Latest Basketball News

đź“…December 5, 2025 at 1:00 PM
Lakers narrowly beat Raptors with Reaves' 44 points; Giannis trade talks heat up amid Bucks' struggles; Warriors and 76ers feature notable performances; NBA power rankings shift with Thunder atop.
1

Lakers Edge Raptors 123-120 in Toronto with Austin Reaves Dominating

In an intense game, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Toronto Raptors 123-120. Austin Reaves led the Lakers with a standout performance scoring 44 points, alongside 10 assists and 5 rebounds. Deandre Ayton also contributed 17 points, while Scottie Barnes nearly had a triple-double for the Raptors with 23 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists. This win improves the Lakers' record to 16-5 while the Raptors fall to 15-8Source 1.

2

Updated NBA Power Rankings Feature Oklahoma City Thunder at No.1

As of early December, the Oklahoma City Thunder hold the top spot in the NBA power rankings, followed by the Detroit Pistons and Los Angeles Lakers. Key stories include the New Orleans Pelicans struggling due to Zion Williamson's injury absence, the Los Angeles Clippers' off-court issues continuing, and the emergence of Jalen Duren for Detroit. The Boston Celtics have been impacted by Jayson Tatum's season-ending injury, while the Phoenix Suns made major offseason moves including trading Kevin DurantSource 2.

3

Golden State Warriors vs Philadelphia 76ers: Key Moments in Live Game

The live matchup between the Warriors and the 76ers showcased intense plays and notable performances. Players like Joel Embiid and Butler had strong moments, with sharpshooting and defensive efforts pivotal in the game flow. The game demonstrated how each team copes with key injuries and highlights individual contributions amid competitive settingsSource 3.

4

Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Speculation Grows as Bucks' Season Stalls

Multiple NBA teams have reportedly rushed to discuss trade offers for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo following recent franchise struggles. Though Bucks coach Doc Rivers states Giannis hasn't requested a trade, ongoing talks with his agent indicate uncertainty. As the Bucks sit 10th in the Eastern Conference at 10-13, the possibility of a trade before the February deadline is increasingly likely, especially given Milwaukee's limited options to rebuild their roster and contendSource 4.

5

Lakers vs Raptors Game Preview Highlights Injury Concerns

Ahead of the Lakers-Raptors game, injury updates were significant: the Raptors' RJ Barrett was sidelined with a knee injury, while for the Lakers, Marcus Smart was day-to-day due to back issues. These absences influenced team strategies and rotations for the matchup held in Toronto on December 4, 2025Source 5.

6

Austin Reaves’ Career-High Scoring Fuels Lakers' Win Against Raptors

Austin Reaves delivered a career-high 44 points with exceptional playmaking, which was critical to the Lakers' narrow victory over the Raptors. His 10 assists and 5 rebounds were a major factor in overcoming a strong Raptors squad led by Scottie Barnes' near triple-double performanceSource 1.

7

Detroit Pistons’ Jalen Duren Emerges as Top NBA Center in Early Season

Jalen Duren has been one of the best centers in the NBA early this season, posting averages of 19 points and 11 rebounds per game. His rise has been a key driver for the Detroit Pistons, who currently hold the second-best record in the Eastern Conference, showcasing promising young talentSource 2.

8

Boston Celtics Face Challenging Season After Losing Jayson Tatum to Injury

The Boston Celtics' 2025-26 season outlook has dimmed following Jayson Tatum's season-ending injury suffered in the semifinals. Coupled with trades of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis and the departure of Al Horford, the Celtics are now projected to be a fight for a play-in spot rather than serious championship contendersSource 2.

9

Phoenix Suns Overhaul Following Disappointing Season and Trading Kevin Durant

The Suns fired head coach Mike Budenholzer after a disappointing previous season and traded star Kevin Durant to Houston during the offseason. In return, Phoenix acquired promising young scorer Jalen Green and versatile defender Dillon Brooks, aiming to rebuild their roster and improve performance in 2025-26Source 2.

10

Los Angeles Clippers Continue to Struggle Amid Off-Court Drama and Roster Moves

The Clippers have experienced a difficult 2025-26 season marked by ongoing scandal revelations about Kawhi Leonard's acquisition and the surprising dismissal of franchise veteran Chris Paul. These developments have contributed to their drop in the NBA rankings and ongoing uncertainty within the teamSource 2.