Raptors Aim To Snap Drought Against Hornets
The Charlotte Hornets will host the Toronto Raptors at Spectrum Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Hornets (26-52) are coming off a 121-91 home loss to the Chicago Bulls on Friday. James Bouknight paced the Hornets with 22 points, supplementing them with six boards and four assists. Svi Mykhailiuk totaled 16 points, five assists, two rebounds and one steal. JT Thor managed 10 points and three rebounds. Charlotte has gone 13-25 at home but owns a 3-2 record in its last five games. That said, the team is already out of playoff contention and is thinking about the next season already.
Gordon Hayward (thumb), Kelly Oubre (shoulder), Terry Rozier (foot), Dennis Smith (toe), P.J. Washington (ankle) and Cody Martin (knee) are all questionable. LaMelo Ball (ankle) is out for the season.
The Raptors (38-39) are coming off a 117-110 road loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday. Scottie Barnes came close to a triple-double and finished with 29 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Fred VanVleet delivered 19 points, six assists and five rebounds. Jakob Poeltl recorded a double-double of 14 points and 10 boards. O.G. Anunoby posted 17 points, three rebounds and three assists. Pascal Siakam had 14 points, seven assists and four boards across 42 minutes. The Raptors have gone 3-2 in their last five, but they own a 12-25 record away from home. Plus, they’re riding a five-game losing streak away from home.
Will Barton (ankle) and Gary Trent (elbow) are game-time calls for Sunday, same as Dalano Banton (thumb). Otto Porter (foot) is out.
The Hornets (26-52) are coming off a 121-91 home loss to the Chicago Bulls on Friday. James Bouknight paced the Hornets with 22 points, supplementing them with six boards and four assists. Svi Mykhailiuk totaled 16 points, five assists, two rebounds and one steal. JT Thor managed 10 points and three rebounds. Charlotte has gone 13-25 at home but owns a 3-2 record in its last five games. That said, the team is already out of playoff contention and is thinking about the next season already.
Gordon Hayward (thumb), Kelly Oubre (shoulder), Terry Rozier (foot), Dennis Smith (toe), P.J. Washington (ankle) and Cody Martin (knee) are all questionable. LaMelo Ball (ankle) is out for the season.
The Raptors (38-39) are coming off a 117-110 road loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday. Scottie Barnes came close to a triple-double and finished with 29 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Fred VanVleet delivered 19 points, six assists and five rebounds. Jakob Poeltl recorded a double-double of 14 points and 10 boards. O.G. Anunoby posted 17 points, three rebounds and three assists. Pascal Siakam had 14 points, seven assists and four boards across 42 minutes. The Raptors have gone 3-2 in their last five, but they own a 12-25 record away from home. Plus, they’re riding a five-game losing streak away from home.
Will Barton (ankle) and Gary Trent (elbow) are game-time calls for Sunday, same as Dalano Banton (thumb). Otto Porter (foot) is out.
Grizzlies Looking To Extend Run, Visit Bulls
The Chicago Bulls will host the Memphis Grizzlies at United Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Bulls (37-40) are coming off a dominant 121-91 road win over the Charlotte Hornets on Friday. Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan co-led the Bulls with matching 23-point contributions while recording three rebounds apiece along with three and four assists, respectively. Nikola Vucevic delivered 21 points and eight boards. Patrick Williams netted 15 points. Coby White supplied 11 points, seven assists, five rebounds and one steal. The win over Charlotte snapped a two-game losing skid for a Bulls team that has gone 3-2 in their last five. Plus, the Bulls own a 20-18 record at home.
Alex Caruso (foot) and Javonte Green (knee) are game-time decisions. Justin Lewis and Lonzo Ball are out for the season due to knee injuries.
The Grizzlies (49-28) are coming off a 108-94 home win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday. Desmond Bane led the Grizzlies with 22 points, three rebounds, nine assists and three steals, in 38 minutes. Luke Kennard followed up with 17 points and six rebounds, while Xavier Tillman totaled 14 points, eight rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block. The Grizzlies shot 44.8 percent from the field, including 9-of-33 from deep. The Grizzlies have gone 15-22 on the road. They have been playing well overall of late, winning four of their last five contests.
