scored 18 points against Denver's 12 and won the game 114-108. With the win, Minnesota gave them another day to survive but they'd have to win all the remaining games in order to qualify for the next round of the NBA Playoffs. Denver on the other hand, require just one more win in the next three games to move into the next round. In terms of personal scoring, Wolves guard Anthony Edwards scored 34 points while Mike Conley Jr. managed 19. Minnesota's star forward Karl-Anthony Towns also scored 17 points. For Nuggets, Nikola Jokic scored his playoff career-high 43 points along with 11 rebounds and six assists. Jamal Murray also chipped in with 19 points but all in all, Minnesota turned out to be a better team in the end. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Timberwolves beat Nuggets in OT in Game 4 to keep Round 1 series alive

The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second round berth with victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Sixers advanced to an Eastern Conference semi-final showdown against either Boston or Atlanta with a dominant second-half display to seal a 96-88 victory in Brooklyn.

The Sixers trailed by 11 points early in the third quarter but transformed the contest with an 18-4 run to take the lead before closing out victory with a fourth-quarter rally.

The Sixers' win was all the more impressive given the absence of star center Embiid, who suffered a right knee sprain in Thursday's 102-97 victory in game three.

Embiid led the NBA with 33.1 points a game and is a finalist for the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.

With Embiid out, Paul Reed stepped in to fill the void and finished with 10 points and 15 rebounds.

Tobias Harris led the scoring for Philadelphia with 25 points and 12 rebounds, while De'Anthony Melton came off the bench to produce 15 points and lead the fourth-quarter rally.

Harris said the Sixers had been determined to use Embiid's absence as a motivator.

"He's the MVP. And when we heard he wasn't playing, I think it was an opportunity for everybody else to really step up and understand that we've got to get a win without the big fella," Harris told the TNT television network after the win.

"For us to come out here and get this victory, it feels great for the whole group.

"The whole group came together today. It's a great win for us and a great way to sweep the series."&nbsp;

Asked what his message to the injured Embiid would be, Harris replied: "Hurry up and get your ass back out here."

The 4-0 series victory was Philadelphia's first playoff sweep since 1991.

Spencer Dinwiddie led Brooklyn's scoring with 20 points while Nic Claxton had 19 points with 12 rebounds.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-mainz-stun-bayern-munich-3-1-to-hand-major-jolt-in-title-race-585167">Bundesliga: Mainz stun Bayern Munich 3-1 to hand major jolt in title race</a>

<h2>Suns on the brink</h2>

In Los Angeles, Kevin Durant finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to help Phoenix take a 3-1 series lead over the Clippers with a 112-100 victory.

Devin Booker plundered 30 points and veteran Chris Paul added 19 in a late burst of scoring as Phoenix bagged their second straight win in Los Angeles in the best-of-seven series.

It means the Suns need just one more win to book their place in the Western Conference semi-finals, with game five set for Phoenix on Tuesday.

The Clippers' hopes of squaring the series had been dealt a blow by the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who joined Paul George on the injured list.

In their absence Russell Westbrook produced one of his best performances for the Clippers with a 37-point display but ultimately it was not enough as the greater depth of the Suns line-up proved too much.

"I'm in a good place and I'm enjoying playing ball," Durant said after the win.

"I've been out a few months this season, and I'm just happy I'm out here where the ball is."

In later playoff games on Saturday, the Milwaukee Bucks travel to Miami looking for a win on the road over the Heat with the best-of-seven series finely balanced at 1-1.

Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who sat out game two after suffering a back injury in game one, was listed as questionable for Milwaukee.

In the late game, the Memphis Grizzlies travel to Los Angeles to face the Lakers with their series knotted at one game apiece.

