Timberwolves Looking To Extend Run, Face Hornets
The Charlotte Hornets will host the Minnesota Timberwolves at Spectrum Center on Friday.
The Hornets (5-14) have endured a rocky start to the season, but they enter this game fresh off a morale-boosting 107-101 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday. Six Charlotte players scored in double digits in this game and Terry Rozier led the way with a 22-point performance that also included six assists, while Mason Plumlee recorded an 11-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included six assists. P.J. Washington delivered 19 points, six rebounds and three assists, and Kelly Oubre Jr. recorded 14 points and four rebounds. Nick Richards had a 13-point, 13-rebound double-double, and Jalen McDaniels notched 11 points with three boards off the bench. That win over Philadelphia snapped a three-game losing streak for the Hornets, but they still have work to do and that’s especially true at home, where they’ve posted a 2-6 mark.
Dennis Smith (ankle) and LaMelo Ball (ankle) are both game-time calls for Friday, while Cody Martin (knee) has been ruled out.
The Timberwolves (10-8) are one of the hottest teams in the Western Conference right now, as they’re coming off a 115-101 win over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday, and that win pushed the team’s current winning streak to five games. All five starters for the Timberwolves scored in double digits in this game, with Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way with a 23-point performance that also included 11 rebounds, eight assists, two steals and two blocks. Rudy Gobert impressed on both ends of the court with a 21-point, 16-rebound double-double. D’Angelo Russell delivered 15 points, 11 assists and three boards. Anthony Edwards notched 19 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Jalen McDaniels had 18 points, three rebounds and three assists. The Timberwolves are turning things around following a complicated start to the season, and they’ve also gone 5-3 on the road.
Taurean Prince (shoulder) and Jordan McLaughlin (calf) are both game-time calls for Friday.
The Hornets (5-14) have endured a rocky start to the season, but they enter this game fresh off a morale-boosting 107-101 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday. Six Charlotte players scored in double digits in this game and Terry Rozier led the way with a 22-point performance that also included six assists, while Mason Plumlee recorded an 11-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included six assists. P.J. Washington delivered 19 points, six rebounds and three assists, and Kelly Oubre Jr. recorded 14 points and four rebounds. Nick Richards had a 13-point, 13-rebound double-double, and Jalen McDaniels notched 11 points with three boards off the bench. That win over Philadelphia snapped a three-game losing streak for the Hornets, but they still have work to do and that’s especially true at home, where they’ve posted a 2-6 mark.
Dennis Smith (ankle) and LaMelo Ball (ankle) are both game-time calls for Friday, while Cody Martin (knee) has been ruled out.
The Timberwolves (10-8) are one of the hottest teams in the Western Conference right now, as they’re coming off a 115-101 win over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday, and that win pushed the team’s current winning streak to five games. All five starters for the Timberwolves scored in double digits in this game, with Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way with a 23-point performance that also included 11 rebounds, eight assists, two steals and two blocks. Rudy Gobert impressed on both ends of the court with a 21-point, 16-rebound double-double. D’Angelo Russell delivered 15 points, 11 assists and three boards. Anthony Edwards notched 19 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Jalen McDaniels had 18 points, three rebounds and three assists. The Timberwolves are turning things around following a complicated start to the season, and they’ve also gone 5-3 on the road.
Taurean Prince (shoulder) and Jordan McLaughlin (calf) are both game-time calls for Friday.
76ers, Magic Face In Battle Of Depleted Squads
The Orlando Magic will host the Philadelphia 76ers at Amway Center on Friday.
The Magic (5-13) are going through a deep rebuild, so growing pains were to be expected, but the team has been struggling massively of late and enter this contest fresh off a 123-102 loss against the Indiana Pacers on Monday. Franz Wagner had 20 points to lead the Magic in scoring, and he added six boards and three assists. Mo Bamba had 15 points and four rebounds, and Jalen Suggs finished with 12 points. Admiral Schoefield finished with 10 points coming off the bench, and Gary Harris delivered 18 points and added three boards. Orlando have had a few days to re-group, something desperately needed for a team that has lost four of its last five. Orlando has also gone 4-5 at home.
The Magic have one of the longest injury reports in the league. Moritz Wagner (foot), Wendell Carter (foot), Chuma Okeke (knee) and Paolo Banchero (ankle) are all game-time calls, while Cole Anthony (oblique), Markelle Fultz (toe) and Jonathan Isaac (knee) are out.
The 76ers (9-9) are dealing with lots of injuries, and while they’ve managed to stay afloat for now, the lack of depth is going to hurt them sooner than later. That was the case Wednesday, as they suffered a disappointing 107-101 loss against the Charlotte Hornets. Shake Milton took advantage of the opportunity to start and finished with a team-high 22 points, but he also added nine assists, seven rebounds and two steals. DeAnthony Melton delivered 20 points, six rebounds, four steals and three assists. Montrezl Harrell had 16 points and seven rebounds, and Tobias Harris ended up with 19 points and five rebounds. Philadelphia has now lost two of its last three games, and its road record doesn’t impress either since they’ve gone 3-4 away from Wells Fargo Arena.
