Bucks Look To Stay Strong On Road
By Dan Bruno
The Minnesota Timberwolves play host to the Milwaukee Bucks at Target Center on Wednesday evening.
The Bucks (33-20) are coming off a win in their most recent contest, but they have dropped six of their last 10 games. They will look to stay on track and add to their, 15-12, road record, as they face the second game of a three-game road trip. Giannis Antetokounmpo (knee) has missed the last five games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. Khris Middleton is averaging 20.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 1.1 steals, in 33 minutes per game. Jrue Holiday continues to play well, averaging 17.1 points, 5.4 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game, while Brook Lopez is averaging 11.4 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. The Bucks average a league-best 119.0 points per game, and they are shooting an average of 48.5 percent from the field, which is fifth best in the league.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Timberwolves (14-41), as they are coming off a home loss against the Nets on Tuesday night. They had only two players score in double digits in the loss, but on the bright side, rookie, Anthony Edwards led the way with 27 points, eight rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block, in 33 minutes. D'Angelo Russell was the only other player to score in double digits, with 15 points, in 20 minutes off the bench. Karl-Anthony Towns (personal) did not play on Tuesday night and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. The Timberwolves will be looking to get back on track and add to their, 9-18, home record, as they face the third game of a four-game home stand. They are shooting an average of 44.3 percent from the field, which is third worst in the league. However, they average 8.7 steals per game, which is third most in the league.
The Bucks (33-20) are coming off a win in their most recent contest, but they have dropped six of their last 10 games. They will look to stay on track and add to their, 15-12, road record, as they face the second game of a three-game road trip. Giannis Antetokounmpo (knee) has missed the last five games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. Khris Middleton is averaging 20.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 1.1 steals, in 33 minutes per game. Jrue Holiday continues to play well, averaging 17.1 points, 5.4 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game, while Brook Lopez is averaging 11.4 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. The Bucks average a league-best 119.0 points per game, and they are shooting an average of 48.5 percent from the field, which is fifth best in the league.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Timberwolves (14-41), as they are coming off a home loss against the Nets on Tuesday night. They had only two players score in double digits in the loss, but on the bright side, rookie, Anthony Edwards led the way with 27 points, eight rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block, in 33 minutes. D'Angelo Russell was the only other player to score in double digits, with 15 points, in 20 minutes off the bench. Karl-Anthony Towns (personal) did not play on Tuesday night and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. The Timberwolves will be looking to get back on track and add to their, 9-18, home record, as they face the third game of a four-game home stand. They are shooting an average of 44.3 percent from the field, which is third worst in the league. However, they average 8.7 steals per game, which is third most in the league.
76ers, Nets Tangle In Battle Of Eastern Conference Powerhouses
The Philadelphia 76ers will host the Brooklyn Nets at Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday.
The 76ers (37-17) are 20 games over the .500 mark and are in a tight race for first place of the Eastern Conference with their Wednesday's opponent, but they are coming off a 113-95 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday -- that win pushed Philadelphia's winning run to two games while also giving them a 4-1 record in their last five contests. Joel Embiid was the best player for the Sixers in that game, and he ended with a 36-point output while adding seven rebounds, two assists and a steal. Tobias Harris chipped in with 10 points, four boards and four dimes, while Ben Simmons filled the stat sheet with eight points, seven assists, six rebounds and a steal. Furkan Korkman had 20 points off the bench, while Shake Milton chipped in with 10 points and five dimes as a substitute. As if their impressive record wasn't enough, the Sixers have also gone 20-5 when playing at home this season.
The Nets (37-17) moved 20 games over the .500 threshold Tuesday with a dominant 30-point win over the Timberwolves in a game where they didn't have Kyrie Irving or James Harden. Kevin Durant and Joe Harris carried the Nets in this one -- while Durant posted a team-high 31 points while recording four rebounds and four assists, Harris contributed 23 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals. DeAndre Jordan had 13 points and seven rebounds off the bench, while Landry Shamet had 19 points, five boards and five dimes off the bench too. The Nets shot 50.5 percent from the field and 41.7 percent from three-point range in the win. The Nets are 15-10 when playing away from home this season and also arrive into this contest posting a 4-2 mark over their last six games.