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The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second round berth with victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second round berth with victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. The Sixers advanced to an Eastern Conference semi-final showdown against either Boston or Atlanta with a dominant second-half display to seal a 96-88 victory in Brooklyn. The Sixers trailed by 11 points early in the third quarter but transformed the contest with an 18-4 run to take the lead before closing out victory with a fourth-quarter rally. The Sixers' win was all the more impressive given the absence of star center Embiid, who suffered a right knee sprain in Thursday's 102-97 victory in game three. Embiid led the NBA with 33.1 points a game and is a finalist for the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. With Embiid out, Paul Reed stepped in to fill the void and finished with 10 points and 15 rebounds. Tobias Harris led the scoring for Philadelphia with 25 points and 12 rebounds, while De'Anthony Melton came off the bench to produce 15 points and lead the fourth-quarter rally. Harris said the Sixers had been determined to use Embiid's absence as a motivator. "He's the MVP. And when we heard he wasn't playing, I think it was an opportunity for everybody else to really step up and understand that we've got to get a win without the big fella," Harris told the TNT television network after the win. "For us to come out here and get this victory, it feels great for the whole group. "The whole group came together today. It's a great win for us and a great way to sweep the series." Asked what his message to the injured Embiid would be, Harris replied: "Hurry up and get your ass back out here." The 4-0 series victory was Philadelphia's first playoff sweep since 1991. Spencer Dinwiddie led Brooklyn's scoring with 20 points while Nic Claxton had 19 points with 12 rebounds. ALSO READ | Bundesliga: Mainz stun Bayern Munich 3-1 to hand major jolt in title race Suns on the brink In Los Angeles, Kevin Durant finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to help Phoenix take a 3-1 series lead over the Clippers with a 112-100 victory. Devin Booker plundered 30 points and veteran Chris Paul added 19 in a late burst of scoring as Phoenix bagged their second straight win in Los Angeles in the best-of-seven series. It means the Suns need just one more win to book their place in the Western Conference semi-finals, with game five set for Phoenix on Tuesday. The Clippers' hopes of squaring the series had been dealt a blow by the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who joined Paul George on the injured list. In their absence Russell Westbrook produced one of his best performances for the Clippers with a 37-point display but ultimately it was not enough as the greater depth of the Suns line-up proved too much. "I'm in a good place and I'm enjoying playing ball," Durant said after the win. "I've been out a few months this season, and I'm just happy I'm out here where the ball is." In later playoff games on Saturday, the Milwaukee Bucks travel to Miami looking for a win on the road over the Heat with the best-of-seven series finely balanced at 1-1. Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who sat out game two after suffering a back injury in game one, was listed as questionable for Milwaukee. In the late game, the Memphis Grizzlies travel to Los Angeles to face the Lakers with their series knotted at one game apiece. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs: Sixers advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed

Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks was ejected for hitting Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James in the groin during the Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1.

The incident happened in the second half with 11:43 left on the clock in the third quarter and the Lakers leading 53-37 over the Grizzlies. In the video making rounds on the internet, James can be seen taking the ball up court when Brook hit him in the groin area with the back of his hand.

James immediately fell on the ground in pain and Brooks got a flagrant foul 2 after the review from the officials, resulting in ejection automatically. The crowd at Crypto.com arena cheered on as Brooks left the court. Have a look at the video of the incident here:

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Dillon Brooks has been ejected after hitting LeBron James in the groin <a href="https://t.co/SPTRq6heO4">pic.twitter.com/SPTRq6heO4</a>
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This happened as Brooks had called LeBron 'old' after Game 2 between the two teams. Nonetheless, the Lakers went on to win the game 111-101 and took a 2-1 lead in the seven-game series of Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs 2023.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-2023-76ers-vs-nets-suns-vs-clippers-heat-vs-bucks-lakers-vs-grizzlies-full-scores-and-results-585286">NBA Playoffs 2023: 76ers vs Nets, Suns vs Clippers, Heat vs Bucks, Lakers vs Grizzlies full scores and results</a>

As for the game, Grizzlies lost it in the first quarter itself, scoring 9 against Los Angeles' 35. Memphis, however, fought well in the second and fourth quarter, scoring 28 and 33 against the Lakers' 18 and 23 but the four point advantage in the third quarter, coupled with 26 in the first, was too much to overcome for them. The Lakers scored 35 against the Grizzlies 31 in the third quarter.

For the Lakers, Anthony Davis scored 31 and LeBron James managed 25 points, nine rebounds and five assists. As for Grizzlies, Ja Morant did most of the scoring, dropping a bombshell of 45 but could not help his team win. Morant, at one point, was so dominant that the scored straight 22 points for the Grizzlies. The effort, while a monumental one, was in vain.

Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks was ejected for hitting Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James in the groin during the Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1.

Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks was ejected for hitting Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James in the groin during the Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1. The incident happened in the second half with 11:43 left on the clock in the third quarter and the Lakers leading 53-37 over the Grizzlies. In the video making rounds on the internet, James can be seen taking the ball up court when Brook hit him in the groin area with the back of his hand. James immediately fell on the ground in pain and Brooks got a flagrant foul 2 after the review from the officials, resulting in ejection automatically. The crowd at Crypto.com arena cheered on as Brooks left the court. Have a look at the video of the incident here: Dillon Brooks has been ejected after hitting LeBron James in the groin pic.twitter.com/SPTRq6heO4 — Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) April 23, 2023 × This happened as Brooks had called LeBron 'old' after Game 2 between the two teams. Nonetheless, the Lakers went on to win the game 111-101 and took a 2-1 lead in the seven-game series of Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs 2023. Also Read: NBA Playoffs 2023: 76ers vs Nets, Suns vs Clippers, Heat vs Bucks, Lakers vs Grizzlies full scores and results As for the game, Grizzlies lost it in the first quarter itself, scoring 9 against Los Angeles' 35. Memphis, however, fought well in the second and fourth quarter, scoring 28 and 33 against the Lakers' 18 and 23 but the four point advantage in the third quarter, coupled with 26 in the first, was too much to overcome for them. The Lakers scored 35 against the Grizzlies 31 in the third quarter. For the Lakers, Anthony Davis scored 31 and LeBron James managed 25 points, nine rebounds and five assists. As for Grizzlies, Ja Morant did most of the scoring, dropping a bombshell of 45 but could not help his team win. Morant, at one point, was so dominant that the scored straight 22 points for the Grizzlies. The effort, while a monumental one, was in vain.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Grizzlies' Dillon Brooks hits Lakers' LeBron James in groin in Game 3, gets ejected - WATCH

The Philadelphia 76ers ease past the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 with the fourth victory on the trot. In other games, the Phoenix Suns took a 3-1 lead over the Los Angeles Clippers while the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers took the 2-1 lead over the Milwaukee Bucks and the Memphis Grizzlies, respectively.

Here are the full recaps, scores and results of all the games:

Philadelphia 76ers vs Brooklyn Nets

It was the last chance of the Nets to stay in the hunt for the next round of NBA Playoffs and they did start well, taking an eight-point lead till the half-time. The 76ers, however, had other plans as they not only erased the deficit but even took a three-point lead by the end of the third quarter as they outscored the Nets 26-15. All of this without Joel Embiid!

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25 PTS | 12 REB 
 
it really was Tobi time. ⏰ 
 
💪 hydrated by <a href="https://twitter.com/BioSteelSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BioSteelSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/P7k0XBi9WD">pic.twitter.com/P7k0XBi9WD</a>
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) <a href="https://twitter.com/sixers/status/1649864398192918528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The fourth quarter was just the last nail in the coffin for the Nets as they could score only 25 against the Sixers' 30 and Philly won the game 96-88 and the series 4-0.

For the Nets, Spencer Dinwiddie scored 20 points while Nic Claxton and Mikal Bridges chipped in with 19 and 17, respectively. For the 76ers, Tobias Harris top scored with 25 points and 12 rebounds while James Harden dropped in 17.

Phoenix Suns vs Los Angeles Clippers

After losing the first game of the series against the Clippers, the Suns seem to have found their light back as they beat the Los Angeles 112-100 in the Game 3 to take a 2-1 lead. The Clippers, however, had the early advantage as the took a seven point in the first quarter, outscoring the Suns 30-23.

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Finding the open man. <a href="https://t.co/C4HXa1E8NM">pic.twitter.com/C4HXa1E8NM</a>
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suns/status/1649889929810571264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Things changed in the second quarter as the Sun erased the deficit and took one point lead over the Clippers. The third quarter was the most fiercely fought one as both the teams scored in excess of 30 but Phoenix stayed on the top and extended their lead to five points.

The Clippers were outplayed completed in the last quarter 29-22 as they lost the game. For Phoenix, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker scored 31 and 30 points, respectively. For the Clippers, Russell Westbrook scored game-high 37 points but in vain.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-sixers-advance-after-nets-sweep-suns-on-brink-as-clippers-downed-585233">Sixers advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed</a>

Miami Heat vs Milwaukee Bucks

In a surprising turn of events, the Miami Heat beat the top-seed Milwaukee Bucks 121-99 in Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 to take a 2-1 lead. Even if Giannis Antetokounmpo's absence is a huge blow for the Bucks, no credit can be taken away from the Heat to turn around their fortunes.

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30 points in 3 quarters for Jimmy ☕️ <a href="https://t.co/3Ro8Jh1fCv">pic.twitter.com/3Ro8Jh1fCv</a>
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiamiHEAT/status/1649963299931553792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Miami were on top of Milwaukee right from the start, outscoring them in each quarter 29-21, 37-32, 28-26, and 27-20 with the Bucks having no place to hide.

For the Heat, Jimmy Butler dropped 30 and Duncan Robinson scored 20. For the Bucks, Khris Middleton scored 23 and Jrue Holiday scored 19, clearly not enough. The Bucks must find a way soon to deal with the Heat in the next game or two else they'll be out of the playoffs real soon.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies&nbsp;

The Showtime Lakers are back and now. From scrapping to get a place into the playoffs, they now have a 2-1 lead over the Grizzlies, standing just two games away from the next round of the NBA Playoffs.