John Konchar (hip) and Vince Williams (shoulder) are game-time calls for Sunday. Ziaire Williams (foot), Steven Adams (knee) and Brandon Clarke (Achilles) are out. Clarke is out for the rest of the season.
The Bulls (37-40) are coming off a dominant 121-91 road win over the Charlotte Hornets on Friday. Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan co-led the Bulls with matching 23-point contributions while recording three rebounds apiece along with three and four assists, respectively. Nikola Vucevic delivered 21 points and eight boards. Patrick Williams netted 15 points. Coby White supplied 11 points, seven assists, five rebounds and one steal. The win over Charlotte snapped a two-game losing skid for a Bulls team that has gone 3-2 in their last five. Plus, the Bulls own a 20-18 record at home.
Alex Caruso (foot) and Javonte Green (knee) are game-time decisions. Justin Lewis and Lonzo Ball are out for the season due to knee injuries.
The Grizzlies (49-28) are coming off a 108-94 home win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday. Desmond Bane led the Grizzlies with 22 points, three rebounds, nine assists and three steals, in 38 minutes. Luke Kennard followed up with 17 points and six rebounds, while Xavier Tillman totaled 14 points, eight rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block. The Grizzlies shot 44.8 percent from the field, including 9-of-33 from deep. The Grizzlies have gone 15-22 on the road. They have been playing well overall of late, winning four of their last five contests.
John Konchar (hip) and Vince Williams (shoulder) are game-time calls for Sunday. Ziaire Williams (foot), Steven Adams (knee) and Brandon Clarke (Achilles) are out. Clarke is out for the rest of the season.
Timberwolves Host Blazers In Need Of Wins
The Minnesota Timberwolves will host the Portland Trail Blazers at Target Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Timberwolves (39-39) are coming off a 123-111 home loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. Mike Conley led the Timberwolves with 25 points, three rebounds, seven assists and three steals, in 32 minutes. Karl-Anthony Towns followed up with 23 points, eight rebounds and three assists, while Rudy Gobert totaled 14 points, 11 rebounds and two steals. The Timberwolves shot 43.2 percent from the field, including 13-of-39 from deep. The Timberwolves have lost two games in a row but own a strong 21-18 record at home.
Austin Rivers (illness) and Jaylen Nowell (knee) are game-time calls. Naz Reid (wrist) is out for the rest of the season.
The Trail Blazers (32-45) are coming off a 138-114 home loss to the Sacramento Kings on Friday. They were led by Shaedon Sharpe, who tallied 27 points, three rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Drew Eubanks amassed 18 points, 10 rebounds and two steals. Skylar Mays generated 14 points, two rebounds and six assists, while Kevin Knox led the bench with nine points, four rebounds and five assists. The Blazers are not going to the playoffs this season and have shut down most of their regulars, something that would explain why they enter this contest on a five-game losing streak.
Anfernee Simons (foot), Nassir Little (ankle), Cam Reddish (back), Jusuf Nurkic (knee) and Jerami Grant (quadriceps) are all game-time calls. Keon Johnson (finger) and Ibou Badji (knee) are out. Damian Lillard (calf) and Justise Winslow (ankle) are out for the season.
The Timberwolves (39-39) are coming off a 123-111 home loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. Mike Conley led the Timberwolves with 25 points, three rebounds, seven assists and three steals, in 32 minutes. Karl-Anthony Towns followed up with 23 points, eight rebounds and three assists, while Rudy Gobert totaled 14 points, 11 rebounds and two steals. The Timberwolves shot 43.2 percent from the field, including 13-of-39 from deep. The Timberwolves have lost two games in a row but own a strong 21-18 record at home.
Austin Rivers (illness) and Jaylen Nowell (knee) are game-time calls. Naz Reid (wrist) is out for the rest of the season.
The Trail Blazers (32-45) are coming off a 138-114 home loss to the Sacramento Kings on Friday. They were led by Shaedon Sharpe, who tallied 27 points, three rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Drew Eubanks amassed 18 points, 10 rebounds and two steals. Skylar Mays generated 14 points, two rebounds and six assists, while Kevin Knox led the bench with nine points, four rebounds and five assists. The Blazers are not going to the playoffs this season and have shut down most of their regulars, something that would explain why they enter this contest on a five-game losing streak.
