Sixers, Cavaliers Collide In Battle Of Contenders
The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Philadelphia 76ers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Wednesday.
The Cavaliers (13-8) are looking to bounce back since they suffered a 100-88 road loss against the Toronto Raptors on Monday. Darius Garland logged 18 points, four rebounds, 10 assists, three steals and a block, and Evan Mobley finished with 18 points, 15 rebounds, two blocks and a steal to lead the Cavs. No other player scored in double digits for the Cavs, but Cedi Osman and Robin Lopez added nine points each. The Cavs shot 38 percent from the field, including 7-of-38 from deep.
Kevin Love (thumb), Jarrett Allen (back) and Lamar Stevens (illness) are game-time calls for Wednesday’s game, while Ricky Rubio (knee) and Dylan Windler (ankle) are out.
The 76ers (12-9) had to work harder than expected, but in the end, they secured a 104-101 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Monday. Joel Embiid led the way for the Sixers with a 30-point performance that also included eight rebounds, seven assists, two steals and two blocks, while Tobias Harris posted 24 points and 10 rebounds. Shake Milton also had a strong game and finished with 21 points, seven assists and five rebounds. The 76ers also shot 45.3 percent from the field and 35.7 percent from three-point range.
Jaden Springer (quadriceps) is a game-time call for Wednesday’s game, while James Harden (foot) and Tyrese Maxey (foot) remain out.
The Cavaliers (13-8) are looking to bounce back since they suffered a 100-88 road loss against the Toronto Raptors on Monday. Darius Garland logged 18 points, four rebounds, 10 assists, three steals and a block, and Evan Mobley finished with 18 points, 15 rebounds, two blocks and a steal to lead the Cavs. No other player scored in double digits for the Cavs, but Cedi Osman and Robin Lopez added nine points each. The Cavs shot 38 percent from the field, including 7-of-38 from deep.
Kevin Love (thumb), Jarrett Allen (back) and Lamar Stevens (illness) are game-time calls for Wednesday’s game, while Ricky Rubio (knee) and Dylan Windler (ankle) are out.
The 76ers (12-9) had to work harder than expected, but in the end, they secured a 104-101 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Monday. Joel Embiid led the way for the Sixers with a 30-point performance that also included eight rebounds, seven assists, two steals and two blocks, while Tobias Harris posted 24 points and 10 rebounds. Shake Milton also had a strong game and finished with 21 points, seven assists and five rebounds. The 76ers also shot 45.3 percent from the field and 35.7 percent from three-point range.
Jaden Springer (quadriceps) is a game-time call for Wednesday’s game, while James Harden (foot) and Tyrese Maxey (foot) remain out.
Hawks Visit Magic Looking To Get Back To Winning Ways
The Orlando Magic will host the Atlanta Hawks at Amway Center on Wednesday.
The Magic (5-16) have been struggling all season long, and while they’ve shown some glimpses of quality, the reality is that it’s going to be a long season for the Florida franchise. They’re coming off a 109-102 loss against the Brooklyn Nets on Monday. Bol Bol and Paolo Banchero co-led the Magic with 24-point tallies, with Bol adding six rebounds and Banchero contributing five assists and four boards among their other contributions. Franz Wagner supplied 21 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals. Gary Harris delivered 19 points, four rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal.
Mo Bamba (back) is a game-time call for Wednesday’s game, while several players have been ruled out. The list includes Wendell Carter Jr. (foot), Chuma Okeke (knee), Jalen Suggs (ankle) and Jonathan Isaac (knee).
The Hawks (11-10) suffered a loss against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday in a game that went down to the wire and was decided in the final seconds. Trae Young and Deandre Hunter each led the way for the Hawks with 18 points, with Young also adding 10 assists and Hunter racking up three boards and three dimes. Clint Capela had a 10-point, 16-rebound double-double, and John Collins recorded 13 points, eight rebounds, four blocks, three assists and two steals. Dejounte Murray had 17 points and six assists, and Justin Holiday added 16 points coming off the bench.
Jalen Johnson (ankle) is questionable, while Bogdan Bogdanovic (knee) remains out.
The Magic (5-16) have been struggling all season long, and while they’ve shown some glimpses of quality, the reality is that it’s going to be a long season for the Florida franchise. They’re coming off a 109-102 loss against the Brooklyn Nets on Monday. Bol Bol and Paolo Banchero co-led the Magic with 24-point tallies, with Bol adding six rebounds and Banchero contributing five assists and four boards among their other contributions. Franz Wagner supplied 21 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals. Gary Harris delivered 19 points, four rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal.
