Thunder, Pacers Collide In Pivotal Matchup
The Indiana Pacers will host the Oklahoma City Thunder at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Friday.
The Pacers (33-44) have their backs against the wall when it comes to reaching the Play-in Tournament given they enter Friday’s action 3.5 games behind the Chicago Bulls, the 10th-placed team in the Eastern Conference standings. Indiana is coming off a 149-136 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday. Bennedict Mathurin recorded 29 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two steals for Indiana. Andrew Nembhard thrived as a playmaker and dished out 15 assists and added 15 points. Aaron Nesmith posted 22 points, three assists and three steals. Jordan Nwora recorded 18 points, two rebounds and two assists. Jalen Smith had 17 points coming off the bench. Oshae Brissett and T.J. McConnell posted 12 points each. Indiana has gone 19-19 at home and enters this game riding a four-game losing skid.
Myles Turner (back), Buddy Hield (illness), Tyrese Haliburton (ankle) and Chris Duarte (ankle) are all game-time decisions for Friday. Kendall Brown (lower leg) is out for the season.
The Thunder (38-39) have been better than anyone could’ve predicted and are alive in the race for a spot in the Play-in Tournament of the Western Conference. However, it’s a brutal fight with the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans, and they need all the wins they can get to keep their chances alive. Oklahoma City is coming off a 107-106 win over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday. Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 27 points, eight rebounds, six assists and a block, in 37 minutes. Luguentz Dort followed up with 20 points, six rebounds and three steals, while Josh Giddey added 18 points, five rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Thunder shot 44.8 percent from the field, including 10-of-29 from deep. Oklahoma City enters this game having won two of its last three games while owning a 15-23 record on the road.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (ankle) and Lindy Waters (foot) are game-time calls for Friday. Chet Holmgren (foot) and Kenrich Williams (wrist) are out for the season.
The Pacers (33-44) have their backs against the wall when it comes to reaching the Play-in Tournament given they enter Friday’s action 3.5 games behind the Chicago Bulls, the 10th-placed team in the Eastern Conference standings. Indiana is coming off a 149-136 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday. Bennedict Mathurin recorded 29 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two steals for Indiana. Andrew Nembhard thrived as a playmaker and dished out 15 assists and added 15 points. Aaron Nesmith posted 22 points, three assists and three steals. Jordan Nwora recorded 18 points, two rebounds and two assists. Jalen Smith had 17 points coming off the bench. Oshae Brissett and T.J. McConnell posted 12 points each. Indiana has gone 19-19 at home and enters this game riding a four-game losing skid.
Myles Turner (back), Buddy Hield (illness), Tyrese Haliburton (ankle) and Chris Duarte (ankle) are all game-time decisions for Friday. Kendall Brown (lower leg) is out for the season.
The Thunder (38-39) have been better than anyone could’ve predicted and are alive in the race for a spot in the Play-in Tournament of the Western Conference. However, it’s a brutal fight with the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans, and they need all the wins they can get to keep their chances alive. Oklahoma City is coming off a 107-106 win over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday. Jalen Williams led the Thunder with 27 points, eight rebounds, six assists and a block, in 37 minutes. Luguentz Dort followed up with 20 points, six rebounds and three steals, while Josh Giddey added 18 points, five rebounds, seven assists and a steal. The Thunder shot 44.8 percent from the field, including 10-of-29 from deep. Oklahoma City enters this game having won two of its last three games while owning a 15-23 record on the road.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (ankle) and Lindy Waters (foot) are game-time calls for Friday. Chet Holmgren (foot) and Kenrich Williams (wrist) are out for the season.
Raptors Aim To Extend Run Against 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers will host the Toronto Raptors at Wells Fargo Center on Friday.
The 76ers (50-26) are quite likely to end the regular season with the third seed in the Eastern Conference, as they are 5.0 games behind the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks while also holding a 6.5-game lead over the fifth-placed New York Knicks. Philadelphia is coming off a 116-108 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, a win that snapped a three-game losing streak. Joel Embiid paced the 76ers with 25 points, supplementing them with nine rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Tyrese Maxey managed 22 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. De'Anthony Melton contributed 17 points, six rebounds and one assist. Harden generated a 15-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and three steals. Georges Niang offered 14 points, two rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal. Tobias Harris finished with 13 points, four rebounds, two assists and one steal. The 76ers have gone 27-11 at home.
The 76ers are posting a clean bill of health ahead of Friday’s contest.
