Jazz Looking To Start Winning Streak Against Red-Hot Pacers
The Utah Jazz will host the Indiana Pacers at Vivint Smart Home Arena on Friday afternoon.
The Jazz (41-14) are one of the top teams in the league and seem ticketed to finish the regular season with one of the top records in the Western Conference, which is quite an achievement for this team led by Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell. The Jazz are coming off a 106-96 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder the last time out, as Utah bounced back quickly from their loss against the Washington Wizards. Six players scored in double digits for the Jazz in that win, led by Bojan Bogdanovic, who totaled 23 points and seven rebounds, in 35 minutes. Rudy Gobert totaled 13 points, 14 rebounds and seven blocks, while Mike Conley tallied 15 points, 14 rebounds, two assists and a steal. The Jazz shot 41 percent from the field, including 17-of-47 from long range. It might be worth noting the Jazz have gone "only" 3-2 in their last five contests, but they've been extremely dominant at home due to their 25-3 record in this venue.
The Pacers (26-28) continue to fight for a playoff berth in the Eastern Conference and are coming off a 132-124 win over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday, meaning they've now posted four wins on their last five contests and are going in a strong run of form. Caris LeVert led the Pacers with 27 points, five rebounds and two steals in 29 minutes, while Domantas Sabonis added 22 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, and Malcolm Brogdon tallied 23 points, 14 rebounds and nine assists. The Pacers shot 53 percent from the field, including 15-of-36 from long range, during Wednesday's win and it's worth noting they have clinched each of their last three wins playing away from home. In fact, the Pacers have been one of the best teams in the league when it comes to their road record and have posted a 17-12 mark playing away from BankersLife Fieldhouse in 2020-21.
The Jazz (41-14) are one of the top teams in the league and seem ticketed to finish the regular season with one of the top records in the Western Conference, which is quite an achievement for this team led by Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell. The Jazz are coming off a 106-96 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder the last time out, as Utah bounced back quickly from their loss against the Washington Wizards. Six players scored in double digits for the Jazz in that win, led by Bojan Bogdanovic, who totaled 23 points and seven rebounds, in 35 minutes. Rudy Gobert totaled 13 points, 14 rebounds and seven blocks, while Mike Conley tallied 15 points, 14 rebounds, two assists and a steal. The Jazz shot 41 percent from the field, including 17-of-47 from long range. It might be worth noting the Jazz have gone "only" 3-2 in their last five contests, but they've been extremely dominant at home due to their 25-3 record in this venue.
The Pacers (26-28) continue to fight for a playoff berth in the Eastern Conference and are coming off a 132-124 win over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday, meaning they've now posted four wins on their last five contests and are going in a strong run of form. Caris LeVert led the Pacers with 27 points, five rebounds and two steals in 29 minutes, while Domantas Sabonis added 22 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, and Malcolm Brogdon tallied 23 points, 14 rebounds and nine assists. The Pacers shot 53 percent from the field, including 15-of-36 from long range, during Wednesday's win and it's worth noting they have clinched each of their last three wins playing away from home. In fact, the Pacers have been one of the best teams in the league when it comes to their road record and have posted a 17-12 mark playing away from BankersLife Fieldhouse in 2020-21.
Pistons Looking To Bounce Back, Host Pistons
The Detroit Pistons will host the Oklahoma City Thunder at Little Caesars Arena on Friday evening.
The Pistons (16-39) are coming off a disappointing, yet competitive, defeat against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday, losing by a two-point margin after allowing the game-winning shot with only a few seconds left on the clock. Jerami Grant carried the Pistons in this one with a 28-point performance that also included three rebounds and two assists, while Saddiq Bey notched 17 points and five boards. Mason Plumlee filled the stat sheet and came close to a double-double thanks to 11 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Isaiah Stewart posted 12 points and eight rebounds off the bench. The Pistons have minimal chances of reaching the postseason given their record and their home mark doesn't do them any favors, as Detroit has gone 9-16 when playing at Little Caesars Arena. As if that wasn't enough, Detroit enters this game on a three-game losing streak while dropping four of its last five games.