The 76ers (37-17) are 20 games over the .500 mark and are in a tight race for first place of the Eastern Conference with their Wednesday's opponent, but they are coming off a 113-95 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday -- that win pushed Philadelphia's winning run to two games while also giving them a 4-1 record in their last five contests. Joel Embiid was the best player for the Sixers in that game, and he ended with a 36-point output while adding seven rebounds, two assists and a steal. Tobias Harris chipped in with 10 points, four boards and four dimes, while Ben Simmons filled the stat sheet with eight points, seven assists, six rebounds and a steal. Furkan Korkman had 20 points off the bench, while Shake Milton chipped in with 10 points and five dimes as a substitute. As if their impressive record wasn't enough, the Sixers have also gone 20-5 when playing at home this season.
The Nets (37-17) moved 20 games over the .500 threshold Tuesday with a dominant 30-point win over the Timberwolves in a game where they didn't have Kyrie Irving or James Harden. Kevin Durant and Joe Harris carried the Nets in this one -- while Durant posted a team-high 31 points while recording four rebounds and four assists, Harris contributed 23 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals. DeAndre Jordan had 13 points and seven rebounds off the bench, while Landry Shamet had 19 points, five boards and five dimes off the bench too. The Nets shot 50.5 percent from the field and 41.7 percent from three-point range in the win. The Nets are 15-10 when playing away from home this season and also arrive into this contest posting a 4-2 mark over their last six games.
Cavaliers and Hornets Clash in Charlotte
The Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on Wednesday night.
The Cavaliers (19-34) have been frequent residents of the loss column as their record indicates, and they'll enter Wednesday's game having dropped seven of their last nine decisions. Their most recent stumble came Sunday evening, when they fell to the New Orleans Pelicans by a 116-109 score. Dean Wade led the way with 21 points, adding six rebounds, two assists and three steals. Kevin Love and Isaac Okoro generated matching 19-point, three-assist tallies while pulling down five and three rebounds, respectively. Cedi Osman supplied 15 points, seven assists, three rebounds, one steal and one block. Taurean Prince finished with 11 points, five rebounds, two assists and one block.
The Cavaliers will list Collin Sexton (groin) and Darius Garland (ankle) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Dylan Windler (knee) and Damyean Dotson (knee) are expected to remain out.
The Hornets (27-26) have been spiraling a bit in their own right as well, as they'll enter Wednesday's clash with three losses in their last five games. Their most recent stumble just unfolded Tuesday night, when they dropped a 101-93 decision to the Los Angeles Lakers. Devonte' Graham paced the Hornets with 19 points, complementing them with six assists, one rebound and one steal. Caleb Martin generated a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double that included five assists and one steal. Jalen McDaniels finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, one assist and two steals. Miles Bridges furnished 13 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Bismack Biyombo managed 10 points, 12 rebounds, one assist and one block.
The Hornets will remain without Malik Monk (ankle) and Gordon Hayward (foot) for Wednesday's game. P.J. Washington (ankle) and Terry Rozier (knee) are likely to be listed no better than questionable after missing Tuesday's game.
Wednesday's contest marks the second of three meetings between the teams this season. The Cavaliers own a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 121-114 win Dec. 23.
The Cavaliers (19-34) have been frequent residents of the loss column as their record indicates, and they'll enter Wednesday's game having dropped seven of their last nine decisions. Their most recent stumble came Sunday evening, when they fell to the New Orleans Pelicans by a 116-109 score. Dean Wade led the way with 21 points, adding six rebounds, two assists and three steals. Kevin Love and Isaac Okoro generated matching 19-point, three-assist tallies while pulling down five and three rebounds, respectively. Cedi Osman supplied 15 points, seven assists, three rebounds, one steal and one block. Taurean Prince finished with 11 points, five rebounds, two assists and one block.
The Cavaliers will list Collin Sexton (groin) and Darius Garland (ankle) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Dylan Windler (knee) and Damyean Dotson (knee) are expected to remain out.
The Hornets (27-26) have been spiraling a bit in their own right as well, as they'll enter Wednesday's clash with three losses in their last five games. Their most recent stumble just unfolded Tuesday night, when they dropped a 101-93 decision to the Los Angeles Lakers. Devonte' Graham paced the Hornets with 19 points, complementing them with six assists, one rebound and one steal. Caleb Martin generated a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double that included five assists and one steal. Jalen McDaniels finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, one assist and two steals. Miles Bridges furnished 13 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Bismack Biyombo managed 10 points, 12 rebounds, one assist and one block.
