Cavaliers host Hornets in first game of home-and-home series Monday
The Charlotte Hornets visit the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Monday, in the first game of a home-and-home series between these Eastern Conference foes.
The Hornets (17-53) saw their losing streak extended to four Saturday after a crushing 132-92 loss to the Atlanta Hawks. The Hornets are now mathematically eliminated from playoff contention, and it has been a disappointing season for a team budding with young talent like LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges and 2023 third-overall pick Brandon Miller. For his part, Miller has cemented himself on the First-Team All-Rookie ballot, averaging 16.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists over 31.9 minutes per game this season. One silver lining for the Hornets is that they keep their lottery-protected 2024 first-round by virtue of missing the playoffs.
JT Thor (shoulder) is questionable for Monday’s contest. Ball (ankle), Mark Williams (back) and Bryce McGowens (knee) have all been ruled out.
Meanwhile the Cavaliers (43-28) are 3-7 over their last 10 games, and as a result have toppled out of contention for the second seed in the Eastern Conference. They sit in third place in the East, 2.5 games behind the Milwaukee Bucks, and just half a game ahead of the New York Knicks. Cleveland was able to overcome injuries to Darius Garland and Evan Mobley earlier in the season, but the team has not been able to replace the production of All-Star Donovan Mitchell, who has missed 10 of the team’s last 12 games due to a knee injury and nasal fracture. The Cavaliers need Isaac Okoro, Caris LeVert, Sam Merrill or another player to step into a larger role to help make a late-season push to the second seed in the East.
Dean Wade (knee) and Max Strus (knee) are both listed as questionable for Monday’s game.
Monday’s contest is the first of three games between the Hornets and Cavaliers this season. Cleveland won the 2022-23 season series, 3-1, and have won five of the last seven matchups against Charlotte.
The Hornets (17-53) saw their losing streak extended to four Saturday after a crushing 132-92 loss to the Atlanta Hawks. The Hornets are now mathematically eliminated from playoff contention, and it has been a disappointing season for a team budding with young talent like LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges and 2023 third-overall pick Brandon Miller. For his part, Miller has cemented himself on the First-Team All-Rookie ballot, averaging 16.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists over 31.9 minutes per game this season. One silver lining for the Hornets is that they keep their lottery-protected 2024 first-round by virtue of missing the playoffs.
JT Thor (shoulder) is questionable for Monday’s contest. Ball (ankle), Mark Williams (back) and Bryce McGowens (knee) have all been ruled out.
Meanwhile the Cavaliers (43-28) are 3-7 over their last 10 games, and as a result have toppled out of contention for the second seed in the Eastern Conference. They sit in third place in the East, 2.5 games behind the Milwaukee Bucks, and just half a game ahead of the New York Knicks. Cleveland was able to overcome injuries to Darius Garland and Evan Mobley earlier in the season, but the team has not been able to replace the production of All-Star Donovan Mitchell, who has missed 10 of the team’s last 12 games due to a knee injury and nasal fracture. The Cavaliers need Isaac Okoro, Caris LeVert, Sam Merrill or another player to step into a larger role to help make a late-season push to the second seed in the East.
Dean Wade (knee) and Max Strus (knee) are both listed as questionable for Monday’s game.
Monday’s contest is the first of three games between the Hornets and Cavaliers this season. Cleveland won the 2022-23 season series, 3-1, and have won five of the last seven matchups against Charlotte.
Celtics, Hawks Clash In Atlanta
The Atlanta Hawks will host the Boston Celtics at State Farm Arena on Monday.
The Hawks (31-39) remain alive in the race for a spot in the Play-In Tournament with only three weeks left in the regular season. However, that has been the case mostly due to the struggles of other teams rather than their good results of late. The Hawks might be coming off a 132-91 win over the Charlotte Hornets in what was arguably their best offensive showing of the campaign, but that efficiency hasn’t been consistent. In fact, the Hawks have won just two of their last five outings, and not having Trae Young (finger) has hurt their offensive upside considerably. Playing at home hasn’t been much of an advantage for Atlanta, either, as the team owns a 17-17 mark at State Farm Arena.
