Surging Bulls Looking To Get Past Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Chicago Bulls at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Monday night.
The Cavaliers (13-12) have been regressing a bit following their impressive start to the season, and they’re coming off a 112-104 loss against the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday. Jarrett Allen led the Cavaliers with 25 points, complementing them with nine rebounds and two blocks. Lauri Markkanen furnished 20 points, seven boards, two assists and one block. Kevin Love totaled 15 points, four rebounds and three assists. Evan Mobley supplied 12 points, six boards, two assists and one steal. Darius Garland registered 10 points, nine assists and three rebounds. The Cavaliers have gone 5-7 at home this season and enter this contest on a two-game losing streak, but they’ve also gone 3-2 in their last five.
The Bulls (17-8) have been playing very well this season and look like a bonafide contender in the Eastern Conference. They’re coming off a 109-97 win over the Denver Nuggets on Monday, and that result extended their winning streak to four contests. Zach LaVine stepped his game up for the Bulls with DeMar DeRozan (COVID-19) being out and finished with a game-high 32 points and also added eight assists, while both Lonzo Ball and Nikola Vucevic finished with 20 points and 10 rebounds each. Derrick Jones had 12 points and nine rebounds, while rookie Ayo Dosumnu delivered 11 points, eight assists and six rebounds. Chicago has gone 9-4 on the road this season.
The Cavaliers (13-12) have been regressing a bit following their impressive start to the season, and they’re coming off a 112-104 loss against the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday. Jarrett Allen led the Cavaliers with 25 points, complementing them with nine rebounds and two blocks. Lauri Markkanen furnished 20 points, seven boards, two assists and one block. Kevin Love totaled 15 points, four rebounds and three assists. Evan Mobley supplied 12 points, six boards, two assists and one steal. Darius Garland registered 10 points, nine assists and three rebounds. The Cavaliers have gone 5-7 at home this season and enter this contest on a two-game losing streak, but they’ve also gone 3-2 in their last five.
The Bulls (17-8) have been playing very well this season and look like a bonafide contender in the Eastern Conference. They’re coming off a 109-97 win over the Denver Nuggets on Monday, and that result extended their winning streak to four contests. Zach LaVine stepped his game up for the Bulls with DeMar DeRozan (COVID-19) being out and finished with a game-high 32 points and also added eight assists, while both Lonzo Ball and Nikola Vucevic finished with 20 points and 10 rebounds each. Derrick Jones had 12 points and nine rebounds, while rookie Ayo Dosumnu delivered 11 points, eight assists and six rebounds. Chicago has gone 9-4 on the road this season.
Wizards and Pistons Set for Motor City Showdown
The Washington Wizards take on the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on Wednesday night.
The Wizards (14-11) check into Wednesday's contest having seen a significant downturn from their early-season run, as they've dropped four of the last five games. Their most recent stumble took place Monday night, when they fell to the Indiana Pacers by a 116-110 score. Bradley Beal led the way with 34 points, adding four assists and two rebounds. Daniel Gafford and Kyle Kuzma posted matching 14-point tallies while adding eight and four rebounds, respectively. Montrezl Harrell and Aaron Holiday contributed 11 points apiece while posting five rebounds and five assists, respectively.
The Wizards will list Davis Bertans (illness) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Rui Hachimura (personal) is expected to remain out.
The Pistons (4-19) are stuck in an extended skid coming into Wednesday's game, having dropped nine consecutive contests. Their most recent stumble came Monday night when they fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder by a 114-103 score. Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 28 points, complementing them with 11 rebounds, five assists and two steals. Jerami Grant provided 20 points, six boards, five assists and two blocks. Saddiq Bey delivered 15 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals. Killian Hayes and Saben Lee put up matching nine-point contributions while adding five and three rebounds, respectively.
The Pistons will list Hamidou Diallo (face) as questionable for Wednesday's contest. Cory Joseph (knee) will carry a probable tag, while Kelly Olynyk (knee) will remain out.
Wednesday's game marks the first of four meetings between the teams this season. The Wizards won the 2020-21 season series with the Pistons by a 2-1 margin.
The Wizards (14-11) check into Wednesday's contest having seen a significant downturn from their early-season run, as they've dropped four of the last five games. Their most recent stumble took place Monday night, when they fell to the Indiana Pacers by a 116-110 score. Bradley Beal led the way with 34 points, adding four assists and two rebounds. Daniel Gafford and Kyle Kuzma posted matching 14-point tallies while adding eight and four rebounds, respectively. Montrezl Harrell and Aaron Holiday contributed 11 points apiece while posting five rebounds and five assists, respectively.