The Raptors (38-38) have six games left in their schedule and hold a 4.0-game lead over the 11th-placed Washington Wizards, so it seems it’d take a massive meltdown to see them out of the Play-in Tournament. Toronto is coming off a 106-92 win over the Miami Heat on Tuesday. Pascal Siakam led the Raptors with 26 points, nine rebounds, five assists and a block, in 37 minutes. Scottie Barnes totaled 22 points, seven rebounds, 12 assists and three steals, while O.G. Anunoby added 22 points, three rebounds, five assists and a steal. The Raptors shot 48.4 percent from the field, including 8-of-36 from deep. The Raptors have gone 12-24 on the road but enter this game on a three-game winning run.
The Raptors are listing Will Barton (ankle), Gary Trent (elbow), Joe Wieskamp (hamstring) and Dalano Banton (thumb) as game-time calls. Otto Porter (foot) is out for the rest of the season.
The 76ers (50-26) are quite likely to end the regular season with the third seed in the Eastern Conference, as they are 5.0 games behind the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks while also holding a 6.5-game lead over the fifth-placed New York Knicks. Philadelphia is coming off a 116-108 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, a win that snapped a three-game losing streak. Joel Embiid paced the 76ers with 25 points, supplementing them with nine rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Tyrese Maxey managed 22 points, four rebounds, four assists and two steals. De'Anthony Melton contributed 17 points, six rebounds and one assist. Harden generated a 15-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and three steals. Georges Niang offered 14 points, two rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal. Tobias Harris finished with 13 points, four rebounds, two assists and one steal. The 76ers have gone 27-11 at home.
The 76ers are posting a clean bill of health ahead of Friday’s contest.
The Raptors (38-38) have six games left in their schedule and hold a 4.0-game lead over the 11th-placed Washington Wizards, so it seems it’d take a massive meltdown to see them out of the Play-in Tournament. Toronto is coming off a 106-92 win over the Miami Heat on Tuesday. Pascal Siakam led the Raptors with 26 points, nine rebounds, five assists and a block, in 37 minutes. Scottie Barnes totaled 22 points, seven rebounds, 12 assists and three steals, while O.G. Anunoby added 22 points, three rebounds, five assists and a steal. The Raptors shot 48.4 percent from the field, including 8-of-36 from deep. The Raptors have gone 12-24 on the road but enter this game on a three-game winning run.
The Raptors are listing Will Barton (ankle), Gary Trent (elbow), Joe Wieskamp (hamstring) and Dalano Banton (thumb) as game-time calls. Otto Porter (foot) is out for the rest of the season.
Magic, Wizards Battle In Duel Of Desperate Teams
The Washington Wizards will host the Orlando Magic at Capital One Arena on Friday.
The Wizards (34-42) are in a tough spot right now since they enter Friday’s action sitting two games behind the 10th-placed Chicago Bulls in the race for the final spot in the Play-in Tournament. Washington is coming off a huge 130-111 win over the Boston Celtics on Tuesday, though. Kristaps Porzingis led the way for the Wizards with 32 points, 12 rebounds and six assists. Deni Avdija also had a double-double and finished with 25 points and 10 rebounds while also adding five dimes. Corey Kispert had 15 points, two rebounds and two assists. Monte Morris finished with 19 points and nine assists, but he also added three rebounds and two blocks. Kendrick Nunn posted 12 points coming off the bench. The Wizards have won two of their last three and own a 18-19 mark at home.
The Wizards are listing Bradley Beal (knee), Kyle Kuzma (ankle) and Daniel Gafford (foot) as game-time decisions.
The Magic (32-44) thought they had a shot at reaching the Play-in Tournament, but they enter Friday’s action sitting 4.0 games behind the 10th-placed Chicago Bulls. Thus, winning here against the Wizards is a must if they want to keep their chances alive for one more game. Orlando is coming off a 113-108 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday, a result that snapped their three-game winning streak. The Magic were led by Franz Wagner, finishing with 25 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals. Paolo Banchero provided 24 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. Wendell Carter collected 14 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two blocks, while Cole Anthony led the bench with 10 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals. The Magic have gone 13-25 on the road this season.
The Magic are listing Kevon Harris (elbow) as a game-time decision, while Jonathan Isaac (thigh) is out for the rest of the season.
The Wizards (34-42) are in a tough spot right now since they enter Friday’s action sitting two games behind the 10th-placed Chicago Bulls in the race for the final spot in the Play-in Tournament. Washington is coming off a huge 130-111 win over the Boston Celtics on Tuesday, though. Kristaps Porzingis led the way for the Wizards with 32 points, 12 rebounds and six assists. Deni Avdija also had a double-double and finished with 25 points and 10 rebounds while also adding five dimes. Corey Kispert had 15 points, two rebounds and two assists. Monte Morris finished with 19 points and nine assists, but he also added three rebounds and two blocks. Kendrick Nunn posted 12 points coming off the bench. The Wizards have won two of their last three and own a 18-19 mark at home.