Mo Bamba (back) is a game-time call for Wednesday’s game, while several players have been ruled out. The list includes Wendell Carter Jr. (foot), Chuma Okeke (knee), Jalen Suggs (ankle) and Jonathan Isaac (knee).
The Hawks (11-10) suffered a loss against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday in a game that went down to the wire and was decided in the final seconds. Trae Young and Deandre Hunter each led the way for the Hawks with 18 points, with Young also adding 10 assists and Hunter racking up three boards and three dimes. Clint Capela had a 10-point, 16-rebound double-double, and John Collins recorded 13 points, eight rebounds, four blocks, three assists and two steals. Dejounte Murray had 17 points and six assists, and Justin Holiday added 16 points coming off the bench.
Jalen Johnson (ankle) is questionable, while Bogdan Bogdanovic (knee) remains out.
Heat and Celtics Tangle In TD
The Miami Heat takes on the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Wednesday night.
The Heat (10-11) have been one of the more difficult teams in the league to get a handle on early this season, but Miami comes into Wednesday night's showdown with three straight wins. Their most recent success came Sunday evening, when they toppled the Atlanta Hawks by a 106-98 score. Bam Adebayo led the Heat with 32 points, adding eight rebounds, one assist and one block. Caleb Martin tallied 20 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. Max Strus furnished 16 points, three rebounds and one assist. Dewayne Dedmon delivered 13 points, six rebounds and one steal. Tyler Herro generated an 11-point, 11-rebound, 10-assist triple-double with one steal.
The Heat will be without Jimmy Butler (knee), Victor Oladipo (knee) and Omer Yurtseven (ankle) for Wednesday's game. Herro (ankle), Martin (illness), Gabe Vincent (knee), Dedmon (foot), Duncan Robinson (ankle), Nikola Jovic (knee) and Haywood Highsmith (ankle) will all be listed as questionable. Strus (shoulder) will carry a questionable tag.
The Celtics (17-4) come in with a league-high win total and playing every bit like the most dominant team in the league, as they've won 13 of the last 14 games. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they toppled the Charlotte Hornets by a 140-105 score. Jayson Tatum paced the Celtics with 35 points, complementing them with three rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. Marcus Smart generated a 22-point, 15-assist double-double that included two rebounds and two steals. Malcolm Brogdon supplied 21 points, six assists and five rebounds. Derrick White tallied 15 points, six assists, two rebounds and one steal. Sam Hauser posted 11 points, three rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal.
The Celtics will list Jaylen Brown (neck) as questionable for Wednesday's game.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Celtics own a 1-0 series lead.
The Heat (10-11) have been one of the more difficult teams in the league to get a handle on early this season, but Miami comes into Wednesday night's showdown with three straight wins. Their most recent success came Sunday evening, when they toppled the Atlanta Hawks by a 106-98 score. Bam Adebayo led the Heat with 32 points, adding eight rebounds, one assist and one block. Caleb Martin tallied 20 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. Max Strus furnished 16 points, three rebounds and one assist. Dewayne Dedmon delivered 13 points, six rebounds and one steal. Tyler Herro generated an 11-point, 11-rebound, 10-assist triple-double with one steal.
The Heat will be without Jimmy Butler (knee), Victor Oladipo (knee) and Omer Yurtseven (ankle) for Wednesday's game. Herro (ankle), Martin (illness), Gabe Vincent (knee), Dedmon (foot), Duncan Robinson (ankle), Nikola Jovic (knee) and Haywood Highsmith (ankle) will all be listed as questionable. Strus (shoulder) will carry a questionable tag.
The Celtics (17-4) come in with a league-high win total and playing every bit like the most dominant team in the league, as they've won 13 of the last 14 games. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they toppled the Charlotte Hornets by a 140-105 score. Jayson Tatum paced the Celtics with 35 points, complementing them with three rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. Marcus Smart generated a 22-point, 15-assist double-double that included two rebounds and two steals. Malcolm Brogdon supplied 21 points, six assists and five rebounds. Derrick White tallied 15 points, six assists, two rebounds and one steal. Sam Hauser posted 11 points, three rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal.
The Celtics will list Jaylen Brown (neck) as questionable for Wednesday's game.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Celtics own a 1-0 series lead.
Wizards and Nets Set for Big Apple Battle
The Washington Wizards take on the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on Wednesday night.