The Hornets will remain without Malik Monk (ankle) and Gordon Hayward (foot) for Wednesday's game. P.J. Washington (ankle) and Terry Rozier (knee) are likely to be listed no better than questionable after missing Tuesday's game.
Wednesday's contest marks the second of three meetings between the teams this season. The Cavaliers own a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 121-114 win Dec. 23.
Spurs and Raptors Tangle in Tampa
The San Antonio Spurs take on the Toronto Raptors at Amalie Arena on Wednesday night.
The Spurs (26-26) had recently done some significant damage to their playoff hopes with a stretch of 10 losses in 12 games, but they've subsequently bounced back to win back-to-back contests. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they toppled the Orlando Magic by a 120-97 margin. DeMar DeRozan led the way for the Spurs with 19 points, complementing them with six assists and two rebounds. Dejounte Murray totaled 17 points, six assists, five rebounds and one steal. Derrick White compiled 15 points, four assists and two rebounds. Rudy Gay and Lonnie Walker produced matching 12-point tallies, with Gay also pulling down six rebounds. Drew Eubanks posted a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included one assist, two blocks and one steal.
The Spurs will continue without Gorgui Dieng (shoulder) and Trey Lyles (ankle) for Wednesday's game.
The Raptors (21-34) have endured a difficult season overall, and they'll enter Wednesday's interconference clash with four losses in their last five games. Their most recent stumble just came Tuesday night, when they fell to the Atlanta Hawks by a 108-103 score. Pascal Siakam paced the Raptors with 30 points, supplementing them with seven assists, six rebounds and two blocks. Malachi Flynn turned in 22 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals. OG Anunoby managed 15 points, six rebounds and one steal. Khem Birch produced 13 points, seven rebounds and two steals.
The Raptors will continue without Fred VanVleet (hip) and Paul Watson (COVID-19 protocols) for Wednesday's game. De'Andre Bembry (hamstring) is likely to be listed as no better than questionable after he was scratched just before Tuesday's game, while Kyle Lowry is expected to play after resting against the Hawks.
Wednesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Spurs own a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 119-114 win Dec. 26.
The Spurs (26-26) had recently done some significant damage to their playoff hopes with a stretch of 10 losses in 12 games, but they've subsequently bounced back to win back-to-back contests. Their most recent success came Monday night, when they toppled the Orlando Magic by a 120-97 margin. DeMar DeRozan led the way for the Spurs with 19 points, complementing them with six assists and two rebounds. Dejounte Murray totaled 17 points, six assists, five rebounds and one steal. Derrick White compiled 15 points, four assists and two rebounds. Rudy Gay and Lonnie Walker produced matching 12-point tallies, with Gay also pulling down six rebounds. Drew Eubanks posted a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included one assist, two blocks and one steal.
The Spurs will continue without Gorgui Dieng (shoulder) and Trey Lyles (ankle) for Wednesday's game.
The Raptors (21-34) have endured a difficult season overall, and they'll enter Wednesday's interconference clash with four losses in their last five games. Their most recent stumble just came Tuesday night, when they fell to the Atlanta Hawks by a 108-103 score. Pascal Siakam paced the Raptors with 30 points, supplementing them with seven assists, six rebounds and two blocks. Malachi Flynn turned in 22 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals. OG Anunoby managed 15 points, six rebounds and one steal. Khem Birch produced 13 points, seven rebounds and two steals.
The Raptors will continue without Fred VanVleet (hip) and Paul Watson (COVID-19 protocols) for Wednesday's game. De'Andre Bembry (hamstring) is likely to be listed as no better than questionable after he was scratched just before Tuesday's game, while Kyle Lowry is expected to play after resting against the Hawks.
Wednesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Spurs own a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 119-114 win Dec. 26.
Knicks Look To Build On Three-Game Streak
By Dan Bruno
The New Orleans Pelicans play host to the New York Knicks at Smoothie King Center on Wednesday evening.