The Wizards are listing Bradley Beal (knee), Kyle Kuzma (ankle) and Daniel Gafford (foot) as game-time decisions.
The Magic (32-44) thought they had a shot at reaching the Play-in Tournament, but they enter Friday’s action sitting 4.0 games behind the 10th-placed Chicago Bulls. Thus, winning here against the Wizards is a must if they want to keep their chances alive for one more game. Orlando is coming off a 113-108 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday, a result that snapped their three-game winning streak. The Magic were led by Franz Wagner, finishing with 25 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals. Paolo Banchero provided 24 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. Wendell Carter collected 14 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two blocks, while Cole Anthony led the bench with 10 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals. The Magic have gone 13-25 on the road this season.
The Magic are listing Kevon Harris (elbow) as a game-time decision, while Jonathan Isaac (thigh) is out for the rest of the season.
Bulls and Hornets Face Off in Charlotte
The Chicago Bulls take on the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on Friday night.
The Bulls (36-40) are trying to ensure they stay within the top 10 in the Eastern Conference standings, but they haven't helped their cause by dropping consecutive games. Their most recent stumble came Wednesday night, when they dropped a 121-110 decision to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Nikola Vucevic's 29-point, 12-rebound double-double, which included six assists, led the Bulls. DeMar DeRozan's contributions included 22 points, five assists and four rebounds. Coby White's night included 17 points and nine assists. Zach LaVine registered 16 points, six assists, three rebounds and three steals.
The Bulls will list Alex Caruso (foot), Andre Drummond (personal) and Javonte Green (knee) as questionable for Friday's game.
The Hornets (26-51) were eliminated from postseason contention a good while back, but they've been quite adept at playing spoiler recently with four wins in the last five games. Their most recent success came at the expense of the Oklahoma City Thunder, which they toppled by a 137-134 score Tuesday night. P.J. Washington led the way with 43 points, adding six rebounds, five assists and one steal. Theo Maledon furnished 19 points, nine assists, four rebounds and four blocks. Svi Mykhailiuk totaled 18 points, eight assists, five rebounds, three steals and two blocks. Nick Richards and JT Thor generated matching 14-point contributions while recording 11 and six rebounds, respectively. Kai Jones mustered a 12-point, 14-rebound double-double that included one assist.
The Hornets will list Gordon Hayward (thumb), Kelly Oubre (shoulder) and Dennis Smith (toe) as questionable for Friday's contest. Terry Rozier (foot) and Cody Martin (knee) will remain out.
Friday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Bulls hold a 2-1 series lead.
The Bulls (36-40) are trying to ensure they stay within the top 10 in the Eastern Conference standings, but they haven't helped their cause by dropping consecutive games. Their most recent stumble came Wednesday night, when they dropped a 121-110 decision to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Nikola Vucevic's 29-point, 12-rebound double-double, which included six assists, led the Bulls. DeMar DeRozan's contributions included 22 points, five assists and four rebounds. Coby White's night included 17 points and nine assists. Zach LaVine registered 16 points, six assists, three rebounds and three steals.
The Bulls will list Alex Caruso (foot), Andre Drummond (personal) and Javonte Green (knee) as questionable for Friday's game.
The Hornets (26-51) were eliminated from postseason contention a good while back, but they've been quite adept at playing spoiler recently with four wins in the last five games. Their most recent success came at the expense of the Oklahoma City Thunder, which they toppled by a 137-134 score Tuesday night. P.J. Washington led the way with 43 points, adding six rebounds, five assists and one steal. Theo Maledon furnished 19 points, nine assists, four rebounds and four blocks. Svi Mykhailiuk totaled 18 points, eight assists, five rebounds, three steals and two blocks. Nick Richards and JT Thor generated matching 14-point contributions while recording 11 and six rebounds, respectively. Kai Jones mustered a 12-point, 14-rebound double-double that included one assist.
The Hornets will list Gordon Hayward (thumb), Kelly Oubre (shoulder) and Dennis Smith (toe) as questionable for Friday's contest. Terry Rozier (foot) and Cody Martin (knee) will remain out.
Friday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Bulls hold a 2-1 series lead.
Jazz and Celtics Meet in Beantown
The Utah Jazz take on the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Friday night.
The Jazz (36-40) enter the night just 1.5 games out of the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference, but they've also lost four of their last five games. However, their one win during that span came their last time on the court, when they toppled the San Antonio Spurs by a 128-117 score on Wednesday night. Talen Horton-Tucker paced the Jazz with 41 points, adding five assists, four rebounds and one steal. Kris Dunn totaled 17 points, five assists, four rebounds and two steals. Udoka Azubuike posted 12 points, five rebounds and one assist. Johnny Juzang and Ochai Agbaji generated matching 10-point tallies while recording four rebounds and three assists, respectively.
