NBA Recap: Giannis Returns, Nuggets Stay Hot, Knicks Win OT Thriller

The NBA returned from the All-Star break with a full slate of action on Thursday, featuring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s return, a big night from Nikola Jokic, and a Knicks overtime thriller.

Here’s a full breakdown of Thursday night’s NBA highlights.

Giannis Returns as Bucks Edge Clippers 116-110

Giannis Antetokounmpo made his return after a six-game absence, scoring 23 points in 24 minutes to lead the Milwaukee Bucks (36-19) to a 116-110 win over the Los Angeles Clippers (35-19).

Key Takeaways:

Brook Lopez (22 points) and Damian Lillard (15 points) helped secure the victory.
The Bucks dominated the fourth quarter, outscoring the Clippers by 15 points.
Milwaukee played without Bobby Portis, who was suspended for 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug policy.
Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 25 points, while James Harden added 24.

With Giannis back, Milwaukee regains momentum as they push for a deep playoff run.

Nuggets 129, Hornets 115: Jokic and Murray Lead Denver’s Ninth Straight Win

Nikola Jokic (29 points, 17 rebounds, 9 assists) and Jamal Murray (34 points) powered the Denver Nuggets (38-17) to a 129-115 win over the Charlotte Hornets (13-42).

Game Highlights:

Aaron Gordon (18 points) and Julian Strawther (16 points off the bench) provided key contributions.
Denver is now 8-0 in February and playing some of their best basketball of the season.
Miles Bridges had a season-high 36 points and 13 rebounds for Charlotte in a strong effort.

The Nuggets continue their dominance, making a case for the best team in the West.

Knicks 113, Bulls 111 (OT): Towns and Brunson Shine in Thriller

Miles McBride hit a clutch three-pointer in overtime, and the New York Knicks (37-19) outlasted the Chicago Bulls (26-30) in a 113-111 overtime win.

Key Performers:

Karl-Anthony Towns (32 points, 18 rebounds) dominated inside.
Jalen Brunson (22 points, 12 assists) and Mikal Bridges (13 points, 10 rebounds) delivered in crunch time.
Josh Giddey (27 points, 16 rebounds) was outstanding for Chicago, but it wasn’t enough.

The Knicks extend their win streak to three, showing resilience despite injuries to OG Anunoby and Josh Hart.

Other Notable Results

Magic 114, Hawks 108: Banchero Drops 36 in Comeback Win

Paolo Banchero (36 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists) led Orlando to a 19-point comeback win over Atlanta.
Trae Young (38 points) kept the Hawks competitive, but they faltered late.

Cavaliers 110, Nets 97: Mitchell and Mobley Dominate

Donovan Mitchell (26 points) and Evan Mobley (18 points, 13 rebounds) powered Cleveland to a strong fourth-quarter finish.

Pacers 127, Grizzlies 113: Haliburton and Turner Shine

Tyrese Haliburton (22 points, 9 assists) and Myles Turner (17 points, 10 rebounds, 7 blocks) helped Indiana erupt for a 50-point second quarter to take down Memphis.

Celtics 124, 76ers 104: Pritchard’s Career Night Fuels Boston’s Blowout

Payton Pritchard (28 points, 8 threes) led Boston, while Jayson Tatum recorded a triple-double as the Celtics dominated Philadelphia.
The Sixers have now lost six straight.

Final Takeaways: What We Learned from Thursday’s Action

Giannis’ return is huge for the Bucks, but Milwaukee still needs to find consistency.
Denver and Cleveland continue to roll, proving they’re serious threats in their respective conferences.
The Knicks are surging, even without key players, while the Bulls and Sixers are trending downward.

Which game stood out the most? Can the Knicks keep rolling? Will Denver continue its dominance? Share your thoughts below.