On Wednesday, Toronto Raptors coach Darko Rajaković described veteran Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson as a "no-class" player after the Cavs' 131-108 win over the Raptors.

Rajaković also suggested Thompson's actions showed a lack of respect. 

"I think what Tristan did there was no class and disrespectful," Rajaković said during a postgame press conference. "I'm not going to stand for that, for sure. I love when my team stands up for themselves. That was no class."

Rajaković was irked by Thompson's two-handed slam in the final seconds of the game.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Raptors players Scottie Barnes and Jamal Shead confronted Thompson immediately after the final buzzer sounded, and some fans directed boos at the Cavs big man.

Thompson took to social media Thursday to share his response to Rajaković's remarks. Thompson asserted that the Raptors engaged in a "full court press" even as Toronto was trailing by double-digits late in the game.

LUKA DONČIĆ'S TRADE TO LAKERS COULDN'T BE VETOED, NBA COMMISH SAYS

"You wanna full court press with under a minute left in the game when you get cracked by 30 this will happen to you. Lose for draft lottery and be happy buddy boy. Hopefully you and most of your guys see the light at the end of Bobby and Masai long term plan. Bless up stay warm in MY CITY," Thompson wrote on X Feb. 13.

Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson said he didn't understand Thompson's thought process at the time, but he also did not believe there were "bad intentions" behind the dunk.

"I'm not sure what he was thinking," Atkinson said. "Sometimes, though, you're playing the game, and you just have a reaction. I know with Tristan, there's no bad intention there. I think just sometimes you're playing, and the goal of the game is to score. Unfortunate."

Thompson, who is from Canada, had four points in four minutes. He is averaging 1.7 points and 3 rebounds per game in 28 games this season.

Fox News' Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

There was an exodus of disgruntled Dallas Mavericks fans at American Airlines Center on Monday night as security was seen escorting several people out of the arena after they called for general manager Nico Harrison’s job following the Luka Doncic trade. 

Security escorted out several fans that either held up "Fire Nico" signs or shouted out the phrase during the Mavericks’ one-point loss to the Sacramento Kings.

During a karaoke segment where fans sang along to Whitney Houston’s "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," one man was shown on the Jumbotron mouthing the phrase "Fire Nico." 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

The camera quickly panned away. 

That same man was also seen holding a sign with the same phrasing. He and another man holding the sign were later seen being escorted away from their seats in a video shared on social media. 

According to The Dallas Morning News, two more fans were escorted out in the fourth quarter. Each time, the escorts were met by boos from fans in the surrounding area. 

MAVERICKS GM GETTING BOOST IN SECURITY FOR FIRST HOME GAME SINCE LUKA DONČIĆ TRADE AFTER DEATH THREATS: REPORT

Doncic led the NBA in scoring last season and helped the Mavericks reach an NBA Finals appearance, but was dealt away to the Los Angeles Lakers in one of the most controversial trades in recent memory. 

Fans have since expressed their disdain for Harrison, the mastermind behind the trade, prompting the organization to reportedly increase his security before Saturday’s game over the weekend. 

The Lakers acquired Doncic, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, while the Mavericks got Anthony Davis, Max Christie and Los Angeles' 2029 first-round pick. To complete the deal, the Utah Jazz acquired Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.

But Davis sustained a groin injury in his debut for Dallas and will be sidelined at least through the All-Star break.  

Fox News’ Ryan Morik contributed to this report. 

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

The anticipation for Los Angeles Lakers fans ended on Monday night as Luka Doncic made his debut in purple and gold at the Crypto.com Arena against the Utah Jazz.

Doncic played 24 minutes as all but one Lakers star played under 30 (Austin Reaves). He made the most of it, scoring 14 points, grabbing five rebounds and dishing out four assists. He was plus-15 while on the floor and 5-of-14 from the field.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

He had not played since Christmas due to an injury and then was the main part of a blockbuster trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers. As fans received Doncic T-shirts, and he stepped onto the floor with LeBron James, Doncic admitted he was a "little nervous."

"I (don’t remember) the last time I was nervous before the game. But once I stepped on the court again, it was fun. Just being out there, it felt amazing," he said after the game.

The Lakers won the game 132-113.

MAVERICKS' ANTHONY DAVIS SUFFERS INJURY IN DEBUT FOLLOWING BLOCKBUSTER TRADE

"Just the amount of cheering there was in the arena was absolutely unbelievable," Doncic said. "That was my favorite part — and to play again."

As the season wears on, Doncic’s chemistry with James is going to be a key factor. The Lakers moved to 32-19 on the year with the win and are currently in fourth place in the Western Conference. Being out of the play-in tournament will be a key for the team.

"Knowing Luka, whether he will admit this or not, there was probably a little bit of nerves playing for the Lakers for the first time, and the anticipation that this building had," Lakers head coach J.J. Redick said. "I thought he handled it really well, and he played really well tonight. ... He didn’t make it about Luka. He made it about playing good basketball and playing Laker basketball."

Los Angeles will head to Utah to play the Jazz again before the All-Star break begins.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris was spotted at a Los Angeles Lakers game this week and appeared to receive a rather icy reaction from fans in attendance on Thursday night. 

Videos shared on social media showed Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, walking to their seats at the Crypto.com Arena for Thursday’s game against the Golden State Warriors. 

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

Social media users pointed out Harris’ seats, which appeared several rows up from the court, and the overall lack of reception as Harris and Emhoff made their way up. 

Comedian Jeff Dye, who was in attendance, shared a video of Harris' and Emhoff’s seats. 

"Kamala Harris is at the Lakers Warriors game in like row 58. Should’ve saved some of that money. @KamalaHarris @DouglasEmhoff," he said in a post shared on X. "lol. What a world." 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff arrive at the Lakers game. Pretty much nobody cared," one user wrote on X. 

"Crowd is completely unfazed," another commented. 

"The crowd’s unenthusiastic response says it all," one post read. 

LUKA DONCIC TRADE HAS NFL STARS DUMBFOUNDED AT SUPER BOWL LIX: 'IT'S LIKE TRADING LAMAR'

Following Harris’ failed campaign, speculation about the former vice president’s future in politics has linked her to a possible California gubernatorial bid in 2026.

Prior to Thursday’s NBA game, Harris visited areas damaged by the Palisades wildfires and spoke with displaced residents at a Red Cross shelter. 

That same day, when speaking with reporters, Harris appeared to dodge the rumors about her future political endeavors. 

"I have been home for two weeks and three days," Harris said. "My plans are to be in touch with my community, to be in touch with the leaders and figure out what I can do to support them."

When pressed further, Harris responded that she "would be here no matter what office I hold, because it is the right thing to do."

Fox News Digital's Rachel Wolf contributed to this report. 

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

How are Dallas Mavericks fans dealing with the trade of their superstar guard Luka Doncic? 

Well, some are taking mourning to another level. 

Going through it was an understatement for a group of fans that was spotted at American Airlines Center in Dallas hosting a funeral, or perhaps a protest, after one of the most shocking trades in professional sports history. 

