The Denver Nuggets suffered a narrow 101-97 defeat against the Toronto Raptors, dropping to 0-3 in the NBA Summer League. Hunter Tyson sat out, and the late-game brilliance of Spencer Jones and Curtis Jones nearly salvaged a comeback. However, a critical foul with just seconds left allowed the Raptors to secure the win with free throws. This loss highlighted a glaring issue for Denver: their lack of ball handling. The Nuggets turned the ball over 24 times, with point guard Reece Beekman contributing seven turnovers. Tamar Bates showed some scoring ability but struggled with playmaking. The team's struggles were compounded by Boo Buie's injury and Tyrell Harrison’s uncharacteristic performance.

Harrison, a 7-footer from Australia, had a tough night, committing six turnovers in the first half. Despite this, he managed to display positive attributes in terms of plus-minus when paired with teammate DaRon Holmes II. Holmes was effective with 10 points and 11 rebounds, hinting at a better fit for Denver's lineup. The Nuggets also faced challenges with EJ Liddell getting ejected late in the game after a physical altercation, which further emphasized their struggles against aggressive defenses.

Lu Dort's impressive defensive skills have earned him a commendable fourth-place finish in the Defensive Player of the Year voting, though he fell short of being a finalist. Despite strong efforts from the Oklahoma City Thunder to elevate his candidacy, Dort finished behind Evan Mobley, Dyson Daniels, and Draymond Green, who took the top three spots. With 109 voting points, Dort's performance over the years solidifies his status as one of the league's elite perimeter defenders. As he looks forward, Dort is optimistic about making the All-Defensive Team, marking a significant recognition of his contributions on defense.

Recognizing Evan Mobley as a worthy champion, Dort expressed gratitude for progressing from obscurity to fourth place after years of being overlooked. Following the Thunder's historic postseason performance, Dort's acknowledgment of the tight race for the award speaks volumes about the competitive nature of the league this season. He remains hopeful for future accolades, potentially culminating in a Defensive Player of the Year award in the seasons to come.

The Chicago Bulls are set to face the Charlotte Hornets for the second time this season, with the Bulls having previously secured a victory with a score of 109-95. However, both teams are grappling with significant injury concerns that could impact their lineups for the upcoming game.

The Bulls have a lengthy injury report featuring seven players. Zach LaVine is listed as probable due to left toe soreness, while Josh Giddey is also probable with a right ankle sprain. Ayo Dosunmu is doubtful due to a strain in his right soleus muscle. Additionally, E.J. Liddell, Emanuel Miller, and Adama Sanogo are all out because of their two-way contracts. Jalen Smith is questionable for the game, nursing a left ankle sprain.

On the other side, the Hornets are dealing with their own injury woes, listing seven players on their report as well. LaMelo Ball is doubtful due to soreness in his left ankle and right wrist. Tre Mann is out with disc irritation, while Cody Martin is doubtful with left knee soreness. Brandon Miller is also doubtful with a left ankle sprain. KJ Simpson is out due to his two-way contract, and Nick Smith Jr. is currently on a G League assignment. Grant Williams is out as well due to a right ACL tear. The matchup is scheduled for tonight at 7:00 p.m. EST.

The Chicago Bulls and Milwaukee Bucks are set to clash for the last time in the regular season, with the Bucks holding a 2-1 edge in their series. As the game approaches, both teams face significant injury challenges that could impact their performances.

The Bulls have a lengthy injury report featuring eight players. Notably, Lonzo Ball is questionable due to an illness, while Josh Giddey is also questionable with a right ankle sprain. Matas Buzelis is dealing with an illness, and Ayo Dosunmu is doubtful because of a right soleus strain. E.J. Liddell and Adama Sanogo are both sidelined due to their two-way contracts. Jalen Smith is probable, recovering from left ankle soreness, and DJ Steward is out as he is not with the team.

On the other side, the Bucks are contending with their own injury woes, listing seven players. Superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is questionable due to a non-covid illness, while Damian Lillard is similarly questionable for the same reason. Khris Middleton appears to be on the mend, listed as probable with a bilateral ankle injury. Andre Jackson Jr. is also probable with a right ankle sprain. However, AJ Johnson, Chris Livingston, and Tyler Smith are all out due to various reasons, including G League assignments.

With both teams grappling with injuries, the matchup promises to be intriguing as they prepare to meet at 8:00 p.m. EST tonight, with playoff implications looming large.

The Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics are set to clash in Chicago after a brief break, with the Bulls looking to take the lead in their season series following a recent victory.

Injuries may play a significant role, as both teams have multiple players listed on their injury reports, impacting their lineups ahead of the 8:00 p.m. EST matchup.