“I’m just trying to really fire the guys up,” Kerr told hosts Mark Willard and Dan Dibley. “We were, I thought, demoralized at times [against Chicago]. The Bulls had a big run at the end of the second quarter and I could just feel the air leaving our balloon.”

“Without Steph, without Jimmy, I think I have to take on more responsibility, just keeping the guys’ spirits up, that sort of thing. So, that’s probably what you were looking at.” Kerr said this after responding to a question about his animated reaction to a three-pointer from Kristaps Porzingis late in the third quarter of Tuesday night’s home loss.

The absences of Butler and Curry take their toll

Curry has missed the last 15 games due to a persistent runner’s knee injury and will miss at least 10 more following the latest injury update, while continuing to work toward his return.

Butler, meanwhile, tore his right ACL on January 19, which ended his season. The Warriors have not won consecutive games since then, forcing Kerr to try everything possible to revive the team’s campaign.

Kerr and the Warriors miss the duo

The absence of Curry and Butler has clearly been felt across the roster. The Warriors are currently relying on a lineup featuring Gui Santos, Draymond Green, Al Horford, Will Richard or Moses Moody, and Brandin Podziemski, as seen in their most recent game at Chase Center against the Bulls. This group has struggled with inconsistency and frequent changes due to injuries and tactical adjustments.

That situation has created further problems, as the starting rotations continue to change. At times, players such as De Anthony Melton, Quinten Post and Pat Spencer have been involved, while Porzingis, who arrived to reinforce the defensive area and the paint, has yet to make a significant impact due to injuries.

Golden State banked enough early-season wins to keep the team a level above the bottom of the NBA Western Conference and in line for a potential play-in tournament berth. However, as Kerr acknowledged, any ambitions beyond that remain unlikely without his two best players available.

“We’re just at a place where our margin for error is really slim,” Kerr told Willard and Dibley. “Very frustrating, but our guys are playing hard and competing and giving [themselves] a chance every night. But there’s no doubt [Curry and Butler]…we needed them and we didn’t get them, so it puts us in a tough spot.”

The veteran superstar missed the Lakers’ last few games while dealing with multiple physical issues, including a right hip contusion and ongoing left foot arthritis, which have kept him sidelined since early March.

Because of those setbacks, the team has listed him as available on the official injury report heading into the game against Chicago. LA enters the matchup trying to maintain momentum during a crucial stretch of the NBA regular season.

When will LeBron James return to play for the Lakers?

LeBron James is going to return to the Los Angeles Lakers lineup tonight, as he is currently listed as available while recovering from multiple minor injuries.

The team has been monitoring his condition on a day-to-day basis, meaning his availability for upcoming games—including the matchup against the Chicago Bulls—will likely be determined shortly before tipoff.

The four-time NBA champion has missed several recent games while dealing with a combination of physical issues, and the Lakers have taken a cautious approach with their veteran star.

According to Fox Sports, he has already gone through workouts and team activities, which suggests his return could be imminent if his body responds well to treatment and recovery sessions.

What injury does LeBron James have?

LeBron James is dealing primarily with a left elbow contusion while also managing ongoing issues such as left foot arthritis and a recent hip contusion. These injuries have collectively kept him out of several recent games for the Lakers.

The elbow injury occurred during a loss to the Denver Nuggets when he fell hard while driving to the basket late in the game. Although he briefly returned to the court afterward, the elbow remained sore and the medical staff decided to rest him to prevent further aggravation.

In addition to the elbow issue, he has been dealing with chronic left foot arthritis throughout the season, something the team has carefully managed with rest and treatment. That lingering foot condition has reportedly been the main reason the Lakers have extended his recovery period.

In the latest Insights to Excellence clip released by NBA on NBC, Jordan, despite often being cited as the GOAT himself, offered a more nuanced take on the conversation. He emphasized the importance each generation has played in shaping the league and its broader history.

“The whole GOAT term is never going to be something that I ever will get high or low about,” Jordan said. “It just doesn’t exist with me. I never played against Oscar Robertson or Jerry West. Would have loved to, absolutely loved to, just as competitive as I am. I actually learned from them, and we paved the road to the Kobes and the LeBrons, right?”

Jordan’s point highlights how difficult it is to reach a definitive conclusion in the debate. Many of the greatest players never faced each other directly, as he himself noted. Jordan never competed against LeBron, especially not during their primes, which makes it nearly impossible to truly measure who might be the best across eras.

