Bulls Aiming To Keep Streak Alive, Host Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Chicago Bulls at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Wednesday evening.
The Cavaliers (20-37) continue to move in the wrong direction and they enter this game on a three-game losing streak following their 109-105 loss against the Detroit Pistons the last time out. As it has been the case all season long, Collin Sexton and Darius Garland carried Cleveland during that defeat -- while the shooting guard ended with 28 points and seven rebounds, the speedy point guard had 23 points and six dimes. Kevin Love had 15 points and eight rebounds, while Isaiah Hartenstein had 13 points off the bench as well. Aside from riding a three-game losing streak, the Cavaliers have gone 1-4 in their last five games and 3-7 over their prior 10 contests, so it's clear their struggles are real and that their playoff chances are close to being minimal. Part of that can be explained by the fact that the Cavaliers own one of the worst offenses in the league, averaging just 103.8 points per game.
The Bulls (24-33) remain several games below the .500 threshold and are trying to remain alive in the race for a play-in berth, but they should feel confident ahead of this game since they're coming off a 102-96 win over the Boston Celtics the last time out, a huge result despite the absence of Zach LaVine. Nikola Vucevic led the Bulls with 29 points and nine rebounds -- he also posted two assists, two steals and a block. Coby White had 19 points and seven assists, while Garrett Temple chipped in with 13 points. Thaddeus Young also scored 13 points off the bench for the Bulls, though no other Chicago player scored in double digits. The Bulls shot 45.6 percent from the field and 34.4 percent from three-point range. Chicago enters this game on a two-game winning streak and has posted a 13-15 record when playing on the road.
The Cavaliers (20-37) continue to move in the wrong direction and they enter this game on a three-game losing streak following their 109-105 loss against the Detroit Pistons the last time out. As it has been the case all season long, Collin Sexton and Darius Garland carried Cleveland during that defeat -- while the shooting guard ended with 28 points and seven rebounds, the speedy point guard had 23 points and six dimes. Kevin Love had 15 points and eight rebounds, while Isaiah Hartenstein had 13 points off the bench as well. Aside from riding a three-game losing streak, the Cavaliers have gone 1-4 in their last five games and 3-7 over their prior 10 contests, so it's clear their struggles are real and that their playoff chances are close to being minimal. Part of that can be explained by the fact that the Cavaliers own one of the worst offenses in the league, averaging just 103.8 points per game.
The Bulls (24-33) remain several games below the .500 threshold and are trying to remain alive in the race for a play-in berth, but they should feel confident ahead of this game since they're coming off a 102-96 win over the Boston Celtics the last time out, a huge result despite the absence of Zach LaVine. Nikola Vucevic led the Bulls with 29 points and nine rebounds -- he also posted two assists, two steals and a block. Coby White had 19 points and seven assists, while Garrett Temple chipped in with 13 points. Thaddeus Young also scored 13 points off the bench for the Bulls, though no other Chicago player scored in double digits. The Bulls shot 45.6 percent from the field and 34.4 percent from three-point range. Chicago enters this game on a two-game winning streak and has posted a 13-15 record when playing on the road.
Pacers, Thunder Meet In Battle Of Struggling Teams
The Indiana Pacers will host the Oklahoma City Thunder at BankersLife FieldHouse on Wednesday evening.
The Pacers (26-31) have been one of the most disappointing teams in the Eastern Conference this season and sit five games below the .500 threshold -- though they're still alive in the race for a play-in berth. The Pacers are coming off a third straight defeat, this time against the San Antonio Spurs by a 109-94 score, and that means they've gone 1-4 in their last five contests. Malcolm Brogdon and Caris LeVert co-led the Pacers with 18 points apiece, with Brogdon adding six rebounds and five assists and LeVert posting four boards and two assists. Oshae Brissett compiled 13 points, six rebounds and one steal. T.J. McConnell provided eight points, five rebounds and four assists. Indiana has gone 5-5 in their last five outings and have been struggling at home as well, posting a 9-17 mark at BankersLife FieldHouse.
The Thunder (20-38) are in an even more complicated position than the Pacers, as they're quickly descending in the Western Conference standings and have lost their past 10 games. They're coming off a 119-107 loss against the Washington Wizards in a game where they were led by Darius Bazley and his 26 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Kenrich Williams amassed 15 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Theo Maledon had 14 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Tony Bradley led the bench with 16 points, three rebounds and two steals. Ty Jerome also had 11 points, five rebounds and three assists. The Thunder have posted an 11-18 away record, losing each of their last six contests on enemy territory. They're also on an 11-game losing run.
