Sixers, Trail Blazers Clash In Philly
By Dan Bruno
The Philadelphia 76ers play host to the Portland Trail Blazers, at Wells Fargo Center on Saturday afternoon.
The 76ers (38-21) have won two in a row, including their most recent contest, which marked their first game back after the all-star break, where they defeated the visiting Miami Heat, 106-102. Joel Embiid (knee) did not play in the contest and is expected to miss about a week of action. Nonetheless, the Sixers looked great, beginning with Boban Marjanovic, who did a great job filling in for Embiid, with 19 points and 12 rebounds, in 27 minutes. Tobias Harris led Philly with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Ben Simmons added 21 points, seven rebounds and four assists in the win. Jimmy Butler finished with 18 points, six rebounds and six assists, and is averaging 19.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 2.0 steals per game this season. The Sixers have won three of their last four games at home, where they are 24-7 this season. They have won six of their last 10 games overall, and sit fourth place in the East.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a seven-game road trip for the Trail Blazers (35-23), which they kicked off with a win in Brooklyn on Thursday. The Blazers have won six of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row, and are 11-15 on the road this season. Damian Lillard leads Portland, averaging 26.1 points, 6.4 assists, 4.5 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. C.J. McCollum came up big in their most recent win, with 21 points, six rebounds and five assists, while he is averaging 21.0 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game this season. Jusuf Nurkic has been solid so far, averaging 15.2 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.5 blocks per game.
The 76ers (38-21) have won two in a row, including their most recent contest, which marked their first game back after the all-star break, where they defeated the visiting Miami Heat, 106-102. Joel Embiid (knee) did not play in the contest and is expected to miss about a week of action. Nonetheless, the Sixers looked great, beginning with Boban Marjanovic, who did a great job filling in for Embiid, with 19 points and 12 rebounds, in 27 minutes. Tobias Harris led Philly with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Ben Simmons added 21 points, seven rebounds and four assists in the win. Jimmy Butler finished with 18 points, six rebounds and six assists, and is averaging 19.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 2.0 steals per game this season. The Sixers have won three of their last four games at home, where they are 24-7 this season. They have won six of their last 10 games overall, and sit fourth place in the East.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a seven-game road trip for the Trail Blazers (35-23), which they kicked off with a win in Brooklyn on Thursday. The Blazers have won six of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row, and are 11-15 on the road this season. Damian Lillard leads Portland, averaging 26.1 points, 6.4 assists, 4.5 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. C.J. McCollum came up big in their most recent win, with 21 points, six rebounds and five assists, while he is averaging 21.0 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game this season. Jusuf Nurkic has been solid so far, averaging 15.2 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.5 blocks per game.
Suns and Hawks Meet in Interconference Matchup
The Phoenix Suns take on the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on Saturday evening.
The Suns (11-49) didn't find any magic cure-all for their considerable troubles over the All-Star break, as they started the stretch run of the season in an unpleasantly familiar manner. Phoenix dropped a 111-98 decision to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday evening, their 16th consecutive loss. Devin Booker led the way with 30 points, adding seven assists, one rebound and one steal. Kelly Oubre, Jr. furnished 23 points, four rebounds, one assist, three steals and two blocks. Deandre Ayton supplied 13 points, nine boards, three assists and one steal. Josh Jackson registered 12 points, six rebounds, two assists and three steals.
The Suns will continue to be without T.J. Warren (ankle) on Saturday.
The Hawks (19-40) have had their share of troubles this season as well, and they too saw a pre-All-Star-break skid extend into their first game following the layoff. Atlanta dropped a narrow 125-122 decision to the Detroit Pistons on Friday night, their fifth loss in the last six contests overall. Trae Young led the Hawks with a 30-point, 10-assist double-double that also included two rebounds. John Collins tallied 19 points, six rebounds and one block. Vince Carter delivered 16 points. Dewayne Dedmon generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included two assists, three blocks and one steal. Kent Bazemore poured in 12 points and also posted seven boards and two steals. DeAndre' Bembry produced an efficient 10 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.
The Hawks will likely list Kevin Huerter (ankle) as questionable at best for Saturday's game after he missed Friday's contest. Miles Plumlee (knee) is likely to share the same designation at minimum.
Saturday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks own a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 118-112 victory on Feb. 2.
The Suns (11-49) didn't find any magic cure-all for their considerable troubles over the All-Star break, as they started the stretch run of the season in an unpleasantly familiar manner. Phoenix dropped a 111-98 decision to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday evening, their 16th consecutive loss. Devin Booker led the way with 30 points, adding seven assists, one rebound and one steal. Kelly Oubre, Jr. furnished 23 points, four rebounds, one assist, three steals and two blocks. Deandre Ayton supplied 13 points, nine boards, three assists and one steal. Josh Jackson registered 12 points, six rebounds, two assists and three steals.
