March 08, 2025 | Read Online

YOUR DAILY DRIBBLE - LEAGUEALERTS

Welcome to Your Daily Dribble!

Hey Hoops Fans!

We're back with your daily dose of everything NBA. From jaw-dropping highlights to breaking news, trade rumors, game predictions, and in-depth player insights, we've got you covered. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, our goal is to bring you closer to the game we all love.

Grab your coffee, sit back, and dive into today's top NBA stories. Let's get the ball rolling!

Top NBA News

March 8, 2025

1. Nikola Jokić's Historic 30-20-20 Game Tightens MVP Race

Nikola Jokić recorded an unprecedented 31-point, 21-rebound, 22-assist performance in the Nuggets' 149-141 overtime win, moving his MVP odds to +210 and closing the gap on frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, now at -285.

2. LeBron James Confronts Stephen A. Smith During Game Over Bronny Comments

During the Lakers' 113-109 overtime victory over the Knicks, a tense confrontation unfolded as LeBron James challenged ESPN's Stephen A. Smith over remarks made about his eldest son, Bronny. According to sources, the altercation stemmed from Smith's earlier comments on his show, which LeBron misinterpreted, prompting him to demand a private discussion rather than airing grievances publicly. Video footage captured at Crypto.com Arena revealed that LeBron came within inches of Smith, underscoring the intensity of the moment. Smith later acknowledged the incident on social media and promised to address the misunderstanding further.

3. Walker Kessler Joins Legends with 18-25-8 Stat Line

In a loss to the Raptors, Walker Kessler put up an astonishing 18 points, 25 rebounds, and 8 blocks—a feat achieved by only five other NBA legends in the last 31 years. Kessler accomplished this in just 33 minutes, setting himself apart as one of the league's top rebounders and rim protectors.

4. Draymond Green Apologizes for Towns Comments

Draymond Green has elaborated on his earlier podcast remarks concerning Karl-Anthony Towns' absence from a recent game. Initially suggesting that Towns skipped the game due to Jimmy Butler's presence, Green later clarified that his comments were based solely on second-hand information. Upon learning that Towns was absent for personal reasons following the death of family friend Sarah Holtzman, Green expressed his sincere condolences. In a follow-up interview, he stated that he deeply regrets any distress his remarks may have caused and emphasized that his intention was never to cast blame. Green reiterated that his words were taken out of context and that he was merely relaying what he had heard without verifying the details. His comments have sparked a broader discussion about the responsibilities of sports commentators when addressing sensitive topics.

5. DeMar DeRozan Fined $25K for Criticizing Officials

Following the Kings' 116-110 loss to the Nuggets, DeMar DeRozan was fined $25,000 for publicly criticizing the officiating, claiming that the referees disrupted his team's rhythm and affected the outcome of the game.

YESTERDAY'S FINAL SCORES

118 - 117

Final

122 - 111

Final

89 - 107

Final

109 - 127

Final

109 - 118

Final

106 - 104

Final

141 - 149

Final/OT

95 - 105

Final

Top NBA Performances

Nikola Jokic

Points: 31

Rebounds: 21

Assists: 22

Steals: 3

Blocks: 0

Miles Bridges

Points: 46

Rebounds: 8

Assists: 2

Steals: 2

Blocks: 0

Zach LaVine

Points: 36

Rebounds: 4

Assists: 3

Steals: 0

Blocks: 0

NBA Odds - Eastern Conference

NBA Odds

NBA Eastern Conference 2025 - Winner

Boston Celtics: -132

Cleveland Cavaliers: +300

New York Knicks: +510

Milwaukee Bucks: +1150

Indiana Pacers: +4000

Bet on Eastern Conference Winner

NBA Sit or Start Guide

Bilal Coulibaly (Chicago Bulls)

Bilal Coulibaly has demonstrated impressive development in his all-around game, showing improved shooting accuracy and a keen sense for playmaking that makes him an ideal starter. His strong work ethic and readiness to take on increased responsibilities make him a reliable choice for a starting role, especially when favorable matchups are on the horizon.

Start

Dillon Brooks (Houston Rockets)

Dillon Brooks brings a tenacious defensive presence combined with consistent scoring ability, making him a valuable starter in any lineup. His ability to impact both ends of the court and his readiness to seize opportunities in critical moments highlight his potential as a key contributor for the Rockets.

Start

Shake Milton (Los Angeles Lakers)

Shake Milton has struggled with consistency in his performances, and his limited offensive contributions paired with a lack of impact on defense suggest that he is best kept off the starting lineup. His recent struggles, in addition to the Lakers' depth at the guard position, reinforce the decision to sit him this week.

Sit