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

Yes, it was a funeral as several fans, dressed in black suits, carried a blue coffin to the steps in front of the arena, where Doncic shirts, jerseys and more were spread out.

"Why?!" one of the men carrying the coffin screamed into the area while Wiz Khalifa’s "See You Again" played over a speaker, per Dallas News.

Mavericks fans may not be going to the extreme as this group did on Sunday, but many are still in shock, and even denial, after the trade went down late Saturday night. 

The trade sent Doncic and Maxi Kleber to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a draft pick. The Utah Jazz were also involved in the deal. 

The NBA world could not believe Doncic, the five-time All-Star who was named Western Conference Finals MVP last season during the team’s Finals run while leading the NBA in scoring (33.9 points), was traded by the franchise who took him third overall in 2018. At just 25 years old, Doncic remains one of the key pieces of the game’s future. 

Even Doncic appeared slighted by the trade after writing a farewell note to Mavericks fans just hours after the trade, which some believed was a fake on social media when reports dropped, became official. 

He did not mention the team’s name at all – only showing love to the fan base. 

"Seven years ago, I came here as a teenager to pursue my dream of playing basketball at the highest level," Doncic wrote. "I thought I’d spend my career here and I wanted so badly to bring you a championship. The love and support you all have given me is more than I could have ever dreamed of. For a young kid from Slovenia coming to the U.S. for the first time, you made North Texas feel like home.

"In good times and bad, from injuries to the NBA Finals, your support never changed. Thank you not only for sharing my joy in our best memories, but also lifting met up when I needed it most.

"To all the organizations I’ve worked with throughout the Dallas community, thank you for letting me contribute to your important work and join you in bringing light to those who need it. As I start the next part of my basketball journey, I am leaving a city that will always feel like a home away from home.

"Dallas is a special place, and Mavs fans are special fans.

"Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."

Reaction to the trade was immense when it went down, and Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes, who is preparing for potential NFL history this week at Super Bowl LIX, had time to share his "sick" thoughts about it. 

"Wait what? I’m sick rn…." Mahomes, a Texas native who was spotted at this past season’s NBA Finals rooting for the Mavericks, wrote on X.

Doncic has not played for Dallas since Christmas after exiting the game with a strained left calf. With the trade, he is now prevented from signing a five-year supermax contract extension that would have been worth $345 million. He can, however, sign an extension with a maximum payout of $230 million. 

Mavericks GM Nico Harrison spoke about the trade on Sunday, with his mindset about this shocking trade being a win-now move. Additionally, with the contract looming, Harrison made a judgment call that could alter the franchise – for better or for worse.

"There’s other teams that were loading up," he explained. "He was going to be able to make his own decision at some point of whether he wants to be here or not, whether we want to supermax him or not, or whether he wants to opt out. We had to take all that into consideration and I feel like we got out in front of what could have been a tumultuous summer."

Dallas, without Doncic, dynamic guard Kyrie Irving and Davis not yet in uniform, was embarrassed by the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday night, 144-101, on the road. 

The Mavericks are 26-24 on the season, which is good for ninth in the Western Conference. 

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

The Dallas Mavericks were far from energized in their first game since the team traded Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers and acquired Anthony Davis.

The Mavericks allowed the Cleveland Cavaliers 91 points at halftime and lost the game 144-101.

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

"Everyone was just locked in even with the trade and everything that was going on today," Cavs star Evan Mobley said after the game. "We started hot and kept our foot on the gas."

Sam Merrill added nine 3-pointers for Cleveland. The Cavaliers made 16 3-pointers in the first half and finished with 26 in total.

"We were at 80 (points) with like four minutes left, and I was like, ‘Man, let’s try to get 100,’" Merrill said. "But these games aren’t always easy. I’ve been a part of games where everyone is out, and it’s a close game because it’s hard to have the right mindset in a game like this.

"It’s such a credit to the starters to come out and play the right way and communicate and defend and share the basketball. To get out to that big lead and then the bench guys come in and keep it going. I’ve been a part of some 80s but 90 (at halftime) is crazy."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

It was the closing of a wild day for the Mavericks. Dallas woke up, and its five-time All-Star was abruptly traded to the Lakers.

Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison defended the deal before the game.

"I understand why [fans] would be shocked, initially," Harrison told the Dallas Morning News. 

"But I do believe that we positioned ourselves to win now and also win in the future. And that’s ultimately the goal and why we’re here. It’s one of those things where it’s my job to make the tough decisions that put our goals first and foremost."

Doncic’s $207 million extension is set to expire this year, and he was due for a supermax that was worth over $340 million. Plus, he was soon able to opt out of any other deals. So, Harrison wanted security. Now, he’s not eligible for the supermax anymore.

"We really feel like we got ahead of what was going to be a tumultuous summer, him being eligible for the supermax and also a year away from him being able to opt out of any contract," Harrison said. "And so we really felt like we got out in front of that. We know teams, they’ve had it out there, teams have been loading up to try to sign him once that comes available."

Doncic thanked fans for their support while he was with Dallas. He did not mention the Mavericks in his goodbye message.

Fox News' Ryan Morik and the Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Luka Doncic penned a farewell letter to Dallas Mavericks fans on Sunday, hours after the team traded him to the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster that shook the NBA world.

The Lakers acquired Doncic and Maxi Kleber in a deal for Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a draft pick. The Utah Jazz were also involved in the deal.

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

Doncic is a five-time All-Star and five-time First Team All-NBA. He’s averaging 28.1 points per game. 

He was the face of the Mavericks since the team acquired him in the NBA Draft from the Atlanta Hawks. The 25-year-old is among the up-and-coming stars who are expected to be the face of the league – if not already are. It’s why the trade itself was incredibly stunning.

Doncic thanked the fans for their support. He made no mention of the team itself.

"Seven years ago, I came here as a teenager to pursue my dream of playing basketball at the highest level," Doncic wrote. "I thought I’d spend my career here and I wanted so badly to bring you a championship. The love and support you all have given me is more than I could have ever dreamed of. For a young kid from Slovenia coming to the U.S. for the first time, you made North Texas feel like home.

CHIEFS' PATRICK MAHOMES 'SICK' OVER MAVERICKS' LUKA DONCIC TRADE

"In good times and bad, from injuries to the NBA Finals, your support never changed. Thank you not only for sharing my joy in our best memories, but also lifting met up when I needed it most.

"To all the organizations I’ve worked with throughout the Dallas community, thank you for letting me contribute to your important work and join you in bringing light to those who need it. As I start the next part of my basketball journey, I am leaving a city that will always feel like a home away from home.

"Dallas is a special place, and Mavs fans are special fans.

"Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."

Doncic will now team up with LeBron James and the Lakers as they pursue another NBA championship.

"Grateful for this amazing opportunity," he added in a post to his Instagram Stories. "Basketball means everything to me, and no matter where I play the game, I’ll do so with the same joy passion and goal – to win championships."

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

"The Star-Spangled Banner" was once again booed in Canada ahead of a sporting event.

The latest anti-American display took place at the Scotiabank Arena before the Toronto Raptors took on the Los Angeles Clippers. Fans booed the American national anthem as a 15-year-old female sang it. A mix of boos and cheers were heard before she received a resounding applause for the Canadian national anthem, "O, Canada."

