Basketball

Batum heard the rumblings that he was merely washed-up player on a bad contract, but he’s rediscovered his worth on a Clippers team looking to shed its postseason history.

The Utah Jazz charter plane hit a flock of birds shortly after takeoff Tuesday, causing an engine fire and failure that necessitated the emergency landing in Salt Lake City.

The Pelicans, who have been hit by the injury bug, are expected to sign point guard Isaiah Thomas to a 10-day contract, sources told ESPN.

Warriors star Stephen Curry is out for Friday’s game against the Raptors in Tampa as he continues to deal with a lingering tailbone injury.

Kevin Durant said Thursday he was apologetic that fans and the public saw the back-and-forth between himself and actor Michael Rapaport, which included threatening language and misogynistic slurs.

There is optimism within the Lakers organization that Andre Drummond will not miss more than a game or two with the right big toe injury he suffered in his debut, sources said.

The Pelicans have ruled out Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball for Thursday’s game against the Magic.

Hawks forward John Collins will be out at least a week with a sprained left ankle, another blow to the injury-plagued team.

All-Star Nets guard James Harden has been ruled out against the Hornets with hamstring tightness, while the team’s newest acquisition — center LaMarcus Aldridge — is available to make his debut in Brooklyn.