WEEKLY DRIBBLE - LEAGUEALERTS

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LEAGUEALERTS INC.
February 17, 2025

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Stay updated with the latest NBA highlights, expert analysis, and behind-the-scenes stories. Welcome to your ultimate source for all things NBA.

Today's Top NBA News

1. NBA All-Star Game Introduces New Format

NBA All-Star Game

The NBA All-Star Game underwent a significant transformation, adopting a "Final Four" tournament-style format. Stephen Curry led "Shaq's OGs" to victory and was named MVP after scoring 12 points in the final. Despite mixed reactions, Curry praised the new format as a positive step.

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2. Draymond Green Criticizes New All-Star Format

Draymond Green

During the All-Star event, Draymond Green voiced his disapproval of the new format, arguing it was unfair to dedicated players and deprived them of opportunities to set records. He expressed these concerns live on TNT, addressing NBA Commissioner Adam Silver directly.

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3. Tyler Herro Wins 3-Point Contest

Tyler Herro

Miami Heat's Tyler Herro clinched the 3-Point Contest title in a closely contested final against Buddy Hield. Herro advanced to the finals with 19 points and secured the win with a 24-point performance.

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4. Victor Wembanyama Shines in All-Star Debut

Victor Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama showcased his exceptional skills during his All-Star debut, impressing both fans and fellow players. His performance reinforced expectations of his future impact in the league.

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5. NBA Expands International Presence

NBA International

The NBA announced plans to host regular-season games in Manchester, UK, at the Co-op Live arena, potentially starting next season. This move is part of the league's broader strategy to expand its footprint in Europe.

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Fantasy Basketball Sit or Start Guide

Fantasy Basketball Sit or Start Guide

Jordan Clarkson

Start

Utah Jazz - Guard

With Collin Sexton out, Clarkson has stepped up, averaging 27.5 points, 4.0 assists, and 3.5 rebounds over the past three games. His increased role makes him a great start.

Schedule: 3 Games

Max Christie

Start

Dallas Mavericks - Guard

Since Luka Dončić's trade, Christie's minutes and production have surged. Over three games, he's averaging 17.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.0 assists. Expect continued strong output.

Schedule: 3 Games

Klay Thompson

Start

Dallas Mavericks - Forward

With increased offensive responsibility in Dallas, Thompson has logged three 20+ point games in his last seven and is shooting 42.6% from three. The extra game this week makes him a solid start.

Schedule: 3 Games

Fred VanVleet

Sit

Houston Rockets - Guard

VanVleet has missed five straight games with an ankle injury and still hasn't returned to practice. With only two games this week, he’s a high risk to miss time.

Schedule: 2 Games

Giannis Antetokounmpo

Sit

Milwaukee Bucks - Forward

Giannis has been ruled out until after the All-Star break due to a calf injury. With no games this week, make sure to sit him.

Schedule: 2 Games

Strategy Tip: Prioritize players with 3 games over 2 games this week, as the All-Star break limits scheduling.

NBA Injury Updates

Top Injury Updates in the NBA:

LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
Injury: Ankle and foot soreness
Details: LeBron James will miss the 2025 NBA All-Star Game due to ankle and foot soreness.
 
Anthony Davis (Dallas Mavericks)
Injury: Left adductor strain
Details: In his debut game for the Mavericks on February 8, Anthony Davis sustained a left adductor strain, sidelining him for multiple weeks, including the NBA All-Star Game.
 
Daniel Gafford (Dallas Mavericks)
Injury: Right knee sprain
Details: On February 11, center Daniel Gafford suffered a right knee sprain during a game against the Sacramento Kings. He is expected to be re-evaluated in two weeks.
 
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
Injury: Left calf strain
Details: Giannis has been sidelined since February 2 due to a left calf strain, causing him to miss the NBA All-Star Game on February 16 and at least one more week.
 
OG Anunoby (New York Knicks)
Injury: Unavailable due to injury
Details: OG Anunoby was unavailable for the Knicks' game against the Atlanta Hawks on February 12 due to injury.
 

Top 3 Player Performances of the Week:

Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets) – February 13, 2025
Performance: On February 13, Murray scored a career-high 55 points, leading the Nuggets to a 132-121 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers.
Jamal Murray Performance
Click the image to watch the video
 
Karl-Anthony Towns (New York Knicks) – February 12, 2025
Performance: Towns recorded a double-double with 44 points and 10 rebounds in a thrilling 149-148 overtime win against the Atlanta Hawks.
 
Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors) – February 10, 2025
Performance: Curry matched his season-high with 38 points, contributing to the Warriors' 125-111 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.
NBA Insider Weekly - MVP Ladder Update

MVP Ladder Update

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ↑1

Rank: 1

Season Averages: 32.5 PPG, 6.1 AST, 5.1 REB

Odds to win MVP: -330

Bet with the odds (bet365) 		Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Nikola Jokić ↓2

Rank: 2

Season PPG: 27.4

Odds to win MVP: +240

Bet with the odds (bet365) 		Nikola Jokić

Giannis Antetokounmpo —3

Rank: 3

Season PPG: 29.3

Odds to win MVP: +10000

Bet with the odds (bet365) 		Giannis Antetokounmpo

Jayson Tatum ↓4

Rank: 4

Season PPG: 28.5

Odds to win MVP: +17500

Bet with the odds (bet365) 		Jayson Tatum