The Thunder (20-35) are going through a complicated stretch and suffered a 147-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday -- that defeat extended Oklahoma City's losing run to eight games -- allowing 110 points or more in seven of those defeats and giving up over 125 points five times in that stretch. The Thunder were led by Darius Bazley, totaling 22 points and eight rebounds. Svi Mykhailiuk generated 14 points, five rebounds and three assists. Moses Brown compiled 18 points, 12 rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Theo Maledon accumulated 11 points, three rebounds and five assists while led Tony Bradley led the bench with 13 points and seven boards. As if that eight-game losing streak wasn't enough, it's also worth mentioning the Thunder has posted a meager 11-15 record on the road this season.
The Pistons (16-39) are coming off a disappointing, yet competitive, defeat against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday, losing by a two-point margin after allowing the game-winning shot with only a few seconds left on the clock. Jerami Grant carried the Pistons in this one with a 28-point performance that also included three rebounds and two assists, while Saddiq Bey notched 17 points and five boards. Mason Plumlee filled the stat sheet and came close to a double-double thanks to 11 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Isaiah Stewart posted 12 points and eight rebounds off the bench. The Pistons have minimal chances of reaching the postseason given their record and their home mark doesn't do them any favors, as Detroit has gone 9-16 when playing at Little Caesars Arena. As if that wasn't enough, Detroit enters this game on a three-game losing streak while dropping four of its last five games.
The Thunder (20-35) are going through a complicated stretch and suffered a 147-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday -- that defeat extended Oklahoma City's losing run to eight games -- allowing 110 points or more in seven of those defeats and giving up over 125 points five times in that stretch. The Thunder were led by Darius Bazley, totaling 22 points and eight rebounds. Svi Mykhailiuk generated 14 points, five rebounds and three assists. Moses Brown compiled 18 points, 12 rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Theo Maledon accumulated 11 points, three rebounds and five assists while led Tony Bradley led the bench with 13 points and seven boards. As if that eight-game losing streak wasn't enough, it's also worth mentioning the Thunder has posted a meager 11-15 record on the road this season.
Clippers and 76ers Set For Interconference Showdown
The Los Angeles Clippers take on the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on Friday night.
The Clippers (39-18) come into Friday night's showdown as the hottest team in the NBA, as they've prevailed in seven straight games and 13 of the last 15 overall. Their most recent success came against the Detroit Pistons, which they edged by a 100-98 score Wednesday night. Reggie Jackson led the way for the Clippers with 29 points, adding six rebounds and one assist. Ivica Zubac generated an 18-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included two assists, two steals and one block. Luke Kennard provided 17 points, 10 rebounds, one assist and one steal.
The Clippers will list Kawhi Leonard (foot) as questionable for Friday's game. Serge Ibaka (back) and Patrick Beverley (knee) will remain out, while Paul George and Marcus Morris are slated to return from rest days.
The 76ers (38-17) also check into Friday's game riding high, as they've won six of their last eight games and currently sit atop the Eastern Conference standings. Their most recent victory was the one that gave them sole possession of the No. 1 seed for the moment, as Philadelphia toppled the Brooklyn Nets by a 123-117 score on Wednesday night. Joel Embiid led the way with 39 points, supplementing them with 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Tobias Harris supplied 26 points, five rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal. Ben Simmons chipped in 17 points, nine assists, four rebounds, three steals and one block. Shake Milton registered 15 points, four assists, one rebound, one steal and one block.
The 76ers will list both Harris and Dwight Howard as questionable for Friday's game due to knee injuries.
Friday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The 76ers hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 122-112 win March 27.
The Clippers (39-18) come into Friday night's showdown as the hottest team in the NBA, as they've prevailed in seven straight games and 13 of the last 15 overall. Their most recent success came against the Detroit Pistons, which they edged by a 100-98 score Wednesday night. Reggie Jackson led the way for the Clippers with 29 points, adding six rebounds and one assist. Ivica Zubac generated an 18-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included two assists, two steals and one block. Luke Kennard provided 17 points, 10 rebounds, one assist and one steal.
The Clippers will list Kawhi Leonard (foot) as questionable for Friday's game. Serge Ibaka (back) and Patrick Beverley (knee) will remain out, while Paul George and Marcus Morris are slated to return from rest days.