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

The theme of Canadians booing the American anthem began Saturday night as the Ottawa Senators and the Calgary Flames hosted NHL games. 

The boos seemingly occurred as President Donald Trump followed through on his promise to place tariffs of 25% on imports from Canada and Mexico and 10% on imports from China. Any energy resources from Canada would be hit at a 10% rate.

In a statement obtained by Fox News Saturday, the Trump administration said the order is in response to an "extraordinary threat posed by illegal aliens and drugs, including deadly fentanyl, (that) constitutes a national emergency."

OTTAWA SENATORS FANS BOO USA NATIONAL ANTHEM AFTER TRUMP ISSUES TARIFFS

Ahead of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announcing his resignation, Trump said he would "love" if Canada could become the "51st state."

Trudeau has since lamented the tariffs that the Trump administration has levied.

In a fact sheet released by the White House on Saturday, the U.S. is implementing tariffs against Canada, Mexico and China to hold them accountable "to their promises of halting illegal immigration and stopping poisonous fentanyl and other drugs from flowing into our country." This "extraordinary threat," the White House said, "constitutes a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act."

However, Trudeau claimed that "less than 1% of fentanyl and less than one% illegal crossings into the United States come from Canada."

FOX Business’ Christopher Guly and the Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was like the rest of the sports world on early Sunday morning when he learned the Dallas Mavericks traded Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Lakers acquired the five-time All-Star, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris for Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a 2029 first-round draft pick. The Utah Jazz were also involved in the trade, acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifinio and a future second-round pick.

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

"I’m sick rn…." Mahomes wrote on X.

He was far from the only one who was shocked over the deal.

Doncic had been out of the Mavericks’ lineup since Christmas when he exited the game with a strained left calf. He is now prevented from signing a five-year supermax contract extension that would have been worth $345 million. He’s still eligible for a lucrative extension with the max being $230 million.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"There’s other teams that were loading up," Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison said Sunday. "He was going to be able to make his own decision at some point of whether he wants to be here or not, whether we want to supermax him or not, or whether he wants to opt out. We had to take all that into consideration and I feel like we got out in front of what could have been a tumultuous summer."

Doncic is only 25 and has been one of the top players since Dallas acquired him in a draft day trade with the Atlanta Hawks in 2018.

He’s averaging 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds and 7.8 assists per game. He finished third in NBA MVP voting last year.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

While most were sleeping, the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a stunning blockbuster that led to Luka Dončić and Anthony Davis swapping teams.

The deal is perhaps one of the most star-studded ever, as it's the first time in NBA history two reigning All-NBA players were traded midseason.

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

There are lots of questions that need to be answered, primarily on the Dallas side of things, as it's shocking a team would trade a 25-year-old MVP candidate with global starpower fresh off an NBA Finals appearance.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

However, one report from CBS Sports said LeBron James "had grown frustrated" with Davis, who is averaging over 25 points and a dozen rebounds while playing elite defense.

James' Lakers defeated the Knicks shortly before the trade broke, but James has not spoken to reporters about the move yet (Davis was inactive), but James did see the report on X, and broke his silence matter of factly.

"You a [f---ing] lie," James wrote on X, adding Pinocchio and clown emojis.

KEVIN DURANT SAYS TEAMS AREN'T HELD TO SAME 'LOYALTY' EXPECTATIONS AS PLAYERS ARE AFTER STUNNING NBA TRADE

James is said to have found out about the trade shortly before the news broke on X while he was out to dinner with his family following L.A.'s victory. It's being reported that the Mavs only reached out to the Lakers, and would only acquire Davis if it meant moving Dončić. Other than the organizations facilitating the trade, it's said that no one else knew what was going on behind the scenes.

The Lakers received Dončić, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, while the Mavericks took on Davis, Max Christie and Los Angeles' 2029 first-round pick. To settle it all out, the Utah Jazz acquired Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.

The Slovenian led the NBA with 33.4 points per game last season and won't turn 26 until later this month. In his career, he averages 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists, putting himself in the MVP conversation every year of his young career.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Sunday morning's Luka Dončić-Anthony Davis swap is being widely regarded as the most shocking and star-powered trade in sports history.

It's so big that it was believed that ESPN's Shams Charania, who broke the story, was hacked, and other reporters reached out to him to make sure his X account was secure.

But alas, the Dallas Mavericks decided to trade a 25-year-old MVP candidate just months after he carried them to an NBA Finals appearance in an attempt to improve their defense.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

The Mavs traded up to the third pick in the 2018 NBA Draft to select Dončić, whose $207 million extension from 2021 is set to expire this season. Being due for a super-max deal worth $345 million, it's apparent that it played a role in Dončić being moved five days before the NBA's trade deadline.

Kevin Durant has been traded before – it's slightly different, as he requested to be traded from the Brooklyn Nets to the Phoenix Suns (he also left the Oklahoma City Thunder for the Golden State Warriors, and them jumped ship to Brooklyn). But Durant called out NBA teams for their lack of loyalty to their stars, while it's expected that players be loyal to them - 

"Players are held to a different standard of loyalty and commitment to a program, but the organizations don't get held to that same standard from the outside world, the media members, the fans. We all should be held to that same standard," Durant said upon hearing the news.

2024-25 NBA CHAMPIONSHIP ODDS: THUNDER FAVORED; LAKERS RISE AFTER DONČIĆ TRADE

"It's a transactional game. There's a lot of money involved, a lot of business involved. We shouldn't be too shocked about trades and guys moving to different teams, coaches moving to different teams. It's just the nature of playing basketball and us making this much money, too. It's a pretty wild time, especially around trade deadline."

After this megadeal, Durant says the stove could be hot in the NBA.

"You start seeing stuff like that, as an organization, you might get a little more courage to do some stuff. You see another team trade away somebody like that. This got to be the biggest trade I've seen since I've been in the league or since I've been watching the sport. This is insane. So yeah, every other team might get confidence and say f--- it, I'll trade a few of my top players if this ain't working."

It's the first time in NBA history two reigning All-NBA players were traded for one another midseason. 

The Lakers received Dončić, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, while the Mavericks took on Davis, Max Christie and Los Angeles' 2029 first-round pick. To settle it all out, the Utah Jazz acquired Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.

The Slovenian led the NBA with 33.4 points per game last season and won't turn 26 until later this month. In his career, he averages 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists, putting himself in the MVP conversation every year of his young career.

Davis, a defensive player of the year candidate last year, is putting up 25.7 points and 11.9 rebounds this season, both slightly better than his career averages of 24.2 and 10.7.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

The NBA world was hit with perhaps the craziest trade in a generation in the wee hours of Sunday morning.

According to multiple reports, the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks came to an agreement to swap Luka Dončić and Anthony Davis as part of a three-team blockbuster deal.

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

The Lakers received Dončić, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, while the Mavericks took on Davis, Max Christie and Los Angeles' 2029 first-round pick.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

To settle it all out, the Utah Jazz acquired Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.

