Mitchell, Cavaliers host Banchero, Magic on Thursday
Following the All-Star break, the Orlando Magic embark on a three-game Eastern Conference road trip when they take on the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Thursday.
The Magic (30-25) entered the All-Star break having won three of their previous four games and are 7-3 over their past 10 games. While most of the players on the team took advantage of the break, 2022 first-overall pick Paolo Banchero joined the weekend festivities after being named as an Eastern Conference All-Star reserve. He’s averaging 23.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.1 steals this season on 46.2 percent shooting, including 36.5 percent from beyond the arc. If Banchero can continue his ascent, along with rising star Franz Wagner and the rest of the young core, Orlando could work their way into the top six in the standings.
Markelle Fultz (knee) has been ruled out ahead of Thursday’s contest.
Meanwhile the Cavaliers (36-17) were arguably the hottest team in the NBA heading into All-Star weekend. Starting in the new year, Cleveland went on separate eight and nine-game win streaks and hold an 18-2 record over its last 20 games. This helped the Cavaliers jump up to the second seed in the Eastern Conference as they sit 2.5 games ahead of the Milwaukee Bucks. With a lineup headlined by All-Star reserve Donovan Mitchell, and the recent returns of starters Evan Mobley and Darius Garland, the Cavaliers are well on their way to solidifying their top-two spot in the conference standings.
Mitchell is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game due to an illness.
Thursday’s matchup is the fourth and final game between the Magic and Cavaliers this season. Cleveland holds a 2-1 lead thanks to a 126-99 win over Orlando on Jan. 22.
The Magic (30-25) entered the All-Star break having won three of their previous four games and are 7-3 over their past 10 games. While most of the players on the team took advantage of the break, 2022 first-overall pick Paolo Banchero joined the weekend festivities after being named as an Eastern Conference All-Star reserve. He’s averaging 23.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.1 steals this season on 46.2 percent shooting, including 36.5 percent from beyond the arc. If Banchero can continue his ascent, along with rising star Franz Wagner and the rest of the young core, Orlando could work their way into the top six in the standings.
Markelle Fultz (knee) has been ruled out ahead of Thursday’s contest.
Meanwhile the Cavaliers (36-17) were arguably the hottest team in the NBA heading into All-Star weekend. Starting in the new year, Cleveland went on separate eight and nine-game win streaks and hold an 18-2 record over its last 20 games. This helped the Cavaliers jump up to the second seed in the Eastern Conference as they sit 2.5 games ahead of the Milwaukee Bucks. With a lineup headlined by All-Star reserve Donovan Mitchell, and the recent returns of starters Evan Mobley and Darius Garland, the Cavaliers are well on their way to solidifying their top-two spot in the conference standings.
Mitchell is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game due to an illness.
Thursday’s matchup is the fourth and final game between the Magic and Cavaliers this season. Cleveland holds a 2-1 lead thanks to a 126-99 win over Orlando on Jan. 22.
Pistons, Pacers Collide In Indiana
The Indiana Pacers will host the Detroit Pistons at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Thursday.
The Pacers (3-25) aim to open the second half of the 2023-24 NBA season on a solid note. Armed by an impressive 17-11 mark at home, Indiana is vying for a playoff spot, and the team couldn’t have wished for a better opponent to re-start their NBA season after a much-needed All-Star break. The Pacers enter this game having won three of their last five games, and they marched into the break with a high morale following a 127-125 road win over the Toronto Raptors. Indiana has looked good after adding Pascal Siakam via trade, but this team will go as far as Tyrese Haliburton can carry it. The All-Star guard is averaging 21.8 points and 11.7 assists per game, leading the team in both categories.
Jalen Smith (back) is considered a game-time call for Thursday. Aaron Nesmith (lower leg) is out.