The Pacers (26-31) have been one of the most disappointing teams in the Eastern Conference this season and sit five games below the .500 threshold -- though they're still alive in the race for a play-in berth. The Pacers are coming off a third straight defeat, this time against the San Antonio Spurs by a 109-94 score, and that means they've gone 1-4 in their last five contests. Malcolm Brogdon and Caris LeVert co-led the Pacers with 18 points apiece, with Brogdon adding six rebounds and five assists and LeVert posting four boards and two assists. Oshae Brissett compiled 13 points, six rebounds and one steal. T.J. McConnell provided eight points, five rebounds and four assists. Indiana has gone 5-5 in their last five outings and have been struggling at home as well, posting a 9-17 mark at BankersLife FieldHouse.
The Thunder (20-38) are in an even more complicated position than the Pacers, as they're quickly descending in the Western Conference standings and have lost their past 10 games. They're coming off a 119-107 loss against the Washington Wizards in a game where they were led by Darius Bazley and his 26 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Kenrich Williams amassed 15 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Theo Maledon had 14 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Tony Bradley led the bench with 16 points, three rebounds and two steals. Ty Jerome also had 11 points, five rebounds and three assists. The Thunder have posted an 11-18 away record, losing each of their last six contests on enemy territory. They're also on an 11-game losing run.
Suns and 76ers Set for Interconference Showdown
The Phoenix Suns take on the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday night.
The Suns (41-16) continue to qualify as one of the hottest teams in the league, as they're right on the tail of the top-seeded Utah Jazz in the Western Conference and enter Wednesday's game having prevailed in 12 of the last 14 contests. Phoenix's most recent success was a notable one, as Monty Williams' squad toppled the Milwaukee Bucks by a 128-127 score in overtime on Monday night. Devin Booker led the way with 24 points, adding seven rebounds, seven assists, three steals and one block. Chris Paul generated a 22-point, 13-assist double-double that also included seven rebounds andone steal. Malik Bridges poured in 21 points. Deandre Ayton furnished 20 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and one block. Cameron Johnson and Cameron Payne managed 13 and 12 points, respectively.
The Suns will likely list Abdel Nader (knee) as out for Wednesday's game while Dario Saric (ankle) will carry a probable tag.
The 76ers (39-18) check into Wednesday's game on the right trajectory as well, as they've also won four of the last five contests. However, their most recent time on the court resulted in that one loss, as they dropped a 107-96 decision to the Golden State Warriors on Monday night. Joel Embiid paced the 76ers with a 28-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included eight assists, one steal and one block. Seth Curry delivered 15 points, five assists and one steal. Matisse Thybulle totaled 13 points, seven boards, one assists, three steals and one block. Danny Green contributed 12 points, seven rebounds, two assists and three steals. Furkan Korkmaz and Tyrese Maxey generated matching 10-point tallies while recording two assists and two rebounds, respectively.
The 76ers will list Ben Simmons (illness) and Tobias Harris (knee) as questionable for Wednesday's contest.
Wednesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Suns hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 120-111 win Feb. 13.
The Suns (41-16) continue to qualify as one of the hottest teams in the league, as they're right on the tail of the top-seeded Utah Jazz in the Western Conference and enter Wednesday's game having prevailed in 12 of the last 14 contests. Phoenix's most recent success was a notable one, as Monty Williams' squad toppled the Milwaukee Bucks by a 128-127 score in overtime on Monday night. Devin Booker led the way with 24 points, adding seven rebounds, seven assists, three steals and one block. Chris Paul generated a 22-point, 13-assist double-double that also included seven rebounds andone steal. Malik Bridges poured in 21 points. Deandre Ayton furnished 20 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and one block. Cameron Johnson and Cameron Payne managed 13 and 12 points, respectively.
The Suns will likely list Abdel Nader (knee) as out for Wednesday's game while Dario Saric (ankle) will carry a probable tag.