The Jazz will list Kelly Olynyk (illness) as questionable for Friday's game. Collin Sexton (hamstring), Jordan Clarkson (finger), Lauri Markkanen (hand) and Rudy Gay (back) will remain out.
The Celtics (53-24) have managed to prevail in seven of their last 10 games, and their most recent win, a 140-99 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday night, moved them within two games of the top of the Eastern Conference. Against Milwaukee, Jayson Tatum led the way with 40 points, adding eight rebounds and one assist. Jaylen Brown delivered 30 points, five rebounds, five assists and one steal. Al Horford and Malcolm Brogdon produced 14 points each while recording four rebounds and five assists, respectively, and Brogdon adding four steals. Marcus Smart supplied 10 points, eight assists, four rebounds and one steal.
The Celtics will list Payton Pritchard (heel) as questionable for Friday's game.
Friday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Jazz holds a 1-0 series lead.
The Jazz (36-40) enter the night just 1.5 games out of the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference, but they've also lost four of their last five games. However, their one win during that span came their last time on the court, when they toppled the San Antonio Spurs by a 128-117 score on Wednesday night. Talen Horton-Tucker paced the Jazz with 41 points, adding five assists, four rebounds and one steal. Kris Dunn totaled 17 points, five assists, four rebounds and two steals. Udoka Azubuike posted 12 points, five rebounds and one assist. Johnny Juzang and Ochai Agbaji generated matching 10-point tallies while recording four rebounds and three assists, respectively.
The Jazz will list Kelly Olynyk (illness) as questionable for Friday's game. Collin Sexton (hamstring), Jordan Clarkson (finger), Lauri Markkanen (hand) and Rudy Gay (back) will remain out.
The Celtics (53-24) have managed to prevail in seven of their last 10 games, and their most recent win, a 140-99 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday night, moved them within two games of the top of the Eastern Conference. Against Milwaukee, Jayson Tatum led the way with 40 points, adding eight rebounds and one assist. Jaylen Brown delivered 30 points, five rebounds, five assists and one steal. Al Horford and Malcolm Brogdon produced 14 points each while recording four rebounds and five assists, respectively, and Brogdon adding four steals. Marcus Smart supplied 10 points, eight assists, four rebounds and one steal.
The Celtics will list Payton Pritchard (heel) as questionable for Friday's game.
Friday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Jazz holds a 1-0 series lead.
Knicks and Cavaliers Set for Midwest Battle
The New York Knicks take on the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Friday night.
The Knicks (44-33) are firmly in the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference for the moment and head into Friday's contest having won two straight games. Their most recent success came Wednesday night, when they handed the Miami Heat a 101-92 loss. Immanuel Quickley led the way with 24 points, adding four assists, one rebound and three steals. Quentin Grimes supplied 23 points, eight boards, four assists and one steal. Josh Hart pitched in 13 points, eight rebounds, three assists and two steals. RJ Barrett and Jalen Brunson generated matching 12-point contributions while recording five and two rebounds, respectively.
The Knicks will list Derrick Rose (illness) as questionable for Friday's game. DaQuan Jeffries (calf), Julius Randle (ankle) and Duane Washington (hip) will remain out.
The Cavaliers (48-29) have clinched a playoff berth and are relatively secure in their No. 4 slotting at the moment, but they'll head into Friday's game having dropped a narrow120-118 decision to the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 44 points, complementing them with five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Darius Garland furnished 27 points, five assists, two rebounds and one block. Evan Mobley generated a 20-point, 15-rebound double-double that included six assists, four blocks and one steal.
The Cavaliers will list Dean Wade (illness), Raul Neto (hamstring) and Jarrett Allen (groin) as questionable for Friday's game. Isaac Okoro (knee) and Danny Green (COVID-19 protocols) will remain out.
Friday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Knicks hold a 2-1 series lead.
The Knicks (44-33) are firmly in the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference for the moment and head into Friday's contest having won two straight games. Their most recent success came Wednesday night, when they handed the Miami Heat a 101-92 loss. Immanuel Quickley led the way with 24 points, adding four assists, one rebound and three steals. Quentin Grimes supplied 23 points, eight boards, four assists and one steal. Josh Hart pitched in 13 points, eight rebounds, three assists and two steals. RJ Barrett and Jalen Brunson generated matching 12-point contributions while recording five and two rebounds, respectively.
The Knicks will list Derrick Rose (illness) as questionable for Friday's game. DaQuan Jeffries (calf), Julius Randle (ankle) and Duane Washington (hip) will remain out.