The Hawks will be considerably depleted for Monday’s contest. Onyeka Okongwu (toe), Mouhamed Gueye (elbow), Seth Lundy (back), Jalen Johnson (ankle), AJ Griffin (ankle), Kobe Bufkin (toe), Trae Young (finger) and Saddiq Bey (knee) are all out.
The Celtics (57-14) are on the opposite side of things when it comes to numbers and performances. Joe Mazzulla’s team has been surprisingly dominant on both ends of the court, and the Celtics already secured a playoff berth weeks ago. Boston has been trying to rest some of their regulars every time the team has had the chance, and don’t expect that trend to change any time soon. It seems it will be “Championship or bust” for the Celtics in 2023-24, but the team’s form has been outstanding of late. Their recent 124-113 win over the Chicago Bulls was their ninth victory in a row, and a win here would mean the second time in which they win at least 10 consecutive games. Their road record has turned heads as well, with Boston going 25-11 away from home.
Derrick White (hand) and Xavier Tillman (knee) are listed as game-time decisions for Monday. Jrue Holiday (shoulder) is out.
The Hawks (31-39) remain alive in the race for a spot in the Play-In Tournament with only three weeks left in the regular season. However, that has been the case mostly due to the struggles of other teams rather than their good results of late. The Hawks might be coming off a 132-91 win over the Charlotte Hornets in what was arguably their best offensive showing of the campaign, but that efficiency hasn’t been consistent. In fact, the Hawks have won just two of their last five outings, and not having Trae Young (finger) has hurt their offensive upside considerably. Playing at home hasn’t been much of an advantage for Atlanta, either, as the team owns a 17-17 mark at State Farm Arena.
The Hawks will be considerably depleted for Monday’s contest. Onyeka Okongwu (toe), Mouhamed Gueye (elbow), Seth Lundy (back), Jalen Johnson (ankle), AJ Griffin (ankle), Kobe Bufkin (toe), Trae Young (finger) and Saddiq Bey (knee) are all out.
The Celtics (57-14) are on the opposite side of things when it comes to numbers and performances. Joe Mazzulla’s team has been surprisingly dominant on both ends of the court, and the Celtics already secured a playoff berth weeks ago. Boston has been trying to rest some of their regulars every time the team has had the chance, and don’t expect that trend to change any time soon. It seems it will be “Championship or bust” for the Celtics in 2023-24, but the team’s form has been outstanding of late. Their recent 124-113 win over the Chicago Bulls was their ninth victory in a row, and a win here would mean the second time in which they win at least 10 consecutive games. Their road record has turned heads as well, with Boston going 25-11 away from home.
Derrick White (hand) and Xavier Tillman (knee) are listed as game-time decisions for Monday. Jrue Holiday (shoulder) is out.
Knicks, Pistons Tangle In MSG
The New York Knicks will host the Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden on Monday.
The Knicks (42-28) are a true playoff contender this season. With only three weeks left in the 2023-24 regular season, they shouldn’t have problems reaching the postseason while avoiding the Play-In Tournament. The Knicks have been playing well in recent weeks and enter this game on a 4-1 record across their last five contests. Their most recent victory was a 105-93 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday. Playing at home has been one of New York’s biggest strengths this season, with Tom Thibodeau’s team going 23-13 in front of their fans at Madison Square Garden.
The Knicks are listing Julius Randle (shoulder), OG Anunoby (elbow) and Mitchell Robinson (ankle) as out.
The Pistons (12-59) are set to play in the second half of a back-to-back set following their 114-101 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday. Detroit is already eliminated from the postseason, so the team is already thinking about the 2024-25 campaign and beyond. On that note, don’t be surprised if the Pistons start resting some of their best players to avoid further injuries. The Pistons have also struggled massively when playing on the road, going a meager 5-28 so far. Detroit doesn’t have much motivation to get a positive result in this game outside of their own honor, as the Knicks have a shot at completing the season sweep here.
Cade Cunningham (knee), Quentin Grimes (knee), Jalen Duren (back), Simone Fontecchio (toe) and Taj Gibson (hamstring) are all listed as questionable for Detroit. Ausar Thompson (illness), Stanley Umude (ankle) and Isaiah Stewart (hamstring) are out for the season.
