NEW YORK — Cory Joseph scored a career-high 33 points in place of a resting Kyle Lowry, leading the Toronto Raptors to a 119-109 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday.
The Raptors announced shortly before the opening tip Lowry was resting some bumps and bruises to ensure he can play in his native Philadelphia on Wednesday. Lowry was active and in warmup gear as he watched Joseph turn in the best game of his five-year career.
Joseph’s previous career high was 20 points for the San Antonio Spurs on Dec. 28, 2014 at New Orleans. He shot 15 of 22 from the floor Tuesday, setting career highs for field goals and attempts.
Heat 109, Rockets 103
MIAMI — James Harden produced his 13th triple-double of the season, but it wasn’t enough as Miami upset Houston at AmericanAirlines Arena.
Harden, who had six turnovers, had 40 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. He made 12-of-30 shots from the floor, including 4-of-15 from 3-point range. He also made 12 of 13 free throws.
Heat point guard Goran Dragic had 21 points, eight rebounds and eight assists as Miami made a 20-3 run in the fourth quarter to put the game away.