The Wizards will list Davis Bertans (illness) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Rui Hachimura (personal) is expected to remain out.
The Pistons (4-19) are stuck in an extended skid coming into Wednesday's game, having dropped nine consecutive contests. Their most recent stumble came Monday night when they fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder by a 114-103 score. Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 28 points, complementing them with 11 rebounds, five assists and two steals. Jerami Grant provided 20 points, six boards, five assists and two blocks. Saddiq Bey delivered 15 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals. Killian Hayes and Saben Lee put up matching nine-point contributions while adding five and three rebounds, respectively.
The Pistons will list Hamidou Diallo (face) as questionable for Wednesday's contest. Cory Joseph (knee) will carry a probable tag, while Kelly Olynyk (knee) will remain out.
Wednesday's game marks the first of four meetings between the teams this season. The Wizards won the 2020-21 season series with the Pistons by a 2-1 margin.
Pacers Host Knicks on Wednesday
The Indiana Pacers play host to the New York Knicks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday.
The Knicks (12-12) got off to a pleasant start this season, but they haven't had a two-game winning streak since October. That's a terrible sign, with New York posting a 7-11 record since then. They actually enter this matchup losing three of their last four games, losing to three of the best teams in the NBA. In any case, the recent slide has forced Kemba Walker out of the rotation altogether, and that's another terrible sign after paying him in the offseason. He will have to be a part of this club if they are to compete this season, and it's sad to see him take such a steep fall. It has allowed Alec Burks, Derrick Rose and Immanuel Quickley to play more significant roles, though, and it'll be up to those guys to run this backcourt.
The Pacers (10-16) come into this matchup losing four of their last five games, continuing to struggle late in games. They actually have the worst record in the NBA in games decided by four points or fewer, suffering all but two losses by single-digit margins. That obviously won't get it done, and it's hard to understand why that's an issue. The good news is that all the pieces appear to be playing well, with Domantas Sabonis, Myles Turner and Malcolm Brogdon all performing up to expectations. As long as that continues, this club should creep closer to .500 and get right back in the thick of things in terms of the playoffs. Adding T.J. Warren (foot) at some point will only help, and it makes this a team to watch in the second half.
These teams split their two-game season series last year, with the home team winning both outings. With that said, the Pacers have won 18 of their last 26 games over the Pacers, dating back to 2015.
The Knicks (12-12) got off to a pleasant start this season, but they haven't had a two-game winning streak since October. That's a terrible sign, with New York posting a 7-11 record since then. They actually enter this matchup losing three of their last four games, losing to three of the best teams in the NBA. In any case, the recent slide has forced Kemba Walker out of the rotation altogether, and that's another terrible sign after paying him in the offseason. He will have to be a part of this club if they are to compete this season, and it's sad to see him take such a steep fall. It has allowed Alec Burks, Derrick Rose and Immanuel Quickley to play more significant roles, though, and it'll be up to those guys to run this backcourt.
The Pacers (10-16) come into this matchup losing four of their last five games, continuing to struggle late in games. They actually have the worst record in the NBA in games decided by four points or fewer, suffering all but two losses by single-digit margins. That obviously won't get it done, and it's hard to understand why that's an issue. The good news is that all the pieces appear to be playing well, with Domantas Sabonis, Myles Turner and Malcolm Brogdon all performing up to expectations. As long as that continues, this club should creep closer to .500 and get right back in the thick of things in terms of the playoffs. Adding T.J. Warren (foot) at some point will only help, and it makes this a team to watch in the second half.
These teams split their two-game season series last year, with the home team winning both outings. With that said, the Pacers have won 18 of their last 26 games over the Pacers, dating back to 2015.
Hornets Will Try To Avenge Monday Loss Against Sixers
The Charlotte Hornets will host the Philadelphia 76ers at Spectrum Center on Wednesday night.
This will be the second time these two teams will meet over the last three days, as the Sixers (13-11) recorded an overtime win by a 127-124 score on Monday in this very same venue. Joel Embiid led the way for the 76ers with 43 points, adding 15 rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Tobias Harris generated a 21-point, 11-rebound double-double that included four assists, two blocks and one steal. Shake Milton furnished 16 points, four boards, two assists and one block. Philadelphia has won three of its last four contests.