The Cavaliers (48-29) have clinched a playoff berth and are relatively secure in their No. 4 slotting at the moment, but they'll head into Friday's game having dropped a narrow120-118 decision to the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 44 points, complementing them with five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Darius Garland furnished 27 points, five assists, two rebounds and one block. Evan Mobley generated a 20-point, 15-rebound double-double that included six assists, four blocks and one steal.
The Cavaliers will list Dean Wade (illness), Raul Neto (hamstring) and Jarrett Allen (groin) as questionable for Friday's game. Isaac Okoro (knee) and Danny Green (COVID-19 protocols) will remain out.
Friday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Knicks hold a 2-1 series lead.
Hawks and Nets Tangle in Big Apple
The Atlanta Hawks take on the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on Friday night.
The Hawks (38-38) check into the night slotted into the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference and fresh off a 120-118 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night. Dejounte Murray paced the Hawks with 29 points, supplementing them with five assists, four rebounds and two steals. Onyeka Okongwu offered 21 points, nine rebounds and three blocks. Young offered a 16-point, 10-assist double-double that included one rebound and one steal. Clint Capela mustered a 12-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists. John Collins and Bogdan Bogdanovic managed matching 12-point, two-assist tallies, with Collins also compiling seven rebounds. Saddiq Bey delivered 11 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Hawks will list De'Andre Hunter (hamstring) and Jalen Johnson (hamstring) as questionable for Friday's game.
The Nets (41-35) are presently in the No. 6 slot in the East themselves, but they'll check in having dropped six of their last 10 games. Their most recent time on the floor did result in a win, however, as they toppled the Houston Rockets by a 123-114 score Wednesday night. Cameron Johnson led the Nets with 31 points, adding seven rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block. Mikal Bridges delivered 27 points, six boards, six assists and one block. Spencer Dinwiddie generated a 20-point, 11-assist double-double that included four rebounds and one steal. Nicolas Claxton mustered an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists, three blocks and one steal.
The Nets will list Day'Ron Sharpe (ankle) as questionable for Friday's game.
Friday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 2-1 series lead.
The Hawks (38-38) check into the night slotted into the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference and fresh off a 120-118 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night. Dejounte Murray paced the Hawks with 29 points, supplementing them with five assists, four rebounds and two steals. Onyeka Okongwu offered 21 points, nine rebounds and three blocks. Young offered a 16-point, 10-assist double-double that included one rebound and one steal. Clint Capela mustered a 12-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists. John Collins and Bogdan Bogdanovic managed matching 12-point, two-assist tallies, with Collins also compiling seven rebounds. Saddiq Bey delivered 11 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Hawks will list De'Andre Hunter (hamstring) and Jalen Johnson (hamstring) as questionable for Friday's game.
The Nets (41-35) are presently in the No. 6 slot in the East themselves, but they'll check in having dropped six of their last 10 games. Their most recent time on the floor did result in a win, however, as they toppled the Houston Rockets by a 123-114 score Wednesday night. Cameron Johnson led the Nets with 31 points, adding seven rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block. Mikal Bridges delivered 27 points, six boards, six assists and one block. Spencer Dinwiddie generated a 20-point, 11-assist double-double that included four rebounds and one steal. Nicolas Claxton mustered an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists, three blocks and one steal.
The Nets will list Day'Ron Sharpe (ankle) as questionable for Friday's game.
Friday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 2-1 series lead.
Slumping Rockets Host Struggling Pistons
By Dan Bruno
The Houston Rockets play host to the Detroit Pistons at Toyota Center on Friday evening.
The Rockets (18-59) have dropped their last seven games. They have a chance to turn things around as they kick off a three-game home stand with the hopes of improving on their, 12-26, home record. Jalen Green leads the team, averaging 21.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game. Kevin Porter averages 18.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.3 steals, while Alperen Sengun averages 14.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game. The Rockets average 110.4 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, and they give up an average of 118.9 points per game, which is third-most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Pistons (16-60) have also dropped seven straight games. They look to get back on track as they face the second game of a three-game road trip with a chance to improve on their, 7-30, road record. They continue to deal with injury trouble, as Bojan Bogdanovic (Achilles), Alec Burks (foot), Killian Hayes (leg) and Rodney McGruder (foot) are listed as questionable, while Hamidou Diallo (ankle) and Isaiah Stewart (shoulder) are out. Jaden Ivey averages 15.8 points, 3.9 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game. Marvin Bagley is averaging 12.0 points and 6.7 rebounds, while Jalen Duren averages 8.9 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game. The Pistons average 110.7 points per game, which is third fewest in the league, while they give up an average of 118.6 points, which is fourth-most in the league.