ESPN's Shams Charania broke the trade early Sunday morning, and because of the star power involved, the immediate reaction was that the reporter had been hacked. However, it was later confirmed by multiple other outlets.

Charania reported that the Mavs approached Los Angeles recently, saying their 25-year-old global superstar was available via trade; Dallas general manager Nico Harrison told ESPN that he was concerned about the team's defense, which is now massively improved by replacing Dončić with Davis.

2024-25 NBA CHAMPIONSHIP ODDS: THUNDER FAVORED; LAKERS RISE AFTER DONČIĆ TRADE

But Dončić is a phenomenon, and a young one at that. The Slovenian led the NBA with 33.4 points per game last season and won't turn 26 until later this month. In his career, he averages 28.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists, putting himself in the MVP conversation every year of his young career.

It was also reported that LeBron James did not find out about the trade until shortly before the news broke, while he was out to dinner in New York shortly after his Lakers defeated the New York Knicks. Davis was ruled inactive for the game.

Davis, a defensive player of the year candidate last year, is putting up 25.7 points and 11.9 rebounds this season, both slightly better than his career averages of 24.2 and 10.7.

The Mavericks lost in the NBA Finals last year, and Dončić received some criticism for his defense and attitude. Perhaps there is more to the story than what's public right now.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

The Washington Wizards held a moment of silence Thursday for the victims of the deadly crash involving a passenger jet and an Army helicopter near Reagan National Airport.

The Wizards hosted the Los Angeles Lakers at the Capital One Arena, and it was the first sporting event in D.C. since Wednesday night's crash.

The Wizards had a message on their jumbotron before the game began.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"We are deeply saddened by the tragedy near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport last night," the statement said. "We extend our thoughts and prayers to those families, loved ones, and all those impacted.

LIVE UPDATES: MILITARY HELICOPTER COLLIDES WITH AIRCRAFT NEAR REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT

"And we thank all the first responders for their heroic efforts across this massive coordinated effort."

An American Airlines jet carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter, which was carrying three soldiers. All airline passengers and soldiers were presumed dead.

At least 14 members of the figure skating community were on board the plane. Six people with ties to the Skating Club of Boston were among them.

The Washington Commanders and Washington Nationals also paid tribute to those who lost their lives and showed their support for the first responders who sprang into action to find any potential survivors and recover bodies from the Potomac River.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Miami Heat player Terry Rozier is currently under investigation by federal prosecutors over suspicions of an illegal betting scheme, the NBA confirmed Thursday. 

The investigators are working to determine whether Rozier manipulated his performance in two games in March 2023, allegedly in conspiracy with Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter.

It is part of the same probe that led to the lifetime ban of Porter in July. 

Porter’s ban came after a similar investigation into his performance and "prop bets" – wagers where bettors can choose whether a player will reach a certain statistical standard or not during a game. Last April, the NBA banned Porter for life after a league probe found he disclosed confidential information to sports bettors and wagered on games, even betting on his team to lose.

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

The Porter investigation started once the league learned from "licensed sports betting operators and an organization that monitors legal betting markets" about unusual gambling patterns surrounding Porter’s performance in a game on March 20, 2024, against Sacramento. 

The league determined that Porter gave a bettor information about his own health status prior to that game and said another individual – known to be an NBA bettor – placed an $80,000 bet that Porter would not hit the numbers set for him in parlays through an online sports book. That bet would have won $1.1 million.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Authorities believe some of the people who arranged for Porter to fix his performance in two games last season had inside information that prompted them to bet large sums of money against Rozier a year earlier.

The Wall Street Journal first reported the latest investigation, noting that Rozier – who played for the Hornets on the date in question, and now plays for the Miami Heat – has not been charged with a crime, nor has he been accused of wrongdoing.

The NBA said it looked into the matter at the time and did not find that any league rules were broken.

"In March 2023, the NBA was alerted to unusual betting activity related to Terry Rozier’s performance in a game between Charlotte and New Orleans," NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in a statement, first released to The Wall Street Journal and subsequently released to The Associated Press and other outlets. "The league conducted an investigation and did not find a violation of NBA rules. We are now aware of an investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York related to this matter and have been cooperating with that investigation."

The game involving Rozier that is in question was played March 23, 2023, a matchup between the Hornets and the New Orleans Pelicans. Rozier played the first 9 minutes, 36 seconds of that game – and not only did not return that night, citing a foot issue, but did not play again that season. Charlotte had eight games remaining and was not in playoff contention, so it did not seem particularly unusual that Rozier was shut down for the season’s final games.

In that March 23 game, Rozier finished with five points, four rebounds and two assists in that opening period – a productive quarter, but well below his usual total output for a full game.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Miami Heat and Rozier's representatives for comment. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Just over half of the NBA season has passed, and Commissioner Adam Silver's search for ways to improve the league appears in full swing.

This week, Silver floated a drastic rule change for the length of quarters during NBA games.

The NBA plays 12-minute quarters. If the NBA were to adopt a Silver proposal, those periods would be reduced by two minutes. Ten-minute quarters would take eight minutes off the game clock.

SIGN UP FOR TUBI AND STREAM SUPER BOWL LIX FOR FREE

Silver noted that the reduction could create a more "consistent" presentation for basketball fans who watch games on TV.

"I am a fan of four, 10-minute quarters," Silver told "The Dan Patrick Show" when asked about the more drastic ideas the NBA has considered.

"I'm not sure that many others are ... putting aside what it means for records and things like that. I think that a two-hour format for a game is more consistent with modern television habits. People in arenas aren't asking us to shorten the game, but ... as a television program, Olympic basketball is two hours. College basketball is 40 minutes."

At one point, Silver cited the length of games played in other leagues around the world. 

"The NBA is the only (basketball) league that plays 48 minutes. ... It's such a dramatic change to the game. … Something like that would have to be talked more about over time."

NBA TRADE DEADLINE: DE'AARON FOX WANTS OUT; JIMMY BUTLER STILL ON THE BLOCK

During the Summer Olympics, basketball games last 40 minutes. College basketball games in the U.S. are divided into 20-minute halves.

"Because this game is so global, one of the things we'd like to see over time is creating a more consistent set of rules globally around the game," Silver said.

Silver noted that shaving two minutes off quarters could reduce the wear and tear on players over a 82-game season, while potentially helping the league combat its "load management" issue.

"Incidentally, if you went to a 40-minute game — with the issues around load management and resting — it would be the equivalent of … taking like 15 games off the season," Silver said.

Silver made it clear the ideas he mentioned during the exchange with Patrick had merely been discussed, but they are nowhere near being adopted. 

"It's not quite at that level," he said.

Silver also praised Major League Baseball for adding a pitch clock. He argued the change helped "speed up the game," while also keeping traditional aspects of the game in place.

"I'm a baseball fan, and I think some of those changes have really increased sort of the engagement … the entertainment value of the game, and so I'm paying a lot of attention to that," Silver said. 

"And, in fact, I've used the pitch clock … in meetings at the NBA to say … we shouldn't be afraid to look at changes."

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Bronny James is NBA great LeBron James' oldest son, which placed a spotlight on the 20-year-old rookie. 