The Knicks (42-28) are a true playoff contender this season. With only three weeks left in the 2023-24 regular season, they shouldn’t have problems reaching the postseason while avoiding the Play-In Tournament. The Knicks have been playing well in recent weeks and enter this game on a 4-1 record across their last five contests. Their most recent victory was a 105-93 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday. Playing at home has been one of New York’s biggest strengths this season, with Tom Thibodeau’s team going 23-13 in front of their fans at Madison Square Garden.
The Knicks are listing Julius Randle (shoulder), OG Anunoby (elbow) and Mitchell Robinson (ankle) as out.
The Pistons (12-59) are set to play in the second half of a back-to-back set following their 114-101 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday. Detroit is already eliminated from the postseason, so the team is already thinking about the 2024-25 campaign and beyond. On that note, don’t be surprised if the Pistons start resting some of their best players to avoid further injuries. The Pistons have also struggled massively when playing on the road, going a meager 5-28 so far. Detroit doesn’t have much motivation to get a positive result in this game outside of their own honor, as the Knicks have a shot at completing the season sweep here.
Cade Cunningham (knee), Quentin Grimes (knee), Jalen Duren (back), Simone Fontecchio (toe) and Taj Gibson (hamstring) are all listed as questionable for Detroit. Ausar Thompson (illness), Stanley Umude (ankle) and Isaiah Stewart (hamstring) are out for the season.
Nets and Raptors Tangle North of the Border
The Brooklyn Nets take on the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on Monday night.
The Nets (26-45) are struggling down the stretch of a forgettable season, as they'll enter Monday's contest with six consecutive losses. Their most recent stumble came Saturday afternoon, when they fell to the New York Knicks by a 105-93 score. Cam Thomas led the Nets with 19 points, adding six assists and five rebounds. Mikal Bridges furnished 18 points, five assists, four boards and one steal. Cameron Johnson registered 13 points, two rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The Nets will be without Johnson (toe), Dennis Smith (hip) and Keita Bates-Diop (lower leg) for Monday's game.
The Raptors (23-48) are actually in worse shape injury- and record-wise than their opponent, and they'll head into Monday's game with 10 straight losses. The latest stumble occurred Saturday night, when they were edged by the Washington Wizards, 112-109. Gary Trent Jr. led the Raptors with 31 points, supplementing them four rebounds, two assists and three steals. Gradey Dick supplied 17 points, two rebounds, two assists and one block. Kelly Olynyk generated a 14-point, 10-assist double-double that included six rebounds, two assists and one block. Ochai Agbaji posted 12 points, nine rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal. Bruce Brown contributed 11 points, six rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Raptors expect to be without Immanuel Quickley (personal), Jontay Porter (personal), RJ Barrett (personal), Scottie Barnes (finger), Jakob Poeltl (finger), D.J. Carton (ankle) and Chris Boucher (knee) for Monday's contest.
Monday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
The Nets (26-45) are struggling down the stretch of a forgettable season, as they'll enter Monday's contest with six consecutive losses. Their most recent stumble came Saturday afternoon, when they fell to the New York Knicks by a 105-93 score. Cam Thomas led the Nets with 19 points, adding six assists and five rebounds. Mikal Bridges furnished 18 points, five assists, four boards and one steal. Cameron Johnson registered 13 points, two rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The Nets will be without Johnson (toe), Dennis Smith (hip) and Keita Bates-Diop (lower leg) for Monday's game.
The Raptors (23-48) are actually in worse shape injury- and record-wise than their opponent, and they'll head into Monday's game with 10 straight losses. The latest stumble occurred Saturday night, when they were edged by the Washington Wizards, 112-109. Gary Trent Jr. led the Raptors with 31 points, supplementing them four rebounds, two assists and three steals. Gradey Dick supplied 17 points, two rebounds, two assists and one block. Kelly Olynyk generated a 14-point, 10-assist double-double that included six rebounds, two assists and one block. Ochai Agbaji posted 12 points, nine rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal. Bruce Brown contributed 11 points, six rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Raptors expect to be without Immanuel Quickley (personal), Jontay Porter (personal), RJ Barrett (personal), Scottie Barnes (finger), Jakob Poeltl (finger), D.J. Carton (ankle) and Chris Boucher (knee) for Monday's contest.