The Pistons (8-46) have one goal for the second half of the 2023-24 NBA season: to end the campaign with the highest possible chance of winning the draft lottery. Detroit is having a season to forget despite embarking on another rebuilding season. Still, the team has seen improvement from players such as Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren, while Ausar Thompson has shown flashes of being a potential building block at times. The Pistons have been struggling badly when it comes to their road play, however, and they enter this game on a three-game losing skid while posting a 4-23 mark away from home. Cunningham has been their brightest spot so far, averaging 21.9 points and 7.5 assists per game, leading the team in both categories.
Isaiah Stewart (ankle), Cade Cunningham (knee) and Quentin Grimes (knee) are all game-time calls for Thursday.
The Pacers (3-25) aim to open the second half of the 2023-24 NBA season on a solid note. Armed by an impressive 17-11 mark at home, Indiana is vying for a playoff spot, and the team couldn’t have wished for a better opponent to re-start their NBA season after a much-needed All-Star break. The Pacers enter this game having won three of their last five games, and they marched into the break with a high morale following a 127-125 road win over the Toronto Raptors. Indiana has looked good after adding Pascal Siakam via trade, but this team will go as far as Tyrese Haliburton can carry it. The All-Star guard is averaging 21.8 points and 11.7 assists per game, leading the team in both categories.
Jalen Smith (back) is considered a game-time call for Thursday. Aaron Nesmith (lower leg) is out.
The Pistons (8-46) have one goal for the second half of the 2023-24 NBA season: to end the campaign with the highest possible chance of winning the draft lottery. Detroit is having a season to forget despite embarking on another rebuilding season. Still, the team has seen improvement from players such as Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren, while Ausar Thompson has shown flashes of being a potential building block at times. The Pistons have been struggling badly when it comes to their road play, however, and they enter this game on a three-game losing skid while posting a 4-23 mark away from home. Cunningham has been their brightest spot so far, averaging 21.9 points and 7.5 assists per game, leading the team in both categories.
Isaiah Stewart (ankle), Cade Cunningham (knee) and Quentin Grimes (knee) are all game-time calls for Thursday.
Knicks, 76ers Collide In Philadelphia
The Philadelphia 76ers will host the New York Knicks at Wells Fargo Center on Thursday.
The 76ers (32-22) have been struggling in recent weeks following the injury sustained by Joel Embiid, who’s expected to return to action at some point before the end of the campaign, and their latest results have evidenced that. Philadelphia enters this game having lost three of its last five games, including a 109-104 defeat against the Miami Heat in their last game before the All-Star break. The Sixers have looked good at home, though, with a 17-11 record. The struggles of the Sixers have pushed Tyrese Maxey into a more prominent role. Maxey is averaging 25.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game this season, which has been a career-best season for him. Without Embiid, the 76ers will only go as far as Maxey can carry them.
Nicolas Batum (hamstring) is a game-time call for Thursday. De’Anthony Melton (back), Robert Covington (knee) and Joel Embiid (knee) are out.
The Knicks (33-22) are coming off a 118-100 loss to the Orlando Magic in their most recent game before the All-Star break. Head coach Tom Thibodeau was not worried about the team’s latest skid, however, as New York entered the break on a four-game losing skid. The coaching staff hopes the week long of rest has been enough for the team to recharge batteries ahead of the second half of the campaign. The Knicks have also gone 14-14 on the road this season. New York did win the previous meeting against the 76ers, 128-92, on January 5. The Knicks will rely heavily on Jalen Brunson. The star guard is averaging 27.6 points and 6.5 assists per game on the season.
Bojan Bogdanovic (calf), Isaiah Hartenstein (Achilles) and Duane Washington (thumb) are game-time calls for Thursday. Julius Randle (shoulder), OG Anunoby (elbow) and Mitchell Robinson (ankle) are all out.
The 76ers (32-22) have been struggling in recent weeks following the injury sustained by Joel Embiid, who’s expected to return to action at some point before the end of the campaign, and their latest results have evidenced that. Philadelphia enters this game having lost three of its last five games, including a 109-104 defeat against the Miami Heat in their last game before the All-Star break. The Sixers have looked good at home, though, with a 17-11 record. The struggles of the Sixers have pushed Tyrese Maxey into a more prominent role. Maxey is averaging 25.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game this season, which has been a career-best season for him. Without Embiid, the 76ers will only go as far as Maxey can carry them.