What the GOAT debate generates, according to Jordan

As Jordan explained, part of the “beauty of the game” lies in how players build upon what previous stars brought to the court. In that way, each generation contributes to the evolution of basketball and pushes the sport forward. “Don’t then now use that against the player that actually taught you the game or that you learned from,” Jordan cautioned while describing what he sees as a flaw in how the GOAT in the NBA debate is often handled.

“That’s why I have a tough time. And look, I would love to have played against LeBron and Kobe in my prime. I would love to have played against those guys but we’ll never be able to know that. Part of the marketing, part of the hype, part of the things that tries to elevate one generation above the other, I think it creates animosity.”

In many ways, the conversation only adds more mystique and intrigue around these players. It elevates their status in basketball history, whether the discussion focuses on Michael Jordan, LeBron, Kobe, or even legends from earlier eras such as Wilt Chamberlain. Even for those who did not watch them play live, the stories and debates surrounding them often make their achievements seem almost unreal.

Jordan also went on to specifically praise LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Durant for the way they have elevated the game in their own eras. At the same time, he reiterated his broader point that the GOAT debate should not diminish the impact each generation has had on the sport.

According to the latest official NBA injury report, the Nuggets have listed Nikola Jokic as questionable with a left ankle sprain for tonight’s game in Chicago. Denver desperately need their three-time MVP to help snap a disappointing three-game losing streak.

It is undoubtedly a major concern for the Nuggets to have their franchise cornerstone back on the injury report, especially considering Jokic previously missed 16 games in January due to a knee injury.

However, fans may find some relief in the fact that the current issue is localized to his ankle, suggesting he has moved past the knee complications that sidelined him for a month.

Since returning to action on January 30, Jokic has appeared in every game. While the team is just 1-3 in that span, his presence is vital as Denver looks to correct its course and regain momentum in the Western Conference standings.

Both teams dealing with significant absences

The Nuggets are hoping Jokic can suit up, as they are already missing several key rotation players. Aaron Gordon (right hamstring strain), Peyton Watson (right hamstring strain), Spencer Jones (concussion protocol), and Tamar Bates (left foot surgery) have all been ruled out.

Additionally, Christian Braun (left ankle sprain) and Cameron Johnson (right knee bone bruise) are also listed as questionable. If these players are unable to go, the Nuggets will be heavily reliant on Jokic to shoulder the load and secure a much-needed road victory.

On the other side, the Bulls also enter this matchup severely shorthanded. Guards Josh Giddey and Tre Jones remain out with left hamstring strains, creating a significant backcourt void for the Chicago franchise. Like Denver, the Bulls are also struggling, currently riding their own three-game losing streak.

After adding Simons to the rotation, the Bulls could now start the following lineup going forward. Simons could enter the team as a point guard, taking over at that position for Ayo Dosunmu. The rest of the lineup could feature Coby White at shooting guard, Matas Buzelis as small forward, Isaac Okoro at power forward, and Patrick Williams filling in for the departing Vucevic at center.

As for the Celtics, Simons’ departure leaves a plethora of options. However, one likely lineup for Joe Mazzulla could feature: Payton Pritchard as PG, Jaylen Brown at SG, Derrick White and Sam Hauser as forwards, and Vucevic could replace Neemias Queta at center. However, due to his current form, Mazzulla may decide to have Vucevic enter from the bench as he arrives in Boston.

Bulls making moves

Currently sitting at 9th place in the East, the Bulls (24-26) are sensing the pressure. Moreover, the whooping 134-91 defeat during their visit to the Miami Heat has put every weakness in Chicago on full display. Therefore, the front office is now stepping in.

In addition to the trade for Simons—which included a second-round picks swap with the Celtics—the Bulls had made another move in the NBA. Chicago acquired Jaden Ivey and Mike Conley Jr. from the Detroit Pistons and Minnesota Timberwolves, respectively, as part of a three-team trade. In return, the Bulls gave up Dario Saric and Kevin Huerter, who are now with the Pistons.

Playoff push

The Bulls and Celtics face very different realities in the 2025-26 NBA season. Though Boston is still adjusting to Jayson Tatum’s absence, it boasts a 31-18 record, which puts the Celtics in third place in the East. Barring a disastrous end to the campaign, the Celtics should be a lock to make the postseason.

Meanwhile, the Bulls are struggling to cement themselves in the playoff race. They are currently in possession of a ticket to the NBA Play-In, but more outings like the one on Sunday in Miami, and that will not be a lock whatsoever.