Monday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
Wizards and Bulls Primed for Windy City Battle
The Washington Wizards take on the Chicago Bulls at United Center on Monday night.
The Wizards (13-58) have found wins few and far between this season as their record indicates, but they'll head into Monday's contest boasting a rare two-game winning streak. Their most recent success came Saturday night, when they got by the Toronto Raptors, 112-109. Deni Avdija led the Wizards with a 22-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included five assists and one steal. Jordan Poole produced an 18-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and three steals. Corey Kispert matched Poole's scoring and added two assists, one rebound and one steal. Kyle Kuzma posted 16 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Richaun Holmes generated an 15-point, 14-rebound double-double that included two blocks. Marvin Bagley finished with 10 points, eight rebounds and two blocks.
The Wizards will be without Kuzma (shoulder), Tyus Jones (back), Landry Shamet (calf) and Eugene Omoruyi (ankle) for Monday's game. Poole (ankle) will carry a questionable tag.
The Bulls (34-37) are fighting to stay relevant in the postseason picture, but they'll check into Monday's contest with back-to-back untimely losses. Their most recent stumble came Saturday night, when they fell to the Boston Celtics by a 124-113 score. DeMar DeRozan paced the Bulls with 28 points, supplementing them with nine assists, six rebounds and one block. Nikola Vucevic, Alex Caruso and Ayo Dosunmu provided 14 points each. Vucevic added five assists, two rebounds, two blocks and one steal, Caruso contributed three rebounds, three assists and one steal and Dosunmu posted four assists, two rebounds and two steals. Dalen Terry tallied 12 points, three rebounds, one assist and one steal. Coby White and Torrey Craig put up 11 points apiece, with White adding 10 assists and five rebounds.
The Bulls will remain without Julian Phillips (foot) for Monday's game. White (hip), Caruso (ankle) and Terry (calf) will be listed as probable.
Monday's game marks the second of three meetings between the teams this season. The Bulls hold a 1-0 series lead.
The Wizards (13-58) have found wins few and far between this season as their record indicates, but they'll head into Monday's contest boasting a rare two-game winning streak. Their most recent success came Saturday night, when they got by the Toronto Raptors, 112-109. Deni Avdija led the Wizards with a 22-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included five assists and one steal. Jordan Poole produced an 18-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and three steals. Corey Kispert matched Poole's scoring and added two assists, one rebound and one steal. Kyle Kuzma posted 16 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Richaun Holmes generated an 15-point, 14-rebound double-double that included two blocks. Marvin Bagley finished with 10 points, eight rebounds and two blocks.
The Wizards will be without Kuzma (shoulder), Tyus Jones (back), Landry Shamet (calf) and Eugene Omoruyi (ankle) for Monday's game. Poole (ankle) will carry a questionable tag.
The Bulls (34-37) are fighting to stay relevant in the postseason picture, but they'll check into Monday's contest with back-to-back untimely losses. Their most recent stumble came Saturday night, when they fell to the Boston Celtics by a 124-113 score. DeMar DeRozan paced the Bulls with 28 points, supplementing them with nine assists, six rebounds and one block. Nikola Vucevic, Alex Caruso and Ayo Dosunmu provided 14 points each. Vucevic added five assists, two rebounds, two blocks and one steal, Caruso contributed three rebounds, three assists and one steal and Dosunmu posted four assists, two rebounds and two steals. Dalen Terry tallied 12 points, three rebounds, one assist and one steal. Coby White and Torrey Craig put up 11 points apiece, with White adding 10 assists and five rebounds.
The Bulls will remain without Julian Phillips (foot) for Monday's game. White (hip), Caruso (ankle) and Terry (calf) will be listed as probable.
Monday's game marks the second of three meetings between the teams this season. The Bulls hold a 1-0 series lead.
Trail Blazers and Rockets Set for Conference Battle
The Portland Trail Blazers take on the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on Monday night.