Nicolas Batum (hamstring) is a game-time call for Thursday. De’Anthony Melton (back), Robert Covington (knee) and Joel Embiid (knee) are out.
The Knicks (33-22) are coming off a 118-100 loss to the Orlando Magic in their most recent game before the All-Star break. Head coach Tom Thibodeau was not worried about the team’s latest skid, however, as New York entered the break on a four-game losing skid. The coaching staff hopes the week long of rest has been enough for the team to recharge batteries ahead of the second half of the campaign. The Knicks have also gone 14-14 on the road this season. New York did win the previous meeting against the 76ers, 128-92, on January 5. The Knicks will rely heavily on Jalen Brunson. The star guard is averaging 27.6 points and 6.5 assists per game on the season.
Bojan Bogdanovic (calf), Isaiah Hartenstein (Achilles) and Duane Washington (thumb) are game-time calls for Thursday. Julius Randle (shoulder), OG Anunoby (elbow) and Mitchell Robinson (ankle) are all out.
Nets and Raptors Clash North of the Border
The Brooklyn Nets take on the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on Thursday night.
The Nets (21-33) have endured a difficult season overall, and they'll enter their first post-All-Star-break game with five losses in the last six games, including two straight. Their most recent stumble came Feb. 14, when they suffered a 136-86 loss to the Boston Celtics. Trendon Watford led the Nets with 15 points, adding two rebounds and one assist. Mikal Bridges furnished 10 points, four boards, four assists and one steal. Keon Johnson registered nine points, two assists and one rebound.
The Nets may list Ben Simmons (knee) as questionable for Thursday's game.
The Raptors (19-36) have endured plenty of adversity themselves this season, and they'll enter Thursday's contest having lost their last three games before the All-Star break. Their most recent stumble came Feb. 14, when they were edged by the Indiana Pacers, 127-125. Scottie Barnes paced the Raptors with a 29-point, 12-rebound double-double that included eight assists, one steal and one block. RJ Barrett delivered 23 points, nine rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Jakob Poeltl registered 19 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal. Immanuel Quickley compiled 14 points, seven assists and six rebounds. Bruce Brown recorded 12 points, three rebounds, three assists and one steal. Chris Boucher turned in 10 points, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
The Raptors may list Kelly Olynyk (back) as questionable for Thursday's game.
Thursday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 1-0 series lead.
The Nets (21-33) have endured a difficult season overall, and they'll enter their first post-All-Star-break game with five losses in the last six games, including two straight. Their most recent stumble came Feb. 14, when they suffered a 136-86 loss to the Boston Celtics. Trendon Watford led the Nets with 15 points, adding two rebounds and one assist. Mikal Bridges furnished 10 points, four boards, four assists and one steal. Keon Johnson registered nine points, two assists and one rebound.
The Nets may list Ben Simmons (knee) as questionable for Thursday's game.
The Raptors (19-36) have endured plenty of adversity themselves this season, and they'll enter Thursday's contest having lost their last three games before the All-Star break. Their most recent stumble came Feb. 14, when they were edged by the Indiana Pacers, 127-125. Scottie Barnes paced the Raptors with a 29-point, 12-rebound double-double that included eight assists, one steal and one block. RJ Barrett delivered 23 points, nine rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Jakob Poeltl registered 19 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal. Immanuel Quickley compiled 14 points, seven assists and six rebounds. Bruce Brown recorded 12 points, three rebounds, three assists and one steal. Chris Boucher turned in 10 points, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
The Raptors may list Kelly Olynyk (back) as questionable for Thursday's game.
Thursday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 1-0 series lead.
Suns and Mavericks Set for Conference Clash
The Phoenix Suns take on the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on Thursday night.