The Wizards (11-10) have been struggling with consistency partly as the result of some key injuries, but they'll check into Wednesday's game having just snapped a three-game losing streak with a 142-127 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night. Kristaps Porzingis led the Wizards with 41 points, adding four rebounds, three assists, three blocks and two steals. Kyle Kuzma delivered 23 points, nine assists and eight rebounds. Bradley Beal supplied 22 points, five assists, one rebound and two steals. Corey Kispert and Jordan Goodwin scored 11 and 10 points, respectively, with Goodwin recording six assists and three rebounds.
The Wizards will list Rui Hachimura (ankle) as questionable for Wednesday's game, while Delon Wright (hamstring) will remain out.
The Nets (11-11) are still underperforming relative to preseason expectations, but they'll enter Wednesday's contest having won three of the last four games. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they toppled the Orlando Magic by a 109-102 score. Kevin Durant paced the Nets with 45 points, supplementing them with seven rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks. Kyrie Irving registered 20 points, three assists, two rebounds and one block. Claxton generated a 17-point, 13-rebound double-double that included one assist and three blocks. Joe Harris matched Claxton's scoring and added four rebounds and one block.
The Nets will be without Ben Simmons (knee), Yuta Watanabe (hamstring) and T.J. Warren (foot) for Wednesday's game.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 1-0 series lead.
The Wizards (11-10) have been struggling with consistency partly as the result of some key injuries, but they'll check into Wednesday's game having just snapped a three-game losing streak with a 142-127 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night. Kristaps Porzingis led the Wizards with 41 points, adding four rebounds, three assists, three blocks and two steals. Kyle Kuzma delivered 23 points, nine assists and eight rebounds. Bradley Beal supplied 22 points, five assists, one rebound and two steals. Corey Kispert and Jordan Goodwin scored 11 and 10 points, respectively, with Goodwin recording six assists and three rebounds.
The Wizards will list Rui Hachimura (ankle) as questionable for Wednesday's game, while Delon Wright (hamstring) will remain out.
The Nets (11-11) are still underperforming relative to preseason expectations, but they'll enter Wednesday's contest having won three of the last four games. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they toppled the Orlando Magic by a 109-102 score. Kevin Durant paced the Nets with 45 points, supplementing them with seven rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks. Kyrie Irving registered 20 points, three assists, two rebounds and one block. Claxton generated a 17-point, 13-rebound double-double that included one assist and three blocks. Joe Harris matched Claxton's scoring and added four rebounds and one block.
The Nets will be without Ben Simmons (knee), Yuta Watanabe (hamstring) and T.J. Warren (foot) for Wednesday's game.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 1-0 series lead.
Bucks Looking To Keep Impressive Run Alive, Visit Knicks
The New York Knicks will host the Milwaukee Bucks at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday.
The Knicks (10-11) secured a massive 140-110 win over the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday, so they should be confident for this game. Julius Randle had an impressive performance for the Knicks and ended with 36 points, but he also added seven rebounds and five assists. Three different starters scored at last 16 points in Jalen Brunson, RJ Barrett and Quentin Grimes. Brunson also had five assists, Barrett notched four boards and three dimes, and Grimes pulled down six boards. Immanuel Quickley returned off the bench and posted a strong 15-point game while also adding four assists
The Knicks are at full strength when it comes to injuries here.
The Bucks (14-5) are coming off a 124-115 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday. Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks have been one of the best teams in the league so far. In this game against Dallas, Antetokounmpo led the way after totaling 30 points, 11 rebounds and four assists. Grayson Allen amassed 25 points, two rebounds, five assists and two steals. Jrue Holiday had 16 points, six assists and three steals, while Jevon Carter compiled 14 points, three rebounds and six assists. Bobby Portis led the bench with 15 points and 10 rebounds.
Serge Ibaka (illness) and Khris Middleton (wrist) are both game-time decisions for Wednesday, while Joe Ingles (knee) has been ruled out.
The Knicks (10-11) secured a massive 140-110 win over the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday, so they should be confident for this game. Julius Randle had an impressive performance for the Knicks and ended with 36 points, but he also added seven rebounds and five assists. Three different starters scored at last 16 points in Jalen Brunson, RJ Barrett and Quentin Grimes. Brunson also had five assists, Barrett notched four boards and three dimes, and Grimes pulled down six boards. Immanuel Quickley returned off the bench and posted a strong 15-point game while also adding four assists
The Knicks are at full strength when it comes to injuries here.
The Bucks (14-5) are coming off a 124-115 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday. Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks have been one of the best teams in the league so far. In this game against Dallas, Antetokounmpo led the way after totaling 30 points, 11 rebounds and four assists. Grayson Allen amassed 25 points, two rebounds, five assists and two steals. Jrue Holiday had 16 points, six assists and three steals, while Jevon Carter compiled 14 points, three rebounds and six assists. Bobby Portis led the bench with 15 points and 10 rebounds.