The Trail Blazers (19-52) are trying to remain competitive down the stretch of a non-contending season, but they'll head into Monday's contest with 10 losses in the last 12 games, including six straight. Portland's most recent stumble came Saturday, when they were edged by the Denver Nuggets, 114-111. Duop Reath led the Trail Blazers with 24 points, complementing them with eight rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal. Scoot Henderson produced 22 points, six assists, four rebounds and two steals. Toumani Camara furnished 16 points, seven rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block. Jabari Walker posted 15 points, nine boards and one steal. Danalo Banton supplied 14 points, three rebounds and one assist. Kris Murray turned in 11 points, seven rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block.
The Trail Blazers will list Deandre Ayton (elbow), Anfernee Simons (knee) and Matisse Thybulle (ankle) as questionable for Monday's game. Jerami Grant (hamstring) will carry a doubtful tag, while Malcolm Brogdon (elbow) and Shaedon Sharpe (abdomen) will remain out.
The Rockets (35-35) have been headed in the opposite direction of their opponent, increasing their chances of playing past the last day of the regular season by rattling off 10 wins in their last 11 games, including eight straight. Their most recent success came Saturday night, when they throttled the Utah Jazz by a 147-119 score. Jalen Green paced the Rockets with 41 points, complementing them with four rebounds, four assists and one steal. Fred VanVleet furnished 34 points, seven assists, three rebounds and two steals. Jeff Green compiled 21 points, four boards, one assist and two blocks. Dillon Brooks registered 12 points, four rebounds, four assists and one steal.
The will be without Cam Whitmore (knee), Alperen Sengun (lower leg) and Jabari Smith (suspension) for Monday's game.
Monday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
The Trail Blazers (19-52) are trying to remain competitive down the stretch of a non-contending season, but they'll head into Monday's contest with 10 losses in the last 12 games, including six straight. Portland's most recent stumble came Saturday, when they were edged by the Denver Nuggets, 114-111. Duop Reath led the Trail Blazers with 24 points, complementing them with eight rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one steal. Scoot Henderson produced 22 points, six assists, four rebounds and two steals. Toumani Camara furnished 16 points, seven rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block. Jabari Walker posted 15 points, nine boards and one steal. Danalo Banton supplied 14 points, three rebounds and one assist. Kris Murray turned in 11 points, seven rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block.
The Trail Blazers will list Deandre Ayton (elbow), Anfernee Simons (knee) and Matisse Thybulle (ankle) as questionable for Monday's game. Jerami Grant (hamstring) will carry a doubtful tag, while Malcolm Brogdon (elbow) and Shaedon Sharpe (abdomen) will remain out.
The Rockets (35-35) have been headed in the opposite direction of their opponent, increasing their chances of playing past the last day of the regular season by rattling off 10 wins in their last 11 games, including eight straight. Their most recent success came Saturday night, when they throttled the Utah Jazz by a 147-119 score. Jalen Green paced the Rockets with 41 points, complementing them with four rebounds, four assists and one steal. Fred VanVleet furnished 34 points, seven assists, three rebounds and two steals. Jeff Green compiled 21 points, four boards, one assist and two blocks. Dillon Brooks registered 12 points, four rebounds, four assists and one steal.
The will be without Cam Whitmore (knee), Alperen Sengun (lower leg) and Jabari Smith (suspension) for Monday's game.
Monday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
Spurs, Suns Clash In Second Straight Game
By Dan Bruno
The San Antonio Spurs play host to the Phoenix Suns at Frost Bank Center on Monday evening.
This marks the second of back-to-back meetings between the Spurs and Suns in San Antonio, after the Suns walked away with a 25-point win in their last meeting, on Saturday. The Suns jumped out to a strong start in the game, as they led by nine points after one quarter. The Spurs brought a better offensive effort in the second, but the Suns still managed to add another nine points to their advantage, taking an 18-point lead into the break. The Suns turned up their play in the third and outscored the hosts, 38-24, to push it to a 32-point deficit heading into the final frame. The Spurs put up a solid fight in the fourth, but it was not enough. Devin Booker led the Suns with 32 points, seven rebounds and nine assists, in the win. Kevin Durant followed up with 25 points, four rebounds, four assists and three steals, while Bradley Beal logged 13 points and 12 assists. On the other side, Keldon Johnson led the Spurs with 14 points, on 5-for-11 shooting, off the bench. Victor Wembanyama tallied 13 points, five rebounds, four assists and a block, while Zach Collins and Sandro Mamukelashvili chipped in 11 points each.