Joel Embiid (foot), Matisse Thybulle (ankle) and Jaden Springer (quadriceps) are game-time calls for Friday, while James Harden (foot) and Tyrese Maxey (foot) are out.
The Magic (5-13) are going through a deep rebuild, so growing pains were to be expected, but the team has been struggling massively of late and enter this contest fresh off a 123-102 loss against the Indiana Pacers on Monday. Franz Wagner had 20 points to lead the Magic in scoring, and he added six boards and three assists. Mo Bamba had 15 points and four rebounds, and Jalen Suggs finished with 12 points. Admiral Schoefield finished with 10 points coming off the bench, and Gary Harris delivered 18 points and added three boards. Orlando have had a few days to re-group, something desperately needed for a team that has lost four of its last five. Orlando has also gone 4-5 at home.
The Magic have one of the longest injury reports in the league. Moritz Wagner (foot), Wendell Carter (foot), Chuma Okeke (knee) and Paolo Banchero (ankle) are all game-time calls, while Cole Anthony (oblique), Markelle Fultz (toe) and Jonathan Isaac (knee) are out.
The 76ers (9-9) are dealing with lots of injuries, and while they’ve managed to stay afloat for now, the lack of depth is going to hurt them sooner than later. That was the case Wednesday, as they suffered a disappointing 107-101 loss against the Charlotte Hornets. Shake Milton took advantage of the opportunity to start and finished with a team-high 22 points, but he also added nine assists, seven rebounds and two steals. DeAnthony Melton delivered 20 points, six rebounds, four steals and three assists. Montrezl Harrell had 16 points and seven rebounds, and Tobias Harris ended up with 19 points and five rebounds. Philadelphia has now lost two of its last three games, and its road record doesn’t impress either since they’ve gone 3-4 away from Wells Fargo Arena.
Joel Embiid (foot), Matisse Thybulle (ankle) and Jaden Springer (quadriceps) are game-time calls for Friday, while James Harden (foot) and Tyrese Maxey (foot) are out.
Trail Blazers Looking To Snap Losing Skid, Visit Knicks
The New York Knicks will host the Portland Trail Blazers at Madison Square Garden on Friday.
The Knicks (9-9) have struggled with consistency all season long, but at least they’re coming off a win the last time out since they secured a 129-119 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. In that game, the Knicks were led by Jalen Brunson, collecting 34 points and nine assists on 14-of-20 from the field. Julius Randle registered 25 points and 11 rebounds. R.J. Barrett totaled 25 points, eight rebounds and two assists on 10-of-16 shooting. Immanuel Quickley led the bench with 18 points, three rebounds and four assists. That victory over OKC ended New York’s prolonged road trip through the Western Conference, a span in which they went 3-2. New York has also gone 4-3 at home this season.
Derrick Rose (toe), Mitchell Robinson (knee) and Cam Reddish (groin) are all game-time decisions for Friday’s game.
The Trail Blazers (10-8) have been slumping of late and enter this game on a four-game losing streak following Wednesday’s 114-96 loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Jusuf Nurkic was the best player for the Trail Blazers with 22 points and three steals, while Jerami Grant filled the stat sheet after posting 21 points, three rebounds, three assists and three steals. Anfernee Simons notched 20 points, six assists and two rebounds, and Drew Eubanks delivered 10 points with six boards off the bench. Portland has gone 6-4 on the road, and this will be their third straight game away from home.
Keon Johnson (hip) is a game-time call for Friday’s game, while Damian Lillard (calf) and Gary Payton (abdomen) are out.
The Knicks (9-9) have struggled with consistency all season long, but at least they’re coming off a win the last time out since they secured a 129-119 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. In that game, the Knicks were led by Jalen Brunson, collecting 34 points and nine assists on 14-of-20 from the field. Julius Randle registered 25 points and 11 rebounds. R.J. Barrett totaled 25 points, eight rebounds and two assists on 10-of-16 shooting. Immanuel Quickley led the bench with 18 points, three rebounds and four assists. That victory over OKC ended New York’s prolonged road trip through the Western Conference, a span in which they went 3-2. New York has also gone 4-3 at home this season.
Derrick Rose (toe), Mitchell Robinson (knee) and Cam Reddish (groin) are all game-time decisions for Friday’s game.
The Trail Blazers (10-8) have been slumping of late and enter this game on a four-game losing streak following Wednesday’s 114-96 loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Jusuf Nurkic was the best player for the Trail Blazers with 22 points and three steals, while Jerami Grant filled the stat sheet after posting 21 points, three rebounds, three assists and three steals. Anfernee Simons notched 20 points, six assists and two rebounds, and Drew Eubanks delivered 10 points with six boards off the bench. Portland has gone 6-4 on the road, and this will be their third straight game away from home.
Keon Johnson (hip) is a game-time call for Friday’s game, while Damian Lillard (calf) and Gary Payton (abdomen) are out.
Kings and Celtics Set for TD Garden Battle
The Sacramento Kings take on the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Friday night.