The Rockets (18-59) have dropped their last seven games. They have a chance to turn things around as they kick off a three-game home stand with the hopes of improving on their, 12-26, home record. Jalen Green leads the team, averaging 21.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game. Kevin Porter averages 18.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.3 steals, while Alperen Sengun averages 14.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game. The Rockets average 110.4 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, and they give up an average of 118.9 points per game, which is third-most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Pistons (16-60) have also dropped seven straight games. They look to get back on track as they face the second game of a three-game road trip with a chance to improve on their, 7-30, road record. They continue to deal with injury trouble, as Bojan Bogdanovic (Achilles), Alec Burks (foot), Killian Hayes (leg) and Rodney McGruder (foot) are listed as questionable, while Hamidou Diallo (ankle) and Isaiah Stewart (shoulder) are out. Jaden Ivey averages 15.8 points, 3.9 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game. Marvin Bagley is averaging 12.0 points and 6.7 rebounds, while Jalen Duren averages 8.9 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game. The Pistons average 110.7 points per game, which is third fewest in the league, while they give up an average of 118.6 points, which is fourth-most in the league.
Timberwolves Look To Get Back On Track At Home
By Dan Bruno
The Minnesota Timberwolves play host to the Los Angeles Lakers at Target Center on Friday evening.
The Timberwolves (39-38) saw a four-game win streak come to an end with a loss in their last outing. They look to get back on track as they kick off a two-game home stand with the chance to build on their, 21-17, home record. Unfortunately, the continue to deal with injury trouble, as Kyle Anderson (illness), Anthony Edwards (illness) and Karl-Anthony Towns (calf) are listed as probable for action, while Taurean Prince (illness), Jaylen Nowell (knee) and Austin Rivers (illness) are listed as questionable. Rudy Gobert is playing well, averaging 13.7 points, 11.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.4 blocks per game. Mike Conley is averaging 12.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.3 steals, while Jaden McDaniels averages 12.1 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game. The Timberwolves average 115.7 points per game, but they give up an average of 115.9 points against.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (38-38) have won four of their last five games and hope to keep it rolling as they face the second game of a five-game road trip with the opportunity to improve on their, 17-20, road record. Anthony Davis (foot) is averaging 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks across five games and is listed as probable for action. LeBron James (foot) looked good in two consecutive outings but is listed as questionable for action. D'Angelo Russell averages 18.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists, while Austin Reaves is averaging 12.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. The Lakers average 116.4 points per game, and they give up an average of 116.6 points against.
The Timberwolves (39-38) saw a four-game win streak come to an end with a loss in their last outing. They look to get back on track as they kick off a two-game home stand with the chance to build on their, 21-17, home record. Unfortunately, the continue to deal with injury trouble, as Kyle Anderson (illness), Anthony Edwards (illness) and Karl-Anthony Towns (calf) are listed as probable for action, while Taurean Prince (illness), Jaylen Nowell (knee) and Austin Rivers (illness) are listed as questionable. Rudy Gobert is playing well, averaging 13.7 points, 11.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.4 blocks per game. Mike Conley is averaging 12.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.3 steals, while Jaden McDaniels averages 12.1 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game. The Timberwolves average 115.7 points per game, but they give up an average of 115.9 points against.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (38-38) have won four of their last five games and hope to keep it rolling as they face the second game of a five-game road trip with the opportunity to improve on their, 17-20, road record. Anthony Davis (foot) is averaging 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks across five games and is listed as probable for action. LeBron James (foot) looked good in two consecutive outings but is listed as questionable for action. D'Angelo Russell averages 18.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists, while Austin Reaves is averaging 12.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. The Lakers average 116.4 points per game, and they give up an average of 116.6 points against.
Clippers Clash With Grizzlies For Second Straight Game
By Dan Bruno
The Memphis Grizzlies play host to the Los Angeles Clippers at FedEx Forum on Friday evening.
This marks the second of back-to-back meetings between the Clippers and Grizzlies in Memphis, after the Clippers walked away with an impressive, 141-132, win in their game on Wednesday. Despite missing Kawhi Leonard (personal) and Paul George (knee), Russell Westbrook stepped up with 36 points to lead the way for the Clippers. The Grizzlies jumped to a quick 13-point lead in the game, but the Clippers cut it to a one-point difference after one quarter. The visitors kept the momentum going and rallied to a six-point advantage by halftime. The Grizzlies bounced back in the third and tied it up at 105, heading into the final frame, but the Clippers reclaimed control mid way through the fourth and held on to close out their second straight win.
Westbrook tallied four rebounds, 10 assists and two blocks to go with his game-high 36 points. Robert Covington followed up with 27 points, four rebounds, two assists and three steals, while Bones Hyland added 20 points, five rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block. Meanwhile, Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 36 points, four rebounds, nine assists and three steals, in 35 minutes. Dillon Brooks followed up with 30 points, six rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, while Santi Aldama added 17 points, eight rebounds, a steal and a block.