As for the Hornets (14-12), Kelly Oubre paced the team with 35 points in that loss, complementing them with five rebounds, three assists, four steals and one block. Miles Bridges supplied 16 points, six boards and six assists. P.J. Washington matched Bridges' scoring off the bench and added eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks and one steal. Cody Martin delivered 14 points, six rebounds and four assists. Gordon Hayward and Nick Richards generated matching 12-point, five-rebound contributions, with Hayward also dishing out nine assists. The Hornets have been slumping of late and have lost four of their last five.
This will be the second time these two teams will meet over the last three days, as the Sixers (13-11) recorded an overtime win by a 127-124 score on Monday in this very same venue. Joel Embiid led the way for the 76ers with 43 points, adding 15 rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Tobias Harris generated a 21-point, 11-rebound double-double that included four assists, two blocks and one steal. Shake Milton furnished 16 points, four boards, two assists and one block. Philadelphia has won three of its last four contests.
As for the Hornets (14-12), Kelly Oubre paced the team with 35 points in that loss, complementing them with five rebounds, three assists, four steals and one block. Miles Bridges supplied 16 points, six boards and six assists. P.J. Washington matched Bridges' scoring off the bench and added eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks and one steal. Cody Martin delivered 14 points, six rebounds and four assists. Gordon Hayward and Nick Richards generated matching 12-point, five-rebound contributions, with Hayward also dishing out nine assists. The Hornets have been slumping of late and have lost four of their last five.
Struggling Heat Looking To Bounce Back Against Bucks
The Miami Heat will host the Milwaukee Bucks at FTX Arena on Wednesday night.
The Heat (14-11) are coming off a 105-90 loss against a red-hot Memphis Grizzlies team, and they have been slumping of late with four losses in their last five contests. In that matchup, Tyler Herro led the Heat with 24 points, three rebounds and four assists, in 29 minutes off the bench. Kyle Lowry followed up with 17 points, four rebounds, eight assists, a steal and a block, while Jimmy Butler and Duncan Robinson chipped in 10 points each. The Heat shot 46 percent from the field, including 6-of-22 from long range.
The Bucks (16-9) have not looked like the dominant team that won the NBA Finals last season, but they’re certainly trending in the right direction and are coming off a 112-104 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday. Giannis Antetokounmpo paced the Bucks with a 27-point, 12-rebound double-double that included two assists and one block. Khris Middleton posted 21 points, eight assists and three rebounds. Jrue Holiday managed 20 points, eight assists, seven rebounds, two steals and one block. Pat Connaughton furnished 12 points and four rebounds, while Bobby Portis generated a 10-point, 16-rebound double-double that included three assists and one block. Milwaukee has won four of its last five contests.
The Heat (14-11) are coming off a 105-90 loss against a red-hot Memphis Grizzlies team, and they have been slumping of late with four losses in their last five contests. In that matchup, Tyler Herro led the Heat with 24 points, three rebounds and four assists, in 29 minutes off the bench. Kyle Lowry followed up with 17 points, four rebounds, eight assists, a steal and a block, while Jimmy Butler and Duncan Robinson chipped in 10 points each. The Heat shot 46 percent from the field, including 6-of-22 from long range.
The Bucks (16-9) have not looked like the dominant team that won the NBA Finals last season, but they’re certainly trending in the right direction and are coming off a 112-104 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday. Giannis Antetokounmpo paced the Bucks with a 27-point, 12-rebound double-double that included two assists and one block. Khris Middleton posted 21 points, eight assists and three rebounds. Jrue Holiday managed 20 points, eight assists, seven rebounds, two steals and one block. Pat Connaughton furnished 12 points and four rebounds, while Bobby Portis generated a 10-point, 16-rebound double-double that included three assists and one block. Milwaukee has won four of its last five contests.
Thunder and Raptors Tangle in Toronto
The Oklahoma City Thunder takes on the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday night.
The Thunder (7-16) have endured plenty of misery thus far this season, but their last time on the floor saw them notch a 114-103 win over the Detroit Pistons that snapped a nine-game losing streak. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way for OKC with a 30-point, 13-assist double-double that included two rebounds and two blocks. Luguentz Dort furnished 28 points, two rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Josh Giddey and Kenrich Williams posted matching 12-point contributions while recording five and three assists, respectively.
The Thunder comes into Wednesday's game without any injuries to report.