The Kings (10-7) had been running hot with a seven-game winning streak coming into Wednesday's game against the Hawks, but they saw their torrid stretch come to an end with a 115-106 loss. Malik Monk led the Kings with 27 points, complementing them with four assists and two steals. De'Aaron Fox furnished 18 points, five rebounds and five assists. Domantas Sabonis generated a 15-point, 14-rebound double-double that included seven assists and one steal. Kevin Huerter turned in 13 points, five assists, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
The Kings will come into Friday's game without any injuries to report.
The Celtics (14-4) recently saw a nine-game winning streak snapped in their own right, but they bounced back from that loss to the Chicago Bulls by upending the Dallas Mavericks, 125-112, on Wednesday night. Jayson Tatum paced the Celtics with a 37-point, 13-rebound-double that included five assists and two blocks. Jaylen Brown delivered 31 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Al Horford furnished 14 points, five boards, four assists and one block. Marcus Smart and Malcolm Brogdon posted matching 13-point tallies while recording nine assists and six rebounds, respectively. Derrick White posted 12 points, two rebounds and one assist.
The Celtics will list Danilo Gallinari (knee) and Robert Williams (knee) as out for Friday's game.
Friday's game marks the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The Celtics swept the two-game 2021-22 season series from the Kings.
The Kings (10-7) had been running hot with a seven-game winning streak coming into Wednesday's game against the Hawks, but they saw their torrid stretch come to an end with a 115-106 loss. Malik Monk led the Kings with 27 points, complementing them with four assists and two steals. De'Aaron Fox furnished 18 points, five rebounds and five assists. Domantas Sabonis generated a 15-point, 14-rebound double-double that included seven assists and one steal. Kevin Huerter turned in 13 points, five assists, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
The Kings will come into Friday's game without any injuries to report.
The Celtics (14-4) recently saw a nine-game winning streak snapped in their own right, but they bounced back from that loss to the Chicago Bulls by upending the Dallas Mavericks, 125-112, on Wednesday night. Jayson Tatum paced the Celtics with a 37-point, 13-rebound-double that included five assists and two blocks. Jaylen Brown delivered 31 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Al Horford furnished 14 points, five boards, four assists and one block. Marcus Smart and Malcolm Brogdon posted matching 13-point tallies while recording nine assists and six rebounds, respectively. Derrick White posted 12 points, two rebounds and one assist.
The Celtics will list Danilo Gallinari (knee) and Robert Williams (knee) as out for Friday's game.
Friday's game marks the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The Celtics swept the two-game 2021-22 season series from the Kings.
Hawks and Rockets Tangle in Interconference Battle
The Atlanta Hawks take on the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on Friday night.
The Hawks (11-7) have been struggling with consistency of late, as they're just 4-4 over the last eight games. Their most recent time on the floor resulted in one of those victories, however, as they knocked off the Sacramento Kings, 115-106, on Wednesday night. Trae Young paced the Hawks with 35 points, supplementing them with seven assists and one rebound. Dejounte Murray supplied 15 points, seven boards, four assists and three steals. De'Andre Hunter posted a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block. A.J. Griffin poured in 12 points. Clint Capela compiled 11 points, 14 rebounds, one assist and three blocks.
The Hawks will continue without Bogdan Bogdanovic (knee) for Friday's game.
The Rockets (3-14) continue to play competitively more often than not, but the win column is still proving quite elusive. Houston checks into Friday's interconference battle having dropped five of their last six games, with their most recent defeat a 127-120 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Sunday. Kevin Porter led the Rockets with 30 points, adding six assists, five rebounds, two steals and one block. Jabari Smith Jr. turned in 22 points, seven rebounds and one assist. Tari Eason furnished 19 points, eight boards, one assist and three steals. Jalen Green delivered 16 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Eric Gordon registered 14 points, two boards, two assists and one steal. Kenyon Martin Jr. tallied 12 points, four rebounds, one assist and one steal.
The Rockets will remain without Jae'Sean Tate (ankle) for Friday's contest. Alperen Sengun (groin) will be listed as doubtful, while Jalen Green (toe), Bruno Fernando (knee) and Josh Christopher (shoulder) will be listed as probable.
Friday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks own a 1-0 series lead.
The Hawks (11-7) have been struggling with consistency of late, as they're just 4-4 over the last eight games. Their most recent time on the floor resulted in one of those victories, however, as they knocked off the Sacramento Kings, 115-106, on Wednesday night. Trae Young paced the Hawks with 35 points, supplementing them with seven assists and one rebound. Dejounte Murray supplied 15 points, seven boards, four assists and three steals. De'Andre Hunter posted a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double that included three assists, one steal and one block. A.J. Griffin poured in 12 points. Clint Capela compiled 11 points, 14 rebounds, one assist and three blocks.
The Hawks will continue without Bogdan Bogdanovic (knee) for Friday's game.
The Rockets (3-14) continue to play competitively more often than not, but the win column is still proving quite elusive. Houston checks into Friday's interconference battle having dropped five of their last six games, with their most recent defeat a 127-120 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Sunday. Kevin Porter led the Rockets with 30 points, adding six assists, five rebounds, two steals and one block. Jabari Smith Jr. turned in 22 points, seven rebounds and one assist. Tari Eason furnished 19 points, eight boards, one assist and three steals. Jalen Green delivered 16 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Eric Gordon registered 14 points, two boards, two assists and one steal. Kenyon Martin Jr. tallied 12 points, four rebounds, one assist and one steal.