In October, Bronny was part of history when he checked into the Los Angeles Lakers season opener and played alongside his father. It marked the first active father-son duo in league history. Shortly after his NBA debut, the Lakers announced the youngest James would split his time between the NBA franchise and their G League affiliate — the South Bay Lakers.

Bronny does not travel with the team for road games, but he was on hand for South Bay's game against Rip City Remix — the Portland Trail Blazers G League affiliate — in El Segundo, California on Jan. 24. James had a game to remember on Friday, finishing South Bay's 122-110 win with a career-best 31 points. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

His strong performance on the offensive end of the basketball court was highlighted by a monster slam dunk. James also made five of his eleven 3-point attempts. 

LEBRON JAMES PICKED FOR 21ST STRAIGHT ALL-STAR GAME, EXTENDING NBA RECORD

A screen from center Christian Koloko allowed James to pick up his dribble and throw down the highlight-reel worthy dunk over Rip City’s Sterling Manely. The dunk also tied the game and sparked a 9-4 South Bay run.

James spoke about his confidence after the game.

"I’m just trying to get my confidence back," James told a reporter during his on-court interview. "I’m just trying to play my game. Learn from every game. While I’m not playing in the G League, learn from the Lakers, learning from my vets and just keep trying to be myself. That’s been working recently. I’m happy with my results."

"I am having fun," James responded when asked about the spotlight that's been placed on him.  "Any time I'm playing basketball, any time I'm out here breathing, any time I'm out here walking ... I'm grateful for everything."

The win improved South Bay's record to 2-7.

Bronny’s four-time NBA champion took notice of his son’s heroics. "GRATEFUL OF YOU KID!!" the elder James wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, after the game.

James likely will not get the call to rejoin the NBA team until next month. The Lakers are in the midst of a road trip and return to Southern California for a cross-town game against the Los Angeles Clippers on Feb. 4.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Nikola Jokić is well on his way to winning his fourth MVP in five seasons, and performances like Thursday night's are why that's the case.

The Serbian superstar put up perhaps his most impressive game ever, and one of the best in NBA history, en route to his Denver Nuggets' 132-123 win over the Sacramento Kings.

Jokić dropped 35 points, grabbed 22 rebounds and handed out 17 assists in the contest, good for his league-leading 20th triple-double of the season; the next-closest is LeBron James with nine, so he is quite literally lapping the field.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

With the performance, Jokić became just the second person in NBA history to drop 35-plus points, grab 20 or more rebounds, and dish out at least 15 assists in a game. The other? Wilt Chamberlain, who did so back on February 14, 1962, when he put up 35-24-15.

But in putting up the dominant numbers came something that you have to see to believe.

With the seconds winding down in the third quarter, and the Nuggets up big, Jokić decided to heave a shot at the opposite end of the court. Well, when you're hot, you're hot.

It's now five consecutive triple-doubles for Jokić, who is averaging a career-high 30.2 points, 13.4 rebounds (his second-most), and 10.1 assists, also the most of his career. But the shot is what seemed to take the arena by storm - except Jokić, of course.

"I thought it had a chance, and then boom," said teammate Russell Westbrook, who ironically is the last player to average a triple-double in a season. "The best part of it was no reaction from him. Which I love."

Added head coach Michael Malone, "Not surprising. He’s a guy that has this uncanny ability."

"When you play you want to make every shot," Jokić said. "I took it to make it and I did make it. It’s a lucky shot, not really a high-percentage shot, but I took it to make it. It’s three points. It’s going to help us."

Only Oscar Robertson and Westbrook have averaged a 30-point triple-double in NBA history, but Jokić could very well join their company.

"I think this is the best basketball I’ve ever played," Jokić said. "I’m feeling good out there, I’m in shape, the ball is going in. I think I’m playing really good."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Twelve Los Angeles and Anaheim sports teams announced Monday they would contribute more than $8 million to support victims of the wildfires that have plagued the area since last week.

The Anaheim Ducks, Angel City FC, LAFC, LA Galaxy, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Kings, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Sparks made the announcement in a joint statement.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

The money will go to support victims and those fighting the fires. The American Red Cross, Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, California Fire Foundation, Eaton Canyon Fire Relief and Recovery Fund, World Central Kitchen, California Community Foundation Wildlife Recovery Fund, Team Rubicon and several other local animal rescue organizations were named as the beneficiaries of the donations.

Los Angeles residents who were forced to evacuate their homes due to the fires will also be the recipients of about $3 million worth of Fanatics merchandise as well. The teams, in partnership with their own foundations, teamed up with Fanatics and the Fanatics Foundation to provide the gear. Evacuated victims can participate in the distribution events on Jan. 17 at Dodger Stadium, SoFi Stadium and BMO Stadium.

The wildfires have left dozens dead and thousands of structures burned. Several games have either been canceled or moved because of the wildfires as well.

CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES: ESSENTIAL PHONE NUMBERS FOR LOS ANGELES-AREA RESIDENTS AND HOW YOU CAN HELP THEM

The Rams were set to host the Minnesota Vikings in their playoff game on Monday night, but the matchup was moved to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

The Lakers already saw a game postponed last week due to the fires. The team said Monday night’s game against the San Antonio Spurs will be dedicated to the Los Angeles community.

"We are committed as ever to Los Angeles," Lakers head coach J.J. Redick said in a news release. "We recognize it’s not just our community that has been impacted by this. We’re committed to helping people as much as we can and we’re going to do that." 

Officials warned earlier Monday the threat to the area is not over.

"We are not in the clear. I want to make sure of that. We are not in the clear as of yet, and we must not let our guard down," Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley said. 

"As the increasing wind event is upon us as we speak, the Los Angeles City Fire Department has maximized our resource capabilities and response capabilities," Crowley added. "All available LAFD resources have been staffed. I have strategically pre-positioned engine strike teams and task forces, which are dedicated to rapid response for any new fire that breaks out in the city."

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

The NBA announced that home games for both the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers would resume on Monday, after both teams had games originally scheduled for Saturday postponed due to the wildfires sweeping through Southern California.

The Lakers will host the San Antonio Spurs on Monday at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles while the Clippers will host the Miami Heat at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, south of the Palisades fire.

The Clippers said at practice Sunday that the league had given the green light for Monday's game. The Spurs said they were told that Monday's matchup with the Lakers would be played as scheduled.

Saturday's games in Southern California, in which the Lakers were initially scheduled to host the Spurs in the first of two consecutive games between the two teams and the Clippers' home game against the Charlotte Hornets, were postponed in response to the fires. The Lakers also had a game previously scheduled for Thursday against the Hornets pushed back.

NBA POSTPONES SATURDAY'S LAKERS-SPURS, CLIPPERS-HORNETS GAMES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DUE TO WILDFIRES

"I pray this nightmare ends soon!" Lakers star forward LeBron James wrote Saturday on the social media platform X.

The Spurs had to change hotels due to fire concerns after arriving in Los Angeles, while the Heat arrived on Saturday night as scheduled.