Serge Ibaka (illness) and Khris Middleton (wrist) are both game-time decisions for Wednesday, while Joe Ingles (knee) has been ruled out.
Raptors and Pelicans Tangle in Big Easy
The Toronto Raptors take on the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on Wednesday night.
The Raptors (11-9) are starting to get a bit healthier at key spots, and it's helped them forge a two-game winning streak heading into Wednesday's contest. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they toppled the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 100-88 score. O.G. Anunoby led the Raptors with 20 points, adding two assists, one rebound, one steal and one block. Pascal Siakam generated an 18-point, 11-rebound double-double that included five assists. Gary Trent delivered 14 points, seven rebounds, one assist and one steal. Fred VanVleet contributed 13 points, five assists, two rebounds and one steal. Scottie Barnes managed 11 points, five assists, four rebounds, three blocks and one steal.
The Raptors will list Otto Porter (toe) and Precious Achiuwa (ankle) as out for Wednesday's contest.
The Pelicans (12-8) have been trending in the right direction of late as well, going into Wednesday's matchup having won three of the last four games. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they got past the Oklahoma City Thunder by a 105-101 score. Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 23 points, adding eight rebounds, eight assists, three blocks and one steal. Trey Murphy totaled 20 points, six boards, two steals and one block. Jose Alvarado supplied 15 points, four assists, two rebounds and two steals. Herbert Jones furnished 12 points, three rebounds, three assists, four steals and three blocks. Willy Hernangomez posted 10 points, nine rebounds and one block.
The Pelicans will list Brandon Ingram (toe) as out for Wednesday's game. CJ McCollum (COVID-19 protocols), Naji Marshall (illness) and Larry Nance (shoulder) will carry questionable tags.
Wednesday's game marks first of two meetings between the teams this season. The two squads split the two-game 2021-22 regular-season series.
The Raptors (11-9) are starting to get a bit healthier at key spots, and it's helped them forge a two-game winning streak heading into Wednesday's contest. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they toppled the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 100-88 score. O.G. Anunoby led the Raptors with 20 points, adding two assists, one rebound, one steal and one block. Pascal Siakam generated an 18-point, 11-rebound double-double that included five assists. Gary Trent delivered 14 points, seven rebounds, one assist and one steal. Fred VanVleet contributed 13 points, five assists, two rebounds and one steal. Scottie Barnes managed 11 points, five assists, four rebounds, three blocks and one steal.
The Raptors will list Otto Porter (toe) and Precious Achiuwa (ankle) as out for Wednesday's contest.
The Pelicans (12-8) have been trending in the right direction of late as well, going into Wednesday's matchup having won three of the last four games. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they got past the Oklahoma City Thunder by a 105-101 score. Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 23 points, adding eight rebounds, eight assists, three blocks and one steal. Trey Murphy totaled 20 points, six boards, two steals and one block. Jose Alvarado supplied 15 points, four assists, two rebounds and two steals. Herbert Jones furnished 12 points, three rebounds, three assists, four steals and three blocks. Willy Hernangomez posted 10 points, nine rebounds and one block.
The Pelicans will list Brandon Ingram (toe) as out for Wednesday's game. CJ McCollum (COVID-19 protocols), Naji Marshall (illness) and Larry Nance (shoulder) will carry questionable tags.
Wednesday's game marks first of two meetings between the teams this season. The two squads split the two-game 2021-22 regular-season series.
Grizzlies and Timberwolves Set for Midwest Battle
The Memphis Grizzlies take on the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on Wednesday night.
The Grizzlies (12-8) are still not at full strength in their starting five, but they'll check into Wednesday's game with consecutive victories. Their most recent success came Sunday evening, when they got past the New York Knicks by a 127-123 score. Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 27 points, complementing them with 14 assists, 10 rebounds and one steal. Dillon Brooks registered 23 points, five rebounds and four assists. Jackson delivered 21 points, five boards and one steal. Steven Adams generated a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists and one block. John Konchar posted 10 points, eight rebounds and two assists.
The Grizzlies will list Dillon Brooks (thigh) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Jake LaRavia (foot) will carry a doubtful tag, while Desmond Bane (toe), Ziaire Williams (knee) and Danny Green (knee) will remain out.