The Knicks (28-27) have won three in a row, but they are, 5-5, in their last 10 games. They will look to keep rolling and add to their, 11-17, road record, as they face the first game of a two-game trip. Julius Randle continues to lead the team, averaging 23.0 points, 10.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists, in 37 minutes per game. R.J. Barrett is averaging 17.4 points on 45 percent shooting, while Alec Burks is averaging 12.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. The Knicks continue to do a good job on the defensive end as they are holding opponents to league-low averages of 104.2 points per game, and 44.1 percent shooting per game. However, they are averaging 105.4 points per game, which is fourth fewest in the league, and they are shooting an average of 45.0 percent from the field, which is eighth worst in the league.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans (25-29) have won six of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to stay strong as they face the second game of a two-game home stand, with the opportunity to build on their, 16-3, home record. Zion Williamson continues to dominate, averaging 26.8 points, 7.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists, in 33 minutes per game. Brandon Ingram has been playing well lately, including a 34-point performance in the most recent contest, while he is averaging 24.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game. Lonzo Ball (hip) remains doubtful for action on Wednesday, while Josh Hart (thumb) is out. The Pelicans do a good job on the offensive end, as they are averaging 114.7 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 Knicks (28-27) have won three in a row, but they are, 5-5, in their last 10 games. They will look to keep rolling and add to their, 11-17, road record, as they face the first game of a two-game trip. Julius Randle continues to lead the team, averaging 23.0 points, 10.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists, in 37 minutes per game. R.J. Barrett is averaging 17.4 points on 45 percent shooting, while Alec Burks is averaging 12.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. The Knicks continue to do a good job on the defensive end as they are holding opponents to league-low averages of 104.2 points per game, and 44.1 percent shooting per game. However, they are averaging 105.4 points per game, which is fourth fewest in the league, and they are shooting an average of 45.0 percent from the field, which is eighth worst in the league.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans (25-29) have won six of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to stay strong as they face the second game of a two-game home stand, with the opportunity to build on their, 16-3, home record. Zion Williamson continues to dominate, averaging 26.8 points, 7.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists, in 33 minutes per game. Brandon Ingram has been playing well lately, including a 34-point performance in the most recent contest, while he is averaging 24.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game. Lonzo Ball (hip) remains doubtful for action on Wednesday, while Josh Hart (thumb) is out. The Pelicans do a good job on the offensive end, as they are averaging 114.7 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.
Magic and Bulls Set for Windy City Battle
The Orlando Magic takes on the Chicago Bulls at United Center on Wednesday night.
The Magic (17-37) sports a record that's very illustrative of how their season has unfolded, and accordingly, they'll enter Wednesday's game with six consecutive losses. Their most recent stumble came Monday night, when they fell to the San Antonio Spurs by a 120-97 score. R.J. Hampton paced the Magic with 16 points, adding eight rebounds. Wendell Carter managed 15 points, eight rebounds, four assists and one steal. Dwayne Bacon provided 14 points, three rebounds and two assists. Cole Anthony finished with 12 points, three rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Magic will list Chuma Okeke and Mo Bamba as questionable due to hip injuries for Wednesday's contest, while Otto Porter (foot) will remain out.
The Bulls (22-31) have been struggling in their own right recently, as they've dropped three straight games in their own right. Their most recent stumble also came Monday night, when they fell to the Memphis Grizzlies by a 101-90 score. Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 21 points, adding nine assists, four rebounds and two blocks. Thaddeus Young poured in 20 points. Daniel Theis supplied 18 points, four rebounds and two assists. Nikola Vucevic generated a 17-point,10-rebound double-double that also included one assist, five steals and one block.
The Bulls will list Garrett Temple (hamstring) as probable for Wednesday's game.
Wednesday's contest marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Magic having notched a 123-119 win Feb. 5 and the Bulls countering the next night with a 118-92 victory.
The Magic (17-37) sports a record that's very illustrative of how their season has unfolded, and accordingly, they'll enter Wednesday's game with six consecutive losses. Their most recent stumble came Monday night, when they fell to the San Antonio Spurs by a 120-97 score. R.J. Hampton paced the Magic with 16 points, adding eight rebounds. Wendell Carter managed 15 points, eight rebounds, four assists and one steal. Dwayne Bacon provided 14 points, three rebounds and two assists. Cole Anthony finished with 12 points, three rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Magic will list Chuma Okeke and Mo Bamba as questionable due to hip injuries for Wednesday's contest, while Otto Porter (foot) will remain out.