The 76ers (39-18) check into Wednesday's game on the right trajectory as well, as they've also won four of the last five contests. However, their most recent time on the court resulted in that one loss, as they dropped a 107-96 decision to the Golden State Warriors on Monday night. Joel Embiid paced the 76ers with a 28-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included eight assists, one steal and one block. Seth Curry delivered 15 points, five assists and one steal. Matisse Thybulle totaled 13 points, seven boards, one assists, three steals and one block. Danny Green contributed 12 points, seven rebounds, two assists and three steals. Furkan Korkmaz and Tyrese Maxey generated matching 10-point tallies while recording two assists and two rebounds, respectively.
The 76ers will list Ben Simmons (illness) and Tobias Harris (knee) as questionable for Wednesday's contest.
Wednesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Suns hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 120-111 win Feb. 13.
Warriors and Wizards Tangle in Nation's Capital
The Golden State Warriors take on the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on Wednesday night.
The Warriors (29-29) have been trending in the right direction in their postseason push lately, as they'll come into Wednesday's game having won five of their last six contests. Their most recent success was a big interconference victory, as they toppled the Philadelphia 76ers by a 107-96 score Monday night. Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 49 points while shooting 10-for-17 from three-point range, and he added five assists and three rebounds. Andrew Wiggins posted a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included two assists and two blocks. Damion Lee furnished 12 points, six rebounds, one assist and one block. Draymond Green supplied eight points, six rebounds, six assists and two steals.
The Warriors will continue without Juan Toscano-Anderson (concussion) and Eric Paschall (hip) for Wednesday's game. Damion Lee (toe) will carry a questionable tag.
The Wizards (24-33) have unexpectedly and impressively worked themselves back into contention for a play-in spot at minimum with dramatically improved performance of late, as they'll head into Wednesday's game having prevailed in seven of their last eight contests. Washington's most recent success came Monday night, when they got past the Oklahoma City Thunder by a 119-107 score. Bradley Beal led the way with 30 points, adding two assists, one rebound, three steals and one block. Davis Bertans totaled 21 points, three rebounds and two assists. Robin Lopez registered 17 points and two boards. Russell Westbrook and Daniel Gafford generated matching 13-point contributions, with Westbrook also recording 17 assists and 11 rebounds.
The Wizards will continue without Rui Hachimura (kneecap) on Wednesday.
Wednesday's contest marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Wizards hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 110-107 win April 9.
The Warriors (29-29) have been trending in the right direction in their postseason push lately, as they'll come into Wednesday's game having won five of their last six contests. Their most recent success was a big interconference victory, as they toppled the Philadelphia 76ers by a 107-96 score Monday night. Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 49 points while shooting 10-for-17 from three-point range, and he added five assists and three rebounds. Andrew Wiggins posted a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included two assists and two blocks. Damion Lee furnished 12 points, six rebounds, one assist and one block. Draymond Green supplied eight points, six rebounds, six assists and two steals.
The Warriors will continue without Juan Toscano-Anderson (concussion) and Eric Paschall (hip) for Wednesday's game. Damion Lee (toe) will carry a questionable tag.
The Wizards (24-33) have unexpectedly and impressively worked themselves back into contention for a play-in spot at minimum with dramatically improved performance of late, as they'll head into Wednesday's game having prevailed in seven of their last eight contests. Washington's most recent success came Monday night, when they got past the Oklahoma City Thunder by a 119-107 score. Bradley Beal led the way with 30 points, adding two assists, one rebound, three steals and one block. Davis Bertans totaled 21 points, three rebounds and two assists. Robin Lopez registered 17 points and two boards. Russell Westbrook and Daniel Gafford generated matching 13-point contributions, with Westbrook also recording 17 assists and 11 rebounds.
The Wizards will continue without Rui Hachimura (kneecap) on Wednesday.
Wednesday's contest marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Wizards hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 110-107 win April 9.
Nets and Raptors Set for Tampa Tilt
The Brooklyn Nets take on the Toronto Raptors at Amalie Arena on Wednesday night.
The Nets (39-19) have gotten accustomed to managing at least one absence from their star trio of players this season, and despite that still being the case currently, Brooklyn has prevailed in five of its last eight games. Their most recent time on the court resulted in one of those wins, as the Nets toppled the New Orleans Pelicans by a 134-129 score on Tuesday night. Kyrie Irving led the way with 32 points, adding eight assists, two rebounds and one steal. Joe Harris supplied 24 points, two rebounds, two assists and one steal. Landry Shamet furnished 18 points, eight assists and one rebound. Blake Griffin totaled 16 points, eight rebounds, three assists and one block. Jeff Green delivered 15 points, nine boards, six assists and one block. Bruce Brown generated an 11-point, 11-rebound double-double off the bench.
