![James Harden scored 45 points for the Rockets on Thursday to help beat the Celtics. [Image via ESPN/YouTube screencap]](https://staticr1.blastingcdn.com/media/photogallery/2018/12/28/660x290/b_502x220x82/james-harden-scored-45-points-for-the-rockets-on-thursday-to-help-beat-the-celtics-image-via-espnyoutube-screencap_2172081.jpg "James Harden scored 45 points for the Rockets on Thursday to help beat the Celtics. [Image via ESPN/YouTube screencap]")
James Harden - Houston Rockets
He's the reigning NBA MVP and seems to be back in form lately. James Harden scored 45 points on Thursday in Houston. It was his sixth straight game with 35 or more points scored. This time around it gave his team a nice win over the Boston Celtics.
James Harden puts up 45 (sixth straight game with 35+) to lead the @HoustonRockets! #Rockets pic.twitter.com/gN3CCi6xvq
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2018
Giannis Antetokounmpo - Milwaukee Bucks
The Greek Freak continues to dominate his competition. On Thursday it was the New York Knicks. Giannis scored 31 points and collected 14 rebounds for a double-double. He also gave out eight assists to help defeat the Knicks.
Giannis Antetokounmpo fuels the @Bucks to victory with 31 PTS, 14 REBS, & 8 ASTS! #FearTheDeer pic.twitter.com/9iFcCDoObS
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2018
Joel Embiid - Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers had big performances on Thursday from JJ Reddick, Ben Simmons, and Joel Embiid. The Sixers' big man scored 23 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, and gave out six assists. He also swatted five of Utah's shots away in the Philadelphia road win.
JJ Redick (24 PTS) & Joel Embiid (23 PTS) combine for 47 in Utah! #HereTheyCome pic.twitter.com/jc0zavhrwD
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2018
Jusuf Nurkic - Portland Trail Blazers
While Damian Lillard hit a huge bucket to win the game for Portland, Nurkic achieved the game-high in points. The big man tallied 27 points along with 12 rebounds and four assists to help defeat Golden State.
Jusuf Nurkic (27 PTS), CJ McCollum (24 PTS), & Damian Lillard (21 PTS) each score 20+ in Oakland! #RipCity pic.twitter.com/MDCgK1ZmOU
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2018
Bogdan Bogdanovich - Sacramento Kings
The Kings have seen plenty of heroes this season in their games. On Thursday night, Bogdan Bogdanovich took on the role. He came off the bench to score 23 points, with his biggest bucket the game winner. Kings took the game thanks to the huge buzzer beater!
Bogdan Bogdanovic steps back for the #TissotBuzzerBeater! #ThisIsYourTime pic.twitter.com/6EcVYHBSsb
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2018