The Rockets will remain without Jae'Sean Tate (ankle) for Friday's contest. Alperen Sengun (groin) will be listed as doubtful, while Jalen Green (toe), Bruno Fernando (knee) and Josh Christopher (shoulder) will be listed as probable.
Friday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks own a 1-0 series lead.
Nets and Pacers Set for Friday Night Showdown
The Brooklyn Nets take on the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Friday night.
The Nets (9-10) have been progressively climbing out of their season-opening hole, and they'll check into Friday's contest having won three of their last four games. Their most recent success came Wednesday night, when they topped the Toronto Raptors by a 112-98 score. Kyrie Irving led the way with 29 points, adding three assists and one rebound. Royce O'Neale totaled 15 points, seven assists, four rebounds and four steals. Nicolas Claxton and Ben Simmons generated matching 14-tallies, adding 12 rebounds and six assists, respectively, with Simmons also recording three steals. Kevin Durant managed 12 points, seven rebounds, five assists and three blocks.
The Nets will list Yuta Watanabe (hamstring) and T.J. Warren (foot) as out for Friday's game.
The Pacers (10-7) had been one of the hottest teams in the league going into Wednesday night's matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but they saw a five-game win streak come to an end with a 115-101 loss. Myles Turner led the way with 31 points, adding seven rebounds, two assists, four steals and one block. Bennedict Maturin netted 21 points, three rebounds and one steal. Buddy Hield delivered 13 points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals. Tyrese Haliburton generated a 10-point, 14-assist double-double that included two rebounds and one steal. T.J. McConnell matched Haliburton's scoring and added four assists, one rebound and one steal.
The Pacers will list Andrew Nembhard (knee) and Isaiah Jackson (ankle) as questionable for Friday's game. Chris Duarte (ankle) and Daniel Theis (knee) will remain out.
Friday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
The Nets (9-10) have been progressively climbing out of their season-opening hole, and they'll check into Friday's contest having won three of their last four games. Their most recent success came Wednesday night, when they topped the Toronto Raptors by a 112-98 score. Kyrie Irving led the way with 29 points, adding three assists and one rebound. Royce O'Neale totaled 15 points, seven assists, four rebounds and four steals. Nicolas Claxton and Ben Simmons generated matching 14-tallies, adding 12 rebounds and six assists, respectively, with Simmons also recording three steals. Kevin Durant managed 12 points, seven rebounds, five assists and three blocks.
The Nets will list Yuta Watanabe (hamstring) and T.J. Warren (foot) as out for Friday's game.
The Pacers (10-7) had been one of the hottest teams in the league going into Wednesday night's matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but they saw a five-game win streak come to an end with a 115-101 loss. Myles Turner led the way with 31 points, adding seven rebounds, two assists, four steals and one block. Bennedict Maturin netted 21 points, three rebounds and one steal. Buddy Hield delivered 13 points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals. Tyrese Haliburton generated a 10-point, 14-assist double-double that included two rebounds and one steal. T.J. McConnell matched Haliburton's scoring and added four assists, one rebound and one steal.
The Pacers will list Andrew Nembhard (knee) and Isaiah Jackson (ankle) as questionable for Friday's game. Chris Duarte (ankle) and Daniel Theis (knee) will remain out.
Friday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
Wizards and Heat Set for Rematch
The Washington Wizards take on the Miami Heat at FTX Arena on Friday night.
The Wizards (10-8) have mostly been trending in the right direction of late and had prevailed in six of the previous seven games going into a Wednesday home matchup against the Heat, but they fell to Miami by a 113-105 score. Kyle Kuzma led the Wizards with 33 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, one assist and one steal. Kristaps Porzingis managed 21 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Will Barton supplied 13 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Demi Avdija registered a 12-point, 10-assist double-double that included nine rebounds, two blocks and one steal.
The Wizards will list Monte Morris (ankle), Bradley Beal (quadriceps), Johnny Davis (groin) and Rui Hachimura (ankle) as questionable for Friday's game. Delon Wright (hamstring) will remain out.
The Heat (8-11) has been on a rollercoaster ride all season and most recently followed up a three-game winning streak with a four-game skid, but they snapped the latter with that aforementioned 113-105 win Wednesday. Kyle Lowry paced the Heat with 28 points, adding six rebounds, three assists and one block. Caleb Martin delivered 24 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. Tyler Herro delivered 17 points, five rebounds and three assists. Bam Adebayo generated a 15-point, 11-rebound double-double that included two assists, two steals and one block.
The Heat will remain without Jimmy Butler (knee), Victor Oladipo (knee) and Omer Yurtseven (ankle) for Friday's game. Adebayo (knee) and Haywood Highsmith (hip) will carry probable tags, while Herro (ankle) and Gabe Vincent (knee) will be listed as questionable. Max Strus (shoulder) and Duncan Robinson (ankle) will be listed as doubtful.