The Spurs (15-56) have dropped three in a row and hope to get back on track with an opportunity to improve on their, 8-27, home record. Victor Wembanyama (ankle), who leads the team in points, rebounds and blocks per game is listed as questionable for action.
Meanwhile, the Suns (42-29) have won their last three games and look to keep rolling for the chance to build on their, 19-15, road record.
This marks the second of back-to-back meetings between the Spurs and Suns in San Antonio, after the Suns walked away with a 25-point win in their last meeting, on Saturday. The Suns jumped out to a strong start in the game, as they led by nine points after one quarter. The Spurs brought a better offensive effort in the second, but the Suns still managed to add another nine points to their advantage, taking an 18-point lead into the break. The Suns turned up their play in the third and outscored the hosts, 38-24, to push it to a 32-point deficit heading into the final frame. The Spurs put up a solid fight in the fourth, but it was not enough. Devin Booker led the Suns with 32 points, seven rebounds and nine assists, in the win. Kevin Durant followed up with 25 points, four rebounds, four assists and three steals, while Bradley Beal logged 13 points and 12 assists. On the other side, Keldon Johnson led the Spurs with 14 points, on 5-for-11 shooting, off the bench. Victor Wembanyama tallied 13 points, five rebounds, four assists and a block, while Zach Collins and Sandro Mamukelashvili chipped in 11 points each.
The Spurs (15-56) have dropped three in a row and hope to get back on track with an opportunity to improve on their, 8-27, home record. Victor Wembanyama (ankle), who leads the team in points, rebounds and blocks per game is listed as questionable for action.
Meanwhile, the Suns (42-29) have won their last three games and look to keep rolling for the chance to build on their, 19-15, road record.
Nuggets Host Hobbled Grizzlies
By Dan Bruno
The Denver Nuggets play host to the Memphis Grizzlies at Ball Arena on Monday evening.
The Nuggets (50-21) have won three in a row and hope to keep rolling as they return home to kick off a five-game stand with the opportunity to add to their, 28-6, home record. Nikola Jokic (hip) and Jamal Murray (ankle) each missed the last game and remain questionable for action on Monday. Reggie Jackson came up huge, with 23 points, five assists and two steals in the last game, helping lead the way to a win despite the squad playing shorthanded. Jackson is averaging 10.0 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists on the season. Michael Porter averages 17.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. Aaron Gordon is averaging 13.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3.4 assists, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is averaging 10.0 points, 2.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.4 steals.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies (24-47) ended a four-game side with a win in their last outing and will look to stay on track with a chance to improve on their, 16-20, road record. Unfortunately, they continue to deal with a large amount of injuries, as Desmond Bane (back), Jake LaRavia (illness) and Lamar Stevens (thigh) are listed as questionable for action, John Konchar (heel) and Vince Williams (knee) are listed as doubtful, and Luke Kennard (personal), Marcus Smart (finger) and Ziaire Williams (hip) will remain out. On the bright side, GG Jackson continues to play well, averaging 23.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists over five consecutive starts. Santi Aldama averages 11.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists, while Jaren Jackson is averaging 22.6 points, 5.5 rebounds 2.3 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.6 blocks per game.