The Suns will continue to be without T.J. Warren (ankle) on Saturday.
The Hawks (19-40) have had their share of troubles this season as well, and they too saw a pre-All-Star-break skid extend into their first game following the layoff. Atlanta dropped a narrow 125-122 decision to the Detroit Pistons on Friday night, their fifth loss in the last six contests overall. Trae Young led the Hawks with a 30-point, 10-assist double-double that also included two rebounds. John Collins tallied 19 points, six rebounds and one block. Vince Carter delivered 16 points. Dewayne Dedmon generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included two assists, three blocks and one steal. Kent Bazemore poured in 12 points and also posted seven boards and two steals. DeAndre' Bembry produced an efficient 10 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.
The Hawks will likely list Kevin Huerter (ankle) as questionable at best for Saturday's game after he missed Friday's contest. Miles Plumlee (knee) is likely to share the same designation at minimum.
Saturday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks own a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 118-112 victory on Feb. 2.
Drama-Filled Pelicans Play Host to Lakers on Saturday
The Los Angeles Lakers travel to The Big Easy to play the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on Saturday.
The Lakers (29-29) lost four of five before a critical win on Thursday, as Los Angeles overcame a 19-point second-half deficit to defeat the Houston Rockets. Those sort of victories are hopefully the start of something special, as many people expect Lebron James to go crazy over these final two months. They had a nightmare stretch in the month that he missed and it was evident just how valuable he is in that win on Thursday. Where Los Angeles really needs to see some improvement is on the defensive end, with the Lakers sitting 23rd in total defense. That's not good enough and one has to wonder if they can play enough defense to make up this three-game hole from the eight-seed in the west.
The Pelicans (26-34) would easily be the most dysfunctional franchise in basketball if it weren't for the Knicks, as this team is in complete disarray. This whole Anthony Davis saga is really taking it's toll, as New Orleans blew a 20-point lead on Friday. That marked the Pelicans 11th loss in their last 16 games, as that stretch has pretty much ended any hopes for a playoff berth. The news surrounding Anthony Davis just continues to kill this team too, as his trade request ruined the season. It's not all Davis' fault either, as he's asked to play but management has decided to limit his minutes. He played just 19 minutes in that loss on Friday and it's a wonder what his workload will look like from here on out. There's also word they want to limit Jrue Holiday's minutes too, as this is tanking at its finest. To say this organization is in trouble would be an understatement, as this is a complete disaster at this point.
This is only the second of four meetings between these teams, as Los Angeles prevailed, 112-104, in their first game.
The Lakers (29-29) lost four of five before a critical win on Thursday, as Los Angeles overcame a 19-point second-half deficit to defeat the Houston Rockets. Those sort of victories are hopefully the start of something special, as many people expect Lebron James to go crazy over these final two months. They had a nightmare stretch in the month that he missed and it was evident just how valuable he is in that win on Thursday. Where Los Angeles really needs to see some improvement is on the defensive end, with the Lakers sitting 23rd in total defense. That's not good enough and one has to wonder if they can play enough defense to make up this three-game hole from the eight-seed in the west.
The Pelicans (26-34) would easily be the most dysfunctional franchise in basketball if it weren't for the Knicks, as this team is in complete disarray. This whole Anthony Davis saga is really taking it's toll, as New Orleans blew a 20-point lead on Friday. That marked the Pelicans 11th loss in their last 16 games, as that stretch has pretty much ended any hopes for a playoff berth. The news surrounding Anthony Davis just continues to kill this team too, as his trade request ruined the season. It's not all Davis' fault either, as he's asked to play but management has decided to limit his minutes. He played just 19 minutes in that loss on Friday and it's a wonder what his workload will look like from here on out. There's also word they want to limit Jrue Holiday's minutes too, as this is tanking at its finest. To say this organization is in trouble would be an understatement, as this is a complete disaster at this point.
This is only the second of four meetings between these teams, as Los Angeles prevailed, 112-104, in their first game.
Cavs Looking To Build On Recent Win
By Dan Bruno
The Cleveland Cavaliers play host to the Memphis Grizzlies, at Quicken Loans Arena on Saturday evening.