Wednesday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
The Wizards (10-8) have mostly been trending in the right direction of late and had prevailed in six of the previous seven games going into a Wednesday home matchup against the Heat, but they fell to Miami by a 113-105 score. Kyle Kuzma led the Wizards with 33 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, one assist and one steal. Kristaps Porzingis managed 21 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Will Barton supplied 13 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Demi Avdija registered a 12-point, 10-assist double-double that included nine rebounds, two blocks and one steal.
The Wizards will list Monte Morris (ankle), Bradley Beal (quadriceps), Johnny Davis (groin) and Rui Hachimura (ankle) as questionable for Friday's game. Delon Wright (hamstring) will remain out.
The Heat (8-11) has been on a rollercoaster ride all season and most recently followed up a three-game winning streak with a four-game skid, but they snapped the latter with that aforementioned 113-105 win Wednesday. Kyle Lowry paced the Heat with 28 points, adding six rebounds, three assists and one block. Caleb Martin delivered 24 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. Tyler Herro delivered 17 points, five rebounds and three assists. Bam Adebayo generated a 15-point, 11-rebound double-double that included two assists, two steals and one block.
The Heat will remain without Jimmy Butler (knee), Victor Oladipo (knee) and Omer Yurtseven (ankle) for Friday's game. Adebayo (knee) and Haywood Highsmith (hip) will carry probable tags, while Herro (ankle) and Gabe Vincent (knee) will be listed as questionable. Max Strus (shoulder) and Duncan Robinson (ankle) will be listed as doubtful.
Wednesday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
Bucks Host Streaking Cavs
By Dan Bruno
The Milwaukee Bucks play host to the Cleveland Cavaliers at Fiserv Forum on Friday evening.
The Bucks (12-5) need to bounce back from a loss in their last game, as they face the third game of a four-game home stand with a chance to add to their 9-2 home record. Giannis Antetokounmpo leads the team, averaging 30.5 points, 11.6 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.0 blocks and 1.0 steals per game. Jrue Holiday averages 18.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 7.7 assists and 1.6 steals, while Brook Lopez is averaging 16.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 2.6 blocks per game. The Bucks average 111.5 points per game, and they remain solid on the defensive end, holding opponents to an average of 107.5 points per game, which is fourth fewest in the league. Khris Middleton (wrist) has not made his season debut yet, and remains questionable for action on Friday.
Meanwhile, the Cavs (12-6) have won four in a row and look to keep it rolling as they head out on the road with a chance to build on their 4-5 road record. Donovan Mitchell leads the team, averaging 30.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 1.6 steals per game. Darius Garland averages 23.9 points, 1.9 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 1.4 steals, while Evan Mobley averages 14.9 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.4 blocks per game. The Cavs are averaging 115.5 points per game, while shooting an average of 48.7 percent from the field, which is fifth highest in the league. On the other end, they are holding opponents to 107.6 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league. Caris LeVert (ankle) missed the last two games and remains questionable for action, along with Kevin Love (thumb), who also missed the last game.
The Bucks (12-5) need to bounce back from a loss in their last game, as they face the third game of a four-game home stand with a chance to add to their 9-2 home record. Giannis Antetokounmpo leads the team, averaging 30.5 points, 11.6 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.0 blocks and 1.0 steals per game. Jrue Holiday averages 18.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 7.7 assists and 1.6 steals, while Brook Lopez is averaging 16.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 2.6 blocks per game. The Bucks average 111.5 points per game, and they remain solid on the defensive end, holding opponents to an average of 107.5 points per game, which is fourth fewest in the league. Khris Middleton (wrist) has not made his season debut yet, and remains questionable for action on Friday.
Meanwhile, the Cavs (12-6) have won four in a row and look to keep it rolling as they head out on the road with a chance to build on their 4-5 road record. Donovan Mitchell leads the team, averaging 30.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 1.6 steals per game. Darius Garland averages 23.9 points, 1.9 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 1.4 steals, while Evan Mobley averages 14.9 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.4 blocks per game. The Cavs are averaging 115.5 points per game, while shooting an average of 48.7 percent from the field, which is fifth highest in the league. On the other end, they are holding opponents to 107.6 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league. Caris LeVert (ankle) missed the last two games and remains questionable for action, along with Kevin Love (thumb), who also missed the last game.
Spurs Looking To End Six-Game Slide
By Dan Bruno
The San Antonio Spurs play host to the Los Angeles Lakers at AT&T Center on Friday evening,
The Spurs (6-13) have lost six in a row. They look to get back on track as they face the second game of a three-game home stand for a chance to improve on their 3-6 home record. Devin Vassell leads the team, averaging 20.6 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. Keldon Johnson is coming off a couple of quiet outings, but he averages 20.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists, while Jakob Poeltl averages 13.1 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.1 blocks and 1.0 steals per game. The Spurs average 110.1 points per game. On the other end, they are giving up a league-high 120.7 points per game, while allowing opponents to shoot an average of 50.9 percent from the field, which is also highest in the league. Zach Collins (leg) and Josh Richardson (ankle) are listed as questionable for action.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (5-11) hope to bounce back from a loss in their last game as they face the second game of a three-game road trip. They are still seeking their first road win of their season, with an 0-6 road record. LeBron James (groin) missed the last five games but is expected to return for Friday's action. Patrick Beverley (suspended) will be out. Anthony Davis continues his impressive play, averaging 26.4 points, 12.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 2.1 blocks and 1.7 steals per game. Lonnie Walker is averaging 16.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.9 assists, while Russell Westbrook averages 15.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 7.5 assists and 1.1 steals per game. The Lakers average 110.7 points per game, but they are giving up an average of 114.3 points against.