Anfernee Simons (foot), Nassir Little (ankle), Cam Reddish (back), Jusuf Nurkic (knee) and Jerami Grant (quadriceps) are all game-time calls. Keon Johnson (finger) and Ibou Badji (knee) are out. Damian Lillard (calf) and Justise Winslow (ankle) are out for the season.
Jazz and Nets Set for Interconference Matinee
The Utah Jazz takes on the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Jazz (36-41) remain a manageable game and a half outside of the play-in level, but they've done themselves no favors lately by losing five of their last six games. Their most recent stumble came Friday night, when they dropped a 122-114 decision to the Boston Celtics. Talen Horton-Tucker led the Jazz with 28 points, complementing them with eight rebounds and seven assists. Walker Kessler generated a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists and three blocks. Kris Dunn supplied 16 points, four rebounds, four assists and two blocks. Ochai Agbaji and Simone Fontecchio turned in matching 12-point contributions while pulling down seven and four rebounds, respectively.
The Jazz will list Lauri Markkanen (hand) as questionable for Sunday's game. Collin Sexton (hamstring), Jordan Clarkson (finger) and Rudy Gay (back) will remain out.
The Nets (42-35) are holding on to the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference heading into Sunday's action, and they've prevailed in three of their last four games. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they toppled the Atlanta Hawks by a 124-107 score. Mikal Bridges led the way with 42 points, adding four rebounds, three assists and one steal. Dorian Finney-Smith supplied 19 points, eight boards, two assists, one steal and one block. Cameron Johnson furnished 16 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Nic Claxton generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that included five assists, two blocks and one steal. Joe Harris netted 11 points.
The Nets will come into Sunday's game without any short-term injuries to report.
Sunday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 1-0 series lead.
The Jazz (36-41) remain a manageable game and a half outside of the play-in level, but they've done themselves no favors lately by losing five of their last six games. Their most recent stumble came Friday night, when they dropped a 122-114 decision to the Boston Celtics. Talen Horton-Tucker led the Jazz with 28 points, complementing them with eight rebounds and seven assists. Walker Kessler generated a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists and three blocks. Kris Dunn supplied 16 points, four rebounds, four assists and two blocks. Ochai Agbaji and Simone Fontecchio turned in matching 12-point contributions while pulling down seven and four rebounds, respectively.
The Jazz will list Lauri Markkanen (hand) as questionable for Sunday's game. Collin Sexton (hamstring), Jordan Clarkson (finger) and Rudy Gay (back) will remain out.
The Nets (42-35) are holding on to the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference heading into Sunday's action, and they've prevailed in three of their last four games. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they toppled the Atlanta Hawks by a 124-107 score. Mikal Bridges led the way with 42 points, adding four rebounds, three assists and one steal. Dorian Finney-Smith supplied 19 points, eight boards, two assists, one steal and one block. Cameron Johnson furnished 16 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Nic Claxton generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that included five assists, two blocks and one steal. Joe Harris netted 11 points.
The Nets will come into Sunday's game without any short-term injuries to report.
Sunday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 1-0 series lead.
Mavericks and Hawks Set for Key Interconference Clash
The Dallas Mavericks take on the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on Sunday evening.
The Mavericks (37-41) are scrapping to get back into the play-in level after recently dropping out of the top 10 in the Western Conference, a fall that came about largely as a result of Dallas losing seven of the last 10 games. Their most recent stumble came Saturday night, when they fell to the Miami Heat by a 129-122 score. Luka Doncic led the way with a 42-point, 10-rebound double-double that included eight assists and two steals. Tim Hardaway registered 31 points, seven assists and six rebounds. Kyrie Irving supplied 23 points, eight assists and three rebounds.
The Mavericks will likely list Frank Ntilikina (knee) as no better than questionable for Sunday's game.
The Hawks (38-39) hold the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference as the day begins, but they'll check into Sunday's contest having lost six of the last 10 games. Their most recent stumble came Friday night, when they fell to the Brooklyn Nets by a 124-107 score. Dejounte Murray led the Hawks with 21 points, complementing them with five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Saddiq Bey delivered 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals. Onyeka Okongwu and Bogdan Bogdanovic generated matching 12-point contributions while recording six rebounds and five assists, respectively. A.J. Griffin registered 11 points, while Trae Young mustered only 10 points and six rebounds.