The Nets will likely list Kevin Durant (thigh) as no better than questionable for Wednesday's game. James Harden (hamstring), Tyler Johnson (knee) and Nicholas Claxton (COVID-19 protocols) will remain out.
The Raptors (24-34) have endured a difficult season as their record indicates, but they've notably played better of late while winning four of the last five contests. Their most recent success came at the expense of the Oklahoma City Thunder, which they toppled by a 112-106 score Sunday night. Chris Boucher led the way with 31 points, supplementing them with 12 rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Gary Trent, Jr. registered 23 points, five rebounds, one assist, five steals and one block. Malachi Flynn finished with 15 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Stanley Johnson furnished 12 points, three rebounds, one assist and two steals.
The Raptors will be without Paul Watson (knee) and Rodney Hood (knee) for Wednesday's contest.
Wednesday's game marks the second of three meetings between the teams this season. The Raptors hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 123-117 win Feb. 5.
The Nets (39-19) have gotten accustomed to managing at least one absence from their star trio of players this season, and despite that still being the case currently, Brooklyn has prevailed in five of its last eight games. Their most recent time on the court resulted in one of those wins, as the Nets toppled the New Orleans Pelicans by a 134-129 score on Tuesday night. Kyrie Irving led the way with 32 points, adding eight assists, two rebounds and one steal. Joe Harris supplied 24 points, two rebounds, two assists and one steal. Landry Shamet furnished 18 points, eight assists and one rebound. Blake Griffin totaled 16 points, eight rebounds, three assists and one block. Jeff Green delivered 15 points, nine boards, six assists and one block. Bruce Brown generated an 11-point, 11-rebound double-double off the bench.
The Nets will likely list Kevin Durant (thigh) as no better than questionable for Wednesday's game. James Harden (hamstring), Tyler Johnson (knee) and Nicholas Claxton (COVID-19 protocols) will remain out.
The Raptors (24-34) have endured a difficult season as their record indicates, but they've notably played better of late while winning four of the last five contests. Their most recent success came at the expense of the Oklahoma City Thunder, which they toppled by a 112-106 score Sunday night. Chris Boucher led the way with 31 points, supplementing them with 12 rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Gary Trent, Jr. registered 23 points, five rebounds, one assist, five steals and one block. Malachi Flynn finished with 15 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Stanley Johnson furnished 12 points, three rebounds, one assist and two steals.
The Raptors will be without Paul Watson (knee) and Rodney Hood (knee) for Wednesday's contest.
Wednesday's game marks the second of three meetings between the teams this season. The Raptors hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 123-117 win Feb. 5.
Jazz Visit Rockets Aiming To Start Another Run
The Houston Rockets will host the Utah Jazz at Toyota Center on Wednesday evening.
The Rockets (15-43) have gone 2-8 in their last 10 contests and have posted a 1-4 mark over their last five games -- the strong play of a few young players hasn't been enough to change the landscape of a team that's bound to undergo a tough rebuilding process. The Rockets are coming off a 113-91 loss against the Miami Heat the last time out. Christian Wood totaled 18 points, seven rebounds, three steals and two blocks, while Kevin Porter Jr. tallied 18 points, three assists and two rebounds, to lead the way for the Rockets. John Wall finished with 14 points, six assists, four rebounds and a steal. The Rockets shot 38 percent from the field, including 9-of-38 from long range. Houston has also gone 7-21 at home.
The Jazz (43-15) are the best team in the Eastern Conference by a wide margin and enter this contest following a 111-97 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, a strong performance considering they didn't have their star player, Donovan Mitchell. The Jazz were led by Jordan Clarkson, providing 22 points and three rebounds off the bench. Joe Ingles led the starters with 21 points, four rebounds and five assists. Bojan Bogdanovic amassed 19 points, three rebounds and four assists. Mike Conley had 14 points and 10 assists while Rudy Gobert generated 14 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Utah has gone 17-12 on the road and it has gone 6-4 in their last 10 contests, while winning three of their last four games.