The Spurs (6-13) have lost six in a row. They look to get back on track as they face the second game of a three-game home stand for a chance to improve on their 3-6 home record. Devin Vassell leads the team, averaging 20.6 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. Keldon Johnson is coming off a couple of quiet outings, but he averages 20.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists, while Jakob Poeltl averages 13.1 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.1 blocks and 1.0 steals per game. The Spurs average 110.1 points per game. On the other end, they are giving up a league-high 120.7 points per game, while allowing opponents to shoot an average of 50.9 percent from the field, which is also highest in the league. Zach Collins (leg) and Josh Richardson (ankle) are listed as questionable for action.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (5-11) hope to bounce back from a loss in their last game as they face the second game of a three-game road trip. They are still seeking their first road win of their season, with an 0-6 road record. LeBron James (groin) missed the last five games but is expected to return for Friday's action. Patrick Beverley (suspended) will be out. Anthony Davis continues his impressive play, averaging 26.4 points, 12.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 2.1 blocks and 1.7 steals per game. Lonnie Walker is averaging 16.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.9 assists, while Russell Westbrook averages 15.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 7.5 assists and 1.1 steals per game. The Lakers average 110.7 points per game, but they are giving up an average of 114.3 points against.
Thunder Look To Snap Three-Game Slide
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Chicago Bulls at Paycom Center on Friday evening.
The Thunder (7-11) have dropped three in a row and are looking to get back on track as they face the third and final game of a home stand with the chance to build on their 4-5 home record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the team, averaging 31.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.4 blocks per game. Josh Giddey averages 14.9 points, 7.0 rebounds and 5.8 assists, while Luguentz Dort averages 14.4 points, 7.0 rebounds and 5.8 assists per game. The Thunder average 116.9 points per game, which is fifth most in the league, but they are giving up an average of 118.3 points against, which is second most in the league. Mike Muscala (finger) missed the last game and is expected to remain sidelined.
Meanwhile, the Bulls (8-10) will look to build on a two-game winning streak as they face the second game of a six-game road trip with a chance to improve on their 3-5 road record. DeMar DeRozan leads the team averaging 25.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.0 steals per game. Zach LaVine averages 20.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.1 steals, while Nikola Vucevic averages 15.7 points, 11.4 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. The Bulls score an average of 111.5 points per game, but they give up an average of 111.4 points against, while allowing opponents to shoot an average of 47.4 percent from the field. Goran Dragic (neck) is listed as questionable for action, while Lonzo Ball (knee) will remain sidelined.
The Thunder (7-11) have dropped three in a row and are looking to get back on track as they face the third and final game of a home stand with the chance to build on their 4-5 home record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the team, averaging 31.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.4 blocks per game. Josh Giddey averages 14.9 points, 7.0 rebounds and 5.8 assists, while Luguentz Dort averages 14.4 points, 7.0 rebounds and 5.8 assists per game. The Thunder average 116.9 points per game, which is fifth most in the league, but they are giving up an average of 118.3 points against, which is second most in the league. Mike Muscala (finger) missed the last game and is expected to remain sidelined.
Meanwhile, the Bulls (8-10) will look to build on a two-game winning streak as they face the second game of a six-game road trip with a chance to improve on their 3-5 road record. DeMar DeRozan leads the team averaging 25.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.0 steals per game. Zach LaVine averages 20.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.1 steals, while Nikola Vucevic averages 15.7 points, 11.4 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. The Bulls score an average of 111.5 points per game, but they give up an average of 111.4 points against, while allowing opponents to shoot an average of 47.4 percent from the field. Goran Dragic (neck) is listed as questionable for action, while Lonzo Ball (knee) will remain sidelined.
Grizzlies Host Pelicans on Friday
The Memphis Grizzlies play host to the New Orleans Pelicans at FedEx Forum on Friday.
The Pelicans (11-7) got off to a slow start this season, but everything is clicking now. They enter this matchup with five wins in their last six games, winning all five of those by double-digit margins. That's the elite talent we've been waiting to see because this is one of the most dangerous starting units in the NBA. C.J. McCollum and Brandon Ingram form an elite backcourt, while Zion Williamson and Jonas Valanciunas have been holding down the frontcourt. That doesn't even include their depth, with Herb Jones, Trey Murphy, Larry Nance, Jose Alvardo and Naji Marshall all flashing moments of brilliance off the bench as well. All of that has this looking like one of the scariest teams in the NBA.