The Hawks will remain without De'Andre Hunter (knee) for Sunday's contest.
Sunday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks hold a 1-0 series lead.
The Mavericks (37-41) are scrapping to get back into the play-in level after recently dropping out of the top 10 in the Western Conference, a fall that came about largely as a result of Dallas losing seven of the last 10 games. Their most recent stumble came Saturday night, when they fell to the Miami Heat by a 129-122 score. Luka Doncic led the way with a 42-point, 10-rebound double-double that included eight assists and two steals. Tim Hardaway registered 31 points, seven assists and six rebounds. Kyrie Irving supplied 23 points, eight assists and three rebounds.
The Mavericks will likely list Frank Ntilikina (knee) as no better than questionable for Sunday's game.
The Hawks (38-39) hold the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference as the day begins, but they'll check into Sunday's contest having lost six of the last 10 games. Their most recent stumble came Friday night, when they fell to the Brooklyn Nets by a 124-107 score. Dejounte Murray led the Hawks with 21 points, complementing them with five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Saddiq Bey delivered 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals. Onyeka Okongwu and Bogdan Bogdanovic generated matching 12-point contributions while recording six rebounds and five assists, respectively. A.J. Griffin registered 11 points, while Trae Young mustered only 10 points and six rebounds.
The Hawks will remain without De'Andre Hunter (knee) for Sunday's contest.
Sunday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks hold a 1-0 series lead.
Wizards and Knicks Set for Big Apple Clash
The Washington Wizards take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Sunday evening.
The Wizards (34-43) still have an outside shot of getting into the play-in level, but they enter the day three games back of the No. 10 spot with only five games to go. Washington has done itself no favors by losing nine of the last 12 games, the most recent a 116-109 defeat at the hands of the Orlando Magic on Friday night. Corey Kispert led the Wizards with 27 points, complementing them with three rebounds. Delon Wright turned in 21 points, nine rebounds, four assists and one steal. Daniel Gafford generated an 18-point, 13-rebound double-double that included one assist, two blocks and one steal. Kendrick Nunn furnished 12 points, three rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block.
The Wizards will be without Kyle Kuzma (ankle), Bradley Beal (knee) and Kristaps Porzingis (illness) for Sunday's game. Monte Morris (ankle) will carry a questionable tag.
The Knicks (45-33) currently hold the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference and are on the verge of sealing a postseason spot, and they'll head into Sunday's contest having won three straight games. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they bested the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 130-116 score. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 48 points, complementing them with nine assists and four rebounds. RJ Barrett, Quentin Grimes and Immanuel Quickley all contributed 14 points while recording seven, three and four boards, respectively. Obi Toppin netted 12 points. Josh Hart registered 11 points, seven rebounds and one assist, while Mitchell Robinson generated a 10-point, 14-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and two blocks.
The Knicks will list Derrick Rose (illness) as questionable for Sundays' game. Julius Randle (ankle), DaQuan Jeffries (calf) and Duane Washington (hip) will remain out.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Knicks hold a 2-1 series lead.
The Wizards (34-43) still have an outside shot of getting into the play-in level, but they enter the day three games back of the No. 10 spot with only five games to go. Washington has done itself no favors by losing nine of the last 12 games, the most recent a 116-109 defeat at the hands of the Orlando Magic on Friday night. Corey Kispert led the Wizards with 27 points, complementing them with three rebounds. Delon Wright turned in 21 points, nine rebounds, four assists and one steal. Daniel Gafford generated an 18-point, 13-rebound double-double that included one assist, two blocks and one steal. Kendrick Nunn furnished 12 points, three rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block.
The Wizards will be without Kyle Kuzma (ankle), Bradley Beal (knee) and Kristaps Porzingis (illness) for Sunday's game. Monte Morris (ankle) will carry a questionable tag.