The Suns (33-22) were one of the hotter teams in the Western Conference going into the All-Star break, as they'd won five of the last six games before the pause in play, including two straight. Their most recent success came Feb. 14, when they toppled the Detroit Pistons by a 116-100 score. Kevin Durant led the Suns with 25 points, adding six rebounds, six assists, two blocks and one steal. Saben Lee registered 16 points, six rebounds, two assists and four steals. Eric Gordon provided 13 points, two assists, one rebound, two steals and two blocks. Jusuf Nurkic generated a 10-point, 13-rebound double-double that included seven assists and two blocks.
The Suns will likely list Bradley Beal (hamstring/nose) as probable for Thursday's game. Damion Lee (knee) will remain out.
The Mavericks (32-23) were in even better form than their opponent before the break, as they'd rattled off six consecutive victories. Their most recent triumph came Feb. 14, when they toppled the San Antonio Spurs by a 116-93 score. Kyrie Irving paced the Mavericks with 34 points, adding nine rebounds, seven assists, two steals and one block. Luka Doncic supplied 27 points, nine boards, eight assists, two steals and one block. Jaden Hardy netted 13 points. Daniel Gafford generated a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists and one block.
The Mavericks are likely to list Dante Exum (knee) and Maxi Kleber (toe) as questionable for Thursday's contest.
Thursday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
The Suns (33-22) were one of the hotter teams in the Western Conference going into the All-Star break, as they'd won five of the last six games before the pause in play, including two straight. Their most recent success came Feb. 14, when they toppled the Detroit Pistons by a 116-100 score. Kevin Durant led the Suns with 25 points, adding six rebounds, six assists, two blocks and one steal. Saben Lee registered 16 points, six rebounds, two assists and four steals. Eric Gordon provided 13 points, two assists, one rebound, two steals and two blocks. Jusuf Nurkic generated a 10-point, 13-rebound double-double that included seven assists and two blocks.
The Suns will likely list Bradley Beal (hamstring/nose) as probable for Thursday's game. Damion Lee (knee) will remain out.
The Mavericks (32-23) were in even better form than their opponent before the break, as they'd rattled off six consecutive victories. Their most recent triumph came Feb. 14, when they toppled the San Antonio Spurs by a 116-93 score. Kyrie Irving paced the Mavericks with 34 points, adding nine rebounds, seven assists, two steals and one block. Luka Doncic supplied 27 points, nine boards, eight assists, two steals and one block. Jaden Hardy netted 13 points. Daniel Gafford generated a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two assists and one block.
The Mavericks are likely to list Dante Exum (knee) and Maxi Kleber (toe) as questionable for Thursday's contest.
Thursday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
Rockets and Pelicans Tangle in Big Easy
The Houston Rockets face the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on Thursday night.
The Rockets (24-30) have lost most of their early-season momentum, and they went into the All-Star break having dropped five of their last six games. Their most recent stumble came Feb. 14, when they fell to the Memphis Grizzlies by a 121-113 score. Amen Thompson, Dillon Brooks, Alperen Sengun and Aaron Holiday co-led the Rockets with 19 points. Thompson and Brooks recorded 12 and 10 rebounds, respectively, while Sengun recorded six assists and five boards. Jeff Green posted 10 points and four rebounds. Nate Hinton matched Green's scoring and added three boards, two assists, one steal and one block.
The Rockets will likely list Fred VanVleet (groin), Cam Whitmore (ankle), Tari Eason (lower leg) and Reggie Bullock (back) as questionable or probable for Thursday's contest.
The Pelicans (33-22) appear to be in fine shape with respect to postseason prospects, and they went into the pause in play with a nifty three-game winning streak in tow. Their most recent success came at the expense of the Washington Wizards on Feb. 14 in the form of a 133-126 victory. Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 36 points, supplementing them with eight assists, six rebounds and one block. CJ McCollum furnished 24 points, six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Brandon Ingram supplied 18 points, seven assists, three rebounds, two steals and one block. Naji Marshall went for 13 points, two rebounds, one assist and three steals. Jonas Valanciunas finished with 10 points, five rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Pelicans will likely list Cody Zeller (knee) as questionable or probable for Thursday's game. Dyson Daniels (knee) will remain out.
