Reigning champions Miami Heat enjoyed a pre-season victory over San Antonio Spurs while Oklahoma City Thunder also won, but the New York Knicks were beaten.
The Heat, without MVP LeBron James, defeated the Spurs 104-101 at home, with Dwyane Wade contributing 13 points and five assists in their third win of pre-season.
Last season’s beaten finalists OKC were too good for Denver Nuggets 108-101 with Kevin Durant scoring 16 points, as well as contributing five assists and six rebounds.
In California, LA Lakers were beaten 99-92 by Sacramento Kings to inflict the glamour club’s sixth consecutive pre-season defeat, despite Kobe Bryant’s 21 points.
New York Knicks’ poor pre-season continued with a 98-90 to the in-form Philadelphia 76ers, despite Carmelo Anthony’s 23 points, seven rebounds and six assists.
Former champions Dallas Mavericks won 87-74 over New Orleans Hornets who had number one draft pick Anthony Davis pull down 17 boards.