The Rockets (15-43) have gone 2-8 in their last 10 contests and have posted a 1-4 mark over their last five games -- the strong play of a few young players hasn't been enough to change the landscape of a team that's bound to undergo a tough rebuilding process. The Rockets are coming off a 113-91 loss against the Miami Heat the last time out. Christian Wood totaled 18 points, seven rebounds, three steals and two blocks, while Kevin Porter Jr. tallied 18 points, three assists and two rebounds, to lead the way for the Rockets. John Wall finished with 14 points, six assists, four rebounds and a steal. The Rockets shot 38 percent from the field, including 9-of-38 from long range. Houston has also gone 7-21 at home.
The Jazz (43-15) are the best team in the Eastern Conference by a wide margin and enter this contest following a 111-97 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, a strong performance considering they didn't have their star player, Donovan Mitchell. The Jazz were led by Jordan Clarkson, providing 22 points and three rebounds off the bench. Joe Ingles led the starters with 21 points, four rebounds and five assists. Bojan Bogdanovic amassed 19 points, three rebounds and four assists. Mike Conley had 14 points and 10 assists while Rudy Gobert generated 14 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Utah has gone 17-12 on the road and it has gone 6-4 in their last 10 contests, while winning three of their last four games.
Knicks Look To Build On Seven-Game Streak
By Dan Bruno
The New York Knicks play host to the Atlanta Hawks at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday evening.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Knicks (32-27), as they are coming off a home win over the Hornets on Tuesday. The contest got out to a tight start, but the Knicks trailed by six points at halftime. They picked up the intensity in the second half, where they held the visitors to just 31 points and rallied to their seventh straight win. R.J. Barrett led the way in the win with 24 points on 8-of-17 shooting, while Julius Randle finished with 16 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Derrick Rose was also impactful, with 17 points and five assists, in 25 minutes off the bench. The Knicks will look to keep rolling and add to their, 19-10, home record, as they face the third game of a six-game home stand. Alec Burks (illness) has missed the last three games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, this also marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Hawks (32-26), as they are coming off a solid home win over the Magic on Tuesday. The Hawks got out to a good start in the win, with a 17-point lead at halftime, and they held off a strong push from the visitors in the third, before confidently closing out their eighth win in the last 10 games. Trae Young continued his strong play, as he led the team with 25 points, seven assists, five rebounds and a steal, in the win. Clint Capela logged a double-double with 14 points and 19 rebounds, while Lou Williams came up large with 22 points on 6-of-14 shooting, in 23 minutes off the bench. The Hawks will look to keep the momentum going and improve on their, 16-15, road record, as they face their first game back on the road after going, 2-1, on their recent home stand.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Knicks (32-27), as they are coming off a home win over the Hornets on Tuesday. The contest got out to a tight start, but the Knicks trailed by six points at halftime. They picked up the intensity in the second half, where they held the visitors to just 31 points and rallied to their seventh straight win. R.J. Barrett led the way in the win with 24 points on 8-of-17 shooting, while Julius Randle finished with 16 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Derrick Rose was also impactful, with 17 points and five assists, in 25 minutes off the bench. The Knicks will look to keep rolling and add to their, 19-10, home record, as they face the third game of a six-game home stand. Alec Burks (illness) has missed the last three games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, this also marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Hawks (32-26), as they are coming off a solid home win over the Magic on Tuesday. The Hawks got out to a good start in the win, with a 17-point lead at halftime, and they held off a strong push from the visitors in the third, before confidently closing out their eighth win in the last 10 games. Trae Young continued his strong play, as he led the team with 25 points, seven assists, five rebounds and a steal, in the win. Clint Capela logged a double-double with 14 points and 19 rebounds, while Lou Williams came up large with 22 points on 6-of-14 shooting, in 23 minutes off the bench. The Hawks will look to keep the momentum going and improve on their, 16-15, road record, as they face their first game back on the road after going, 2-1, on their recent home stand.
Mavs Look To Halt Two-Game Slide
By Dan Bruno
The Dallas Mavericks play host to the Detroit Pistons at American Airlines Center on Wednesday evening.