The Raptors (11-13) had recently been mired in a multi-game skid themselves, but they've bounced back from it with two straight wins. Their most recent success came Sunday night, when they toppled the Washington Wizards by a 102-90 score. Pascal Siakam led the Raptors with 31 points, supplementing them with six rebounds and three assists. Chris Boucher provided 14 points, six rebounds and one assist. Scottie Barnes supplied 11 points, six boards, one assist and one block. Precious Achiuwa and Fred VanVleet generated matching 10-point tallies, with Achiuwa pulling down 14 rebounds.
The Raptors will continue without OG Anunoby (hip) and Khem Birch (knee) for Wednesday's contest.
Wednesday's game marks of the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The clubs split the two-game 2020-21 season series.
The Thunder (7-16) have endured plenty of misery thus far this season, but their last time on the floor saw them notch a 114-103 win over the Detroit Pistons that snapped a nine-game losing streak. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way for OKC with a 30-point, 13-assist double-double that included two rebounds and two blocks. Luguentz Dort furnished 28 points, two rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Josh Giddey and Kenrich Williams posted matching 12-point contributions while recording five and three assists, respectively.
The Thunder comes into Wednesday's game without any injuries to report.
The Raptors (11-13) had recently been mired in a multi-game skid themselves, but they've bounced back from it with two straight wins. Their most recent success came Sunday night, when they toppled the Washington Wizards by a 102-90 score. Pascal Siakam led the Raptors with 31 points, supplementing them with six rebounds and three assists. Chris Boucher provided 14 points, six rebounds and one assist. Scottie Barnes supplied 11 points, six boards, one assist and one block. Precious Achiuwa and Fred VanVleet generated matching 10-point tallies, with Achiuwa pulling down 14 rebounds.
The Raptors will continue without OG Anunoby (hip) and Khem Birch (knee) for Wednesday's contest.
Wednesday's game marks of the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The clubs split the two-game 2020-21 season series.
Nuggets and Pelicans Meet in Big Easy
The Denver Nuggets take on the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on Wednesday night.
The Nuggets (11-12) have found wins rather elusive after a good start to the season, as they'll check into Wednesday's contest having dropped eight of their last 10 games. Their most recent stumble came their last time on the floor Monday night, when they fell to the Denver Nuggets by a 109-97 score. Will Barton and Monte Morris led the way with matching 19-point totals while recording five rebounds and seven assists, respectively. Aaron Gordon supplied 18 points, six rebounds and one assist. Nikola Jokic posted a 17-point, 15-assist, 12-rebound triple-double that included two steals. Jeff Green generated a 14-point, 13-rebound double-double.
The Nuggets will list Bones Hyland and Bol Bol as doubtful for Wednesday's game due to COVID-19 protocols, while Austin Rivers will be listed as out for the same reason. Jokic will be listed as probable due to a forearm injury.
The Pelicans (7-19) have been playing slightly better ball of late as four of their seven victories on the season have come within the last seven games. However, their most recent time on the court resulted in a loss, as they fell to the Houston Rockets by a 118-108 score Sunday night. Brandon Ingram paced the Pelicans with 40 points, adding five rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Jonas Valanciunas managed a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double that included three assists, three blocks and one steal. Willy Hernangomez and Nickeil Alexander-Walker compiled matching 10-point tallies, with Hernangomez also pulling in 14 boards.
The Pelicans will list Josh Hart (knee) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Zion Williamson (foot) will remain out.
Wednesday's game marks the first of four meetings between the teams this season. The Nuggets won the 2020-21 three-game series with the Pelicans by a 2-1 margin.
The Nuggets (11-12) have found wins rather elusive after a good start to the season, as they'll check into Wednesday's contest having dropped eight of their last 10 games. Their most recent stumble came their last time on the floor Monday night, when they fell to the Denver Nuggets by a 109-97 score. Will Barton and Monte Morris led the way with matching 19-point totals while recording five rebounds and seven assists, respectively. Aaron Gordon supplied 18 points, six rebounds and one assist. Nikola Jokic posted a 17-point, 15-assist, 12-rebound triple-double that included two steals. Jeff Green generated a 14-point, 13-rebound double-double.
The Nuggets will list Bones Hyland and Bol Bol as doubtful for Wednesday's game due to COVID-19 protocols, while Austin Rivers will be listed as out for the same reason. Jokic will be listed as probable due to a forearm injury.