The Timberwolves (10-11) have struggled to keep consistency from game to game, and matters are looking especially concerning at the moment. Not only does Minnesota come into Wednesday's contest with three straight losses, but they also saw Karl-Anthony Towns suffer a calf strain in their most recent defeat, a 142-127 walloping at the hands of the Washington Wizards on Monday night. Anthony Edwards led the way with 29 points, adding eight rebounds, two assists and two steals. Jaylen Nowell supplied 23 points, five rebounds, two assists and one steal. Rudy Gobert finished with 19 points, seven boards and one block. D'Angelo Russell chipped in 17 points, five assists, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
In addition to Towns, the Timberwolves will be down Jordan McLaughlin (calf) and Taurean Prince (shoulder) for Wednesday's contest. Jaden McDaniels (illness) will carry a questionable tag.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Grizzlies own a 1-0 series lead.
The Grizzlies (12-8) are still not at full strength in their starting five, but they'll check into Wednesday's game with consecutive victories. Their most recent success came Sunday evening, when they got past the New York Knicks by a 127-123 score. Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 27 points, complementing them with 14 assists, 10 rebounds and one steal. Dillon Brooks registered 23 points, five rebounds and four assists. Jackson delivered 21 points, five boards and one steal. Steven Adams generated a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists and one block. John Konchar posted 10 points, eight rebounds and two assists.
The Grizzlies will list Dillon Brooks (thigh) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Jake LaRavia (foot) will carry a doubtful tag, while Desmond Bane (toe), Ziaire Williams (knee) and Danny Green (knee) will remain out.
The Timberwolves (10-11) have struggled to keep consistency from game to game, and matters are looking especially concerning at the moment. Not only does Minnesota come into Wednesday's contest with three straight losses, but they also saw Karl-Anthony Towns suffer a calf strain in their most recent defeat, a 142-127 walloping at the hands of the Washington Wizards on Monday night. Anthony Edwards led the way with 29 points, adding eight rebounds, two assists and two steals. Jaylen Nowell supplied 23 points, five rebounds, two assists and one steal. Rudy Gobert finished with 19 points, seven boards and one block. D'Angelo Russell chipped in 17 points, five assists, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
In addition to Towns, the Timberwolves will be down Jordan McLaughlin (calf) and Taurean Prince (shoulder) for Wednesday's contest. Jaden McDaniels (illness) will carry a questionable tag.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Grizzlies own a 1-0 series lead.
Thunder Host Struggling Spurs
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the San Antonio Spurs at Paycom Arena on Wednesday evening.
The Thunder (8-13) have dropped two in a row and look to bounce back as they return home with a chance to build on their 5-5 home record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (hip) continues to lead the team with impressive numbers, averaging 31.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 1.7 steals and 1.2 blocks per game, however, he is listed as questionable for action on Wednesday. Luguentz Dort averages 13.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.3 steals, while Josh Giddey averages 14.4 points, 7.1 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game. The Thunder average 115.9 points per game, which is sixth most in the league, but they are giving up an average of 117.7 points against, which is second most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Spurs (6-15) have dropped eight in a row and face their first road game after a three-game home stand. They have lost their last seven road games, and they are 3-7 on the road this season. Keldon Johnson averages a team-high 20.4 points per game, and he is coming off a 26-point, 10-rebound performance. Devin Vassell also averages 20.4 points per game, along with 4.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists. Tre Jones is coming off a big game, where he totaled 23 points, eight rebounds, 13 assists and two steals, in 36 minutes, while he averages 12.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 7.1 assists and 1.5 steals per game. The Spurs average 110.6 points per game, but they give up a league-high 121.0 points against.
The Thunder (8-13) have dropped two in a row and look to bounce back as they return home with a chance to build on their 5-5 home record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (hip) continues to lead the team with impressive numbers, averaging 31.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 1.7 steals and 1.2 blocks per game, however, he is listed as questionable for action on Wednesday. Luguentz Dort averages 13.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.3 steals, while Josh Giddey averages 14.4 points, 7.1 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game. The Thunder average 115.9 points per game, which is sixth most in the league, but they are giving up an average of 117.7 points against, which is second most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Spurs (6-15) have dropped eight in a row and face their first road game after a three-game home stand. They have lost their last seven road games, and they are 3-7 on the road this season. Keldon Johnson averages a team-high 20.4 points per game, and he is coming off a 26-point, 10-rebound performance. Devin Vassell also averages 20.4 points per game, along with 4.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists. Tre Jones is coming off a big game, where he totaled 23 points, eight rebounds, 13 assists and two steals, in 36 minutes, while he averages 12.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 7.1 assists and 1.5 steals per game. The Spurs average 110.6 points per game, but they give up a league-high 121.0 points against.