The Mavericks (30-26) dropped their last two games, but they are still, 5-5, in their last 10 contests. They will to get back on track and add to their, 13-14, home record, as they face the third game of a five-game home stand. Luka Doncic continues to lead the team, averaging 28.6 points on 49 percent shooting, 8.7 assists, 7.9 rebounds and 1.0 steals, in 35 minutes per game. Kristaps Porzingis is averaging 20.5 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game, while Josh Richardson is averaging 12.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game. The Mavericks do a good job taking care of the ball as they limit themselves to 11.4 turnovers per game, which is third fewest in the league. They have also been doing a solid job on the defensive end, holding opponents to an average of 110.0 points per game, which is eighth fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Pistons (18-40) have dropped six of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a home win in their most recent contest. They will look to keep the momentum going and build on their, 7-24, road record, as they face the first game of a three-game road trip. Jerami Grant (quad) and Cory Joseph (illness) both missed the Pistons' last contest and are both listed as questionable for action on Wednesday. Josh Jackson is playing well, averaging 15.4 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists, over the last 10 games. Saddiq Bey is averaging 11.4 points and 4.1 rebounds, while Mason Plumlee is averaging 10.2 points, 9.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game. The Pistons average 107.6 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league, but they are giving up an average of 111.3 points against, and they are allowing opponents to shoot an average of 47.8 percent from the field, which is fourth worst in the league.
The Mavericks (30-26) dropped their last two games, but they are still, 5-5, in their last 10 contests. They will to get back on track and add to their, 13-14, home record, as they face the third game of a five-game home stand. Luka Doncic continues to lead the team, averaging 28.6 points on 49 percent shooting, 8.7 assists, 7.9 rebounds and 1.0 steals, in 35 minutes per game. Kristaps Porzingis is averaging 20.5 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game, while Josh Richardson is averaging 12.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game. The Mavericks do a good job taking care of the ball as they limit themselves to 11.4 turnovers per game, which is third fewest in the league. They have also been doing a solid job on the defensive end, holding opponents to an average of 110.0 points per game, which is eighth fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Pistons (18-40) have dropped six of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a home win in their most recent contest. They will look to keep the momentum going and build on their, 7-24, road record, as they face the first game of a three-game road trip. Jerami Grant (quad) and Cory Joseph (illness) both missed the Pistons' last contest and are both listed as questionable for action on Wednesday. Josh Jackson is playing well, averaging 15.4 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists, over the last 10 games. Saddiq Bey is averaging 11.4 points and 4.1 rebounds, while Mason Plumlee is averaging 10.2 points, 9.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game. The Pistons average 107.6 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league, but they are giving up an average of 111.3 points against, and they are allowing opponents to shoot an average of 47.8 percent from the field, which is fourth worst in the league.
Heat Look To Build On Two-Game Streak
By Dan Bruno
The San Antonio Spurs play host to the Miami Heat at AT&T Center on Wednesday evening.
The Heat (30-28) have won six of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row. They will look to keep rolling and improve on their, 13-15, road record as they face the first game of a two-game road trip. Jimmy Butler (ankle) leads the Heat but has missed the last two games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. Bam Adebayo continues to play well, averaging 19.0 points, 9.3 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.0 blocks, while Duncan Robinson is averaging 13.1 points, and shooting an average of 41 percent from long range. Kendrick Nunn is coming off a great performance in the Heat's most recent contest, where he led the way with 30 points. Nunn is averaging 13.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game. The Heat are averaging 106.5 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league, but they are holding opponents to an average of 107.4 points per game, which is third fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Spurs (28-28) have dropped six of their last 10 games, but they have won their last two in a row. They will look to keep rolling and add to their, 12-18, home record, as they face the first game of a two-game home stand. DeMar DeRozan leads the team, averaging 21.1 points, 7.2 assists and 4.4 rebounds, in 34 minutes per game. Dejounte Murray is averaging 15.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.6 steals, while Keldon Johnson is averaging 12.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per game. The Spurs average 110.6 points per game, but they are giving up an average of 111.1 points against. They do a great job of taking care of the ball, as they limit themselves to an average of 11.1 turnovers per game, which is second fewest in the league. They also limit themselves to just 17.9 personal fouls per game, which is fourth fewest in the league.
The Heat (30-28) have won six of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row. They will look to keep rolling and improve on their, 13-15, road record as they face the first game of a two-game road trip. Jimmy Butler (ankle) leads the Heat but has missed the last two games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. Bam Adebayo continues to play well, averaging 19.0 points, 9.3 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.0 blocks, while Duncan Robinson is averaging 13.1 points, and shooting an average of 41 percent from long range. Kendrick Nunn is coming off a great performance in the Heat's most recent contest, where he led the way with 30 points. Nunn is averaging 13.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game. The Heat are averaging 106.5 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league, but they are holding opponents to an average of 107.4 points per game, which is third fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Spurs (28-28) have dropped six of their last 10 games, but they have won their last two in a row. They will look to keep rolling and add to their, 12-18, home record, as they face the first game of a two-game home stand. DeMar DeRozan leads the team, averaging 21.1 points, 7.2 assists and 4.4 rebounds, in 34 minutes per game. Dejounte Murray is averaging 15.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.6 steals, while Keldon Johnson is averaging 12.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per game. The Spurs average 110.6 points per game, but they are giving up an average of 111.1 points against. They do a great job of taking care of the ball, as they limit themselves to an average of 11.1 turnovers per game, which is second fewest in the league. They also limit themselves to just 17.9 personal fouls per game, which is fourth fewest in the league.