The Nuggets (50-21) have won three in a row and hope to keep rolling as they return home to kick off a five-game stand with the opportunity to add to their, 28-6, home record. Nikola Jokic (hip) and Jamal Murray (ankle) each missed the last game and remain questionable for action on Monday. Reggie Jackson came up huge, with 23 points, five assists and two steals in the last game, helping lead the way to a win despite the squad playing shorthanded. Jackson is averaging 10.0 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists on the season. Michael Porter averages 17.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. Aaron Gordon is averaging 13.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3.4 assists, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is averaging 10.0 points, 2.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.4 steals.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies (24-47) ended a four-game side with a win in their last outing and will look to stay on track with a chance to improve on their, 16-20, road record. Unfortunately, they continue to deal with a large amount of injuries, as Desmond Bane (back), Jake LaRavia (illness) and Lamar Stevens (thigh) are listed as questionable for action, John Konchar (heel) and Vince Williams (knee) are listed as doubtful, and Luke Kennard (personal), Marcus Smart (finger) and Ziaire Williams (hip) will remain out. On the bright side, GG Jackson continues to play well, averaging 23.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists over five consecutive starts. Santi Aldama averages 11.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists, while Jaren Jackson is averaging 22.6 points, 5.5 rebounds 2.3 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.6 blocks per game.
Jazz Host Mavs on Tuesday
The Dallas Mavericks travel to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Jazz at Vivint Arena on Tuesday.
The Mavericks (41-29) have been getting better as the season progresses, coming into this matchup winning six of their last seven games. That hot stretch is a last push to avoid the Play-In Tournament, sitting eighth in the Western Conference. That might not sound like they'll avoid the Play-In, but Dallas is only 0.5 games behind the Phoenix Suns in sixth. They're also just 4.5 games behind the Los Angeles Clippers in fourth, so a ton can happen over the final three weeks of the year. As long as Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving continue to play at superstar levels in the backcourt, Dallas is a threat to beat anyone on any given night.
The Jazz (29-42) have been solid at home this season, posting a 20-15 record in Utah. That would make you believe this club is battling for a playoff spot, but they haven't even grabbed double-digit road wins yet. That horrific road form has ruined any hopes this team had, and things just continue to get worse. The Jazz come into this matchup losing five straight and 16 of their last 19 games in total. That's one of the worst records in the NBA and it has Utah resting Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson regularly. Those "veterans" have proven to be valuable pieces but the Jazz need to find out which youngsters they want to hold for the long haul. If there's one bright spot, it's the emergence of Keyonte George, who's looked like one of the best guards out of the 2023 draft class.
This is the fourth matchup between these teams this year, with Dallas winning two of three. They've won four of their last five games over Utah in total.
The Mavericks (41-29) have been getting better as the season progresses, coming into this matchup winning six of their last seven games. That hot stretch is a last push to avoid the Play-In Tournament, sitting eighth in the Western Conference. That might not sound like they'll avoid the Play-In, but Dallas is only 0.5 games behind the Phoenix Suns in sixth. They're also just 4.5 games behind the Los Angeles Clippers in fourth, so a ton can happen over the final three weeks of the year. As long as Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving continue to play at superstar levels in the backcourt, Dallas is a threat to beat anyone on any given night.
The Jazz (29-42) have been solid at home this season, posting a 20-15 record in Utah. That would make you believe this club is battling for a playoff spot, but they haven't even grabbed double-digit road wins yet. That horrific road form has ruined any hopes this team had, and things just continue to get worse. The Jazz come into this matchup losing five straight and 16 of their last 19 games in total. That's one of the worst records in the NBA and it has Utah resting Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson regularly. Those "veterans" have proven to be valuable pieces but the Jazz need to find out which youngsters they want to hold for the long haul. If there's one bright spot, it's the emergence of Keyonte George, who's looked like one of the best guards out of the 2023 draft class.
This is the fourth matchup between these teams this year, with Dallas winning two of three. They've won four of their last five games over Utah in total.
Kings Host Sixers on Monday
The Sacramento Kings play host to the Philadelphia 76ers at Golden One Center on Monday.
The Sixers (39-32) have been struggling mightily in the second half of the season, posting a 9-15 record across their last 24 games. That's no surprise when peeking into the training room because Joel Embiid is still missing time due to knee surgery. The 2023 MVP is expected to be back sometime in the next few weeks but that's right when the postseason commences. What remains to be seen is where Philly finishes in the standings, sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference right now. The good news is that they're only 1.5 games back of the Indiana Pacers in sixth and they'll be one of the most dangerous clubs when Embiid is able to return.