Nuggets, Rockets Clash For Second Consecutive Game
By Dan Bruno
The Denver Nuggets play host to the Houston Rockets at Ball Arena on Wednesday evening.
This marks the second of back-to-back meetings between the Nuggets (13-7) and the Rockets (5-15) in Denver, after the Nuggets came away with the win in their first meeting on Monday. The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Nuggets led 42-39 after one quarter. The score stayed close through the second, but the Nuggets retained the upper hand and took a two-point lead into the break. They picked up the pace in the third and outscored the Rockets 36-23 in the quarter to build a 15-point advantage heading into the final frame. The Rockets put up a fight in the fourth but it was not enough, as the Nuggets cruised to their third straight win, while the loss marked the end of a two-game win streak for the Rockets.
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 32 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists, in 27 minutes. Jamal Murray followed up with 31 points, two rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block, while Zeke Nnaji added 15 points and three rebounds. The Nuggets shot 57 percent from the field, including 12-of-30 from long range. Meanwhile, Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 18 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Jalen Green followed up with 17 points, two rebounds and seven assists, while Kenyon Martin added 15 points and six rebounds.
The Rockets hope to get back on track and build on their 2-10 road record, as they face the second game of a four-game road trip. On the other hand, the Nuggets have won three in a row and have a chance to add to their 5-2 home record if they can keep it rolling. Michael Porter (heel) and Jeff Green (knee) are expected to remain sidelined for the Nuggets, while Bones Hyland (illness) is listed as questionable.
This marks the second of back-to-back meetings between the Nuggets (13-7) and the Rockets (5-15) in Denver, after the Nuggets came away with the win in their first meeting on Monday. The game got out to a high-scoring start as the Nuggets led 42-39 after one quarter. The score stayed close through the second, but the Nuggets retained the upper hand and took a two-point lead into the break. They picked up the pace in the third and outscored the Rockets 36-23 in the quarter to build a 15-point advantage heading into the final frame. The Rockets put up a fight in the fourth but it was not enough, as the Nuggets cruised to their third straight win, while the loss marked the end of a two-game win streak for the Rockets.
Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 32 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists, in 27 minutes. Jamal Murray followed up with 31 points, two rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block, while Zeke Nnaji added 15 points and three rebounds. The Nuggets shot 57 percent from the field, including 12-of-30 from long range. Meanwhile, Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 18 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Jalen Green followed up with 17 points, two rebounds and seven assists, while Kenyon Martin added 15 points and six rebounds.
The Rockets hope to get back on track and build on their 2-10 road record, as they face the second game of a four-game road trip. On the other hand, the Nuggets have won three in a row and have a chance to add to their 5-2 home record if they can keep it rolling. Michael Porter (heel) and Jeff Green (knee) are expected to remain sidelined for the Nuggets, while Bones Hyland (illness) is listed as questionable.
Streaking Suns Host Bulls
By Dan Bruno
The Phoenix Suns play host to the Chicago Bulls at Footprint Center on Wednesday evening.
The Suns (14-6) have won five in a row and look to keep it rolling for a chance to build on their impressive 11-1 home record, as they face the first game of a two-game home stand. Devin Booker is coming off a brilliant performance, with 44 points on 17-of-28 shooting in a win in Sacramento on Monday. Booker averages 27.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.2 steals per game on the season. Mikal Bridges averages 16.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks, while Deandre Ayton is averaging 16.3 points, 9.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. Chris Paul (heel) and Cameron Johnson (knee) are both to remain sidelined, which means Cameron Payne and Torrey Craig will continue to see extended opportunity. The Suns average 115.0 points per game, and they are holding opponents to an average of 108.2 points.
Meanwhile, the Bulls (9-11) are looking to build off a win in their last game as they face the fourth game of a six-game road trip with a chance to improve on their 4-6 road record. DeMar DeRozan leads the team, averaging 26.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 1.0 steals per game. Zach LaVine averages 20.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.1 steals, while Nikola Vucevic averages 15.6 points, 11.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. The Bulls average 112.0 points per game, while shooting an average of 46.9 percent from the field. On the other end, they give up an average of 111.8 points per game.
The Suns (14-6) have won five in a row and look to keep it rolling for a chance to build on their impressive 11-1 home record, as they face the first game of a two-game home stand. Devin Booker is coming off a brilliant performance, with 44 points on 17-of-28 shooting in a win in Sacramento on Monday. Booker averages 27.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.2 steals per game on the season. Mikal Bridges averages 16.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks, while Deandre Ayton is averaging 16.3 points, 9.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. Chris Paul (heel) and Cameron Johnson (knee) are both to remain sidelined, which means Cameron Payne and Torrey Craig will continue to see extended opportunity. The Suns average 115.0 points per game, and they are holding opponents to an average of 108.2 points.
