In a crucial matchup, the Charlotte Hornets will face the Brooklyn Nets without their star player, LaMelo Ball, who has been ruled out due to injury management. Ball's absence is significant as he boasts impressive averages of 25.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game. The Hornets are struggling, coming off a narrow loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers and currently sit at 14-48, placing them 14th in the Eastern Conference, amidst a nine-game losing streak.

The Nets, on the other hand, are also struggling with a 21-41 record and are in the midst of a six-game losing streak. In games without Ball, Miles Bridges has stepped up, averaging 21.7 points and 9.7 rebounds in 15 games. Tonight, he will likely be the focal point for the Hornets’ offense as they search for a much-needed victory against a Nets team that has faltered recently.

Immanuel Quickley showcased his scoring prowess, racking up a season-high 34 points, leading the Toronto Raptors to a convincing 118-109 victory over the Utah Jazz. Quickley contributed significantly with five rebounds and five assists, helping the Raptors secure their third consecutive win. Fellow teammate Scottie Barnes also had an impressive outing with a double-double, scoring 22 points alongside 12 rebounds and six assists.

On the other hand, the struggling Jazz, now on a four-game losing streak, saw Walker Kessler dominate the paint with an impressive 18 points and a staggering 25 rebounds, including 13 offensive boards. Despite their efforts, Utah's undermanned roster was unable to overcome the Raptors’ relentless defense, which forced 25 turnovers leading to 28 points. Toronto's transition game thrived as they managed only 10 turnovers themselves.

The Miami Heat are preparing to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night, but they may have to do so without their standout player, Tyler Herro, who is listed as questionable due to an illness. Herro has been instrumental for the Heat this season, averaging 23.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game while boasting impressive shooting percentages. The Heat are currently struggling with a 29-32 record, placing them seventh in the Eastern Conference and coming off a recent loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Timberwolves, on the other hand, hold a better record at 35-29, positioning them seventh in the Western Conference. They are buoyed by a three-game winning streak and have been fairly solid on the road. This matchup is pivotal, as both teams look for crucial wins to bolster their playoff positions.

Steve Kerr strongly endorses Shaquille O’Neal's call for Steph Curry to be included in the GOAT conversation, labeling him as the most unique superstar in NBA history. In a recent interview, Kerr echoed Shaq's sentiments, emphasizing Curry's ability to break barriers and transform the game. Unlike traditional giants like LeBron or Michael Jordan, Curry’s impact stems from his extraordinary skills, as evidenced by his four championships and multiple MVP awards. Kerr asserts that it’s high time the NBA recognizes Curry's unparalleled contributions to basketball.

O’Neal, during an NBA on TNT broadcast, urged fans to start considering Curry alongside legends like Jordan, Kobe, and LeBron. He highlighted Curry’s accomplishments and his transformative effect on how the game is played. Kerr, who has coached Curry for over a decade, believes that these discussions about greatness are essential in acknowledging the full scope of what players can achieve.

Draymond Green faced penalties during the Golden State Warriors' recent victory over the Charlotte Hornets, receiving a flagrant 1 foul and a technical foul for striking Tidjane Salaun. Despite the infractions, Green had a solid performance, contributing 16 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists. This incident marked Green's 17th career flagrant foul and 162nd technical foul, underscoring his history of aggressive play. Interestingly, it's his 12th technical this season, a significant rise compared to previous years, highlighting his evolving temperament as he ages.