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Fifteen in the third frame for AD 🗣 <a href="https://t.co/JFMSFVkTR2">pic.twitter.com/JFMSFVkTR2</a>
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/1649990344212385793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Such was the dominance of the Lakers as the Grizzlies lost the game in the first quarter itself, scoring 9 against Los Angeles' 35. Memphis, however, fought well in the second and fourth quarter, scoring 28 and 33 against the Lakers' 18 and 23 but the four point advantage in the third quarter, coupled with 26 in the first, was too much to overcome for them.

For the Lakers, Anthony Davis scored 31 and LeBron James managed 25. As for Grizzlies, Ja Morant did most of the scoring, dropping a bombshell of 45 but could not help his team win.&nbsp;

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The Philadelphia 76ers ease past the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 with the fourth victory on the trot. In other games, the Phoenix Suns took a 3-1 lead over the Los Angeles Clippers while the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers took the 2-1 lead over the Milwaukee Bucks and the Memphis Grizzlies, respectively.

The Philadelphia 76ers ease past the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 with the fourth victory on the trot. In other games, the Phoenix Suns took a 3-1 lead over the Los Angeles Clippers while the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers took the 2-1 lead over the Milwaukee Bucks and the Memphis Grizzlies, respectively. Here are the full recaps, scores and results of all the games: Philadelphia 76ers vs Brooklyn Nets It was the last chance of the Nets to stay in the hunt for the next round of NBA Playoffs and they did start well, taking an eight-point lead till the half-time. The 76ers, however, had other plans as they not only erased the deficit but even took a three-point lead by the end of the third quarter as they outscored the Nets 26-15. All of this without Joel Embiid! 25 PTS | 12 REB it really was Tobi time. ⏰ 💪 hydrated by @BioSteelSports pic.twitter.com/P7k0XBi9WD — Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) April 22, 2023 × The fourth quarter was just the last nail in the coffin for the Nets as they could score only 25 against the Sixers' 30 and Philly won the game 96-88 and the series 4-0. For the Nets, Spencer Dinwiddie scored 20 points while Nic Claxton and Mikal Bridges chipped in with 19 and 17, respectively. For the 76ers, Tobias Harris top scored with 25 points and 12 rebounds while James Harden dropped in 17. Phoenix Suns vs Los Angeles Clippers After losing the first game of the series against the Clippers, the Suns seem to have found their light back as they beat the Los Angeles 112-100 in the Game 3 to take a 2-1 lead. The Clippers, however, had the early advantage as the took a seven point in the first quarter, outscoring the Suns 30-23. Finding the open man. pic.twitter.com/C4HXa1E8NM — Phoenix Suns (@Suns) April 22, 2023 × Things changed in the second quarter as the Sun erased the deficit and took one point lead over the Clippers. The third quarter was the most fiercely fought one as both the teams scored in excess of 30 but Phoenix stayed on the top and extended their lead to five points. The Clippers were outplayed completed in the last quarter 29-22 as they lost the game. For Phoenix, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker scored 31 and 30 points, respectively. For the Clippers, Russell Westbrook scored game-high 37 points but in vain. Also Read: Sixers advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed Miami Heat vs Milwaukee Bucks In a surprising turn of events, the Miami Heat beat the top-seed Milwaukee Bucks 121-99 in Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs Round 1 to take a 2-1 lead. Even if Giannis Antetokounmpo's absence is a huge blow for the Bucks, no credit can be taken away from the Heat to turn around their fortunes. 30 points in 3 quarters for Jimmy ☕️ pic.twitter.com/3Ro8Jh1fCv — Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) April 23, 2023 × Miami were on top of Milwaukee right from the start, outscoring them in each quarter 29-21, 37-32, 28-26, and 27-20 with the Bucks having no place to hide. For the Heat, Jimmy Butler dropped 30 and Duncan Robinson scored 20. For the Bucks, Khris Middleton scored 23 and Jrue Holiday scored 19, clearly not enough. The Bucks must find a way soon to deal with the Heat in the next game or two else they'll be out of the playoffs real soon. Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies The Showtime Lakers are back and now. From scrapping to get a place into the playoffs, they now have a 2-1 lead over the Grizzlies, standing just two games away from the next round of the NBA Playoffs. Fifteen in the third frame for AD 🗣 pic.twitter.com/JFMSFVkTR2 — Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) April 23, 2023 × Such was the dominance of the Lakers as the Grizzlies lost the game in the first quarter itself, scoring 9 against Los Angeles' 35. Memphis, however, fought well in the second and fourth quarter, scoring 28 and 33 against the Lakers' 18 and 23 but the four point advantage in the third quarter, coupled with 26 in the first, was too much to overcome for them. For the Lakers, Anthony Davis scored 31 and LeBron James managed 25. As for Grizzlies, Ja Morant did most of the scoring, dropping a bombshell of 45 but could not help his team win. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: 76ers vs Nets, Suns vs Clippers, Heat vs Bucks, Lakers vs Grizzlies full scores and results

The NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 is in full swing with the Hawks making a comeback against the Celtics in Game 3 while the Denver Nuggets showing no signs of slowdown. The Nuggets won Game 3 against the Minnesota Timberwolves and in the Knicks vs the Cavaliers, New York took a 2-1 lead.