This marks the fourth game of a five-game home stand for the Cavs (13-46), who are coming off a win over the Suns in their first game back from the all-star break. The Cavs have dropped six of their last 10 games overall, but are 2-1 so far on their home stand. They are 8-22 at home this season. After missing almost the entire season to date, Kevin Love returned to action a couple of games before the break, and has given the Cavaliers the go-to option they have been missing. Love tallied 16 points and 11 rebounds, in 22 minutes in the Cavs' most recent contest, and provided 14 points and nine rebounds, in 16 minutes in the game prior. Jordan Clarkson leads Cleveland so far this season, averaging 17.2 points in 27 minutes off the bench per game. Collin Sexton has been decent through the first portion of his rookie season, averaging 14.9 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists, in 30 minutes per game.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Grizzlies (23-37), who have dropped down to 14th place in the West, after a loss to the Clippers on Friday night. The Grizzlies are sporting a slightly new look, as they traded away Marc Gasol for Jonas Valanciunas and Delon Wright, at the trade deadline. The Grizzlies got some bad news recently, as Jaren Jackson has been ruled out for the foreseeable future, with a quadriceps injury. Mike Conley continues to lead the team, as he poured in 25 points and 10 assists on Friday night, and is averaging 19.9 points, 6.4 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. The Grizzlies have dropped their last two in a row on the road, and are 9-21 on the road this season.
This marks the fourth game of a five-game home stand for the Cavs (13-46), who are coming off a win over the Suns in their first game back from the all-star break. The Cavs have dropped six of their last 10 games overall, but are 2-1 so far on their home stand. They are 8-22 at home this season. After missing almost the entire season to date, Kevin Love returned to action a couple of games before the break, and has given the Cavaliers the go-to option they have been missing. Love tallied 16 points and 11 rebounds, in 22 minutes in the Cavs' most recent contest, and provided 14 points and nine rebounds, in 16 minutes in the game prior. Jordan Clarkson leads Cleveland so far this season, averaging 17.2 points in 27 minutes off the bench per game. Collin Sexton has been decent through the first portion of his rookie season, averaging 14.9 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists, in 30 minutes per game.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Grizzlies (23-37), who have dropped down to 14th place in the West, after a loss to the Clippers on Friday night. The Grizzlies are sporting a slightly new look, as they traded away Marc Gasol for Jonas Valanciunas and Delon Wright, at the trade deadline. The Grizzlies got some bad news recently, as Jaren Jackson has been ruled out for the foreseeable future, with a quadriceps injury. Mike Conley continues to lead the team, as he poured in 25 points and 10 assists on Friday night, and is averaging 19.9 points, 6.4 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. The Grizzlies have dropped their last two in a row on the road, and are 9-21 on the road this season.
Wavering Wizards Host Surging Pacers
The Washington Wizards play host to the Indiana Pacers at Capital One Arena on Saturday.
The Pacers (39-20) have been one of the surprises of the NBA, as they've climbed all the way up to third in the Eastern Conference. What makes that even more impressive is the fact that Indiana is playing without their best player, as Victor Oladipo continues to recover from knee surgery. He won't be back this season and that shows just how special this team has been without him. What makes them so good is their defense, as they sit first in points allowed. Players like Myles Turner and Thaddeus Young have gotten them to this point and they'll need to continue their stellar play if they want this Cinderella story to continue. Indiana comes into this game hot too, winning seven of their last eight games. A comeback win on Friday emphasizes just how good this team is feeling, as the Pacers overcame a 20-point deficit to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans by a double-digit margin.
The Wizards (24-35) have been a huge disappointment this season, as they look highly unlikely to reach the postseason at this point. Washington comes into this matchup losing eight of their last 11 games, as they now sit four games back of the eight-seed in the east. That might be too big of a deficit to make up, especially when you consider the fact that this club ranks 29th in total defense. What makes this disappointing season even sadder is the fact that the Wizards are getting career years from Bradley Beal and Tomas Satoransky. That very well may be the backcourt of the future, as John Wall may miss all of next season after tearing his Achilles less than a month ago.
This marks the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Indiana prevailing in two of three. In fact, the home team has won all three of these meetings thus far.
The Pacers (39-20) have been one of the surprises of the NBA, as they've climbed all the way up to third in the Eastern Conference. What makes that even more impressive is the fact that Indiana is playing without their best player, as Victor Oladipo continues to recover from knee surgery. He won't be back this season and that shows just how special this team has been without him. What makes them so good is their defense, as they sit first in points allowed. Players like Myles Turner and Thaddeus Young have gotten them to this point and they'll need to continue their stellar play if they want this Cinderella story to continue. Indiana comes into this game hot too, winning seven of their last eight games. A comeback win on Friday emphasizes just how good this team is feeling, as the Pacers overcame a 20-point deficit to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans by a double-digit margin.