Thursday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Rockets hold a 2-1 series lead.
The Rockets (24-30) have lost most of their early-season momentum, and they went into the All-Star break having dropped five of their last six games. Their most recent stumble came Feb. 14, when they fell to the Memphis Grizzlies by a 121-113 score. Amen Thompson, Dillon Brooks, Alperen Sengun and Aaron Holiday co-led the Rockets with 19 points. Thompson and Brooks recorded 12 and 10 rebounds, respectively, while Sengun recorded six assists and five boards. Jeff Green posted 10 points and four rebounds. Nate Hinton matched Green's scoring and added three boards, two assists, one steal and one block.
The Rockets will likely list Fred VanVleet (groin), Cam Whitmore (ankle), Tari Eason (lower leg) and Reggie Bullock (back) as questionable or probable for Thursday's contest.
The Pelicans (33-22) appear to be in fine shape with respect to postseason prospects, and they went into the pause in play with a nifty three-game winning streak in tow. Their most recent success came at the expense of the Washington Wizards on Feb. 14 in the form of a 133-126 victory. Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 36 points, supplementing them with eight assists, six rebounds and one block. CJ McCollum furnished 24 points, six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Brandon Ingram supplied 18 points, seven assists, three rebounds, two steals and one block. Naji Marshall went for 13 points, two rebounds, one assist and three steals. Jonas Valanciunas finished with 10 points, five rebounds, three assists and one block.
The Pelicans will likely list Cody Zeller (knee) as questionable or probable for Thursday's game. Dyson Daniels (knee) will remain out.
Thursday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Rockets hold a 2-1 series lead.
Bulls Host First-Place Celtics
By Dan Bruno
The Chicago Bulls play host to the Boston Celtics at United Center on Thursday evening.
The Bulls (26-29) begin the closing stretch of the season with the opportunity to build on their, 15-12, home record. They went into the all-star break after a four-game road trip, and they only picked up one win in their last three home games. DeMar DeRozan leads the team, averaging 22.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.2 steals per game. Coby White averages 19.6 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.3 assists, while Nikola Vucevic is averaging 17.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 0.9 blocks per game. The Bulls average 111.8 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league, but they give up an average of 112.9 points per game. Patrick Williams (foot) will remain sidelined, while Zach LaVine (foot) is out for the season.
Meanwhile, the Celtics (43-12) are set to return to action with the first game of a two-game road trip, hoping to improve on their, 17-9, road record. They won six consecutive games heading into the all-star break and hold on to the first spot in the East. Jayson Tatum leads the team, averaging 27.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.0 steals per game. Jaylen Brown averages 22.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.1 steals, while Kristaps Porzingis is averaging 20.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.9 blocks per game. The Celtics average 120.7 points per game, which is fifth most in the league, and they hold opponents to an average of 110.6 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league.
The Bulls (26-29) begin the closing stretch of the season with the opportunity to build on their, 15-12, home record. They went into the all-star break after a four-game road trip, and they only picked up one win in their last three home games. DeMar DeRozan leads the team, averaging 22.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.2 steals per game. Coby White averages 19.6 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.3 assists, while Nikola Vucevic is averaging 17.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 0.9 blocks per game. The Bulls average 111.8 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league, but they give up an average of 112.9 points per game. Patrick Williams (foot) will remain sidelined, while Zach LaVine (foot) is out for the season.
Meanwhile, the Celtics (43-12) are set to return to action with the first game of a two-game road trip, hoping to improve on their, 17-9, road record. They won six consecutive games heading into the all-star break and hold on to the first spot in the East. Jayson Tatum leads the team, averaging 27.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.0 steals per game. Jaylen Brown averages 22.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.1 steals, while Kristaps Porzingis is averaging 20.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.9 blocks per game. The Celtics average 120.7 points per game, which is fifth most in the league, and they hold opponents to an average of 110.6 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league.