The Knicks (45-33) currently hold the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference and are on the verge of sealing a postseason spot, and they'll head into Sunday's contest having won three straight games. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they bested the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 130-116 score. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 48 points, complementing them with nine assists and four rebounds. RJ Barrett, Quentin Grimes and Immanuel Quickley all contributed 14 points while recording seven, three and four boards, respectively. Obi Toppin netted 12 points. Josh Hart registered 11 points, seven rebounds and one assist, while Mitchell Robinson generated a 10-point, 14-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and two blocks.
The Knicks will list Derrick Rose (illness) as questionable for Sundays' game. Julius Randle (ankle), DaQuan Jeffries (calf) and Duane Washington (hip) will remain out.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Knicks hold a 2-1 series lead.
Magic Play Host To Slumping Pistons
By Dan Bruno
The Orlando Magic play host to the Detroit Pistons at Amway Center on Sunday evening.
The Magic (33-44) have won four of the last five gams and hope to keep rolling as they kick off a three-game home stand with the opportunity to add to their, 19-19, home record. Paolo Banchero leads the team, averaging 20.0 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. Franz Wagner is averaging 18.8 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists, while Wendell Carter averages 15.5 points, 8.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game. The Magic average 111.8 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league, and they give up an average of 114.1 points against.
Meanwhile, the Pistons (16-61) have dropped eight in a row and face the third and final game of a road trip with a chance to build on their, 7-31, road record. The continue to deal with injury trouble, as Bojan Bogdanovic (Achilles), Alec Burks (foot) and Rodney McGruder (foot) are questionable for action, while Hamidou Diallo (ankle) and Isaiah Stewart (shoulder) remain out. On the bright side, Jaden Ivey continues to play well, averaging 15.8 points, 3.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game. Marvin Bagley averages 12.2 points and 6.6 rebounds, while Killian Hayes is averaging 9.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.4 steals per game.
The Magic (33-44) have won four of the last five gams and hope to keep rolling as they kick off a three-game home stand with the opportunity to add to their, 19-19, home record. Paolo Banchero leads the team, averaging 20.0 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. Franz Wagner is averaging 18.8 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists, while Wendell Carter averages 15.5 points, 8.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game. The Magic average 111.8 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league, and they give up an average of 114.1 points against.
Meanwhile, the Pistons (16-61) have dropped eight in a row and face the third and final game of a road trip with a chance to build on their, 7-31, road record. The continue to deal with injury trouble, as Bojan Bogdanovic (Achilles), Alec Burks (foot) and Rodney McGruder (foot) are questionable for action, while Hamidou Diallo (ankle) and Isaiah Stewart (shoulder) remain out. On the bright side, Jaden Ivey continues to play well, averaging 15.8 points, 3.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game. Marvin Bagley averages 12.2 points and 6.6 rebounds, while Killian Hayes is averaging 9.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.4 steals per game.
Thriving Kings Play Host To Slumping Spurs
By Dan Bruno
The Sacramento Kings play host to the San Antonio Spurs at Golden 1 Center on Sunday evening.
The Kings (47-30) have won four of their last five games and return home with the opportunity to add to their, 23-16, home record. De'Aaron Fox leads the team, averaging 25.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game. Domantas Sabonis averages 19.1 points, 12.4 rebounds and 7.2 assists, while Kevin Huerter is averaging 15.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.0 steals per game. The Kings average a league-high 121.2 points per game, while they give up an average of 118.0 points against.
Meanwhile, the Spurs (19-58) have dropped six in a row and hope to get back on track on the second game of a three-game road trip with a chance to build on their, 6-32, road record. Zach Collins missed the last game but has been playing well lately, averaging 17.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.2 blocks in his last five outings. Tre Jones averages 12.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.4 steals, while Malaki Branham is averaging 9.8 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. The Spurs continue to deal with injury trouble, as Doug McDermott (elbow) is listed as probable for action, while Keita Bates-Diop (ankle) and Romeo Langford (thigh) are listed as questionable, Keldon Johnson (foot) is listed as doubtful, and Jeremy Sochan (knee) and Devin Vassell (knee) will be sidelined.
The Kings (47-30) have won four of their last five games and return home with the opportunity to add to their, 23-16, home record. De'Aaron Fox leads the team, averaging 25.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.2 steals per game. Domantas Sabonis averages 19.1 points, 12.4 rebounds and 7.2 assists, while Kevin Huerter is averaging 15.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.0 steals per game. The Kings average a league-high 121.2 points per game, while they give up an average of 118.0 points against.