The Lakers and Clippers also are both scheduled to host games on Wednesday, when the Lakers play host to the Heat and the Clippers play the Brooklyn Nets.

"When people are losing their homes, kids are losing schools, losing lives, it’s very difficult to approach the game of basketball because life is bigger than basketball," Clippers coach Tyronn Lue told reporters. "Hopefully we can bring some kind of joy with the game coming back tomorrow and some togetherness and try to put some smiles on people’s faces in tough times."

LEBRON JAMES SENDING 'SO MANY PRAYERS' AS LOS ANGELES WILDFIRES CONTINUE

Clippers' guard Terance Mann plans to search through a storage unit he keeps for useful items he intends to donate.

"I just want to give a lot of clothes, some money, shoes, whatever I can," he said. "I’m going to go help people out and donate and drive around and do what I can do to help."

Some members of the Clippers organization were forced to evacuate their homes during the fires. The team was on the road when the fires began, and star forward Kawhi Leonard left the team in Denver to help his family in Pacific Palisades evacuate.

Lakers coach JJ Redick said his family's rental home in Pacific Palisades burned on Tuesday night, destroying most of their belongings.

"I was not prepared for what I saw," Redick said Friday. "It’s complete devastation and destruction. I had to go a different way to the house, but I went through most of the village, and it’s all gone. I don’t think you can ever prepare yourself for something like that. Our home is gone."

The Lakers announced a donation drive for their upcoming games, starting Monday. The team has urged fans to bring new, in-the-package items to support the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank’s relief efforts.

The team's UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo will be used as a drive-thru donation center starting Tuesday, with essential non-food items listed as priorities, but packaged food items are also welcomed.

The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association, which is the players' union, announced on Friday a $1 million donation for immediate relief to the American Red Cross, World Central Kitchen and other organizations working to provide assistance to the victims and recovery efforts.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

The NBA announced that Saturday's home games for both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers have been postponed amid the wildfires sweeping through Southern California.

The Lakers were scheduled to host the San Antonio Spurs while the Clippers were set to host the Charlotte Hornets.

The league has not yet announced makeup dates for the two games, and the league did not disclose if more games will be affected by the fires, as both teams have home games scheduled for Monday and Wednesday and the Lakers have another home game on Friday. The two teams are also supposed to play each other in Inglewood, California, on Jan. 19, when the Clippers will host.

CLIPPERS' KAWHI LEONARD LEAVES TEAM TO HELP FAMILY DEAL WITH RAGING WILDFIRES: REPORT

"The NBA and the Clippers and Lakers organizations have been in communication with local officials in Los Angeles and Inglewood about the ongoing situation in the Los Angeles area and the game postponements ensure no resources will be diverted from the wildfire response efforts," the league said in a statement.

Some members of both teams are directly dealing with the impacts of the wildfires, including Lakers coach JJ Redick, whose family's rental home in Pacific Palisades burned on Tuesday night, destroying many of their belongings.

"I was not prepared for what I saw," Redick told reporters. "It’s complete devastation and destruction. I had to go a different way to the house, but I went through most of the village, and it’s all gone. I don’t think you can ever prepare yourself for something like that. Our home is gone."

'I WAS NOT PREPARED FOR WHAT I SAW': LAKERS COACH JJ REDDICK DETAILS DEVASTATION FROM PALISADES FIRE

The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association, which is the players' union, announced on Friday a $1 million donation for immediate relief to the American Red Cross, World Central Kitchen and other organizations working to provide assistance to the victims and recovery efforts.

The donation was meant "to support those affected by this disaster," the league said, adding that it is "working with the Lakers and Clippers on ways to support longer term assistance and rebuilding efforts."

The Lakers also had a game previously scheduled for Thursday against the Hornets postponed as well, but it has not yet been rescheduled.

The Lakers are scheduled to host the Spurs again on Monday, when the Clippers are set to host the Miami Heat. On Wednesday, the Lakers are scheduled to host the Heat and the Clippers are scheduled to host the Brooklyn Nets. The Lakers are also slated to host the Nets on Friday.

The Clippers said they anticipate that the games starting Monday will be played as scheduled.

"The health and safety of our community and our fans remains our highest priority," the team said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick is one of the thousands in Los Angeles whose home did not survive the wildfires that have ravaged the area this week.

Redick was in Dallas for a game when he learned of the fires and that his family had evacuated.

Speaking with the media Friday, a day after a Lakers game at Crypto.com Arena was postponed, he opened up about his experience returning to Palisades and what he saw.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"I'm good. My wife got out really early. She was actually on the other side and came outside, saw the fire, was with some people, and were headed to the airport. … Got the kids from school. They're safe. All that mattered," he said.

ESSENTIAL PHONE NUMBERS FOR LOS ANGELES-AREA RESIDENTS AND HOW YOU CAN HELP

"Went to the hotel, woke up at 7, headed up to Palisades. I had to see it for myself. I was not prepared for what I saw. It's complete devastation and destruction. I had to go a different way to the house but went through most of the village, and it's all gone. I don't think you can ever prepare yourself for something like that."

WARRIORS' STEVE KERR SAYS CHILDHOOD HOME BURNED DOWN IN CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES: 'IT'S SURREAL AND DEVASTATING'

Redick's home was destroyed Thursday.

"We were renting for the year to try to figure out where to be long-term, and everything we own that was of importance to us — almost 20 years of being together and 10 years of parenting — was in that house," an emotional Redick said. "There's certain things you can't replace. They'll never be replaced.

"The material stuff is whatever. My family and I, we're processing the self side, the individual side of losing your home. You don't ever want to wish that on anybody. It's an awful feeling to lose your home. … Not sure I've wept or wailed like that in several years.

Monday night's Vikings-Rams NFL playoff game was moved from Inglewood to Arizona because of the fires that have claimed at least 10 lives, destroyed over 10,000 buildings and burned roughly 30,000 acres. 

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard will reportedly take a step back from the team to be with his family as it deals with the wildfires raging in the area.

Several wildfires have burned across Southern California since Tuesday afternoon. 

Officials in Los Angeles said the Pacific Palisades fire has become the most destructive in the city’s history.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"He is going to tend to family in the LA area who were forced to evacuate due to the wildfires that are going on over there," NBA insider Chris Haynes said in a video posted to X Wednesday.

Leonard just made his season debut Saturday night, when the Clippers defeated the Atlanta Hawks. He had been out nine months due to what the team described as right knee injury recovery. He hadn’t played since April 26, a playoff game against the Dallas Mavericks.

Leonard is from Los Angeles and went to King High School in Riverside.

OLIVIA CULPO, WIFE OF 49ERS STAR, THANKS ‘HEROES’ BATTLING DEVASTATING CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES

Multiple people have died and more than 1,000 buildings have been destroyed. Thousands more have fled their homes to seek shelter as the fires have gotten out of control, fueled by winds that have topped 60-70 mph.

"This morning, we woke up to a dark cloud over all of Los Angeles. But it is darkest for those who are most intimately impacted by these fires. It has been an immensely painful 24 hours," LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath said earlier Wednesday.