Thunder, Clippers Clash In OKC
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Los Angeles Clippers at Paycom Center on Thursday evening.
The Thunder (37-17) entered the all-star break on a two-game win streak and look to keep the momentum going as they kick off their return to action with a two-game home stand, hoping to build on their, 21-6, home record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the team with an MVP-level season so far, averaging 31.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 2.2 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Jalen Williams averages 19.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 1.0 steals, while Chet Holmgren is averaging 16.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2.6 blocks, while Josh Giddey averages 11.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game. The Thunder average 120.8 points per game, which is fourth most in the league, while they limit opponents to an average of 113.6 points per game.
Meanwhile, the Clippers (36-17) went, 2-2, in their last four games before the break, but they sit third place in the West, only 0.5 games behind the second-place Thunder, and 2.0 games out of first. They return to action facing the first game of a two-game road trip and the opportunity to add to their, 16-11, road record. Kawhi Leonard leads the team, averaging 24.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.7 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Paul George averages 22.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.6 steals, while James Harden is averaging 17.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, 8.4 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. The Clippers average 118.3 points per game, and they hold opponents to an average of 112.7 points per game, which is ninth fewest in the league.
The Thunder (37-17) entered the all-star break on a two-game win streak and look to keep the momentum going as they kick off their return to action with a two-game home stand, hoping to build on their, 21-6, home record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the team with an MVP-level season so far, averaging 31.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 2.2 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Jalen Williams averages 19.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 1.0 steals, while Chet Holmgren is averaging 16.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2.6 blocks, while Josh Giddey averages 11.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game. The Thunder average 120.8 points per game, which is fourth most in the league, while they limit opponents to an average of 113.6 points per game.
Meanwhile, the Clippers (36-17) went, 2-2, in their last four games before the break, but they sit third place in the West, only 0.5 games behind the second-place Thunder, and 2.0 games out of first. They return to action facing the first game of a two-game road trip and the opportunity to add to their, 16-11, road record. Kawhi Leonard leads the team, averaging 24.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.7 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Paul George averages 22.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.6 steals, while James Harden is averaging 17.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, 8.4 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. The Clippers average 118.3 points per game, and they hold opponents to an average of 112.7 points per game, which is ninth fewest in the league.
Nuggets Hoping To Get Back On Track
By Dan Bruno
The Denver Nuggets play host to the Washington Wizards at Ball Arena on Thursday evening.
The Nuggets (36-19) dropped three straight games heading into the all-star break but hope to get back on track as they return to action with a chance to improve on their, 21-5, home record. Nikola Jokic continues to lead the team, averaging 26.1 points, 12.0 rebounds, 8.9 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Michael Porter averages 15.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists, while Aaron Gordon is averaging 13.8 points, 6.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. The Nuggets average 113.9 points per game, and they hold opponents to an average of 110.8 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (hamstring) missed three of the last four games and is listed as probable for action on Thursday. Jamal Murray (leg) missed the last game before the break and is also listed as probable.
Meanwhile, the Wizards (9-45) dropped their last eight games before the break. They are set to kick off the second half of the season with a two-game road trip and the chance to build on their, 6-22, road record. Kyle Kuzma leads the team, averaging 21.8 points, 6.3 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game. Jordan Poole averages 15.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.1 steals, while Deni Avdija is averaging 13.8 points, 6.6 rebound and 3.8 assists per game. The Wizards average 114.8 points per game, but they give up an average of 123.9 points per game, which is second-most in the league.
The Nuggets (36-19) dropped three straight games heading into the all-star break but hope to get back on track as they return to action with a chance to improve on their, 21-5, home record. Nikola Jokic continues to lead the team, averaging 26.1 points, 12.0 rebounds, 8.9 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Michael Porter averages 15.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists, while Aaron Gordon is averaging 13.8 points, 6.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. The Nuggets average 113.9 points per game, and they hold opponents to an average of 110.8 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (hamstring) missed three of the last four games and is listed as probable for action on Thursday. Jamal Murray (leg) missed the last game before the break and is also listed as probable.