The Bulls (22-31) have been struggling in their own right recently, as they've dropped three straight games in their own right. Their most recent stumble also came Monday night, when they fell to the Memphis Grizzlies by a 101-90 score. Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 21 points, adding nine assists, four rebounds and two blocks. Thaddeus Young poured in 20 points. Daniel Theis supplied 18 points, four rebounds and two assists. Nikola Vucevic generated a 17-point,10-rebound double-double that also included one assist, five steals and one block.
The Bulls will list Garrett Temple (hamstring) as probable for Wednesday's game.
Wednesday's contest marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Magic having notched a 123-119 win Feb. 5 and the Bulls countering the next night with a 118-92 victory.
Pistons Looking To Avenge Loss Against Clippers
The Detroit Pistons will host the Los Angeles Clippers at Little Ceasars Arena on Wednesday evening.
The Pistons (16-38) will have the chance to avenge last week's defeat against the Clippers, as Detroit suffered a 131-124 defeat against Los Angeles. The Pistons were led by Josh Jackson and his 26 points, four rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Seddiq Bey amassed 25 points, two assists and four steals. Cory Joseph accrued 18 points, five rebounds, 13 assists and two steals. Wayne Ellington had 15 points and four assists while Frank Jackson led the bench with 16 points. Detroit has posted a meager 9-15 record when playing at home this season and have posted a 4-6 mark over their last 10 contests.
The Clippers (38-18) are coming off a strong performance Tuesday, as they had to come back and overcome a slow start to get past the Indiana Pacers by a 126-115 score. The Clippers didn't have Kawhi Leonard in Tuesday's win but Paul George stepped up and finished with 36 points, eight assists and seven rebounds while also adding two steals. Marcus Morris had 22 points and seven rebounds while also adding three assists. Ivica Zubac notched 14 points and seven rebounds, while Luke Kennard chipped in with 10 points. Nicolas Batum (14 points) and Terrence Mann (10 points) contributed off the bench as well. Los Angeles has also gone 16-10 when playing on the road, so they could be confident about their chances of extending their winning streak here, as they have won each of their last six contests.
The Pistons (16-38) will have the chance to avenge last week's defeat against the Clippers, as Detroit suffered a 131-124 defeat against Los Angeles. The Pistons were led by Josh Jackson and his 26 points, four rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Seddiq Bey amassed 25 points, two assists and four steals. Cory Joseph accrued 18 points, five rebounds, 13 assists and two steals. Wayne Ellington had 15 points and four assists while Frank Jackson led the bench with 16 points. Detroit has posted a meager 9-15 record when playing at home this season and have posted a 4-6 mark over their last 10 contests.
The Clippers (38-18) are coming off a strong performance Tuesday, as they had to come back and overcome a slow start to get past the Indiana Pacers by a 126-115 score. The Clippers didn't have Kawhi Leonard in Tuesday's win but Paul George stepped up and finished with 36 points, eight assists and seven rebounds while also adding two steals. Marcus Morris had 22 points and seven rebounds while also adding three assists. Ivica Zubac notched 14 points and seven rebounds, while Luke Kennard chipped in with 10 points. Nicolas Batum (14 points) and Terrence Mann (10 points) contributed off the bench as well. Los Angeles has also gone 16-10 when playing on the road, so they could be confident about their chances of extending their winning streak here, as they have won each of their last six contests.
Pacers Visit Rockets Looking For Bounce-Back Performance
The Houston Rockets will host the Indiana Pacers at Toyota Center on Wednesday night.
The Rockets (14-40) continue to disappoint this season and have been one of the worst teams in the Western Conference this season, but at the very least they managed to look competitive in their most recent outing -- a 126-120 loss against the Phoenix Suns on Monday night. The Rockets were led by Christian Wood and his 25 points, 15 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Kevin Porter accumulated 22 points, five rebounds, 14 assists and two steals. Kelly Olynyk had 16 points and eight boards while John Wall compiled 13 points, two rebounds and eight assists. Jae'Sean Tate finished with 10 points, five rebounds, four assists and three steals. Houston has posted a disappointing 7-19 mark when playing at home this season and enter this game on a three-game losing streak.
The Pacers (25-28) are coming off a loss Tuesday against the Los Angeles Clippers and will continue their Western Conference road trip with a great chance to deliver a bounce-back performance. During Tuesday's loss, Malcolm Brogdon carried the Pacers in this game, as he finished with 29 points, five rebounds and four assists. Caris LeVert had a strong game as well since he chipped in with 26 points, six rebounds, six assists, three blocks and two steals. Domantas Sabonis contributed 20 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and a steal. TJ. McConnell added 13 points and four boards as well. The Pacers have posted a 16-12 record on the road, however, so they should feel good about their chances of turning things around here. Plus, they have posted a 4-2 mark over their last six contests.