Clippers Host Grizzlies on Wednesday
The Los Angeles Clippers play host to the Memphis Grizzlies at Staples Center on Wednesday.
The Grizzlies (29-27) have been playing some great ball recently, but they suffered a devastating loss on Monday. They actually led by 12 points with three minutes left against the Denver Nuggets but lost in double-overtime. That would have been a heck of a win without Jonas Valanciunas (concussion), but that collapse showed the immaturity of this young team. They actually entered that matchup, winning seven of their previous 10 games before that, with all three losses coming in a narrow fashion as well. That's a good indicator of how well this club is playing right now, and some better late-game execution could have them with a very long winning streak.
The Clippers (41-19) have been one of the best teams in the NBA in the second half, entering this matchup winning 15 of their last 18 games. That's the team we've been waiting to see all year, and it has them in contention for the top seed in the Western Conference. They currently sit 3.5 games back of the Utah Jazz in first, and that's a lot of ground they made up in a one-month span. It's easy to say that Kawhi Leonard and Paul George got them into this position, but the role players have been a huge factor too. Guys like Marcus Morris, Reggie Jackson, Terence Mann, and Ivica Zubac have been huge in this stretch, and it's amazing they've done all this damage with Serge Ibaka rehabbing an injury. Once he's back, this team will only get scarier but they'll have to continue to play well with Kawhi out for at least a week.
These teams played a back-to-back set at the end of February, splitting those two meetings. Before that, the Clippers won seven of their previous nine games over the Grizzlies in this series.
The Grizzlies (29-27) have been playing some great ball recently, but they suffered a devastating loss on Monday. They actually led by 12 points with three minutes left against the Denver Nuggets but lost in double-overtime. That would have been a heck of a win without Jonas Valanciunas (concussion), but that collapse showed the immaturity of this young team. They actually entered that matchup, winning seven of their previous 10 games before that, with all three losses coming in a narrow fashion as well. That's a good indicator of how well this club is playing right now, and some better late-game execution could have them with a very long winning streak.
The Clippers (41-19) have been one of the best teams in the NBA in the second half, entering this matchup winning 15 of their last 18 games. That's the team we've been waiting to see all year, and it has them in contention for the top seed in the Western Conference. They currently sit 3.5 games back of the Utah Jazz in first, and that's a lot of ground they made up in a one-month span. It's easy to say that Kawhi Leonard and Paul George got them into this position, but the role players have been a huge factor too. Guys like Marcus Morris, Reggie Jackson, Terence Mann, and Ivica Zubac have been huge in this stretch, and it's amazing they've done all this damage with Serge Ibaka rehabbing an injury. Once he's back, this team will only get scarier but they'll have to continue to play well with Kawhi out for at least a week.
These teams played a back-to-back set at the end of February, splitting those two meetings. Before that, the Clippers won seven of their previous nine games over the Grizzlies in this series.
Trail Blazers Host Nuggets on Wednesday
The Portland Trail Blazers play host to the Denver Nuggets at Moda Center on Wednesday.
The Nuggets (37-20) appeared to have an uphill battle when they lost Jamal Murray to an ACL tear last week, but they've played some great ball since then. In fact, they enter this matchup, winning three straight and 11 of their last 14 games in total. That run has skyrocketed Nikola Jokic's odds for MVP, and it looks like it's his award to lose at this point. He showed why on Monday, providing 47 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists in a double-overtime victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. That ridiculous stat line has become commonplace for The Joker this year, and he's going to do everything he can to carry this club in Murray's absence.