Meanwhile, the Spurs (19-58) have dropped six in a row and hope to get back on track on the second game of a three-game road trip with a chance to build on their, 6-32, road record. Zach Collins missed the last game but has been playing well lately, averaging 17.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.2 blocks in his last five outings. Tre Jones averages 12.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.4 steals, while Malaki Branham is averaging 9.8 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. The Spurs continue to deal with injury trouble, as Doug McDermott (elbow) is listed as probable for action, while Keita Bates-Diop (ankle) and Romeo Langford (thigh) are listed as questionable, Keldon Johnson (foot) is listed as doubtful, and Jeremy Sochan (knee) and Devin Vassell (knee) will be sidelined.
Rockets Host Prevailing Lakers
By Dan Bruno
The Houston Rockets play host to the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center on Sunday evening.
The Rockets (19-59) look to build off a win in their last outing and add to their, 13-26, home record. Jalen Green continues to lead the team, averaging 22.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game. Kevin Porter averages 19.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.4 steals, while Alperen Sengun is averaging 14.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game. The Rockets average 110.5 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, and they give up an average of 118.8 points, which is the league's third-most.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (39-38) have won five of their last six games and hope to keep it rolling on the third game of a five-game road trip with a chance to improve on their, 18-20, road record. Anthony Davis (foot) is listed as probable for action and has been on fire lately, averaging 31.0 points, 12.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.0 blocks over the last five games. D'Angelo Russell is also playing well, averaging 16.8 points, 1.8 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 1.0 steals over the same span. Jarred Vanderbilt is averaging 7.6 points and 6.0 rebounds across the last five and continues to provide critical frontcourt support. The Lakers average 116.5 points and also give up an average of 116.5 points per game. LeBron James (foot) is listed as questionable for action.
The Rockets (19-59) look to build off a win in their last outing and add to their, 13-26, home record. Jalen Green continues to lead the team, averaging 22.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game. Kevin Porter averages 19.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.4 steals, while Alperen Sengun is averaging 14.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game. The Rockets average 110.5 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, and they give up an average of 118.8 points, which is the league's third-most.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (39-38) have won five of their last six games and hope to keep it rolling on the third game of a five-game road trip with a chance to improve on their, 18-20, road record. Anthony Davis (foot) is listed as probable for action and has been on fire lately, averaging 31.0 points, 12.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.0 blocks over the last five games. D'Angelo Russell is also playing well, averaging 16.8 points, 1.8 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 1.0 steals over the same span. Jarred Vanderbilt is averaging 7.6 points and 6.0 rebounds across the last five and continues to provide critical frontcourt support. The Lakers average 116.5 points and also give up an average of 116.5 points per game. LeBron James (foot) is listed as questionable for action.
Thunder Host Suns on Sunday
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Phoenix Suns at Paycom Arena on Sunday.
The Suns (42-35) have been streaky, but the ticker is pointing in the right direction. This club lost six of seven games just a few weeks back but come into this matchup amid a four-game winning streak. That most recent run has nearly secured a spot outside of the play-in tournament, with Phoenix sitting fourth in the west. They're also 2.5 games up on those teams battling between seventh and 10th, but this is one of the scariest teams in the west. We say that because Kevin Durant just made his return from an ankle issue, and adding one of the greatest scorers of all time is obviously a massive boost for any team. If they can get KD, Devin Booker and CP3 clicking in this final week, they'll be one of the favorites to win it all.
The Thunder (38-40) come into this matchup losing four of their last six games. This run couldn't come at a worse time either because it's dropped OKC to 10th in the Western Conference. That has them just 0.5 games up on the Dallas Mavericks behind them, and there's a massive talent discrepancy between these teams. Oklahoma City has been overcoming the odds all year, though, and making the play-in tournament would be a huge surprise for what was supposed to be a rebuilding team. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has entered the superstar stratosphere, while Jalen Williams and Josh Giddey have been incredible around him. Look out for this club when they get Chet Holmgren back next season.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Phoenix winning two of three. With that said, the Suns have won seven of their last nine games in this series.