The Clippers (41-36) continue to deal with injury trouble, as Marcus Morris (COVID-19), Paul George (knee) remains out, while Kawhi Leonard (personal) is listed as questionable. The Grizzlies (48-28) remain without Steven Adams (knee) and Ziaire Williams (foot), but they also hope to remain strong at home, where they are, 33-6, on the season.
This marks the second of back-to-back meetings between the Clippers and Grizzlies in Memphis, after the Clippers walked away with an impressive, 141-132, win in their game on Wednesday. Despite missing Kawhi Leonard (personal) and Paul George (knee), Russell Westbrook stepped up with 36 points to lead the way for the Clippers. The Grizzlies jumped to a quick 13-point lead in the game, but the Clippers cut it to a one-point difference after one quarter. The visitors kept the momentum going and rallied to a six-point advantage by halftime. The Grizzlies bounced back in the third and tied it up at 105, heading into the final frame, but the Clippers reclaimed control mid way through the fourth and held on to close out their second straight win.
Westbrook tallied four rebounds, 10 assists and two blocks to go with his game-high 36 points. Robert Covington followed up with 27 points, four rebounds, two assists and three steals, while Bones Hyland added 20 points, five rebounds, six assists, a steal and a block. Meanwhile, Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 36 points, four rebounds, nine assists and three steals, in 35 minutes. Dillon Brooks followed up with 30 points, six rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block, while Santi Aldama added 17 points, eight rebounds, a steal and a block.
The Clippers (41-36) continue to deal with injury trouble, as Marcus Morris (COVID-19), Paul George (knee) remains out, while Kawhi Leonard (personal) is listed as questionable. The Grizzlies (48-28) remain without Steven Adams (knee) and Ziaire Williams (foot), but they also hope to remain strong at home, where they are, 33-6, on the season.
Warriors Host Spurs on Friday
The Golden State Warriors play host to the San Antonio Spurs at Chase Center on Friday.
The Spurs (19-57) come into this matchup losing five straight and seven of their last eight games in total. Stretches like this have been common all season, and it's clear San Antonio wants to finish with the worst record in the NBA. Having the most lottery balls is more important than any other year because Victor Wemenyama looks like a generational player at the top of the draft board. The Spurs continue to rest players every night to land that spot, and they now sit 14th in the west. There are still two teams behind them, though, with the Houston Rockets back 1.5 games and the Detroit Pistons behind by three games. It'll be tough to catch those guys with how they've been playing but don't look for many wins from any of them in these closing 10 days.
The Warriors (40-37) come into this matchup winning four of their last five games. That's a scary sight for the rest of the NBA because the defending champs have been struggling to find their footing all season. What's kept them alive is their ridiculous home form, posting a 31-8 record at Chase Center this year. That does bring up the issue, though, because their 9-29 road record is truly embarrassing. It's strange to see that from a championship contender, but the recent hot streak has moved the Warriors up the Western Conference standings. Golden State is now sixth in the west, but they have four teams within two games behind them.
Golden State has won the first two matchups in this season series, winning both games by at least 31 points.
The Spurs (19-57) come into this matchup losing five straight and seven of their last eight games in total. Stretches like this have been common all season, and it's clear San Antonio wants to finish with the worst record in the NBA. Having the most lottery balls is more important than any other year because Victor Wemenyama looks like a generational player at the top of the draft board. The Spurs continue to rest players every night to land that spot, and they now sit 14th in the west. There are still two teams behind them, though, with the Houston Rockets back 1.5 games and the Detroit Pistons behind by three games. It'll be tough to catch those guys with how they've been playing but don't look for many wins from any of them in these closing 10 days.
The Warriors (40-37) come into this matchup winning four of their last five games. That's a scary sight for the rest of the NBA because the defending champs have been struggling to find their footing all season. What's kept them alive is their ridiculous home form, posting a 31-8 record at Chase Center this year. That does bring up the issue, though, because their 9-29 road record is truly embarrassing. It's strange to see that from a championship contender, but the recent hot streak has moved the Warriors up the Western Conference standings. Golden State is now sixth in the west, but they have four teams within two games behind them.
Golden State has won the first two matchups in this season series, winning both games by at least 31 points.
Blazers Host Kings on Friday
The Portland Trail Blazers play host to the Sacramento Kings at Moda Center on Friday.
The Kings (46-30) grabbed a blowout win over these Blazers on Wednesday, and that marked two huge milestones for this team. Keegan Murray set the rookie record of three-pointers in a season, but more importantly, this club clinched a playoff berth! This team hasn't made the postseason in 17 years, and it's quite a testament to this young core to climb so high. Sacramento sits third in the west, and they're only two games behind the Memphis Grizzlies in second. It's hard to believe that a team that hasn't made the postseason in two decades will have homecourt, but it's a present for these dedicated fans that have been waiting for this moment.