An NHL game between the Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames has been postponed. The NFL is keeping an eye on the conditions ahead of Monday’s playoff game between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Rumors had swirled for weeks that star forward Jimmy Butler wanted out of Miami — it even got to the point where the Heat released a statement saying it had become a distraction, and that they wouldn't trade him.

Well, in the span of a week, the team has since done an about-face, admitting in another statement on Friday that Butler has asked to be moved, and they will look to fulfill that request.

In that same statement on Friday, the Heat announced they have suspended Butler for seven games "for multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team over the course of the season and particularly the last several weeks."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Butler on Thursday said that he has no "joy" playing basketball in Miami and he would not be able to find it again with the Heat.

"Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team. Jimmy Butler and his representative have indicated that they wish to be traded, therefore, we will listen to offers," the Heat said on Friday.

Butler's agent had shut down reports by ESPN that he wanted to be traded, but it seems like it's always been the opposite.

JIMMY BUTLER NEXT TEAM ODDS: WILL STAR GUARD REMAIN IN MIAMI PAST TRADE DEADLINE?

Butler will not be with the team for its home game Saturday against the Utah Jazz and then the totality of a six-game road trip that will include games against the Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors, Utah Jazz, Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers.

In theory, the earliest that Butler could play again for the Heat is Jan. 17 at home against the Denver Nuggets — but he has likely played for Miami for the final time.

Butler is averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game in his sixth season with the Heat. He has played in two NBA Finals with them, losing both.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

As the New Orleans community continues to grieve those lost in the terrorist attack in the early hours of New Year’s Day, the Saints and Pelicans announced one of those killed was an employee of theirs. 

"We remain heartbroken by the tragic events that claimed innocent lives in our city yesterday morning," the Saints’ statement began. "Among those lost was Matthew Tenedorio, a valued member of the ASM New Orleans video production team. Matthew was young, talented, and had a bright future, helping deliver quality content for both the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans.

"Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with the Tenedorio family and everyone affected by this senseless act of terrorism. Together, as a city, state, and region, we will come back stronger from this tragedy." 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

More than a dozen people were killed, and many more were injured, when Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove a truck through a crowd on New Orleans’ historic Bourbon Street. Officials determined it was a terror attack. 

The attack prompted the postponement of the Sugar Bowl, a College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup between Georgia and Notre Dame at the Caesars Superdome. 

The game was originally scheduled for Wednesday night but was moved to Thursday afternoon. 

NOTRE DAME'S MARCUS FREEMAN TALKS TEAM MEETING AFTER SUGAR BOWL POSTPONED FOLLOWING TERROR ATTACK

Authorities opened Bourbon Street hours before the game Thursday, which Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry is expected to attend. 

"Security is going to be tight," Landry said during an appearance on "Fox & Friends." "We have all confidence that we’re gonna put this game on. The Superdome is completely secure. Again, the FBI continues to pour resources into the state."

Many reacted to the senseless act of violence, including Notre Dame head football coach Marcus Freeman, who spoke to his team about what happened. 

"The first part of that meeting was to mourn and pray for our country," he said during an appearance on ESPN.

"In the toughest moments, the culture of any program, of a nation, are revealed. I have a lot of faith we're going to rally around the city of New Orleans and support all the victims and families that were affected today."

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey also posted on social media platform X. 

"We remain stunned and saddened by the New Year’s Day tragedy in New Orleans," Sankey wrote.

"We are also grateful for the work of so many to adjust and adapt to make a football game possible today for @GeorgiaFootball and @NDFootball."

The winner of the Sugar Bowl will move on to face No. 6 Penn State, which defeated No. 3 Boise State New Year’s Eve. 

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

The Sacramento Kings’ dismissal of Mike Brown on Friday left a bad taste in some NBA coaches’ mouths, and they expressed it as much over the last few days.

The Kings replaced Brown with Doug Christie. Sacramento dropped to 13-18 on Thursday, which led to the decision to fire Brown. However, it was the way the head coach was fired that didn’t appear to sit well with others.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Sacramento’s front office informed Brown of the decision on the phone as he was driving to the team plane, ESPN reported.

Denver Nuggets’ Michael Malone, Golden State Warriors’ Steve Kerr and Detroit Pistons’ J.B. Bickerstaff were among those to speak out.

Malone had some choice words.

"I'm not surprised that Mike Brown got fired, because I got fired by the same person," Malone said after the Nuggets’ loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, via ESPN. "And what really p----d me off about it was the fact that they lost [Thursday] night, fifth game in a row, I believe. Tough loss. . . . They had practiced this morning. He does his postgame media, and he's in his car going to the airport to fly to L.A. and they call him on the phone.

"No class, no balls. That's what I'll say about that."

NBA PLAYERS SUSPENDED MULTIPLE GAMES AFTER UGLY ON-COURT FIGHT

Kerr told reporters he was "disappointed" over the firing.

"Mike is a great friend, great coach. I talked to him, and we all kind of know this is the nature of the business," Kerr said, via NBC Sports Bay Area. "But it just seems so shocking when a guy is a unanimous Coach of the Year, a year and a half ago."

Bickerstaff echoed Malone’s words, calling the firing "classless."

"He deserves better than that, you can make whatever decision you want to make, we understand that," he added, via The Athletic. "But the way you treat human beings matters, and it's extremely disappointing to see a coach, a guy that you care about, a guy that you know how good and talented he is, be treated that way, you know, and it's disappointing that people wouldn't have the thought to treat people as human beings and show them the respect that they deserve, knowing the sacrifices that coaches make from their families, their personal health, everything, you know, that Mike has done for that team and that organization. 

"You know, I just thought it was s----y, to be honest with you, the way it was handled."

Brown was in the middle of his third season with the Kings. He led them to the playoffs in his first year in 2022-23. He was 107-89 as the head coach.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Three NBA players have been suspended after a fight broke out on Friday night between the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks.

Mavs forward Naji Marshall was hit with a four-game fan, while Jusuf Nurkic of Phoenix will miss the next three games for coming to blows on the court.

PJ Washington of Dallas will also serve a one-game suspension for escalating the situation.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Nurkic was called for an offensive foul while being guarded by Daniel Gafford with 9:02 left in the third quarter before the altercation quickly escalated. 

Nurkic confronted Marshall before taking an open-handed swing at his head; Marshall responded with a punch, and Washington quickly shoved Nurkic to the ground before the teams were separated.

The referees reviewed the play before deciding that all three players would be ejected.

"Just protecting each other — that’s what that was," Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said. "Emotions can get high, so our guys protect one another. We talk about it, and it was displayed tonight."

LEBRON JAMES TROLLED FOR SAYING CHRISTMAS BELONGS TO NBA AFTER NFL VIEWERSHIP IS REVEALED

"I think that level of altercation is not good for our team, it's not good for anybody individually, it's not good for our league," Suns coach Mike Budenholzer said. "I don't know all the details of what got it to that point."

Kyrie Irving joked that the fight could "help our ratings." The NBA has seen a decrease in viewership in the first couple months of the season.