The next game would be the last for the Timberwolves if they don't win it but the Hawks have given themselves a breather after winning Game 3. The Knicks vs Cavs series, however, is turning out to be a see-saw affair with each team winning the alternative game so far. Here are the full recap, scores and results of all the games:

<h3>Celtics vs Hawks</h3>

The Celtics started out the game in full flow as they took a lead of four points at the end of first quarter with the scoreboard reading 37-33 in their favour. The Hawks, however, came back strongly in the second quarter as they not only erased the four-point deficit but took a seven points lead as well.

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Trae Young put up 32 points with 9 assists to help Atlanta win Game 3! This tough late-game floater is tonight's X-Factor Moment 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HisenseXFactor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HisenseXFactor</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Hisense_USA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hisense_USA</a> <a href="https://t.co/W65wlh8wp8">pic.twitter.com/W65wlh8wp8</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1649640866167013376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The third quarter was equal with both the teams scoring 26 points each but Boston was under pressure clearly for not being able to cut down the deficit. The fourth quarter tilted in the Hawks' favor with a score of 30-29 and Atlanta eventually won the game 130-122.

For the Hawks, Trae Young scored magnificent 32 points while Dejounte Murray ably helped him with 25. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum top scored with 29 points while Marcus Smart dropped 24. Even though the Celtics lost Game 3, they still hold a 2-1 lead in the seven-game series.

<h3>Knicks vs Cavaliers</h3>

Game 3 of NBA Playoffs Round 1 lived up to its billing and the Knicks didn't disappoint their fans with the win against the Cavaliers. The series stands at 2-1 with each team winning alternatively. Going by the trend, New York should win it in Game 7 but that's too far as of now.&nbsp;

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Jalen Brunson leads the <a href="https://twitter.com/nyknicks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nyknicks</a> to victory in Game 3 with 21 PTS, 6 AST, and 2 STL! 
 
🏀 CLE/NYK Game 4, Sunday, 1pm/et, ABC <a href="https://t.co/rvtL0Z7MOq">pic.twitter.com/rvtL0Z7MOq</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1649642239281475584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Coming to the game, the first quarter stood equal with both the teams scoring just 17 points each. Come second quarter, the Knicks ran away, scoring 13 more than the Cavs' 15. Cleveland then could never erase the deficit as the second half saw them scoring four and three points less in the third and fourth quarter, respectively against the Knicks' 27 in each quarter.

For New York, Jalen Brunson scored 21 points while Josh Hart chipped in with 13 as the Knicks beat the Cavs 99-79. For Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell top scored in the game with 22 points but in vain.

<h3>Nuggets vs Timberwolves</h3>

The Denver Nuggets are looking like a team with a mission, leaving nothing to a chance. Currently, they have a 3-0 lead in the seven-game series against the Timberwolves and the Wolves are just looking very very timid. The game, however, started on a promising note with both the teams scoring 28 points each. The same scenario was in third quarter as well with both the teams scoring 33 points each.

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Anthony Edwards shines in Game 3 ✨ 
 
36 PTS, 7 REB, 5 AST, 3 STL 
 
DEN/MIN Game 4, Sunday, 9:30pm/et, TNT <a href="https://t.co/ouSbSmfPxt">pic.twitter.com/ouSbSmfPxt</a>
— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1649647468882309121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In the second and fourth quarter, though, the Nuggets outscored the Wolves 33-27 and 26-33, respectively and won the game 120-111. For Denver, Michael Porter Jr. scored 25 points while Nikola Jokic managed&nbsp; a triple-double 20 points, 12 assists and 11 rebounds - his seventh in the playoffs. For Minnesota, Anthony Edwards scored 36 points and Karl-Anthony Towns scored 27.

The next game would be the last for the Wolves if they don't win it and if they do, well, they'd still have to win all of the games in Round 1 to make it to the next round.

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The NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 is in full swing with the Hawks making a comeback against the Celtics in Game 3 while the Denver Nuggets showing no signs of slowdown.

