Twenty-four NBA teams took the court on Thursday night, delivering a slate full of standout performances and dramatic finishes. From game-winning shots to triple-doubles, the action highlighted ongoing streaks and rookie impacts across the league. Key highlights included the Knicks' narrow victory and the Lakers' high-scoring rally.
The NBA's Thursday night featured 12 games with 24 teams in action, producing electrifying moments and strong team performances.
In New York, the Knicks extended their win streak to six with a 114-113 victory over the Pacers. Jalen Brunson hit a game-winning stepback three-pointer with 4.4 seconds left, finishing with 25 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists despite missing Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart. "We're going to find a way," Brunson had said after their recent NBA Cup win. Rookie Tyler Kolek added career highs of 16 points, 11 assists, and six rebounds.
The Lakers rallied for a 143-135 win against the Jazz, led by Luka Dončić's 45 points, 11 rebounds, 14 assists, five steals, and four three-pointers. LeBron James contributed 28 points, seven rebounds, and 10 assists. Dončić noted post-interview, "I feel like I can play better," before his dominant showing. This marked the Lakers' third win over Utah this season, scoring 140-plus points for the second time against them.
Victor Wembanyama powered the Spurs to a 119-94 rout of the Wizards in his first home game since November 14, tallying 15 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and four blocks in 17 minutes. Dylan Harper scored a career-high 24 points, helping San Antonio to its fourth straight win.
The Thunder stayed undefeated at home with a 122-101 bounce-back win over the Clippers, driven by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 32 points, including 19 in the third quarter. Chet Holmgren added 22 points and seven rebounds. OKC improved to 25-2 overall.
Other thrillers included the Pelicans' 133-128 overtime comeback from 25 down against the Rockets, sealed by Saddiq Bey's free throws; the Blazers' 134-133 OT win over the Kings via Deni Avdija's late foul shots; and the Suns' 99-98 escape against the Warriors on Jordan Goodwin's clutch free throw.
In the East, the Hornets topped the Hawks 133-126 behind LaMelo Ball's 28 points and 13 assists in his return, while the Raptors beat the Bucks 111-105 and the Heat ended a skid with a 106-95 win over the Nets.
Friday's slate includes the Knicks hosting the Sixers and a Thunder-Wolves rematch.