The Rockets (14-40) continue to disappoint this season and have been one of the worst teams in the Western Conference this season, but at the very least they managed to look competitive in their most recent outing -- a 126-120 loss against the Phoenix Suns on Monday night. The Rockets were led by Christian Wood and his 25 points, 15 rebounds, three assists and two steals. Kevin Porter accumulated 22 points, five rebounds, 14 assists and two steals. Kelly Olynyk had 16 points and eight boards while John Wall compiled 13 points, two rebounds and eight assists. Jae'Sean Tate finished with 10 points, five rebounds, four assists and three steals. Houston has posted a disappointing 7-19 mark when playing at home this season and enter this game on a three-game losing streak.
The Pacers (25-28) are coming off a loss Tuesday against the Los Angeles Clippers and will continue their Western Conference road trip with a great chance to deliver a bounce-back performance. During Tuesday's loss, Malcolm Brogdon carried the Pacers in this game, as he finished with 29 points, five rebounds and four assists. Caris LeVert had a strong game as well since he chipped in with 26 points, six rebounds, six assists, three blocks and two steals. Domantas Sabonis contributed 20 points, 13 rebounds, two assists and a steal. TJ. McConnell added 13 points and four boards as well. The Pacers have posted a 16-12 record on the road, however, so they should feel good about their chances of turning things around here. Plus, they have posted a 4-2 mark over their last six contests.
Thunder Look To Bounce Back On Second Night Of Back-To-Back
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Golden State Warriors at Chesapeake Energy Arena on Wednesday evening.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Thunder (20-34), as they are coming off a loss in Utah on Tuesday night. The Thunder got out to a great start in the contest with a, 31-22, lead after one quarter, but they fell apart in the second and trailed by two at halftime. Their troubles worsened through the third quarter, as the deficit grew to 19 points, heading into the final frame. The Thunder kept up the fight in the fourth, but it was too little, too late, as they fell for a seventh straight loss and the ninth loss in their last 10 games. On the bright side, Luguentz Dort had a fantastic outing, as he poured in 42 points, seven rebounds, four steals and three assists, in 36 minutes. Moses Brown logged 12 points, 15 rebounds, two steals and a block, while Ty Jerome chipped in 14 points, two rebounds and two assists, in the loss. The Thunder will look to get back on track at home and add to their, 9-19, home record.
Meanwhile, the Warriors (26-28) have dropped six of their last 10 games, but they have won their last two in a row. This marks their first game of a five-game road trip, as they look to keep rolling and improve on their, 9-18, road record. Stephen Curry leads the team, averaging 30.4 points on 48.5 percent shooting, 5.9 assists, 5.5 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. Andrew Wiggins is the next-highest scoring player for the Warriors, averaging 18.0 points, on 47 percent shooting, including 38 percent from long range, Draymond Green is averaging 6.6 points, 8.4 assists, 6.5 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game. The Warriors do a great job of sharing the ball, as they are averaging 27.2 assists per game, which is second most in the league. However, they need to do a better job on the glass, as they are averaging 42.5 rebounds per game, which is seventh-fewest in the league.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Thunder (20-34), as they are coming off a loss in Utah on Tuesday night. The Thunder got out to a great start in the contest with a, 31-22, lead after one quarter, but they fell apart in the second and trailed by two at halftime. Their troubles worsened through the third quarter, as the deficit grew to 19 points, heading into the final frame. The Thunder kept up the fight in the fourth, but it was too little, too late, as they fell for a seventh straight loss and the ninth loss in their last 10 games. On the bright side, Luguentz Dort had a fantastic outing, as he poured in 42 points, seven rebounds, four steals and three assists, in 36 minutes. Moses Brown logged 12 points, 15 rebounds, two steals and a block, while Ty Jerome chipped in 14 points, two rebounds and two assists, in the loss. The Thunder will look to get back on track at home and add to their, 9-19, home record.