What the Bulls and Celtics hope out of this trade

Chicago hopes this trade puts them in a position to make the playoffs and shock the world. Boston, on the other hand, expects the trade to aid an area of need, as it’s the game in the paint, while Tatum considers and reconsiders whether he returns or sits out this season. Still, even without Tatum, Boston is one team not many wish to come up against in a best-of-7 series.

Despite interest from multiple franchises, the Bulls face obstacles in striking a deal for White. Reports indicate that Chicago is struggling to secure a coveted first-round pick in return for the young guard. According to Joel Lorenzi of The Athletic, “The Bulls are struggling to receive a first-round pick from teams interested in trading for Coby White.”

With White prominently listed among available market options, the Bulls may need to explore alternative trade strategies to facilitate an effective transaction involving White.

The Dallas Mavericks have reportedly extended an offer for the 2019-2020 NBA Rookie of the Year, prompting the Bulls to rethink their approach. They are determined to strengthen their roster, aiming to secure a playoff berth this season despite current setbacks.

Challenges facing the Bulls

Understanding the Bulls’ difficulty in giving a first-round pick requires examining the financial landscape surrounding Coby White. Crucially, White is on an expiring contract valued at $12.8 million and is expected to seek a new deal ranging from $25 million to $30 million annually this summer, which complicates negotiations.

As reported by The Athletic, these financial implications significantly impact trade discussions, as teams may hesitate to commit substantial future resources without assurance of retaining White long-term.

Reported offers for White

Interest in White extends beyond the Dallas Mavericks, with additional teams reportedly engaging in conversations about acquiring him for the remainder of the season.

• Houston Rockets: Considered offering a package centered around a future first-round pick and either Dorian Finney-Smith or Steven Adams.
• Minnesota Timberwolves: Searching for a complementary scorer alongside Anthony Edwards.
• Atlanta Hawks: Identified as a potential “sign-and-trade” partner for the summer, but may act sooner should the Bulls reduce their demands.

According to Jedd Pagaduan at Clutch Points, the Mavericks are reportedly interested in signing Coby White for the rest of the season. In return, the Bulls could receive Daniel Gafford along with the Philadelphia 76ers’ second-round pick in the 2030 draft.

This proposed trade could serve as a mutual boon for both franchises, each grappling with their respective struggles this season. Sitting at a 19-28 record, the Mavericks are eager to invigorate their fanbase and rectify their setbacks throughout the season.

White offers valuable versatility, capable of filling multiple roles on the court. His potential integration alongside players like Naji Marshall and Max Christie could provide much-needed depth, especially while Cooper Flagg is out due to injury.

White’s stats: A consideration for the Mavericks

Amidst the speculation around roster changes, Coby White stands as a promising addition for the Mavericks. Here’s a snapshot of his performance with the Bulls this season:

• Points Per Game: 18.8
• Assists Per Game: 4.7
• Rebounds Per Game: 3.5
• Field Goal Percentage: 45.2%
• Three-Point Percentage: 36.6%
• Free Throw Percentage: 79.8%

Mavericks’ potential trade options

While unconfirmed by analysts, one notable trade scenario circulating among outlets like The Smoking Cuban and Locked On Mavericks involves Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.

One radical proposal suggests the Mavericks might trade Cooper Flagg, Daniel Gafford, Klay Thompson, and Naji Marshall to the Bucks in exchange for Antetokounmpo. Such a move could significantly reinforce a roster currently navigating challenges this season.

An NBA schedule rarely leaves room for error. Over 82 games, small advantages compound, discipline becomes decisive and separation at the top is earned slowly rather than seized in bursts.

A handful of squads have stood above the rest, not merely winning games but reshaping expectations about what a season could be. Their performances offer a lens to examine greatness in its purest form.

Yet, the story of regular season glory is more than numbers. It’s about timing, context, and the personalities that propelled teams to extraordinary marks, from hot shooting nights to defensive masterclasses.

Which team holds the record for the best regular-season results?

When the 2015-16 NBA season reached its final pages, the Golden State Warriors didn’t just win games, they reshaped expectations about what a regular season could look like. Finishing 73–9, they set the all-time record for most wins in a single NBA regular season, eclipsing the long-standing 72-win mark set by the 1995–96 Chicago Bulls.

Their performance was built on historic shooting, relentless pace, and a defensive commitment that overwhelmed opponents across the league. Under the guidance of coach Steve Kerr and powered by Stephen Curry’s MVP campaign, Golden State was formidable from October through April, starting the season with a 24-game winning streak, another mark of sustained dominance.