The Pelicans (7-19) have been playing slightly better ball of late as four of their seven victories on the season have come within the last seven games. However, their most recent time on the court resulted in a loss, as they fell to the Houston Rockets by a 118-108 score Sunday night. Brandon Ingram paced the Pelicans with 40 points, adding five rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Jonas Valanciunas managed a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double that included three assists, three blocks and one steal. Willy Hernangomez and Nickeil Alexander-Walker compiled matching 10-point tallies, with Hernangomez also pulling in 14 boards.
The Pelicans will list Josh Hart (knee) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Zion Williamson (foot) will remain out.
Wednesday's game marks the first of four meetings between the teams this season. The Nuggets won the 2020-21 three-game series with the Pelicans by a 2-1 margin.
Nets and Rockets Set for Interconference Clash
The Brooklyn Nets take on the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on Wednesday night.
The Nets (17-7) come into Wednesday's contest riding high, as they've prevailed in seven of their last nine games. Their most recent success came Tuesday night, when they edged the Dallas Mavericks by a 102-99 score. Kevin Durant led the way with 24 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. James Harden generated a 23-point, 12-assist double-double that also included nine rebounds and one block. LaMarcus Aldridge managed 15 points, five rebounds and one assist. James Johnson totaled 12 points, four rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Patty Mills supplied 10 points, four rebounds and two assists.
The Nets will continue without Joe Harris (ankle) and Kyrie Irving (personal) for Wednesday's game.
The Rockets (7-16) have suddenly developed into the one of the NBA's hottest teams, as unlikely a development as there's been all season. Houston has recorded six straight wins, with its most recent success a 118-108 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night. Christian Wood and Eric Gordon led the way with matching 23-point tallies while also contributing eight rebounds and five assists, respectively. Garrison Mathews netted 13 points and seven rebounds. Daniel Theis and Jae'Sean Tate posted 12 and 11 points, respectively, with Tate adding seven assists and five rebounds.
The Rockets will continue without Kevin Porter (thigh), Jalen Green (hamstring), Danuel House (ankle) and John Wall (team decision) for Wednesday's contest.
Wednesday's game marks the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The Nets swept the two-game 2020-21 season series from the Rockets.
The Nets (17-7) come into Wednesday's contest riding high, as they've prevailed in seven of their last nine games. Their most recent success came Tuesday night, when they edged the Dallas Mavericks by a 102-99 score. Kevin Durant led the way with 24 points, complementing them with seven rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. James Harden generated a 23-point, 12-assist double-double that also included nine rebounds and one block. LaMarcus Aldridge managed 15 points, five rebounds and one assist. James Johnson totaled 12 points, four rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Patty Mills supplied 10 points, four rebounds and two assists.
The Nets will continue without Joe Harris (ankle) and Kyrie Irving (personal) for Wednesday's game.
The Rockets (7-16) have suddenly developed into the one of the NBA's hottest teams, as unlikely a development as there's been all season. Houston has recorded six straight wins, with its most recent success a 118-108 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night. Christian Wood and Eric Gordon led the way with matching 23-point tallies while also contributing eight rebounds and five assists, respectively. Garrison Mathews netted 13 points and seven rebounds. Daniel Theis and Jae'Sean Tate posted 12 and 11 points, respectively, with Tate adding seven assists and five rebounds.
The Rockets will continue without Kevin Porter (thigh), Jalen Green (hamstring), Danuel House (ankle) and John Wall (team decision) for Wednesday's contest.
Wednesday's game marks the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The Nets swept the two-game 2020-21 season series from the Rockets.
Jazz and Timberwolves Poised for Conference Battle
The Utah Jazz takes on the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on Wednesday night.
The Jazz (16-7) have had some ups and downs thus far this season, but they'll come into Wednesday's game on a positive note after having rattled off four straight wins. Their most recent success came Sunday afternoon, when they edged the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 109-108 score. Donovan Mitchell led the Jazz with 35 points, complementing them with six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Bojan Bogdanovic totaled 16 points, while Rudy Gay posted 15 points and eight boards. Royce O'Neale managed 12 points, six rebounds and two assists. Mike Conley went for 11 points, six assists, two rebounds and four steals.
The Jazz will list Hassan Whiteside (groin) as questionable for Wednesday's contest.
The Timberwolves (11-13) had recently appeared to turn their season around with a strong multi-game stretch of play, but they'll come into Wednesday on a downswing in the form of three straight losses. Their most recent stumble came Monday night, when they fell to the Atlanta Hawks by a 121-110 score. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with a 31-point, 16-rebound double-double that included six assists. Malik Beasley turned in 24 points, five rebounds and three assists. Anthony Edwards registered 20 points, seven assists, one rebound, three blocks and two steals. Naz Reid managed 10 points and four boards.