The 76ers (38-17) also check into Friday's game riding high, as they've won six of their last eight games and currently sit atop the Eastern Conference standings. Their most recent victory was the one that gave them sole possession of the No. 1 seed for the moment, as Philadelphia toppled the Brooklyn Nets by a 123-117 score on Wednesday night. Joel Embiid led the way with 39 points, supplementing them with 13 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Tobias Harris supplied 26 points, five rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal. Ben Simmons chipped in 17 points, nine assists, four rebounds, three steals and one block. Shake Milton registered 15 points, four assists, one rebound, one steal and one block.
The 76ers will list both Harris and Dwight Howard as questionable for Friday's game due to knee injuries.
Friday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The 76ers hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 122-112 win March 27.
Wizards Look To Build On Two-Game Streak
By Dan Bruno
The Washington Wizards play host to the New Orleans Pelicans at Capital One Arena on Friday.
The Wizards (21-33) have won their last two in a row, but they are, 5-5, in their last 10 games. They will look to keep rolling and improve on their, 10-16, home record, as they face the first game of a four-game home stand. Bradley Beal leads the team, averaging 31.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.2 steals, in 35 minutes per game, while Russell Westbrook continues to play at a very high level, averaging 21.8 points, 10.9 assists, 10.8 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. Rui Hachimura is averaging 13.8 points and 5.8 rebounds, while Deni Avdija is averaging 6.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. The Wizards have struggled on the defensive end, giving up an average of 118.6 points per game, which is second most in the league, while allowing opponents to shoot an average of 47.3 percent from the field. They are lacking in interior defense, as they average a league-low 3.7 blocks per game.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans (25-30) are coming off a loss in their most recent contest, but they are, 5-5, in their last 10 games. They will look to get back on track and add to their, 9-16, road record, as they face the first game of a two-game trip. Zion Williamson continues to dominate the game, averaging 26.8 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists, in 33 minutes per game. Brandon Ingram is averaging 24.1 points, 4.9 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game. After missing the last four games, Lonzo Ball (hip) is listed as probable for action on Friday. The Pelicans are averaging 114.5 points per game, which is eighth most in the league, and they are shooting an average of 48.2 percent from the field, which is sixth best in the league. However, they are giving up an average of 114.9 points per game, which is fourth most in the league.
The Wizards (21-33) have won their last two in a row, but they are, 5-5, in their last 10 games. They will look to keep rolling and improve on their, 10-16, home record, as they face the first game of a four-game home stand. Bradley Beal leads the team, averaging 31.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.2 steals, in 35 minutes per game, while Russell Westbrook continues to play at a very high level, averaging 21.8 points, 10.9 assists, 10.8 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. Rui Hachimura is averaging 13.8 points and 5.8 rebounds, while Deni Avdija is averaging 6.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. The Wizards have struggled on the defensive end, giving up an average of 118.6 points per game, which is second most in the league, while allowing opponents to shoot an average of 47.3 percent from the field. They are lacking in interior defense, as they average a league-low 3.7 blocks per game.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans (25-30) are coming off a loss in their most recent contest, but they are, 5-5, in their last 10 games. They will look to get back on track and add to their, 9-16, road record, as they face the first game of a two-game trip. Zion Williamson continues to dominate the game, averaging 26.8 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists, in 33 minutes per game. Brandon Ingram is averaging 24.1 points, 4.9 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game. After missing the last four games, Lonzo Ball (hip) is listed as probable for action on Friday. The Pelicans are averaging 114.5 points per game, which is eighth most in the league, and they are shooting an average of 48.2 percent from the field, which is sixth best in the league. However, they are giving up an average of 114.9 points per game, which is fourth most in the league.
Hornets Look To End Three-Game Slide
By Dan Bruno
The Brooklyn Nets play host to the Charlotte Hornets at Barclays Center on Friday evening.
The Hornets (27-27) have dropped six of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to get back on track and build on their two-game road winning streak, with the opportunity to improve on their, 14-15, road record. Terry Rozier leads the team, averaging 20.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.3 steals, in 34 minutes per game. Devonte' Graham is averaging 14.2 points, 5.2 assists, 2.7 rebounds and 1.0 steals, while Miles Bridges is averaging 10.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. The Hornets average 110.2 points per game, which is 10th fewest in the league and they are shooting an average of 45.7 percent from the field, which is also 10th lowest in the league. On the other end, they are giving up an average of 111.3 points per game. LaMelo Ball (wrist) and Gordon Hayward (foot) remain sidelined.