The Kings (41-29) have been climbing up the Western Conference standings, entering this matchup winning 10 of their last 15 games. This team's biggest goal is to avoid the Play-In Tournament, but Sacramento sits seventh in the Western Conference right now. The good news is that they're only 0.5 games behind the Phoenix Suns in sixth. We all know that Domantas Sabonis and De'Aaron Fox will post gaudy numbers every single night, but it's up to everyone else to get this team over the hump. Malik Monk has actually been the biggest surprise, with the bench player looking likely to win Sixth Man of the Year this season.
Philly beat Sacramento back in January, 112-93. That gives the Sixers 10 straight wins over the Kings, dating back to 2019.
The Sixers (39-32) have been struggling mightily in the second half of the season, posting a 9-15 record across their last 24 games. That's no surprise when peeking into the training room because Joel Embiid is still missing time due to knee surgery. The 2023 MVP is expected to be back sometime in the next few weeks but that's right when the postseason commences. What remains to be seen is where Philly finishes in the standings, sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference right now. The good news is that they're only 1.5 games back of the Indiana Pacers in sixth and they'll be one of the most dangerous clubs when Embiid is able to return.
The Kings (41-29) have been climbing up the Western Conference standings, entering this matchup winning 10 of their last 15 games. This team's biggest goal is to avoid the Play-In Tournament, but Sacramento sits seventh in the Western Conference right now. The good news is that they're only 0.5 games behind the Phoenix Suns in sixth. We all know that Domantas Sabonis and De'Aaron Fox will post gaudy numbers every single night, but it's up to everyone else to get this team over the hump. Malik Monk has actually been the biggest surprise, with the bench player looking likely to win Sixth Man of the Year this season.
Philly beat Sacramento back in January, 112-93. That gives the Sixers 10 straight wins over the Kings, dating back to 2019.
Clippers Host Pacers on Monday
The Los Angeles Clippers play host to the Indiana Pacers at Crypto.com Arena on Monday.
The Pacers (40-32) have been playing some stellar ball recently, entering this matchup winning five of their last eight games. That's a really good stretch considering Indiana is in the middle of a West Coast road trip, winning in Golden State just a few nights ago. What makes this team so interesting is that they play at the fastest pace in the NBA. That has them as one of the highest-scoring teams but it also makes them one of the worst defenses as well. It remains to be seen if that can be successful in the postseason, but many people forget that the Pacers made it all the way to the championship of the In-Season Tournament earlier in the year.
The Clippers (44-26) have been middling in the second half of the season, posting a 10-11 record across their last 21 games. They actually had the best record in the two months prior, so it's hard to understand why they've hit a bit of a wall. In any case, a .500 stretch over a 21-game span is nothing to be concerned with, especially since all of the superstars have stayed healthy. Kawhi Leonard, James Harden and Paul George look as good as ever, posting some monster lines over the last week. That's arguably the best trio in the NBA, and it makes LA one of the most dangerous clubs in the fast-approaching postseason.
These teams played on December 18, with Los Angeles winning, 151-127. That gives LA five wins in their last seven matchups with Indiana in total.
The Pacers (40-32) have been playing some stellar ball recently, entering this matchup winning five of their last eight games. That's a really good stretch considering Indiana is in the middle of a West Coast road trip, winning in Golden State just a few nights ago. What makes this team so interesting is that they play at the fastest pace in the NBA. That has them as one of the highest-scoring teams but it also makes them one of the worst defenses as well. It remains to be seen if that can be successful in the postseason, but many people forget that the Pacers made it all the way to the championship of the In-Season Tournament earlier in the year.
The Clippers (44-26) have been middling in the second half of the season, posting a 10-11 record across their last 21 games. They actually had the best record in the two months prior, so it's hard to understand why they've hit a bit of a wall. In any case, a .500 stretch over a 21-game span is nothing to be concerned with, especially since all of the superstars have stayed healthy. Kawhi Leonard, James Harden and Paul George look as good as ever, posting some monster lines over the last week. That's arguably the best trio in the NBA, and it makes LA one of the most dangerous clubs in the fast-approaching postseason.
These teams played on December 18, with Los Angeles winning, 151-127. That gives LA five wins in their last seven matchups with Indiana in total.