The Timberwolves will list D'Angelo Russell (ankle) as doubtful for Wednesday's game, while Patrick Beverley (groin) will be listed as questionable. Towns (back) will carry the same designation as Beverley.
Wednesday's game marks the first of four meetings between the teams this season. The Timberwolves swept the 2020-21 season series from the Jazz.
The Jazz (16-7) have had some ups and downs thus far this season, but they'll come into Wednesday's game on a positive note after having rattled off four straight wins. Their most recent success came Sunday afternoon, when they edged the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 109-108 score. Donovan Mitchell led the Jazz with 35 points, complementing them with six assists, three rebounds and one steal. Bojan Bogdanovic totaled 16 points, while Rudy Gay posted 15 points and eight boards. Royce O'Neale managed 12 points, six rebounds and two assists. Mike Conley went for 11 points, six assists, two rebounds and four steals.
The Jazz will list Hassan Whiteside (groin) as questionable for Wednesday's contest.
The Timberwolves (11-13) had recently appeared to turn their season around with a strong multi-game stretch of play, but they'll come into Wednesday on a downswing in the form of three straight losses. Their most recent stumble came Monday night, when they fell to the Atlanta Hawks by a 121-110 score. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with a 31-point, 16-rebound double-double that included six assists. Malik Beasley turned in 24 points, five rebounds and three assists. Anthony Edwards registered 20 points, seven assists, one rebound, three blocks and two steals. Naz Reid managed 10 points and four boards.
The Timberwolves will list D'Angelo Russell (ankle) as doubtful for Wednesday's game, while Patrick Beverley (groin) will be listed as questionable. Towns (back) will carry the same designation as Beverley.
Wednesday's game marks the first of four meetings between the teams this season. The Timberwolves swept the 2020-21 season series from the Jazz.
Mavericks and Grizzlies Meet in Memphis
The Dallas Mavericks take on the Memphis Grizzlies at FedEx Forum on Wednesday night.
The Mavericks (11-12) have seen their season take a turn for the worse over the last couple of weeks, as they'll come into Wednesday's game having lost eight of their last 10 games. Their most recent defeat was a narrow one, as they were edged by the Brooklyn Nets, 102-99, on Tuesday night. Luka Doncic paced the Mavericks with 28 points, supplementing them with nine assists and six rebounds. Kristaps Porzingis generated a 17-point, 12-rebound double-double that included five assists, one steal and one block. Dorian Finney-Smith posted 15 points, six boards, two assists and three steals. Tim Hardaway contributed 11 points, three rebounds, one assist and one steal.
The Mavericks are likely to list Sterling Brown (foot) and Willie Cauley-Stein (personal) as no better than questionable for Wednesday's game.
The Grizzlies (14-10) have been heading in the opposite direction of their opponent despite having recently lost Ja Morant to a serious knee sprain, as they've prevailed in five consecutive contests. Their most recent success came against the Miami Heat, which they topped by a 105-90 score Monday night. Desmond Bane and Dillon Brooks co-led the Grizzlies with 21 points apiece while providing eight rebounds and eight assists, respectively. Steven Adams pitched in with a 17-point, 16-rebound double-double that included two assists, one steal and one block. Jaren Jackson and Tyus Jones offered matching 14-point contributions, with Jones also dishing out seven assists.
The Grizzlies will list Brandon Clarke (knee) and Ziaire Williams (ankle) as out for Wednesday's contest. Kyle Anderson (back) will be listed as doubtful, while Morant will remain out.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Grizzlies own a 1-0 series lead, having just notched a 97-90 win Saturday.
The Mavericks (11-12) have seen their season take a turn for the worse over the last couple of weeks, as they'll come into Wednesday's game having lost eight of their last 10 games. Their most recent defeat was a narrow one, as they were edged by the Brooklyn Nets, 102-99, on Tuesday night. Luka Doncic paced the Mavericks with 28 points, supplementing them with nine assists and six rebounds. Kristaps Porzingis generated a 17-point, 12-rebound double-double that included five assists, one steal and one block. Dorian Finney-Smith posted 15 points, six boards, two assists and three steals. Tim Hardaway contributed 11 points, three rebounds, one assist and one steal.
The Mavericks are likely to list Sterling Brown (foot) and Willie Cauley-Stein (personal) as no better than questionable for Wednesday's game.