Meanwhile, the Wizards (9-45) dropped their last eight games before the break. They are set to kick off the second half of the season with a two-game road trip and the chance to build on their, 6-22, road record. Kyle Kuzma leads the team, averaging 21.8 points, 6.3 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game. Jordan Poole averages 15.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.1 steals, while Deni Avdija is averaging 13.8 points, 6.6 rebound and 3.8 assists per game. The Wizards average 114.8 points per game, but they give up an average of 123.9 points per game, which is second-most in the league.
Jazz Host Hornets on Thursday
The Charlotte Hornets travel to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Jazz at Vivint Arena on Thursday.
The Hornets (13-41) just picked up their first double-digit win of the season in their most recent outing. To do that the game before the All-Star break tells you everything you need to know about their season, posting the third-worst record in the Eastern Conference. It's easy to understand how that happened because LaMelo Ball and Mark Williams have been out for the majority of the season. Terry Rozier and Gordon Hayward were also oft-injured before getting traded, and not many teams can compete with so many key players sidelined. In any case, it looks like they made a good move to acquire Tre Mann in that Hayward trade because he's been stellar as the starting point guard since that move.
The Jazz (26-30) have been much better at home than on the road, posting a 17-10 record at Vivint Arena. That mark took a hit in their most recent outing, narrowly losing to the Golden State Warriors in the final game before the break. They had numerous chances to snatch that game in the final seconds, with Keyonte George and Collin Sexton scoring over 30 points. The problem is that they allowed 140 points in regulation, moving them to 26th in total defense. That mark is clearly hurting this club, entering this matchup losing four straight and seven of their last nine games in total. If the defense continues to allow 120-plus points every game, it'll be tough for this team to hang around with anyone.
These teams played on January 27, with Utah prevailing, 134-122. That gives Utah 11 wins in their last 12 meetings with Charlotte.
The Hornets (13-41) just picked up their first double-digit win of the season in their most recent outing. To do that the game before the All-Star break tells you everything you need to know about their season, posting the third-worst record in the Eastern Conference. It's easy to understand how that happened because LaMelo Ball and Mark Williams have been out for the majority of the season. Terry Rozier and Gordon Hayward were also oft-injured before getting traded, and not many teams can compete with so many key players sidelined. In any case, it looks like they made a good move to acquire Tre Mann in that Hayward trade because he's been stellar as the starting point guard since that move.
The Jazz (26-30) have been much better at home than on the road, posting a 17-10 record at Vivint Arena. That mark took a hit in their most recent outing, narrowly losing to the Golden State Warriors in the final game before the break. They had numerous chances to snatch that game in the final seconds, with Keyonte George and Collin Sexton scoring over 30 points. The problem is that they allowed 140 points in regulation, moving them to 26th in total defense. That mark is clearly hurting this club, entering this matchup losing four straight and seven of their last nine games in total. If the defense continues to allow 120-plus points every game, it'll be tough for this team to hang around with anyone.
These teams played on January 27, with Utah prevailing, 134-122. That gives Utah 11 wins in their last 12 meetings with Charlotte.
Warriors Host Lakers on Thursday
The Golden State Warriors play host to the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on Thursday.
The Lakers (30-26) have been climbing up the standings over the last month, entering this matchup winning 11 of their last 15 games. What's really carried them in this stretch is the play of D'Angelo Russell, averaging nearly 25 points and six assists per game in that span. We all know that LeBron James and Anthony Davis will bring it every night, but to get that from a third piece changes everything for this club. They also just added Spencer Dinwiddie in the buyout market, and having a backup like that makes this hot team even more dangerous. If they just keep the two Hall-of-Famers healthy, this is a team no one wants to face.
The Warriors (27-26) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now, entering this matchup winning eight of their last 10 games. That hot stretch directly correlates with the return of Draymond Green, who has been playing some of the best basketball of his career. What's interesting about the most recent win is that they chose to bring Klay Thompson off of the bench. That demotion clearly lit a fire under the former All-Star, dropping 35 points in one of his best games of the year. Getting him hot is really scary for the rest of the NBA because Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski are having unexpected breakout campaigns as well.