Meanwhile, the Warriors (26-28) have dropped six of their last 10 games, but they have won their last two in a row. This marks their first game of a five-game road trip, as they look to keep rolling and improve on their, 9-18, road record. Stephen Curry leads the team, averaging 30.4 points on 48.5 percent shooting, 5.9 assists, 5.5 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. Andrew Wiggins is the next-highest scoring player for the Warriors, averaging 18.0 points, on 47 percent shooting, including 38 percent from long range, Draymond Green is averaging 6.6 points, 8.4 assists, 6.5 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game. The Warriors do a great job of sharing the ball, as they are averaging 27.2 assists per game, which is second most in the league. However, they need to do a better job on the glass, as they are averaging 42.5 rebounds per game, which is seventh-fewest in the league.
Grizzlies Host Mavericks on Wednesday
The Memphis Grizzlies play host to the Dallas Mavericks at FedEx Forum on Wednesday.
The Mavericks (29-24) are struggling a bit right now, entering this matchup losing three of their last four games. The game that started this terrible stretch was a mind-boggling loss to the Houston Rockets, and that's a good indicator of where this club is at right now. This poor stretch actually followed up a five-game winning streak, and it's hard to understand exactly where this team is at. What is clear is that Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis run the shpw. These two continue to play at an extremely high level, but people are starting to wonder if there's enough around them for this team to be a true contender. That remains to be seen, but the record indicates just that.
The Grizzlies (27-25) have played much better recently, entering this matchup winning five of their last seven games. That good stretch has them right back in the thick of things in terms of the playoffs, with Memphis sitting eighth in the west. The guy who's really been stepping up is Jonas Valanciunas. The big man has a franchise-record 15-straight double-doubles entering this game, combining for 80 points and 50 rebounds over his last three games. That has the Marc Gasol-Zach Randolph days looking deep in the rearview mirror, especially with Ja Morant developing into one of the best young point guards in the NBA as well.
These teams played back on February 22, with Dallas prevailing, 102-92. That gives the Mavericks four wins in their last five meetings with the Grizzlies dating back three years.
The Mavericks (29-24) are struggling a bit right now, entering this matchup losing three of their last four games. The game that started this terrible stretch was a mind-boggling loss to the Houston Rockets, and that's a good indicator of where this club is at right now. This poor stretch actually followed up a five-game winning streak, and it's hard to understand exactly where this team is at. What is clear is that Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis run the shpw. These two continue to play at an extremely high level, but people are starting to wonder if there's enough around them for this team to be a true contender. That remains to be seen, but the record indicates just that.
The Grizzlies (27-25) have played much better recently, entering this matchup winning five of their last seven games. That good stretch has them right back in the thick of things in terms of the playoffs, with Memphis sitting eighth in the west. The guy who's really been stepping up is Jonas Valanciunas. The big man has a franchise-record 15-straight double-doubles entering this game, combining for 80 points and 50 rebounds over his last three games. That has the Marc Gasol-Zach Randolph days looking deep in the rearview mirror, especially with Ja Morant developing into one of the best young point guards in the NBA as well.
These teams played back on February 22, with Dallas prevailing, 102-92. That gives the Mavericks four wins in their last five meetings with the Grizzlies dating back three years.
Nuggets Host Heat on Wednesday
The Miami Heat travel to Colorado to face the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center on Wednesday.
The Heat (28-26) just had a really tough task when they had to play the Phoenix Suns on the road Tuesday night but have been astounding aside from that. In fact, they won six of their previous seven games before that defeat. That run has the Heat right back in it, and no one should count this team out after their bubble run less than a year ago. What's really changed is the fact that everyone is healthy now. This team hasn't been at full boar for most of the season, and it's a truly scary core when everyone is clicking. Jimmy Butler has been outstanding this season, averaging 21.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. Those steals are actually the best mark in the NBA, and it's awe-inspiring to see how much he's developed and turned into a primary playmaker for this ballclub.
The Nuggets (34-20) suffered a devastating loss on Monday, losing to the Golden State Warriors, 116-107. The defeat in the scorebook is bad, but they suffered an even more disastrous loss. It's that of Jamal Murray, who appeared to suffer an ACL tear in that defeat. He's one of the most talented youngsters in the NBA, and it's a loss that this team can't afford. What it will do is put more on Nikola Jokic's shoulders, but those are plenty big to carry the load. He's actually become the MVP frontrunner with his ridiculous play, averaging 26.2 points, 10.9 rebounds, 8.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. We all know he'll step up without Murray, but it's going to be up to guards like Monte Morris, Facundo Campazzo, and Will Barton to fill the hole Murray's leaving behind.