The Grizzlies (10-8) have just two home losses all year, with one of them coming against the Sacramento Kings in their most recent game. They trailed by nearly 20 points in the fourth quarter of that game and had some game-tying free-throw attempts in the closing seconds but were unable to prevail. The positive takeaway is that Ja Morant took those free throws, making a shocking return from an ankle injury. He was expected to be out for weeks with that injury, but he provided 34 points, seven rebounds and six assists in a vintage performance. They also got 22 points, three rebounds, two steals and five blocks from Jaren Jackson Jr, and fans are ecstatic to see these young studs fully healthy and playing together. With all that said, they enter this matchup losing four of their last five games.
These teams played back on November 15, with New Orleans winning, 113-102. That snapped a three-game winning streak by Memphis prior to that.
The Pelicans (11-7) got off to a slow start this season, but everything is clicking now. They enter this matchup with five wins in their last six games, winning all five of those by double-digit margins. That's the elite talent we've been waiting to see because this is one of the most dangerous starting units in the NBA. C.J. McCollum and Brandon Ingram form an elite backcourt, while Zion Williamson and Jonas Valanciunas have been holding down the frontcourt. That doesn't even include their depth, with Herb Jones, Trey Murphy, Larry Nance, Jose Alvardo and Naji Marshall all flashing moments of brilliance off the bench as well. All of that has this looking like one of the scariest teams in the NBA.
The Grizzlies (10-8) have just two home losses all year, with one of them coming against the Sacramento Kings in their most recent game. They trailed by nearly 20 points in the fourth quarter of that game and had some game-tying free-throw attempts in the closing seconds but were unable to prevail. The positive takeaway is that Ja Morant took those free throws, making a shocking return from an ankle injury. He was expected to be out for weeks with that injury, but he provided 34 points, seven rebounds and six assists in a vintage performance. They also got 22 points, three rebounds, two steals and five blocks from Jaren Jackson Jr, and fans are ecstatic to see these young studs fully healthy and playing together. With all that said, they enter this matchup losing four of their last five games.
These teams played back on November 15, with New Orleans winning, 113-102. That snapped a three-game winning streak by Memphis prior to that.
Suns Host Pistons on Friday
The Phoenix Suns play host to the Detroit Pistons at Footprint Center on Friday.
The Pistons (5-15) had no road wins before this week started, but they grabbed two in two nights. The nature of those road wins is more shocking than anything, beating the Denver Nuggets and Utah Jazz in a back-to-back set. Not many teams have done that in the history of the NBA, and it shows just how unpredictable the NBA can be at times. The most surprising part of that win was a 21-point performance from Kevin Knox off the bench. He had one foot out of the league when he didn't make it in New York, and Detroit might have stumbled into a gem with his lottery potential. They've also been surprised by the play of rookie Jaden Ivey, who needs to run the show in the absence of Cade Cunningham (shin). The top overall pick is deciding what to do with his shin fracture, but there's some thought he could get surgery and miss a significant portion of the season. If that's the case, Ivey and Knox are going to have to keep playing like this.
The Suns (11-6) have one of the best home records in the NBA, posting a 9-1 record at Footprint Center. They also enter this matchup winning three of their last four in total, with all three wins coming at home. They've done that damage without Chris Paul, but the Point God is expected to return in the coming days after practicing in full on Wednesday. Adding one of the best point guards of all time is obviously a massive boost for this team, especially since Cameron Payne was averaging nearly 20 points and 10 assists per game when filling in. He'll be a dynamic sixth man for the remainder of the year, and Phoenix looks like the same team that led the league in wins last year.
Phoenix has won three straight games in this series, with all three being decided by double-digit margins. Ironically, that snapped an eight-game winning streak by Detroit prior to that.
The Pistons (5-15) had no road wins before this week started, but they grabbed two in two nights. The nature of those road wins is more shocking than anything, beating the Denver Nuggets and Utah Jazz in a back-to-back set. Not many teams have done that in the history of the NBA, and it shows just how unpredictable the NBA can be at times. The most surprising part of that win was a 21-point performance from Kevin Knox off the bench. He had one foot out of the league when he didn't make it in New York, and Detroit might have stumbled into a gem with his lottery potential. They've also been surprised by the play of rookie Jaden Ivey, who needs to run the show in the absence of Cade Cunningham (shin). The top overall pick is deciding what to do with his shin fracture, but there's some thought he could get surgery and miss a significant portion of the season. If that's the case, Ivey and Knox are going to have to keep playing like this.
The Suns (11-6) have one of the best home records in the NBA, posting a 9-1 record at Footprint Center. They also enter this matchup winning three of their last four in total, with all three wins coming at home. They've done that damage without Chris Paul, but the Point God is expected to return in the coming days after practicing in full on Wednesday. Adding one of the best point guards of all time is obviously a massive boost for this team, especially since Cameron Payne was averaging nearly 20 points and 10 assists per game when filling in. He'll be a dynamic sixth man for the remainder of the year, and Phoenix looks like the same team that led the league in wins last year.
Phoenix has won three straight games in this series, with all three being decided by double-digit margins. Ironically, that snapped an eight-game winning streak by Detroit prior to that.