These teams played a 2OT thriller on January 27, with Los Angeles prevailing, 145-144. That gives the Lakers four straight wins over the Warriors in total.
The Lakers (30-26) have been climbing up the standings over the last month, entering this matchup winning 11 of their last 15 games. What's really carried them in this stretch is the play of D'Angelo Russell, averaging nearly 25 points and six assists per game in that span. We all know that LeBron James and Anthony Davis will bring it every night, but to get that from a third piece changes everything for this club. They also just added Spencer Dinwiddie in the buyout market, and having a backup like that makes this hot team even more dangerous. If they just keep the two Hall-of-Famers healthy, this is a team no one wants to face.
The Warriors (27-26) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now, entering this matchup winning eight of their last 10 games. That hot stretch directly correlates with the return of Draymond Green, who has been playing some of the best basketball of his career. What's interesting about the most recent win is that they chose to bring Klay Thompson off of the bench. That demotion clearly lit a fire under the former All-Star, dropping 35 points in one of his best games of the year. Getting him hot is really scary for the rest of the NBA because Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski are having unexpected breakout campaigns as well.
These teams played a 2OT thriller on January 27, with Los Angeles prevailing, 145-144. That gives the Lakers four straight wins over the Warriors in total.
Kings Host Spurs on Thursday
The Sacramento Kings play host to the San Antonio Spurs at Golden One Center on Thursday.
The Spurs (11-44) were expected to be one of the worst teams in the NBA, and they've certainly been that. They come into this matchup losing eight of their last nine games while sitting just 2.5 games up on the Detroit Pistons for the worst record in the NBA. This team really didn't care about winning this year, though, because they're trying to build around Victor Wembanyama. The French rookie has surpassed all expectations this season, leading the NBA in blocks while recording a triple-double just last week. He truly looks like a revolutionary player, and it's scary because he's only scratching the surface of what he could become.
The Kings (31-23) were one of the biggest surprises in the NBA when they finished third in the Western Conference last year, but they're proving that was no fluke. While they're down to eighth in the west this year, they are just 1.5 games back of the team in fifth. A recent slide has actually moved them down, with Sacramento entering this matchup losing four of their last six games. They were fifth before that poor run, and the All-Star break couldn't have come at a better time. De'Aaron Fox has been dealing with numerous issues over the last month, but to give him a week off will be beneficial for this club in the final two months of the year. They also didn't have to send Domantas Sabonis to Indiana for the All-Star game, and these guys should be refreshed for the final 28 games.
These teams played on November 17, with Sacramento prevailing, 129-120. They have six wins in their last seven matchups with San Antonio in total.
The Spurs (11-44) were expected to be one of the worst teams in the NBA, and they've certainly been that. They come into this matchup losing eight of their last nine games while sitting just 2.5 games up on the Detroit Pistons for the worst record in the NBA. This team really didn't care about winning this year, though, because they're trying to build around Victor Wembanyama. The French rookie has surpassed all expectations this season, leading the NBA in blocks while recording a triple-double just last week. He truly looks like a revolutionary player, and it's scary because he's only scratching the surface of what he could become.
The Kings (31-23) were one of the biggest surprises in the NBA when they finished third in the Western Conference last year, but they're proving that was no fluke. While they're down to eighth in the west this year, they are just 1.5 games back of the team in fifth. A recent slide has actually moved them down, with Sacramento entering this matchup losing four of their last six games. They were fifth before that poor run, and the All-Star break couldn't have come at a better time. De'Aaron Fox has been dealing with numerous issues over the last month, but to give him a week off will be beneficial for this club in the final two months of the year. They also didn't have to send Domantas Sabonis to Indiana for the All-Star game, and these guys should be refreshed for the final 28 games.
These teams played on November 17, with Sacramento prevailing, 129-120. They have six wins in their last seven matchups with San Antonio in total.