Meanwhile, the Nets (37-18) have won seven of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a loss in their most recent contest. They will look to get back on track and add to their, 22-7, home record. The Nets recently received the unexpected news that LaMarcus Aldridge would retire from the NBA. The Nets are also dealing with some injury trouble, as James Harden (hamstring) will remain out. Kevin Durant did not play in the Nets' most recent contest for the purposes of injury management on the second night of a back-to-back, but he has looked strong in three games since returning from injury and should be ready to go on Friday. Kyrie Irving continues to playing well, averaging 27.9 points, 6.1 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. The Nets are averaging 118.8 points per game, which is second most in the league, and they are shooting a league-best 49.4 percent from the field. In contrast, they are giving up an average of 114.2 points against, which is eighth most in the league.
The Hornets (27-27) have dropped six of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to get back on track and build on their two-game road winning streak, with the opportunity to improve on their, 14-15, road record. Terry Rozier leads the team, averaging 20.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.3 steals, in 34 minutes per game. Devonte' Graham is averaging 14.2 points, 5.2 assists, 2.7 rebounds and 1.0 steals, while Miles Bridges is averaging 10.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. The Hornets average 110.2 points per game, which is 10th fewest in the league and they are shooting an average of 45.7 percent from the field, which is also 10th lowest in the league. On the other end, they are giving up an average of 111.3 points per game. LaMelo Ball (wrist) and Gordon Hayward (foot) remain sidelined.
Meanwhile, the Nets (37-18) have won seven of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a loss in their most recent contest. They will look to get back on track and add to their, 22-7, home record. The Nets recently received the unexpected news that LaMarcus Aldridge would retire from the NBA. The Nets are also dealing with some injury trouble, as James Harden (hamstring) will remain out. Kevin Durant did not play in the Nets' most recent contest for the purposes of injury management on the second night of a back-to-back, but he has looked strong in three games since returning from injury and should be ready to go on Friday. Kyrie Irving continues to playing well, averaging 27.9 points, 6.1 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. The Nets are averaging 118.8 points per game, which is second most in the league, and they are shooting a league-best 49.4 percent from the field. In contrast, they are giving up an average of 114.2 points against, which is eighth most in the league.
Magic and Raptors Clash in Tampa
The Orlando Magic takes on the Toronto Raptors at Amalie Arena on Friday night.
The Magic (18-37) have had about as difficult a season as their record implies, and they'll enter Friday's game having just snapped a six-game skid with a 115-106 win over the Chicago Bulls. James Ennis led the Magic with 22 points, complementing them with four rebounds, three assists and one block. Wendell Carter, Jr. delivered a 19-point, 12-rebound double-double that included four assists, two steals and one block. Carter-Williams and Gary Harris generated matching 15-point tallies while recording eight rebounds and six assists, respectively. Terrence Ross managed 11 points, four assists, three rebounds and two steals. Cole Anthony totaled 10 points, five assists and three rebounds.
The Magic will remain without Otto Porter (foot) for Friday's game. Carter-Williams (ankle) will also be sidelined, while Mo Bamba (hip) will carry a questionable tag.
The Raptors (22-37) have fallen victims to a few losing streaks in their own right, and they'll check into Friday's contest having just emerged from a 1-4 stretch with a 117-112 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. OG Anunoby paced the Raptors with 22 points, complementing them with four rebounds, three assists and two steals. Pascal Siakam generated a 20-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included six assists, two steals and one block. Malachi Flynn finished with 16 points, seven assists, four rebounds and two steals. Khem Birch furnished 14 points, six boards, one assist, two blocks and one steal. Chris Boucher generated a 12-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included one assist and one steal. Yuta Watanabe totaled 11 points, four rebounds, one assist and one block.
The Raptors will hold Siakam, Anunoby and Lowry out for rest on Friday. Gary Trent (ankle) and DeAndre' Bembry (hamstring) are both doubtful.