The NBA Playoffs 2023 Round 1 is in full swing with the Hawks making a comeback against the Celtics in Game 3 while the Denver Nuggets showing no signs of slowdown. The Nuggets won Game 3 against the Minnesota Timberwolves and in the Knicks vs the Cavaliers, New York took a 2-1 lead. The next game would be the last for the Timberwolves if they don't win it but the Hawks have given themselves a breather after winning Game 3. The Knicks vs Cavs series, however, is turning out to be a see-saw affair with each team winning the alternative game so far. Here are the full recap, scores and results of all the games: Celtics vs Hawks The Celtics started out the game in full flow as they took a lead of four points at the end of first quarter with the scoreboard reading 37-33 in their favour. The Hawks, however, came back strongly in the second quarter as they not only erased the four-point deficit but took a seven points lead as well. Trae Young put up 32 points with 9 assists to help Atlanta win Game 3! This tough late-game floater is tonight's X-Factor Moment 👀#HisenseXFactor | @Hisense_USA pic.twitter.com/W65wlh8wp8 — NBA (@NBA) April 22, 2023 × The third quarter was equal with both the teams scoring 26 points each but Boston was under pressure clearly for not being able to cut down the deficit. The fourth quarter tilted in the Hawks' favor with a score of 30-29 and Atlanta eventually won the game 130-122. For the Hawks, Trae Young scored magnificent 32 points while Dejounte Murray ably helped him with 25. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum top scored with 29 points while Marcus Smart dropped 24. Even though the Celtics lost Game 3, they still hold a 2-1 lead in the seven-game series. Knicks vs Cavaliers Game 3 of NBA Playoffs Round 1 lived up to its billing and the Knicks didn't disappoint their fans with the win against the Cavaliers. The series stands at 2-1 with each team winning alternatively. Going by the trend, New York should win it in Game 7 but that's too far as of now. Jalen Brunson leads the @nyknicks to victory in Game 3 with 21 PTS, 6 AST, and 2 STL! 🏀 CLE/NYK Game 4, Sunday, 1pm/et, ABC pic.twitter.com/rvtL0Z7MOq — NBA (@NBA) April 22, 2023 × Coming to the game, the first quarter stood equal with both the teams scoring just 17 points each. Come second quarter, the Knicks ran away, scoring 13 more than the Cavs' 15. Cleveland then could never erase the deficit as the second half saw them scoring four and three points less in the third and fourth quarter, respectively against the Knicks' 27 in each quarter. For New York, Jalen Brunson scored 21 points while Josh Hart chipped in with 13 as the Knicks beat the Cavs 99-79. For Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell top scored in the game with 22 points but in vain. Nuggets vs Timberwolves The Denver Nuggets are looking like a team with a mission, leaving nothing to a chance. Currently, they have a 3-0 lead in the seven-game series against the Timberwolves and the Wolves are just looking very very timid. The game, however, started on a promising note with both the teams scoring 28 points each. The same scenario was in third quarter as well with both the teams scoring 33 points each. Anthony Edwards shines in Game 3 ✨ 36 PTS, 7 REB, 5 AST, 3 STL DEN/MIN Game 4, Sunday, 9:30pm/et, TNT pic.twitter.com/ouSbSmfPxt — NBA (@NBA) April 22, 2023 × In the second and fourth quarter, though, the Nuggets outscored the Wolves 33-27 and 26-33, respectively and won the game 120-111. For Denver, Michael Porter Jr. scored 25 points while Nikola Jokic managed a triple-double 20 points, 12 assists and 11 rebounds - his seventh in the playoffs. For Minnesota, Anthony Edwards scored 36 points and Karl-Anthony Towns scored 27. The next game would be the last for the Wolves if they don't win it and if they do, well, they'd still have to win all of the games in Round 1 to make it to the next round. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Celtics vs Hawks, Knicks vs Cavs, Nuggets vs Wolves highlights, scores, results and recap

Jayson Tatum starred as the Boston Celtics took a 2-0 series lead over the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA playoffs on Tuesday, while Darius Garland delivered a 32-point gem in Cleveland's series-leveling rout of the New York Knicks.&nbsp;

Tatum finished with 29 points as the second-seeded Celtics overcame a slow start to dominate the seventh-seeded Hawks for a 119-106 victory at Boston's TD Garden.

"Playoffs are all about adjustments, trying to move on from game-to-game, seeing what you can do better -- and I think we played better," Tatum said after the win.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-playoffs-warriors-draymond-green-stomps-on-sabonis-chest-gets-ejected-during-game-2-vs-kings-watch-583685">Warriors' Draymond Green stomps on Sabonis' chest, gets ejected during Game 2 vs Kings&nbsp;</a>

"We want to be peaking at this time of year. Everybody's healthy, playing the right way, playing really well -- but we've got another level we can go to hopefully."