These teams played back on January 27, with Denver dominating 109-82. That gives the Nuggets six wins in their last eight meetings with the Heat dating back three years.
The Heat (28-26) just had a really tough task when they had to play the Phoenix Suns on the road Tuesday night but have been astounding aside from that. In fact, they won six of their previous seven games before that defeat. That run has the Heat right back in it, and no one should count this team out after their bubble run less than a year ago. What's really changed is the fact that everyone is healthy now. This team hasn't been at full boar for most of the season, and it's a truly scary core when everyone is clicking. Jimmy Butler has been outstanding this season, averaging 21.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. Those steals are actually the best mark in the NBA, and it's awe-inspiring to see how much he's developed and turned into a primary playmaker for this ballclub.
The Nuggets (34-20) suffered a devastating loss on Monday, losing to the Golden State Warriors, 116-107. The defeat in the scorebook is bad, but they suffered an even more disastrous loss. It's that of Jamal Murray, who appeared to suffer an ACL tear in that defeat. He's one of the most talented youngsters in the NBA, and it's a loss that this team can't afford. What it will do is put more on Nikola Jokic's shoulders, but those are plenty big to carry the load. He's actually become the MVP frontrunner with his ridiculous play, averaging 26.2 points, 10.9 rebounds, 8.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. We all know he'll step up without Murray, but it's going to be up to guards like Monte Morris, Facundo Campazzo, and Will Barton to fill the hole Murray's leaving behind.
These teams played back on January 27, with Denver dominating 109-82. That gives the Nuggets six wins in their last eight meetings with the Heat dating back three years.
Kings Host Wizards on Wednesday
The Sacramento Kings play host to the Washington Wizards at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday.
The Wizards (20-33) have been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA, but they're playing a little better recently. In fact, they come into this matchup winning three of their last four games. As crazy as it may sound, they're not out of it either. With the expanded playoff format, the Wizards are just two games back of the Chicago Bulls in 10th. This is certainly a club no one would want to face in a playoff series either, with Bradley Beal and Russell Westbrook being one of the best duos in the NBA. Beal is still leading the NBA with 31 points per game, while Russell Westbrook is well on his way to providing yet another triple-double average for the season.
The Kings (22-32) have been one of the streakiest teams in the NBA this year, and they find themselves in one of their lulls. They've actually lost seven straight coming into this matchup which followed up a stretch in which they won seven of their previous eight games before that. What makes this recent run even more bizarre is that De'Aaron Fox is having a breakout season. He's averaging nearly 30 points and 10 assists per game over the last month, and it's a wonder why they're so bad with a leader like that. Ranking dead-last in defense is obviously a major reason why and one has to believe Luke Walton might be coaching his final season with Sacramento if the struggles continue.
These are two of the worst defenses in the NBA, and it could lead to a high-scoring game. That was the case on March 17, with Sacramento prevailing, 121-119. That gives the Kings three-straight wins in this series in total.
The Wizards (20-33) have been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA, but they're playing a little better recently. In fact, they come into this matchup winning three of their last four games. As crazy as it may sound, they're not out of it either. With the expanded playoff format, the Wizards are just two games back of the Chicago Bulls in 10th. This is certainly a club no one would want to face in a playoff series either, with Bradley Beal and Russell Westbrook being one of the best duos in the NBA. Beal is still leading the NBA with 31 points per game, while Russell Westbrook is well on his way to providing yet another triple-double average for the season.
The Kings (22-32) have been one of the streakiest teams in the NBA this year, and they find themselves in one of their lulls. They've actually lost seven straight coming into this matchup which followed up a stretch in which they won seven of their previous eight games before that. What makes this recent run even more bizarre is that De'Aaron Fox is having a breakout season. He's averaging nearly 30 points and 10 assists per game over the last month, and it's a wonder why they're so bad with a leader like that. Ranking dead-last in defense is obviously a major reason why and one has to believe Luke Walton might be coaching his final season with Sacramento if the struggles continue.
These are two of the worst defenses in the NBA, and it could lead to a high-scoring game. That was the case on March 17, with Sacramento prevailing, 121-119. That gives the Kings three-straight wins in this series in total.