Friday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Raptors hold a 2-0 series lead, having notched 115-102 and 123-108 wins Jan. 31 and Feb. 2.
The Magic (18-37) have had about as difficult a season as their record implies, and they'll enter Friday's game having just snapped a six-game skid with a 115-106 win over the Chicago Bulls. James Ennis led the Magic with 22 points, complementing them with four rebounds, three assists and one block. Wendell Carter, Jr. delivered a 19-point, 12-rebound double-double that included four assists, two steals and one block. Carter-Williams and Gary Harris generated matching 15-point tallies while recording eight rebounds and six assists, respectively. Terrence Ross managed 11 points, four assists, three rebounds and two steals. Cole Anthony totaled 10 points, five assists and three rebounds.
The Magic will remain without Otto Porter (foot) for Friday's game. Carter-Williams (ankle) will also be sidelined, while Mo Bamba (hip) will carry a questionable tag.
The Raptors (22-37) have fallen victims to a few losing streaks in their own right, and they'll check into Friday's contest having just emerged from a 1-4 stretch with a 117-112 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. OG Anunoby paced the Raptors with 22 points, complementing them with four rebounds, three assists and two steals. Pascal Siakam generated a 20-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included six assists, two steals and one block. Malachi Flynn finished with 16 points, seven assists, four rebounds and two steals. Khem Birch furnished 14 points, six boards, one assist, two blocks and one steal. Chris Boucher generated a 12-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included one assist and one steal. Yuta Watanabe totaled 11 points, four rebounds, one assist and one block.
The Raptors will hold Siakam, Anunoby and Lowry out for rest on Friday. Gary Trent (ankle) and DeAndre' Bembry (hamstring) are both doubtful.
Friday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Raptors hold a 2-0 series lead, having notched 115-102 and 123-108 wins Jan. 31 and Feb. 2.
Grizzlies and Bulls Tangle In Windy City
The Memphis Grizzlies take on the Chicago Bulls at United Center on Friday night.
The Grizzlies (27-26) have been trending in the right direction at the right time of year, as they'll enter Friday's game with a 6-4 mark over their last 10 contests. However, their most recent time on the floor resulted in one of those losses, as Memphis dropped a heartbreaking 114-113 decision to the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night when Luka Doncic capped off a late rally with an off-balance miracle three-point bucket at the buzzer. For the Grizzlies, Grayson Allen led the Grizzlies with 23 points, complementing them with four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Jonas Valaciunas generated a 19-point, 15-rebound double-double that also included two assists. Ja Morant supplied 17 points, five assists, four rebounds and one steal. Dillon Brooks registered 15 points, four assists, three rebounds and one block.
The Grizzlies will remain without De'Anthony Melton (leg), Justise Winslow (quadriceps) and Jaren Jackson (knee) for Friday's game. Brandon Clarke (hip) and Tim Frazier (recent acquisition) are likely to be listed as questionable.
The Bulls (22-32) made big moves at the trade deadline but they've yet to translate to the court, as Chicago comes into Friday's contest having dropped 10 of their last 13 games and now have lost Zach LaVine for up to two weeks due to health and safety protocols. Their most recent stumble came against the Orlando Magic, which topped them by a 115-106 score Wednesday night. LaVine paced the Bulls with 30 points, supplementing them with seven assists, five rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Nikola Vucevic posted a 29-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist, two blocks and one steal. Daniel Theis supplied 16 points, six rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block.
In addition to LaVine, the Bulls will also list Tomas Satoransky (back) on the injury report, although he'll carry a probable tag.
Friday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Grizzlies hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 101-90 win Monday.
The Grizzlies (27-26) have been trending in the right direction at the right time of year, as they'll enter Friday's game with a 6-4 mark over their last 10 contests. However, their most recent time on the floor resulted in one of those losses, as Memphis dropped a heartbreaking 114-113 decision to the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night when Luka Doncic capped off a late rally with an off-balance miracle three-point bucket at the buzzer. For the Grizzlies, Grayson Allen led the Grizzlies with 23 points, complementing them with four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Jonas Valaciunas generated a 19-point, 15-rebound double-double that also included two assists. Ja Morant supplied 17 points, five assists, four rebounds and one steal. Dillon Brooks registered 15 points, four assists, three rebounds and one block.