The Trail Blazers (32-25) come into this matchup, losing seven of their last 10 games, freefalling down the standings. That run has them all the way down to sixth in the Western Conference, and there's even more room to fall if they don't start figuring things out. What's really unfortunate is the fact that they're missing Damian Lillard right now. The MVP point guard is averaging nearly 30 points per game, and it's hard for this team to adjust without him. That's just the nature of the beast for this club all year, though, missing C.J. McCollum and Jusuf Nurkic for long periods as well. If they can all get healthy and find their way into the playoffs, this is a team no one will want to face.
These teams played back on February 23, with Denver winning 111-106. That gives the Nuggets 10 wins in their last 12 meetings with the Trail Blazers dating back four years.
The Nuggets (37-20) appeared to have an uphill battle when they lost Jamal Murray to an ACL tear last week, but they've played some great ball since then. In fact, they enter this matchup, winning three straight and 11 of their last 14 games in total. That run has skyrocketed Nikola Jokic's odds for MVP, and it looks like it's his award to lose at this point. He showed why on Monday, providing 47 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists in a double-overtime victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. That ridiculous stat line has become commonplace for The Joker this year, and he's going to do everything he can to carry this club in Murray's absence.
The Trail Blazers (32-25) come into this matchup, losing seven of their last 10 games, freefalling down the standings. That run has them all the way down to sixth in the Western Conference, and there's even more room to fall if they don't start figuring things out. What's really unfortunate is the fact that they're missing Damian Lillard right now. The MVP point guard is averaging nearly 30 points per game, and it's hard for this team to adjust without him. That's just the nature of the beast for this club all year, though, missing C.J. McCollum and Jusuf Nurkic for long periods as well. If they can all get healthy and find their way into the playoffs, this is a team no one will want to face.
These teams played back on February 23, with Denver winning 111-106. That gives the Nuggets 10 wins in their last 12 meetings with the Trail Blazers dating back four years.
Kings Host Timberwolves on Wednesday
The Sacramento Kings play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday.
The Timberwolves (16-43) own the worst record in the NBA, but they've shown some flashes recently. They enter this matchup with a 6-10 record over their last 16 games, which is sadly one of their best stretches of the year. The guy that's gotten them to play better is Karl-Anthony Towns. The big man is averaging 27 points and 13 rebounds per game in that span, carrying this team on his back. Anthony Edwards has also flashed some moments of brilliance as well, and it makes the massive struggles hard to understand. Those guys were both top-picks in the draft, and this league-worst record has them in line to add yet another top-pick into the equation.
The Kings (23-35) suffered a nightmarish loss on Tuesday, being beaten by these T'Wolves by 14 points. What really made that frustrating is that Minnesota finished on a 20-5 run in a game with nearly 20 lead changes. That's a very disappointing performance, and it marks the Kings 10th loss in their last 11 games. Many of those have been close, too, and it's becoming clear that late-game execution is a serious issue for this young team. De'Aaron Fox really struggled in that Tuesday loss, but he's been averaging nearly 30 points and 10 assists a game over the last month. All of that has them on the outside looking in terms of the play-in tournament, and they better clean it up quick if they want to have a chance to get in!
These teams just played on Tuesday, with Minnesota prevailing, 134-120. That actually gives the Timberwolves five wins in their last seven meetings with the Kings.
The Timberwolves (16-43) own the worst record in the NBA, but they've shown some flashes recently. They enter this matchup with a 6-10 record over their last 16 games, which is sadly one of their best stretches of the year. The guy that's gotten them to play better is Karl-Anthony Towns. The big man is averaging 27 points and 13 rebounds per game in that span, carrying this team on his back. Anthony Edwards has also flashed some moments of brilliance as well, and it makes the massive struggles hard to understand. Those guys were both top-picks in the draft, and this league-worst record has them in line to add yet another top-pick into the equation.
The Kings (23-35) suffered a nightmarish loss on Tuesday, being beaten by these T'Wolves by 14 points. What really made that frustrating is that Minnesota finished on a 20-5 run in a game with nearly 20 lead changes. That's a very disappointing performance, and it marks the Kings 10th loss in their last 11 games. Many of those have been close, too, and it's becoming clear that late-game execution is a serious issue for this young team. De'Aaron Fox really struggled in that Tuesday loss, but he's been averaging nearly 30 points and 10 assists a game over the last month. All of that has them on the outside looking in terms of the play-in tournament, and they better clean it up quick if they want to have a chance to get in!
These teams just played on Tuesday, with Minnesota prevailing, 134-120. That actually gives the Timberwolves five wins in their last seven meetings with the Kings.