Yet, despite this unparalleled regular-season success, the team’s story had a twist: the record-setting Warriors ultimately fell short in the NBA Finals, losing to the Cleveland Cavaliers. This juxtaposition — regular-season greatness without a championship seal — makes the Warriors’ 73-win campaign one of the most compelling chapters in league history.

Which teams came closest to matching the record?

Behind Golden State’s 73-win campaign, a small group of teams built seasons that still serve as measuring sticks for regular-season excellence. At the top of that list sit the 1995–96 Chicago Bulls, whose 72–10 record long represented the gold standard.

Led by Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman, Chicago combined elite defense with relentless efficiency, finishing the job with an NBA championship.

Another historic mark belongs to the 1971–72 Los Angeles Lakers, who went 69–13 and paired that record with a still-unmatched 33-game winning streak. That season stood out not only for its results, but for how decisively the Lakers controlled the league, blending veteran leadership with offensive balance.

The 1996–97 Bulls (69–13) reaffirmed Chicago’s dominance during the Jordan era, while the 2015–16 San Antonio Spurs (67–15) quietly produced one of the most consistent seasons ever, going undefeated at home.

According to the latest official NBA injury report for Saturday, December 27, the Bulls have listed Josh Giddey as available to play despite being listed earlier as questionable with a left ankle sprain.

Chicago enters the second night of a back-to-back in peak form, having notched their fifth consecutive victory with a 109-102 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday. Giddey was instrumental in that win, flirting with a triple-double by recording 12 points, 11 assists, and six rebounds.

In his first season in Chicago, the 23-year-old Australian has been a revelation, averaging 19.8 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game. It’s great news for Billy Donovan to have Giddey available tonight, as he remains a fundamental piece of his system.

Milwaukee awaits the ‘Greek Freak’

While Chicago manages Giddey’s status, the Milwaukee Bucks are expecting a massive reinforcement. Multiple reports indicate that superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to return tonight after missing eight games with a right calf strain. The Bucks also list Gary Trent Jr. (calf) as questionable, while Taurean Prince (neck) remains out.

The Bulls’ injury report is relatively light. Rookie Noa Essengue is the only other name listed; he remains out for the season following shoulder surgery.

According to the latest official NBA injury report for Saturday, December 27, Giannis Antetokounmpo is listed as available to play in tonight’s matchup against the Bulls.

Antetokounmpo has been sidelined for 24 days, last appearing in a December 3 win over the Detroit Pistons where he suffered the non-contact injury in the opening minutes. During his eight-game absence, Milwaukee spiraled, posting a 2-6 record and falling to 11th place in the Eastern Conference.

The Bucks have sorely missed Antetokounmpo’s dominant production; through 17 games this season, he is averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists while shooting a career-high 63.9% from the floor.

Complete injury report of both teams

The Bucks’ injury report remains busy as they look to turn their season around. Gary Trent Jr. (left calf contusion) is also considered questionable, while Taurean Prince (neck surgery) remains out indefinitely.

The task won’t be easy against a Chicago Bulls (15-15) squad that has found its rhythm, winning five straight games. Chicago’s main concern is the status of Josh Giddey, who is questionable after suffering a left ankle sprain in Friday’s win over Philadelphia. Noa Essengue remains out for the Bulls following shoulder surgery.

There is encouraging news for the 76ers, as Edgecombe (illness) is listed as probable for Friday’s game against the Bulls. He was previously questionable but made it through shootaround without setbacks. Additionally, Dominick Barlow (illness) and Quentin Grimes (illness) have also been upgraded to probable.

The 76ers will rely on one of their top performers this season, behind Tyrese Maxey, to pursue victory—especially since it remains unclear if Joel Embiid will play today, as he is also listed on the injury report.

All eyes will be on the injury report to determine if Embiid and Edgecombe take the court. Coming off Tuesday’s loss to the Nets, Embiid led the team with 27 points, six rebounds, and four assists, while Paul George added 19 points and four rebounds.

How the Bulls arrive

Chicago enters Friday’s NBA matchup with a 14-15 record after a road win over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. Josh Giddey spearheaded the Bulls with a 19-point, 11-rebound, 15-assist triple-double, while Coby White added 24 points and four assists.

Players ready to step up in case of absences

If Embiid is sidelined against the Bulls, Andre Drummond is likely to start in his place, with Adem Bona also potentially seeing increased minutes, particularly with Dominick Barlow still dealing with an illness.

Similarly, if Edgecombe cannot play on Friday, Jared McCain may earn a start, while Justin Edwards and Jabari Walker could see expanded roles during the absence of VJ.