The Suns (42-35) have been streaky, but the ticker is pointing in the right direction. This club lost six of seven games just a few weeks back but come into this matchup amid a four-game winning streak. That most recent run has nearly secured a spot outside of the play-in tournament, with Phoenix sitting fourth in the west. They're also 2.5 games up on those teams battling between seventh and 10th, but this is one of the scariest teams in the west. We say that because Kevin Durant just made his return from an ankle issue, and adding one of the greatest scorers of all time is obviously a massive boost for any team. If they can get KD, Devin Booker and CP3 clicking in this final week, they'll be one of the favorites to win it all.
The Thunder (38-40) come into this matchup losing four of their last six games. This run couldn't come at a worse time either because it's dropped OKC to 10th in the Western Conference. That has them just 0.5 games up on the Dallas Mavericks behind them, and there's a massive talent discrepancy between these teams. Oklahoma City has been overcoming the odds all year, though, and making the play-in tournament would be a huge surprise for what was supposed to be a rebuilding team. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has entered the superstar stratosphere, while Jalen Williams and Josh Giddey have been incredible around him. Look out for this club when they get Chet Holmgren back next season.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Phoenix winning two of three. With that said, the Suns have won seven of their last nine games in this series.
Cavs Host Pacers on Sunday
The Cleveland Cavaliers play host to the Indiana Pacers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Sunday.
The Pacers (34-44) come into this matchup losing six of their last eight games. That stretch ended their playoff hopes, and it looks like this team is throwing in the white flag. They've rested Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner a few times this week, and it would be surprising to see either of those guys return in the final week of the season. Those two are franchise players, and it's a great core to build around. Despite the tanking, Indiana grabbed an incredible win on Friday. They beat a surging Oklahoma City Thunder team and got some great performances from Jalen Smith and TJ McConnell. This team has plenty of role players, and it'll be interesting to see what they do in the postseason to build around Hali and Turner.
The Cavaliers (48-30) won nine of 11 before losing their two most recent games. They were losses this fanbase didn't want to see either because it was against two clubs they could see in the postseason. They look locked into a matchup with the New York Knicks in the playoffs, and NY grabbed that road win against Cleveland on Friday. They got that victory without Julius Randle, mainly because Jalen Brunson dropped a career-high 48 points. This team's calling card is its defense, and to allow 130 points to a shorthanded Knicks team is embarrassing. They were missing Jarrett Allen, though, and the center is expected to be back in the coming days.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Cleveland winning two of three. They have six wins in their last seven matchups with Indiana in total.
The Pacers (34-44) come into this matchup losing six of their last eight games. That stretch ended their playoff hopes, and it looks like this team is throwing in the white flag. They've rested Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner a few times this week, and it would be surprising to see either of those guys return in the final week of the season. Those two are franchise players, and it's a great core to build around. Despite the tanking, Indiana grabbed an incredible win on Friday. They beat a surging Oklahoma City Thunder team and got some great performances from Jalen Smith and TJ McConnell. This team has plenty of role players, and it'll be interesting to see what they do in the postseason to build around Hali and Turner.
The Cavaliers (48-30) won nine of 11 before losing their two most recent games. They were losses this fanbase didn't want to see either because it was against two clubs they could see in the postseason. They look locked into a matchup with the New York Knicks in the playoffs, and NY grabbed that road win against Cleveland on Friday. They got that victory without Julius Randle, mainly because Jalen Brunson dropped a career-high 48 points. This team's calling card is its defense, and to allow 130 points to a shorthanded Knicks team is embarrassing. They were missing Jarrett Allen, though, and the center is expected to be back in the coming days.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Cleveland winning two of three. They have six wins in their last seven matchups with Indiana in total.
Bucks Host Sixers on Sunday
The Milwaukee Bucks play host to the Philadelphia 76ers at Fiserv Forum on Sunday.
The Sixers (51-26) are nearly locked into the three-seed in the east. That's quite the accomplishment for any team because the Milwaukee Bucks and Boston Celtics have looked like the two best teams in the NBA all season. What's made them so good is the play from their superstars. Joel Embiid is one of the favorites for MVP, while James Harden is leading the NBA in assists. That doesn't even consider role players like Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris, who would be star players for most clubs in the NBA. That has Philly looking like one of the most dangerous teams heading into the postseason, and it'll be fun to see how they perform.
