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Poofie.
Just like that, the NBA returned last night, going full throttle with nine games and countless highlights. We were quickly reminded that All-Star Weekend was a transient, if not somewhat artificial, lovey-dovey period between players on opposing teams, and with the Playoffs starting exactly two months from yesterday, guys are officially in next-level mode, with increased competitiveness, defensive focus and desire to win. We had New Jersey shock Dallas behind Brook Lopez’s 38, DeMarcus Cousins with a solid 22 points and 18 rebounds, Ersan Ilyasova with the game-winner, Philly snapping its five-game skid with a complete trashing of Detroit and much, much more. Tonight, we’re treated to 12 games, including Thunder-Sixers, Cavs-Knicks, Lakers-TWolves and Bulls-Spurs. All-Star was fun, but there’s nothing like the last stretch of the NBA season. Except for the Playoffs, that is. So, enjoy tonight’s games, but before you move forward, take a step back and relive the best of the best from Tuesday.—Eldon Khorshidi