Warriors Host Jazz on Friday
The Golden State Warriors play host to the Utah Jazz at Chase Center on Friday.
The Jazz (12-8) find themselves in their worst slump of the season, losing five of their last seven games coming into this matchup. The most recent defeat was the most distressing of the season. A 4-15 Detroit Pistons team came into Utah and grabbed their second road win of the season without Cade Cunningham. The only silver lining in that defeat was a 17-point, 12-assist performance from Collin Sexton. He was supposed to be the key piece in the Donovan Mitchell trade, but he's been stuck behind Mike Conley all year. Conley is now out for the next 2-3 weeks with an Achilles issue, and Utah will need Conley to keep playing like that in his absence.
The Warriors (9-10) did what they do well on Wednesday, beating the Los Angeles Clippers at home. Golden State now has an 8-1 record at Chase Center but a 1-9 record outside of their friendly home arena. It's hard to understand how the defending champs have such massive splits, but it's becoming a glaring issue for this team. The play of Stephen Curry makes it even more bizarre, with the former MVP posting career-high averages across the board. He's carrying this team on his back right now, and it's up to everyone else to get these road woes behind them. They could also use more of a bench presence, generating the worst plus-minus in the NBA from their bench unit.
Golden State has won five of its last six games over Utah.
The Jazz (12-8) find themselves in their worst slump of the season, losing five of their last seven games coming into this matchup. The most recent defeat was the most distressing of the season. A 4-15 Detroit Pistons team came into Utah and grabbed their second road win of the season without Cade Cunningham. The only silver lining in that defeat was a 17-point, 12-assist performance from Collin Sexton. He was supposed to be the key piece in the Donovan Mitchell trade, but he's been stuck behind Mike Conley all year. Conley is now out for the next 2-3 weeks with an Achilles issue, and Utah will need Conley to keep playing like that in his absence.
The Warriors (9-10) did what they do well on Wednesday, beating the Los Angeles Clippers at home. Golden State now has an 8-1 record at Chase Center but a 1-9 record outside of their friendly home arena. It's hard to understand how the defending champs have such massive splits, but it's becoming a glaring issue for this team. The play of Stephen Curry makes it even more bizarre, with the former MVP posting career-high averages across the board. He's carrying this team on his back right now, and it's up to everyone else to get these road woes behind them. They could also use more of a bench presence, generating the worst plus-minus in the NBA from their bench unit.
Golden State has won five of its last six games over Utah.
Clippers Host Nuggets on Friday
The Los Angeles Clippers play host to the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena on Friday.
The Nuggets (11-7) are coming off one of their best wins of the season on Wednesday, beating the Oklahoma City Thunder in overtime, 131-126. Denver trailed by double-digits in the fourth quarter of that game but rode a 36-23 fourth quarter into overtime and then an 11-6 extra session to a victory. The statistics were incredible, with Nikola Jokic collecting 39 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. Aaron Gordon also had 30 points, eight rebounds and four assists, while Bruce Brown collected the first triple-double of his career. Getting three lines like that is tough for any opponent, and it's really encouraging since they played that game without Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Both of those guys were rested in the second half of a back-to-back set, but both of them are expected to return here.
The Clippers (11-8) come into this matchup winning eight of their last 12 games. The only concern is the fact that their superstars continue to miss games. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George both sat out the loss on Wednesday, and it's hard to get a gauge on where this team is at with those studs sitting so often. The Kawhi situation has really driven fans crazy, being held to just 25 minutes a night. The former Finals MVP has been lackluster in those minutes, too, averaging 10 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game. This used to be one of the best players in the NBA, but he looks like a shell of himself after that torn ACL. He has the ability to breakout, but it's a situation worth monitoring for the remainder of the season.
Denver has dominated this series over the last two years, winning five of their last six games over Los Angeles.
The Nuggets (11-7) are coming off one of their best wins of the season on Wednesday, beating the Oklahoma City Thunder in overtime, 131-126. Denver trailed by double-digits in the fourth quarter of that game but rode a 36-23 fourth quarter into overtime and then an 11-6 extra session to a victory. The statistics were incredible, with Nikola Jokic collecting 39 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. Aaron Gordon also had 30 points, eight rebounds and four assists, while Bruce Brown collected the first triple-double of his career. Getting three lines like that is tough for any opponent, and it's really encouraging since they played that game without Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. Both of those guys were rested in the second half of a back-to-back set, but both of them are expected to return here.
The Clippers (11-8) come into this matchup winning eight of their last 12 games. The only concern is the fact that their superstars continue to miss games. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George both sat out the loss on Wednesday, and it's hard to get a gauge on where this team is at with those studs sitting so often. The Kawhi situation has really driven fans crazy, being held to just 25 minutes a night. The former Finals MVP has been lackluster in those minutes, too, averaging 10 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game. This used to be one of the best players in the NBA, but he looks like a shell of himself after that torn ACL. He has the ability to breakout, but it's a situation worth monitoring for the remainder of the season.
Denver has dominated this series over the last two years, winning five of their last six games over Los Angeles.