Meanwhile, the Bulls (9-11) are looking to build off a win in their last game as they face the fourth game of a six-game road trip with a chance to improve on their 4-6 road record. DeMar DeRozan leads the team, averaging 26.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 1.0 steals per game. Zach LaVine averages 20.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.1 steals, while Nikola Vucevic averages 15.6 points, 11.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. The Bulls average 112.0 points per game, while shooting an average of 46.9 percent from the field. On the other end, they give up an average of 111.8 points per game.
Jazz Host Clippers on Wednesday
The Los Angeles Clippers travel to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Jazz at Vivint Arena on Wednesday.
The Clippers (13-9) have every reason to give up on the season, but they continue to battle. They come into this game with an 11-5 record across their last 16 games. That might not sound too special, but it's quite the run for a team that's been playing shorthanded. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George continue to miss games, and that's become way too common of a trend for this club over recent years. They've done a good job of building depth around those guys, with Marcus Morris, Reggie Jackson, Norman Powell and Ivica Zubac stepping up in their absence. Zubac had one of the best games of the century on Sunday, collecting 31 points and 29 rebounds in the highlight of his career. We don't expect to see that continue, but it's impressive nonetheless.
The Jazz (12-11) got off to an unbelievable start this season with a conference-leading 10-3 record, but it's been all downhill since then. They enter this matchup losing eight of their last 10 games. That's the club we all expected to see at the beginning of the season, and it's hard to see it getting much better. Losing a veteran like Mike Conley to injury was the start of this terrible stretch, and this club simply doesn't have the talent to compete with the elite. That was evident when they lost Donovan Mitchell, Rudy Gobert and Bojan Bogdanovic in the offseason, starting an inevitable rebuild. Guys like Kelly Olynyk, Jordan Clarkson and Lauri Markkanen have been great filling in for them, but that's not enough to compete in today's NBA.
These teams have already played twice in LA this season, splitting those two matchups. With that said, the Jazz have won five of their last seven games in this series.
The Clippers (13-9) have every reason to give up on the season, but they continue to battle. They come into this game with an 11-5 record across their last 16 games. That might not sound too special, but it's quite the run for a team that's been playing shorthanded. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George continue to miss games, and that's become way too common of a trend for this club over recent years. They've done a good job of building depth around those guys, with Marcus Morris, Reggie Jackson, Norman Powell and Ivica Zubac stepping up in their absence. Zubac had one of the best games of the century on Sunday, collecting 31 points and 29 rebounds in the highlight of his career. We don't expect to see that continue, but it's impressive nonetheless.
The Jazz (12-11) got off to an unbelievable start this season with a conference-leading 10-3 record, but it's been all downhill since then. They enter this matchup losing eight of their last 10 games. That's the club we all expected to see at the beginning of the season, and it's hard to see it getting much better. Losing a veteran like Mike Conley to injury was the start of this terrible stretch, and this club simply doesn't have the talent to compete with the elite. That was evident when they lost Donovan Mitchell, Rudy Gobert and Bojan Bogdanovic in the offseason, starting an inevitable rebuild. Guys like Kelly Olynyk, Jordan Clarkson and Lauri Markkanen have been great filling in for them, but that's not enough to compete in today's NBA.
These teams have already played twice in LA this season, splitting those two matchups. With that said, the Jazz have won five of their last seven games in this series.
Kings Host Pacers on Wednesday
The Sacramento Kings play host to the Indiana Pacers at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday.
The Pacers (12-8) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, entering this matchup winning 11 of their last 15 games. The most recent win over the Los Angeles Lakers was the best of the season, getting a game-winning three from Andrew Nembhard at the buzzer. They overcome a fourth-quarter double-digit deficit to win that game, and this club looks much better than anyone could have anticipated. Tyrese Haliburton has stepped into All-Star territory with his league-leading assist tally, and it pairs beautifully with Buddy Hield and Myles Turner. Everyone's been talking about how Hield and Turner are on the trade block, but that likely won't be the case if these winning ways continue. This is an interesting matchup for Hali as well because this is a revenge game against the team that surprisingly traded him last season.