The Bucks (55-22) have been the best team in the NBA for the majority of the season, but their most recent game was one of the ugliest of the year. Milwaukee took a 140-99 beatdown at the hands of the Boston Celtics on Thursday. That's a team the Bucks will likely have to beat in the postseason, and this Philly club is the other primary contender in the Eastern Conference. These two matchups will be a good barometer of what to expect from this club, and you know Milwaukee wants to bounce back after that ugly performance. With all that said, two more wins will secure the best record in the NBA and homecourt throughout the postseason.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Philly winning two of three. With that said, Milwaukee has won eight of their last 11 games in this series.
The Sixers (51-26) are nearly locked into the three-seed in the east. That's quite the accomplishment for any team because the Milwaukee Bucks and Boston Celtics have looked like the two best teams in the NBA all season. What's made them so good is the play from their superstars. Joel Embiid is one of the favorites for MVP, while James Harden is leading the NBA in assists. That doesn't even consider role players like Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris, who would be star players for most clubs in the NBA. That has Philly looking like one of the most dangerous teams heading into the postseason, and it'll be fun to see how they perform.
The Bucks (55-22) have been the best team in the NBA for the majority of the season, but their most recent game was one of the ugliest of the year. Milwaukee took a 140-99 beatdown at the hands of the Boston Celtics on Thursday. That's a team the Bucks will likely have to beat in the postseason, and this Philly club is the other primary contender in the Eastern Conference. These two matchups will be a good barometer of what to expect from this club, and you know Milwaukee wants to bounce back after that ugly performance. With all that said, two more wins will secure the best record in the NBA and homecourt throughout the postseason.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Philly winning two of three. With that said, Milwaukee has won eight of their last 11 games in this series.
Nuggets Host Warriors on Sunday
The Denver Nuggets play host to the Golden State Warriors at Ball Arena on Sunday.
The Warriors (41-37) come into this matchup winning five of their last six games. That run has them sitting in sixth place in the west, and they now have a 1.5-game lead on the teams behind them. While there are a ton of teams right beneath them, this team just needs two or three more wins to avoid that dreaded play-in tournament. Their biggest goal is to climb to fourth in the west because that would mean homecourt advantage in the opening round of the playoffs. The home-road splits are more important for this team than any other, with the Warriors posting a 9-29 record on the road and a 32-8 record at home.
The Nuggets (51-26) have suffered two ugly defeats in their two most recent games, but it's clear this club is getting ready for the postseason. They rested Nikola Jokic in both of those and sat almost all of their starters in their loss on Friday. It's the smart decision because the Nuggets have nearly locked up the top seed in the Western Conference. They have the tiebreaker over the Memphis Grizzlies in second and have a three-game lead over them with only five games left in the season. That means just one more win will secure homecourt throughout the postseason, and that's massive for this Denver team. The Nuggets have a 32-7 record at home this year and always benefit from playing at altitude.
This is the third meeting between these teams, with Denver winning both matchups. They have five wins in their last six matchups with the Warriors in this series.
The Warriors (41-37) come into this matchup winning five of their last six games. That run has them sitting in sixth place in the west, and they now have a 1.5-game lead on the teams behind them. While there are a ton of teams right beneath them, this team just needs two or three more wins to avoid that dreaded play-in tournament. Their biggest goal is to climb to fourth in the west because that would mean homecourt advantage in the opening round of the playoffs. The home-road splits are more important for this team than any other, with the Warriors posting a 9-29 record on the road and a 32-8 record at home.
The Nuggets (51-26) have suffered two ugly defeats in their two most recent games, but it's clear this club is getting ready for the postseason. They rested Nikola Jokic in both of those and sat almost all of their starters in their loss on Friday. It's the smart decision because the Nuggets have nearly locked up the top seed in the Western Conference. They have the tiebreaker over the Memphis Grizzlies in second and have a three-game lead over them with only five games left in the season. That means just one more win will secure homecourt throughout the postseason, and that's massive for this Denver team. The Nuggets have a 32-7 record at home this year and always benefit from playing at altitude.
This is the third meeting between these teams, with Denver winning both matchups. They have five wins in their last six matchups with the Warriors in this series.