The ejections didn't help Dallas, as they were already without star Luka Dončić, who suffered a calf strain on Christmas Day and will miss a month of action. However, they were still able to come away with a 98-89 victory on the road.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

After the homes of Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Joe Burrow were burglarized in recent weeks, the ring has hit the NBA.

Luka Dončić's home was broken into Friday night, his business manager, Lara Beth Seager, told ESPN.

Nobody was home at the time of the burglary, and everyone is safe, Seager said.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

The crime occurred two days after Dončić' sustained a calf strain, which will cause him to miss roughly a month.

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported last month that the FBI is investigating the crime spree, "which is believed to be tied to a South American crime syndicate." 

The NFL cautioned players to be on high alert after homes were targeted last month that were believed to be tied to international organized crime. 

The targeted NFL stars all had their homes burglarized while they were playing road games. Dončić's Dallas Mavericks were in Phoenix Friday playing against the Suns.

LEBRON JAMES TROLLED FOR SAYING CHRISTMAS BELONGS TO NBA AFTER NFL VIEWERSHIP IS REVEALED

In the memo, the league also urged players to take precautions, including installing home security systems. They were also encouraged not to post images of expensive items or live updates of their whereabouts on social media. 

"I feel like my privacy has been violated in more ways than one. And way more is already out there than I would want out there and that I care to share. So, that's all I got to say about that," Burrow said earlier this month.

"We live a public life, and one of my least favorite parts of that is the lack of privacy. And that has been difficult for me to deal with my entire career. Still learning. But I understand it's the life that we choose. Doesn't make it any easier to deal with."

Fox News' Scott Thompson contributed to this report.

Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler will be sidelined for at least the last two games of his team's road trip as he continues to recover from an illness. 

The Heat's announcement means the six-time All-Star will not be available when Miami plays the Atlanta Hawks and Houston Rockets this weekend.

Butler could return to action New Year's Day when the Heat host the New Orleans Pelicans. Although the franchise will likely closely monitor Butler's recovery over the next few days before clearing his return to the court.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Butler hasn't played since the first quarter of Miami’s Dec. 20 game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, when he twisted an ankle, left the game and then was ruled out due to illness. 

HEAT PRESIDENT PAT RILEY SHUTS DOWN JIMMY BUTLER TRADE RUMORS, ADDRESSING 'DISTRACTION' HEAD ON

Miami has played three games since without Butler, two because of sickness and then Thursday’s win in Orlando with him back in Miami preparing for a return.

He is not with the team on the road trip.

The Heat said Thursday they are not going to trade Butler. ESPN reported that the 2021 NBA steals leader prefers to be moved before the Feb. 6 trade deadline.

"We usually don’t comment on rumors, but all this speculation has become a distraction to the team and is not fair to the players and coaches," Heat President Pat Riley said in a statement. "Therefore, we will make it clear — we are not trading Jimmy Butler."

Butler has not publicly expressed any desire to be traded. He is averaging 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists this season.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

The NFL used to do almost everything possible to avoid Christmas.

Now, the league is even scheduling games on Wednesdays to get in on the holiday action.

Christmas used to be known as the unofficial start of the NBA season — the season actually starts two months earlier — with classic matchups.

Wednesday featured the typical five NBA games throughout the day, while two NFL games kicked off.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

After a Lakers-Warriors thriller Christmas night, LeBron James made a bold claim with NBA ratings declining and the NFL as popular as ever.

"I love the NFL, but Christmas is our day," he said.

The numbers say otherwise.

It should be noted the NBA had a great day by its standards, averaging 5.2 million viewers on Wednesday, its most on the holiday in five years. 

James' game against Stephen Curry and the Warriors averaged 7.7 million viewers, peaking at 8.3 million. The 10:30 p.m. ET game between the Suns and Nuggets was also the largest late window ever with 3.8 million people watching.

But the NFL still dominated, averaging 24.2 million viewers with the Chiefs-Steelers and Texans-Ravens games despite both games being blowouts on Netflix.

James was predictably trolled on social media.

NFL games will have been played on five separate days in Week 17 when it's said and done. Thursday, Sunday, and Monday are common game days, and Saturday games are played later in the season.

Christmas falls on a Thursday next year, so maybe the NFL will load up similarly to its Thanksgiving tripleheader.

The NFL's Christmas viewership didn't match Thanksgiving numbers, while the NBA had improved ratings after a decline early on in the season.

But it's clear the NFL is king, no matter the day.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Don’t mess with Carmela Soprano.

Edie Falco, the actress who played the wife of Tony Soprano on the acclaimed HBO series "The Sopranos," revealed in an interview with New York Knicks stars Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart that she was really upset with Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid during the playoffs.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Falco said she was about to go after Embiid after the big man elbowed Brunson in the first round of the playoffs last season.

"Joel Embiid, he’s mean," Falco said in the latest episode of  the "Roommates Show." "He like elbowed you in a game last year and I was going to go after him. I mean that’s how bad it was. And then I think I’ve seen you guys play since then and you guys are all like cool with each other. I’m like, ‘You don’t hold a grudge?’"

KNICKS' MIKAL BRIDGES OUTDUELS SPURS' VICTOR WEMBANYAMA; KNICKS HOLD ON FOR NARROW VICTORY

Brunson said he’s known Embiid since they came into the league and made clear that it wasn’t cool of him to throw the elbow, but whatever ill will there was between them at the time of the heated moment was gone.

The Knicks got the last laugh anyway, as they defeated the 76ers in the first round and eventually lost to the Indiana Pacers in the playoffs.

Falco is long removed from her "Sopranos" days. She’s set for a "Nurse Jackie" sequel on Amazon Prime Video.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James had a message for the NFL following the team’s close win over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday night.

James scored 31 points and dished out 10 assists as Austin Reaves’ go-ahead bucket gave the Lakers a 115-113 win. But with the NFL creeping up on what was the NBA’s most exciting day of the regular season, James sent a warning shot to the league.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"I love the NFL. I love the NFL. But Christmas is our day," he declared.

Last year, the NFL scheduled three games on Christmas Day as it fell on a Monday. This year, two games were scheduled on Christmas. In 2022, regular season games fell on Christmas Day.

NFL officials said last year the league wouldn’t schedule any games on Christmas if it fell outside of a normally scheduled day.

KNICKS' MIKAL BRIDGES OUTDUELS SPURS' VICTOR WEMBANYAMA; KNICKS HOLD ON FOR NARROW VICTORY

"We’ve seen the opportunity with Thanksgiving and some of the audience that we’ve continued to build there," NFL executive vice president of media distribution Hans Schroeder told The Wall Street Journal at the time. "We think there’s an opportunity when the calendar allows it on Christmas now, too, when we know our fans are going to be together."

It was only four months later when the league did an about-face.

"The fans clearly spoke," Schroeder told The Wall Street Journal in March. "There’s a big demand."

The report noted that the NFL would usually give the day away to the NBA and other programming and even moved the old NFL championship off of Christmas if it fell on that day.

This year, the NFL’s games were seen on Netflix. When the ratings come out, everyone will get to see whether James is right.

The NFL dispatched the first round of the College Football Playoff last week in their rare head-to-head matchup.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.