The Grizzlies (14-10) have been heading in the opposite direction of their opponent despite having recently lost Ja Morant to a serious knee sprain, as they've prevailed in five consecutive contests. Their most recent success came against the Miami Heat, which they topped by a 105-90 score Monday night. Desmond Bane and Dillon Brooks co-led the Grizzlies with 21 points apiece while providing eight rebounds and eight assists, respectively. Steven Adams pitched in with a 17-point, 16-rebound double-double that included two assists, one steal and one block. Jaren Jackson and Tyus Jones offered matching 14-point contributions, with Jones also dishing out seven assists.
The Grizzlies will list Brandon Clarke (knee) and Ziaire Williams (ankle) as out for Wednesday's contest. Kyle Anderson (back) will be listed as doubtful, while Morant will remain out.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Grizzlies own a 1-0 series lead, having just notched a 97-90 win Saturday.
Warriors Host Trail Blazers on Wednesday
The Golden State Warriors play host to the Portland Trail Blazers at Chase Center on Wednesday.
The Trail Blazers (11-14) had high expectations coming into the season, but they've been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA. What' really killed them is the injury bug, with Damian Lillard (abductor) missing the last week and C.J. McCollum (lung) missing the most recent defeat. Those are the two guards that this team is built around, and they simply can't perform without them. This rag-tag group did come close to an impressive upset on Monday though, losing to the Los Angeles Clippers, 102-90. That game stayed within a seven-point margin until the final minutes, and a 12-2 run by the Clippers gave the Blazers their sixth loss in their last seven games.
The Warriors (20-4) suffered two losses last week, but a dominating win on Monday has quieted the small number of murmurs that regression was headed this team's way. They actually handed the Orlando Magic a 126-95 beatdown on Monday, getting another 31 points from Stephen Curry. That sort of gem shows just how dangerous this club can be, ranked top-3 in points scored, defensive efficiency, assists and point differential. All of that has Curry as the favorite for MVP, and we believe he's only going to get better with Klay Thompson returning in the coming weeks. Adding one of the best shooters of all time to the best team in the league is a scary thought for the rest of the NBA!
These teams played back on November 26, with Golden State prevailing, 118-103. With that said, Portland won four of their previous five games over Golden State in this series.
The Trail Blazers (11-14) had high expectations coming into the season, but they've been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA. What' really killed them is the injury bug, with Damian Lillard (abductor) missing the last week and C.J. McCollum (lung) missing the most recent defeat. Those are the two guards that this team is built around, and they simply can't perform without them. This rag-tag group did come close to an impressive upset on Monday though, losing to the Los Angeles Clippers, 102-90. That game stayed within a seven-point margin until the final minutes, and a 12-2 run by the Clippers gave the Blazers their sixth loss in their last seven games.
The Warriors (20-4) suffered two losses last week, but a dominating win on Monday has quieted the small number of murmurs that regression was headed this team's way. They actually handed the Orlando Magic a 126-95 beatdown on Monday, getting another 31 points from Stephen Curry. That sort of gem shows just how dangerous this club can be, ranked top-3 in points scored, defensive efficiency, assists and point differential. All of that has Curry as the favorite for MVP, and we believe he's only going to get better with Klay Thompson returning in the coming weeks. Adding one of the best shooters of all time to the best team in the league is a scary thought for the rest of the NBA!
These teams played back on November 26, with Golden State prevailing, 118-103. With that said, Portland won four of their previous five games over Golden State in this series.
Kings Host Magic on Wednesday
The Sacramento Kings play host to the Orlando Magic at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday.
The Magic (5-20) were expected to be one of the worst teams in the NBA, and they've certainly lived up to those expectations. They actually have the worst record in the NBA right now, entering this matchup losing 12 of their last 14 games. That horrific stretch is quite surprising when you look at this roster, though, with numerous young pieces developing into solid NBA players. Wendell Carter Jr and Mo Bamba have formed an outstanding frontcourt, while Cole Anthony and Franz Wagner look great in the backcourt. That doesn't even consider their top-pick this season, with Jalen Suggs (thumb) missing games due to injury right now. That has this team with a bright future, but it's going to be a while before they compete for anything legitimate.
The Kings (10-14) have been playing much better since they fired Luke Walton, winning four of their last six games coming into this matchup. It's not like they've beat up on some slouches either, grabbing wins over the Los Angeles Clippers, Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Lakers. All of those teams have had some struggles themselves, but it's encouraging to see Sacramento play so well against Western Conference foes that will be in the thick of things in terms of the playoffs. The talent on this team should compete with the elite, though, having a breakout point guard like De'Aaron Fox and pairing him with a breakout center like Richaun Holmes.