Atlanta jumped out to a 22-11 lead in the first quarter before Boston's offense clicked to give the Celtics a 28-25 lead heading into the second quarter.

Once in front, the Celtics never relinquished the advantage, opening up a 61-49 half-time lead and extending that to 20 points midway through the third quarter as Boston's defense shut down Atlanta's scoring.

Atlanta rallied to get within eight points of the Celtics in the fourth quarter, but Boston never looked like squandering their lead down the stretch and pulled away convincingly to ensure they will take a 2-0 advantage into game three in Atlanta on Friday.

Tatum finished with 29 points including five three-pointers, while Derrick White provided offensive support with 26 points and Jaylen Brown added 18 points.

Dejounte Murray led Atlanta's scorers with 29 points while Trae Young finished with 24.

"They won, we lost -- we've just got to be better," Atlanta playmaker Young said after the defeat.

Elsewhere in the Eastern Conference playoffs on Tuesday, the Cleveland Cavaliers roared back into their best-of-seven series with the Knicks to score a 107-90 win&nbsp;

Beaten 101-97 in game one on Saturday, the Cavaliers bounced back in spectacular fashion to score a blowout victory.

Cleveland opened up a 25-22 first quarter lead and never looked back, outscoring Cleveland 34-17 in the second quarter to take a decisive grip on the contest.

New York failed to get within 15 points of the Cavs throughout the second half, as Cleveland powered on to lead by as many as 29 midway through the fourth quarter.

Cleveland point guard Garland produced a sparkling display with 32 points -- 26 of them in a devastating first-half scoring burst.&nbsp;

Caris LeVert added 24 off the bench while Donovan Mitchell added 17 points with 13 assists.

The Knicks offense meanwhile failed to fire, with the team's 90-point total their second lowest tally of the season.

Julius Randle finished with 22 points while Jalen Brunson added 20.&nbsp;

Game three of the series takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York on Friday.

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Jayson Tatum starred as the Boston Celtics took a 2-0 series lead over the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA playoffs on Tuesday, while Darius Garland delivered a 32-point gem in Cleveland's series-leveling rout of the New York Knicks.

Jayson Tatum starred as the Boston Celtics took a 2-0 series lead over the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA playoffs on Tuesday, while Darius Garland delivered a 32-point gem in Cleveland's series-leveling rout of the New York Knicks. Tatum finished with 29 points as the second-seeded Celtics overcame a slow start to dominate the seventh-seeded Hawks for a 119-106 victory at Boston's TD Garden. "Playoffs are all about adjustments, trying to move on from game-to-game, seeing what you can do better -- and I think we played better," Tatum said after the win. Also Watch: Warriors' Draymond Green stomps on Sabonis' chest, gets ejected during Game 2 vs Kings "We want to be peaking at this time of year. Everybody's healthy, playing the right way, playing really well -- but we've got another level we can go to hopefully." Atlanta jumped out to a 22-11 lead in the first quarter before Boston's offense clicked to give the Celtics a 28-25 lead heading into the second quarter. Once in front, the Celtics never relinquished the advantage, opening up a 61-49 half-time lead and extending that to 20 points midway through the third quarter as Boston's defense shut down Atlanta's scoring. Atlanta rallied to get within eight points of the Celtics in the fourth quarter, but Boston never looked like squandering their lead down the stretch and pulled away convincingly to ensure they will take a 2-0 advantage into game three in Atlanta on Friday. Tatum finished with 29 points including five three-pointers, while Derrick White provided offensive support with 26 points and Jaylen Brown added 18 points. Dejounte Murray led Atlanta's scorers with 29 points while Trae Young finished with 24. "They won, we lost -- we've just got to be better," Atlanta playmaker Young said after the defeat. Elsewhere in the Eastern Conference playoffs on Tuesday, the Cleveland Cavaliers roared back into their best-of-seven series with the Knicks to score a 107-90 win Beaten 101-97 in game one on Saturday, the Cavaliers bounced back in spectacular fashion to score a blowout victory. Cleveland opened up a 25-22 first quarter lead and never looked back, outscoring Cleveland 34-17 in the second quarter to take a decisive grip on the contest. New York failed to get within 15 points of the Cavs throughout the second half, as Cleveland powered on to lead by as many as 29 midway through the fourth quarter. Cleveland point guard Garland produced a sparkling display with 32 points -- 26 of them in a devastating first-half scoring burst. Caris LeVert added 24 off the bench while Donovan Mitchell added 17 points with 13 assists. The Knicks offense meanwhile failed to fire, with the team's 90-point total their second lowest tally of the season. Julius Randle finished with 22 points while Jalen Brunson added 20. Game three of the series takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York on Friday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs: Celtics take 2-0 lead over Hawks, Cavs equal series against Knicks

The Phoenix Suns have managed to equalise the series against the Los Angeles Clippers while the Cavaliers did the same against the New York Knicks.

