Basketball

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Paul George's debut with the Philadelphia 76ers is on hold and Joel Embiid is again set to miss time with an injury.

Canada is the second-most represented country in the NBA for the 11th consecutive season. Twenty-two Canadians were set to lace it up on opening-day rosters, second only to the United States, as the 2024-25 NBA season tipped off Tuesday.

TORONTO — The Toronto Raptors kick off the 2024-25 season on Wednesday night when they host the Cleveland Cavaliers at Scotiabank Arena.

The Boston Celtics begin this season as the NBA champions. And sometime this season, the Celtics might take over the top spot on another league list.

MIAMI (AP) — It’s rare that Pat Riley doesn’t get to make the final call when it comes to Miami Heat matters. After all, he is the president. The person in charge. Just about every big decision needs his approval. Except this one.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — GG Jackson II never played alongside Ja Morant during his first NBA season and only watched the two-time All-Star take the court in nine games for the Memphis Grizzlies .

Charlotte Hornets vs. Houston Rockets Houston; Wednesday, 8 p.m. EDT BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Rockets -7; over/under is 230.5 BOTTOM LINE: The Houston Rockets start the season at home against the Charlotte Hornets.

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Utah Jazz Salt Lake City; Wednesday, 9 p.m. EDT BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Grizzlies -3; over/under is 227.5 BOTTOM LINE: The Utah Jazz host the Memphis Grizzlies for the season opener.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Toronto Raptors Toronto; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. EDT BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Cavaliers -5.5; over/under is 222.5 BOTTOM LINE: The Toronto Raptors host the Cleveland Cavaliers for the season opener.

Orlando Magic vs. Miami Heat Miami; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. EDT BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Heat -2; over/under is 208.5 BOTTOM LINE: The Miami Heat host the Orlando Magic for the season opener.