These clubs split their two-game season series last year, with the road team winning both outings. With that said, the Kings won five of their previous seven games over the Magic before that.
The Magic (5-20) were expected to be one of the worst teams in the NBA, and they've certainly lived up to those expectations. They actually have the worst record in the NBA right now, entering this matchup losing 12 of their last 14 games. That horrific stretch is quite surprising when you look at this roster, though, with numerous young pieces developing into solid NBA players. Wendell Carter Jr and Mo Bamba have formed an outstanding frontcourt, while Cole Anthony and Franz Wagner look great in the backcourt. That doesn't even consider their top-pick this season, with Jalen Suggs (thumb) missing games due to injury right now. That has this team with a bright future, but it's going to be a while before they compete for anything legitimate.
The Kings (10-14) have been playing much better since they fired Luke Walton, winning four of their last six games coming into this matchup. It's not like they've beat up on some slouches either, grabbing wins over the Los Angeles Clippers, Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Lakers. All of those teams have had some struggles themselves, but it's encouraging to see Sacramento play so well against Western Conference foes that will be in the thick of things in terms of the playoffs. The talent on this team should compete with the elite, though, having a breakout point guard like De'Aaron Fox and pairing him with a breakout center like Richaun Holmes.
These clubs split their two-game season series last year, with the road team winning both outings. With that said, the Kings won five of their previous seven games over the Magic before that.
Clippers Host Celtics on Wednesday
The Los Angeles Clippers play host to the Boston Celtics at Staples Center on Wednesday.
The Celtics (13-12) come into this matchup winning 11 of their last 18 games, turning their ugly start into a decent season. They now find themselves with the record everyone expected at the beginning of the season, but there's still some room to grow. Jaylen Brown has been in and out of the lineup all season due to a hamstring issue, and it'd be nice to see this team get those 25 points into their lineup every night. Robert Williams has also been a slight disappointment, and it'd be a huge boost to see him return to the guy we saw last year. If those two things can come to fruition, this could be one of the most dangerous teams in the Eastern Conference, with Dennis Schroder and Jayson Tatum playing so well.
The Clippers (13-12) were lucky to grab a win on Monday, beating the Portland Trail Blazers, 102-90. That game was much closer than it looked, with neither team leading by more than seven points until the final minute. Los Angeles also had to finish that game on a 12-2 run to prevail, and it's certainly not a win to be proud of with Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum both missing that game. That tells how much this club is struggling right now, losing eight of their previous 12 games before that victory on Monday. Guys like Marcus Morris and Serge Ibaka returned amid that poor run, and it's possible that this club is trying to figure out their rotation with the new pieces. They eventually will, but they need to maintain a decent record until Kawhi Leonard (knee) returns to stay in the playoff hunt.
These teams played two narrow games last season, with Boston winning both. They were each decided by five points or fewer. That's ironic because they played two overtime games in the season series prior.
The Celtics (13-12) come into this matchup winning 11 of their last 18 games, turning their ugly start into a decent season. They now find themselves with the record everyone expected at the beginning of the season, but there's still some room to grow. Jaylen Brown has been in and out of the lineup all season due to a hamstring issue, and it'd be nice to see this team get those 25 points into their lineup every night. Robert Williams has also been a slight disappointment, and it'd be a huge boost to see him return to the guy we saw last year. If those two things can come to fruition, this could be one of the most dangerous teams in the Eastern Conference, with Dennis Schroder and Jayson Tatum playing so well.
The Clippers (13-12) were lucky to grab a win on Monday, beating the Portland Trail Blazers, 102-90. That game was much closer than it looked, with neither team leading by more than seven points until the final minute. Los Angeles also had to finish that game on a 12-2 run to prevail, and it's certainly not a win to be proud of with Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum both missing that game. That tells how much this club is struggling right now, losing eight of their previous 12 games before that victory on Monday. Guys like Marcus Morris and Serge Ibaka returned amid that poor run, and it's possible that this club is trying to figure out their rotation with the new pieces. They eventually will, but they need to maintain a decent record until Kawhi Leonard (knee) returns to stay in the playoff hunt.
These teams played two narrow games last season, with Boston winning both. They were each decided by five points or fewer. That's ironic because they played two overtime games in the season series prior.