The Trail Blazers (32-44) come into this matchup losing 10 of their last 11 games. They've also thrown in the white flag, sitting Damian Lillard, Jusuf Nurkic, Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons for the remainder of the season. They've also lost three of the last four games by at least 28 points, and it's going to be tough for this dismantled roster to win a game over the final six outings. The only silver lining is that Shaedon Sharpe is getting some time to develop as the primary playmaker. He had 30 points, seven rebounds and seven assists on Wednesday and truly looks like a building piece for the future. It's sad that's what this season has turned into, but Portland fans are getting used to it.
These teams just played on Wednesday, with Sacramento riding a 70-34 second half to a 120-80 win. They now have four wins in their last six meetings with Portland.
The Kings (46-30) grabbed a blowout win over these Blazers on Wednesday, and that marked two huge milestones for this team. Keegan Murray set the rookie record of three-pointers in a season, but more importantly, this club clinched a playoff berth! This team hasn't made the postseason in 17 years, and it's quite a testament to this young core to climb so high. Sacramento sits third in the west, and they're only two games behind the Memphis Grizzlies in second. It's hard to believe that a team that hasn't made the postseason in two decades will have homecourt, but it's a present for these dedicated fans that have been waiting for this moment.
The Trail Blazers (32-44) come into this matchup losing 10 of their last 11 games. They've also thrown in the white flag, sitting Damian Lillard, Jusuf Nurkic, Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons for the remainder of the season. They've also lost three of the last four games by at least 28 points, and it's going to be tough for this dismantled roster to win a game over the final six outings. The only silver lining is that Shaedon Sharpe is getting some time to develop as the primary playmaker. He had 30 points, seven rebounds and seven assists on Wednesday and truly looks like a building piece for the future. It's sad that's what this season has turned into, but Portland fans are getting used to it.
These teams just played on Wednesday, with Sacramento riding a 70-34 second half to a 120-80 win. They now have four wins in their last six meetings with Portland.
Suns Host Nuggets on Friday
The Phoenix Suns play host to the Denver Nuggets at Footprint Center on Friday.
The Nuggets (51-25) come into this matchup winning four of their last five games, and they've all but locked up the top spot in the Western Conference. This club had high expectations at the beginning of the season, but no one could have seen this coming. Denver is now 3.5 games clear of the Memphis Grizzlies in second, and three more wins will secure them homecourt advantage throughout the Western Conference playoffs. That's a huge deal for this team, too, because the Nuggets own a 31-7 record at Ball Arena. That's one of the best marks in the league, but their 19-18 road record could be better. As long as Nikola Jokic is out there providing his usual 30-point triple-doubles, this team could beat anyone.
The Suns (41-35) come into this matchup amid a three-game winning streak. One of their most impressive wins of the season happened on Wednesday, holding off a scorching-hot Minnesota Timberwolves team. Most importantly, they got Kevin Durant back from his ankle issue and got that win, despite the superstar struggling. That victory also moved the Suns up to fourth in the west, holding the tiebreaker over the Los Angeles Clippers. Those two teams are also 1.5 games clear of the play-in spots, and that's one of the major goals for both of these teams. As long as KD, Devin Booker and Chris Paul are healthy, this is a team no one wants to face in the postseason.
This is the third and final meeting between these teams, with Denver winning the first two games.
The Nuggets (51-25) come into this matchup winning four of their last five games, and they've all but locked up the top spot in the Western Conference. This club had high expectations at the beginning of the season, but no one could have seen this coming. Denver is now 3.5 games clear of the Memphis Grizzlies in second, and three more wins will secure them homecourt advantage throughout the Western Conference playoffs. That's a huge deal for this team, too, because the Nuggets own a 31-7 record at Ball Arena. That's one of the best marks in the league, but their 19-18 road record could be better. As long as Nikola Jokic is out there providing his usual 30-point triple-doubles, this team could beat anyone.
The Suns (41-35) come into this matchup amid a three-game winning streak. One of their most impressive wins of the season happened on Wednesday, holding off a scorching-hot Minnesota Timberwolves team. Most importantly, they got Kevin Durant back from his ankle issue and got that win, despite the superstar struggling. That victory also moved the Suns up to fourth in the west, holding the tiebreaker over the Los Angeles Clippers. Those two teams are also 1.5 games clear of the play-in spots, and that's one of the major goals for both of these teams. As long as KD, Devin Booker and Chris Paul are healthy, this is a team no one wants to face in the postseason.
This is the third and final meeting between these teams, with Denver winning the first two games.