The Grizzlies will remain without De'Anthony Melton (leg), Justise Winslow (quadriceps) and Jaren Jackson (knee) for Friday's game. Brandon Clarke (hip) and Tim Frazier (recent acquisition) are likely to be listed as questionable.
The Bulls (22-32) made big moves at the trade deadline but they've yet to translate to the court, as Chicago comes into Friday's contest having dropped 10 of their last 13 games and now have lost Zach LaVine for up to two weeks due to health and safety protocols. Their most recent stumble came against the Orlando Magic, which topped them by a 115-106 score Wednesday night. LaVine paced the Bulls with 30 points, supplementing them with seven assists, five rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Nikola Vucevic posted a 29-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist, two blocks and one steal. Daniel Theis supplied 16 points, six rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block.
In addition to LaVine, the Bulls will also list Tomas Satoransky (back) on the injury report, although he'll carry a probable tag.
Friday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Grizzlies hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 101-90 win Monday.
Nuggets Take On Struggling Rockets
By Dan Bruno
The Houston Rockets play host to the Denver Nuggets at Toyota Center on Friday evening.
The Nuggets (35-20) have won eight of their last 10 games, including their most recent outing. They will look to build on the momentum and add to their, 16-10, road record. Nikola Jokic continues to lead the team in almost every category, as he is averaging 26.0 points, 10.9 rebounds, 8.8 assists and 1.4 steals, in 35 minutes per game. Aaron Gordon has been playing well, averaging 11.8 points on 58 percent shooting, over the last 10 games. Michael Porter Jr. is averaging 17.5 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.0 blocks per game. The Nuggets are averaging 115.1 points per game, which is fourth most in the league, and they are shooting an average of 48.8 percent from the field, which is third best in the league. On the other end, they are holding opponents to an average of 110.0 points per game, which is ninth fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Rockets (14-41) have dropped nine of their last 10 games, including their last four in a row. They will look to get back on track and add to their, 7-20, home record. John Wall is coming off a great performance in the Rockets' most recent contest, with 31 points, nine assists, three rebounds, two blocks and a steal, in 35 minutes of action. Kelly Olynyk has been playing great lately, averaging 17.8 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists, over the last 10 games. Christian Wood has also been playing well, averaging 20.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.0 blocks and 1.0 steals, over his last nine games. The Rockets are averaging 108.3 points per game, which is seventh fewest in the league, and they are shooting an average of 44.2 percent from the field, which is third worst in the league. They are not doing much better on the defensive end, as they are giving up an average of 114.8 points per game, which is sixth most in the league, and they are giving up an average of 14.1 turnovers per game.
The Nuggets (35-20) have won eight of their last 10 games, including their most recent outing. They will look to build on the momentum and add to their, 16-10, road record. Nikola Jokic continues to lead the team in almost every category, as he is averaging 26.0 points, 10.9 rebounds, 8.8 assists and 1.4 steals, in 35 minutes per game. Aaron Gordon has been playing well, averaging 11.8 points on 58 percent shooting, over the last 10 games. Michael Porter Jr. is averaging 17.5 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.0 blocks per game. The Nuggets are averaging 115.1 points per game, which is fourth most in the league, and they are shooting an average of 48.8 percent from the field, which is third best in the league. On the other end, they are holding opponents to an average of 110.0 points per game, which is ninth fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Rockets (14-41) have dropped nine of their last 10 games, including their last four in a row. They will look to get back on track and add to their, 7-20, home record. John Wall is coming off a great performance in the Rockets' most recent contest, with 31 points, nine assists, three rebounds, two blocks and a steal, in 35 minutes of action. Kelly Olynyk has been playing great lately, averaging 17.8 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists, over the last 10 games. Christian Wood has also been playing well, averaging 20.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.0 blocks and 1.0 steals, over his last nine games. The Rockets are averaging 108.3 points per game, which is seventh fewest in the league, and they are shooting an average of 44.2 percent from the field, which is third worst in the league. They are not doing much better on the defensive end, as they are giving up an average of 114.8 points per game, which is sixth most in the league, and they are giving up an average of 14.1 turnovers per game.
