Overview
- Following Tuesday's play-in openers, Portland edged Phoenix 114-110 to clinch the No. 7 seed and a first-round series against the No. 2 San Antonio Spurs.
- Deni Avdija powered the Blazers with 41 points, 12 assists and seven rebounds, sealing the win with an and‑one drive with 16.1 seconds left.
- Charlotte outlasted Miami 127-126 in overtime on LaMelo Ball’s late layup, and the Hornets now play the Magic‑76ers loser on Friday for the East’s No. 8 seed and a series with Detroit.
- The NBA is reviewing Ball’s contact with Bam Adebayo and expects a ruling before Charlotte’s next game, according to reporting from insider Chris Haynes.
- Adebayo exited with a lower‑back injury after the fall; Heat coach Erik Spoelstra called the play dangerous, and Ball apologized and denied any intent to trip.