The Boston Celtics, however, continued their winning run as they notched up a 2-0 lead in the seven-game Round 1 series against the Atlanta Hawks. Here below are details of each game:

<h3>Celtics vs Hawks</h3>

The Celtics started red hot as they took a 61-49 lead by the half time which the Hawks could never erase as they lost Game 2 106-119. The third and fourth quarters were somewhat of a close contest between the two teams, but the early lead taken by the Celtics proved to be decisive.

For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum scored 29 points while Derrick White managed to drop 26 points. For the Hawks, Dejounte Murray scored 29 points while Ice Trae Young managed 24 but all in a loss.

The Hawks, however, have five more chances left in the series to not only erase the 0-2 deficit but win it as well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-warriors-draymond-green-suspended-one-game-for-stomping-on-chest-of-kings-sabonis-584047">Warriors' Draymond Green suspended one game for stomping on chest of Kings' Sabonis</a>

<h3>Cavaliers vs Knicks</h3>

The Cavs bounced back from the 0-1 deficit and equalised the series with a 107-90 against the New York Knicks. The scores were 25-22 in favor of the Cavs at the start of the second quarter but Cleveland then ran away with points in the second quarter, scoring 34 points against the Knicks' 17.

The lead taken by the Cavs was too much for the Knicks to erase even as they outscored the Cavs 30-25 in the fourth quarter. For the Knicks, Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson scored 22 and 20 points, respectively.

For the Cavaliers, Darius Garland scored 32 points while Caris LeVert scored 24 points.

<h3>Suns vs Clippers&nbsp;</h3>

Devin Booker and Kevin Durant scored 38 and 25 points, respectively as the Suns outscored the Clippers in the last two quarters of second game in NBA Playoffs Round 1. The game hanged in the balance at the mid-way with the score reading 59-59 but the Suns won it 123-109 win to bring the series at 1-1.&nbsp;

In the third and fourth quarter, however, read 33-28 and 31-22 in the Suns' favor as Kawhi Leonard and Russell Westbrook's 31 and 28 points, respectively went in vain.

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The Phoenix Suns have managed to equalise the series against the Los Angeles Clippers while the Cavaliers did the same against the New York Knicks. The Boston Celtics, however, continued their winning run as they notched up a 2-0 lead in the seven-game Round 1 series against the Atlanta Hawks.

The Phoenix Suns have managed to equalise the series against the Los Angeles Clippers while the Cavaliers did the same against the New York Knicks. The Boston Celtics, however, continued their winning run as they notched up a 2-0 lead in the seven-game Round 1 series against the Atlanta Hawks. Here below are details of each game: Celtics vs Hawks The Celtics started red hot as they took a 61-49 lead by the half time which the Hawks could never erase as they lost Game 2 106-119. The third and fourth quarters were somewhat of a close contest between the two teams, but the early lead taken by the Celtics proved to be decisive. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum scored 29 points while Derrick White managed to drop 26 points. For the Hawks, Dejounte Murray scored 29 points while Ice Trae Young managed 24 but all in a loss. The Hawks, however, have five more chances left in the series to not only erase the 0-2 deficit but win it as well. Also Read: Warriors' Draymond Green suspended one game for stomping on chest of Kings' Sabonis Cavaliers vs Knicks The Cavs bounced back from the 0-1 deficit and equalised the series with a 107-90 against the New York Knicks. The scores were 25-22 in favor of the Cavs at the start of the second quarter but Cleveland then ran away with points in the second quarter, scoring 34 points against the Knicks' 17. The lead taken by the Cavs was too much for the Knicks to erase even as they outscored the Cavs 30-25 in the fourth quarter. For the Knicks, Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson scored 22 and 20 points, respectively. For the Cavaliers, Darius Garland scored 32 points while Caris LeVert scored 24 points. Suns vs Clippers Devin Booker and Kevin Durant scored 38 and 25 points, respectively as the Suns outscored the Clippers in the last two quarters of second game in NBA Playoffs Round 1. The game hanged in the balance at the mid-way with the score reading 59-59 but the Suns won it 123-109 win to bring the series at 1-1. In the third and fourth quarter, however, read 33-28 and 31-22 in the Suns' favor as Kawhi Leonard and Russell Westbrook's 31 and 28 points, respectively went in vain. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA Playoffs 2023: Suns vs Clippers, Cavaliers vs Knicks, Celtics vs Hawks scores and results

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