T'Wolves Host Heat on Friday
The Minnesota Timberwolves play host to the Miami Heat at Target Center on Friday.
The Heat (28-27) looked terrific this time last week, but a road trip has hurt their best stretch of the season. They actually enter this game, losing their last two, being beaten by the Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets. Those are two road losses that no one should be ashamed of, but it's disappointing to see after Miami won seven of their previous eight games before that. It's unclear exactly who this team is but a run to the Finals last year is a good indicator of how good they can be. The thing they need to work on is their offense. Miami currently ranks 26th in points scored this year which is a truly unacceptable mark from a roster that consists of Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro, and Goran Dragic. In any case, don't be surprised to see them make another big run before the end of the season.
The Timberwolves (14-42) have the worst record in the NBA, and the last few games have been downright ugly. They've had to play the Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets in their last two games, losing by a combined 55 points. They also had to play those without Karl-Anthony Towns, and it's clear that they can't compete without their superstar big man. If there's one silver lining in this dark season, it's that Anthony Edwards appears to be the real deal. The Rookie of the Year candidate is averaging about 25 points per game since the opening month, posting numerous 40-point games over the last month. That will pair nicely with whatever top-pick they land in next year's draft, but one has to wonder how many times we can say that about this franchise.
These teams have yet to play this season, but Minnesota swept the two-game season series last year. That actually gives them four straight wins in this series in total.
The Heat (28-27) looked terrific this time last week, but a road trip has hurt their best stretch of the season. They actually enter this game, losing their last two, being beaten by the Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets. Those are two road losses that no one should be ashamed of, but it's disappointing to see after Miami won seven of their previous eight games before that. It's unclear exactly who this team is but a run to the Finals last year is a good indicator of how good they can be. The thing they need to work on is their offense. Miami currently ranks 26th in points scored this year which is a truly unacceptable mark from a roster that consists of Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro, and Goran Dragic. In any case, don't be surprised to see them make another big run before the end of the season.
The Timberwolves (14-42) have the worst record in the NBA, and the last few games have been downright ugly. They've had to play the Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets in their last two games, losing by a combined 55 points. They also had to play those without Karl-Anthony Towns, and it's clear that they can't compete without their superstar big man. If there's one silver lining in this dark season, it's that Anthony Edwards appears to be the real deal. The Rookie of the Year candidate is averaging about 25 points per game since the opening month, posting numerous 40-point games over the last month. That will pair nicely with whatever top-pick they land in next year's draft, but one has to wonder how many times we can say that about this franchise.
These teams have yet to play this season, but Minnesota swept the two-game season series last year. That actually gives them four straight wins in this series in total.
Spurs Host Trail Blazers on Friday
The San Antonio Spurs play host to the Portland Trail Blazers at AT&T Center on Friday.
The Trail Blazers (31-23) suffered a really tough loss on Tuesday, getting beat by the Boston Celtics, 116-115. That was a game that went back and forth all night, but it marked the Trail Blazers fourth loss in their last five games. All four defeats came against tough competition, while the one victory came against a disastrous Detroit Pistons team. Where they've really been hurting is on the defensive end of the floor. The Trail Blazers currently sit 29th in defensive efficiency ratings, and it just seems to be getting worse the deeper into the season we get. Getting Jusuf Nurki back from injury is a big boost to that, but he's been limited in his return as well.
The Spurs (26-27) have hit a wall recently, too, losing 11 of their last 15 games coming into this matchup. That has turned them from a clear-cut playoff team into a club battling to make it into the play-in. They now sit 10th in the Western Conference, with the New Orleans Pelicans right on their heels. Anybody who watches the NBA will tell you that the Pelicans are the more talented team, but the Spurs are obviously the more experienced bunch. The thing San Antonio needs to work on is their frontcourt play. DeMar DeRozan, Dejounte Murray, and Derrick White play well every night, but without LaMarcus Aldridge, they really lack post scoring. Jakob Poeltl has done a nice job filling in for him, but it remains to be seen if that's enough.
These teams played back on January 18, with San Antonio prevailing, 125-104. That gives the Spurs 10 wins in their last 18 meetings with the Trail Blazers dating back to 2015.