The Kings (10-9) were the talk of the NBA when they had a seven-game winning streak, but they've gone on to lose three straight since then. The seven-game winning streak was the longest such streak in nearly 20 years for this franchise, and that correlates with another big accomplishment. It's been 20 years since this club reached the postseason, and it looks like this might be the year to break that. De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis have formed an elite duo, but the role players have stepped up as well. Harrison Barnes, Kevin Huerter and Malik Monk have all been great over the last three weeks, and it has them looking dangerous despite the most recent three-game slide.
These teams split their two meetings last season, with the road team winning both outings. With that said, the Kings have won three of four in this series in total.
The Pacers (12-8) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, entering this matchup winning 11 of their last 15 games. The most recent win over the Los Angeles Lakers was the best of the season, getting a game-winning three from Andrew Nembhard at the buzzer. They overcome a fourth-quarter double-digit deficit to win that game, and this club looks much better than anyone could have anticipated. Tyrese Haliburton has stepped into All-Star territory with his league-leading assist tally, and it pairs beautifully with Buddy Hield and Myles Turner. Everyone's been talking about how Hield and Turner are on the trade block, but that likely won't be the case if these winning ways continue. This is an interesting matchup for Hali as well because this is a revenge game against the team that surprisingly traded him last season.
The Kings (10-9) were the talk of the NBA when they had a seven-game winning streak, but they've gone on to lose three straight since then. The seven-game winning streak was the longest such streak in nearly 20 years for this franchise, and that correlates with another big accomplishment. It's been 20 years since this club reached the postseason, and it looks like this might be the year to break that. De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis have formed an elite duo, but the role players have stepped up as well. Harrison Barnes, Kevin Huerter and Malik Monk have all been great over the last three weeks, and it has them looking dangerous despite the most recent three-game slide.
These teams split their two meetings last season, with the road team winning both outings. With that said, the Kings have won three of four in this series in total.
Lakers Host Trail Blazers on Wednesday
The Los Angeles Lakers play host to the Portland Trail Blazers at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday.
The Trail Blazers (11-10) have been one of the biggest surprises in the NBA, but negative regression is starting to hit this team. They come into this matchup losing six of their last seven games. That directly correlates with a calf injury to Damian Lillard, and this is the same thing that happened last season. It's tough for any team to compete without their top scorer, especially when it's a guy who provides 30 points and seven assists per game. The only silver lining is that it's allowed some of these role players to step up. Jerami Grant and Anferenee Simons are in some of the best stretches of their careers right now, and it'll be exciting to pair those numbers with Dame's when he's ready to return.
The Lakers (7-12) have been much better over recent weeks, but Monday's loss was one of the most disturbing in recent memory. Los Angeles led by 17 points with nine minutes remaining against the Indiana Pacers and relinquished the lead on the game's final shot. Indiana finished that comeback on a 32-14 run, and it was sad to see this resurgent team fall apart at the buzzer. Los Angeles won five of their previous six games before that shattering defeat, and it's clear things are headed in the right direction. Russell Westbrook has been much better over recent weeks, while LeBron James just returned from injury. Having those two All-Stars play at that level is what's really important going forward, and they should be fine if they can rebound after such a devastating defeat.
These teams played on October 23, with Portland prevailing, 106-104. That gives the Trail Blazers six wins in their last nine matchups with the Lakers, dating back three years.
The Trail Blazers (11-10) have been one of the biggest surprises in the NBA, but negative regression is starting to hit this team. They come into this matchup losing six of their last seven games. That directly correlates with a calf injury to Damian Lillard, and this is the same thing that happened last season. It's tough for any team to compete without their top scorer, especially when it's a guy who provides 30 points and seven assists per game. The only silver lining is that it's allowed some of these role players to step up. Jerami Grant and Anferenee Simons are in some of the best stretches of their careers right now, and it'll be exciting to pair those numbers with Dame's when he's ready to return.
The Lakers (7-12) have been much better over recent weeks, but Monday's loss was one of the most disturbing in recent memory. Los Angeles led by 17 points with nine minutes remaining against the Indiana Pacers and relinquished the lead on the game's final shot. Indiana finished that comeback on a 32-14 run, and it was sad to see this resurgent team fall apart at the buzzer. Los Angeles won five of their previous six games before that shattering defeat, and it's clear things are headed in the right direction. Russell Westbrook has been much better over recent weeks, while LeBron James just returned from injury. Having those two All-Stars play at that level is what's really important going forward, and they should be fine if they can rebound after such a devastating defeat.
These teams played on October 23, with Portland prevailing, 106-104. That gives the Trail Blazers six wins in their last nine matchups with the Lakers, dating back three years.