Daily Recap- Dec. 18

Top Performances

Jimmy Butler (Chicago SG)- Scored a career-high 35 points on 11-21 shooting in a 103-97 win over the New York Knicks. Butler was on fire against New York, and also added in seven assists in the victory. The Bulls' young shooting guard has played phenomenal this year, and is leading the race for "Most Improved Player" this season. Butler's defense and hustle had always been on display, but his offensive game is vastly improved and fits right in with Chicago's system.

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Anthony Davis (New Orleans PF/C)- Dominated with 30 points, 14 rebounds and five blocks in a 99-90 win over the Houston Rockets. Davis brought his "A" game against Houston center Dwight Howard, as the young phenom hit 10 of 17 shots, and got to the line 12 times (10-12 FT). Davis is showing no ill effects from his minor chest injury, and is back to his usual dominating self.

Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City SF)- Tallied 30 points in a 114-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors. Although Durant didn't play in the second half due to a sprained right ankle, he was simply unguardable in the first half. He hit 10 of the 13 shots he took, and looks to be almost back at full strength on offense. Time will tell if this ankle injury will cause him to miss any games.

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Stephen Curry (Golden State PG)- Scored 34 points, dished out nine assists and grabbed seven rebounds in the Warriors' win over the Thunder on Thursday night. Curry was firing on all cylinders against the Thunder, and continues to play at an MVP level in 2014. His passing, rebounding and defensive numbers have been consistent all year, and it is reflected in the Warriors' win total.

DeMarcus Cousins (Sacramento PF/C)- Recorded a double-double of 27 points and 11 rebounds in a 108-107 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. Cousins missed the potential game-winning shot at the buzzer, but played an otherwise outstanding game. Boogie appears to be back at full health, and will look to keep the Kings in playoff contention.

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Play of the Night

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka rejected a dunk attempt from Warriors' forward Harrison Barnes Thursday night. Barnes drove down on the fast break looking for a highlight play, but was instead stopped by one of the league's best shot blockers.

Link- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40yh3SxrWLg

2014-15 NBA Standings

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