The Trail Blazers (31-23) suffered a really tough loss on Tuesday, getting beat by the Boston Celtics, 116-115. That was a game that went back and forth all night, but it marked the Trail Blazers fourth loss in their last five games. All four defeats came against tough competition, while the one victory came against a disastrous Detroit Pistons team. Where they've really been hurting is on the defensive end of the floor. The Trail Blazers currently sit 29th in defensive efficiency ratings, and it just seems to be getting worse the deeper into the season we get. Getting Jusuf Nurki back from injury is a big boost to that, but he's been limited in his return as well.
The Spurs (26-27) have hit a wall recently, too, losing 11 of their last 15 games coming into this matchup. That has turned them from a clear-cut playoff team into a club battling to make it into the play-in. They now sit 10th in the Western Conference, with the New Orleans Pelicans right on their heels. Anybody who watches the NBA will tell you that the Pelicans are the more talented team, but the Spurs are obviously the more experienced bunch. The thing San Antonio needs to work on is their frontcourt play. DeMar DeRozan, Dejounte Murray, and Derrick White play well every night, but without LaMarcus Aldridge, they really lack post scoring. Jakob Poeltl has done a nice job filling in for him, but it remains to be seen if that's enough.
These teams played back on January 18, with San Antonio prevailing, 125-104. That gives the Spurs 10 wins in their last 18 meetings with the Trail Blazers dating back to 2015.
Mavericks Host Knicks on Friday
The Dallas Mavericks play host to the New York Knicks at American Airlines Center on Friday.
The Knicks (29-27) enter this matchup in the midst of a four-game winning streak. That run has the Knicks in line to finish north of .500, and that's something New York fans have been waiting for, for a long time. Tom Thibodeau has come in and worked his magic, getting breakout seasons from Julius Randle and R.J. Barrett. The most important thing he's brought in is a defensive mindset, with the Knicks allowing the fewest points in the NBA. That's a crazy statistic from a club that's struggled on that end in recent years, and it's a better NBA environment when the Knicks are a competitive team.
The Mavericks (30-24) just had one of their most inspirational wins of the season on Wednesday, downing the Memphis Grizzlies, 114-113. What was really amazing is that Luka Doncic hit a miracle three-pointer at the buzzer to capture that win. They actually trailed by two with 2.2 seconds left, with the Grizzlies attempting two free throws but went on to capture that miracle of a win. Doncic finished that game with 29 points, five rebounds, and nine assists. The guy who's quietly been huge for this club is Jalen Brunson, though. He collected eight points, eight rebounds, and nine assists in that victory and has garnered some consideration for Sixth Man of the Year. He's also come in when guys like Kristaps Porzingis have been nicked up, and his presence on this team cannot be overlooked.
These teams just played on April 2, with Dallas winning 99-86. That followed up a two-game season sweep by the Knicks two years ago, with these teams not playing in 2020.
The Knicks (29-27) enter this matchup in the midst of a four-game winning streak. That run has the Knicks in line to finish north of .500, and that's something New York fans have been waiting for, for a long time. Tom Thibodeau has come in and worked his magic, getting breakout seasons from Julius Randle and R.J. Barrett. The most important thing he's brought in is a defensive mindset, with the Knicks allowing the fewest points in the NBA. That's a crazy statistic from a club that's struggled on that end in recent years, and it's a better NBA environment when the Knicks are a competitive team.
The Mavericks (30-24) just had one of their most inspirational wins of the season on Wednesday, downing the Memphis Grizzlies, 114-113. What was really amazing is that Luka Doncic hit a miracle three-pointer at the buzzer to capture that win. They actually trailed by two with 2.2 seconds left, with the Grizzlies attempting two free throws but went on to capture that miracle of a win. Doncic finished that game with 29 points, five rebounds, and nine assists. The guy who's quietly been huge for this club is Jalen Brunson, though. He collected eight points, eight rebounds, and nine assists in that victory and has garnered some consideration for Sixth Man of the Year. He's also come in when guys like Kristaps Porzingis have been nicked up, and his presence on this team cannot be overlooked.
These teams just played on April 2, with Dallas winning 99-86. That followed up a two-game season sweep by the Knicks two years ago, with these teams not playing in 2020.