The Wizards (24-35) have been a huge disappointment this season, as they look highly unlikely to reach the postseason at this point. Washington comes into this matchup losing eight of their last 11 games, as they now sit four games back of the eight-seed in the east. That might be too big of a deficit to make up, especially when you consider the fact that this club ranks 29th in total defense. What makes this disappointing season even sadder is the fact that the Wizards are getting career years from Bradley Beal and Tomas Satoransky. That very well may be the backcourt of the future, as John Wall may miss all of next season after tearing his Achilles less than a month ago.
This marks the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Indiana prevailing in two of three. In fact, the home team has won all three of these meetings thus far.
Hornets Host Nets on Saturday
The Charlotte Hornets play host to the Brooklyn Nets at Spectrum Center on Saturday.
The Nets (30-30) come into this matchup losing six of their last eight games, as they're slowly losing their grip on the playoffs. In fact, the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat in ninth and 10th-place are now within three games of the Nets. That's too close of a margin for a team that hasn't reached the postseason in nearly a decade and missing out would be a huge disappointment at this point. Just missing the playoffs would have been considered a success at the beginning of the year though, as the growth of this team can't be understated. Players like D'Angelo Russell, Jarrett Allen, Spencer Dinwiddie and Caris LeVert have made huge strides this season, as that's considered the core of the future for this growing franchise.
The Hornets (28-30) bread and butter this season has been their home form, as they are 20-9 at Spectrum Center this season. The recent form is a bit discouraging though, as the Hornets come into this matchup losing four of their last six games. That followed up a stretch in which Charlotte won seven of their previous 10 games and it's hard to figure out how good this team is with their inconsistency. A huge reason for that is their lackluster role players, as Kemba Walker is carrying the load. He currently leads this team with 24.9 points and 5.6 assists per game, as he could desperately use some help in the final two months.
The first two games between these teams were split, with the home team prevailing in each outing. They were very different styles, with Brooklyn winning the first game, 134-132 and Charlotte winning the most recent outing, 100-87.
The Nets (30-30) come into this matchup losing six of their last eight games, as they're slowly losing their grip on the playoffs. In fact, the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat in ninth and 10th-place are now within three games of the Nets. That's too close of a margin for a team that hasn't reached the postseason in nearly a decade and missing out would be a huge disappointment at this point. Just missing the playoffs would have been considered a success at the beginning of the year though, as the growth of this team can't be understated. Players like D'Angelo Russell, Jarrett Allen, Spencer Dinwiddie and Caris LeVert have made huge strides this season, as that's considered the core of the future for this growing franchise.
The Hornets (28-30) bread and butter this season has been their home form, as they are 20-9 at Spectrum Center this season. The recent form is a bit discouraging though, as the Hornets come into this matchup losing four of their last six games. That followed up a stretch in which Charlotte won seven of their previous 10 games and it's hard to figure out how good this team is with their inconsistency. A huge reason for that is their lackluster role players, as Kemba Walker is carrying the load. He currently leads this team with 24.9 points and 5.6 assists per game, as he could desperately use some help in the final two months.
The first two games between these teams were split, with the home team prevailing in each outing. They were very different styles, with Brooklyn winning the first game, 134-132 and Charlotte winning the most recent outing, 100-87.
Pistons Head South for Battle With Heat
The Detroit Pistons take on the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena on Saturday evening.
The Pistons (27-30) got their post-All-Star-break stretch off to a good start Friday night, edging the Atlanta Hawks by a 125-122 score despite a third-quarter ejection of Blake Griffin for their fifth win in the last six games overall. Reggie Jackson paced the Pistons with 32 points, adding eight assists, five rebounds and two steals. Andre Drummond posted a 26-point, 21-rebound double-double that also included two assists, five steals and one block. Griffin totaled 15 points, four rebounds, one assist and one block before exiting. Bruce Brown collected 12 points, four rebounds, one assist, two blocks and one steal. Ish Smith finished with 10 points, four assists and one rebound. Wayne Ellington and Thon Maker offered nine points apiece.
The Pistons will come into Saturday's game without any injuries to report.
The Heat (26-31) couldn't get anything get any momentum for the stretch run in their return to the court Thursday, as they fell to the Philadelphia 76ers by a 106-102 score for their fourth loss in five games. Dwyane Wade paced the Heat with 19 points, adding six assists, four rebounds, one steal and one block. Dion Waiters produced 18 points, five boards, one assist and three steals. Kelly Olynyk furnished 15 points, six rebounds and three assists. Josh Richardson totaled 13 points, five assists, two rebounds and one block. Justise Winslow stuffed the stat sheet with 11 points, seven rebounds, five assists and three steals.
The Heat will list Goran Dragic (knee) as questionable for Saturday's contest, while James Johnson (shoulder) will carry a doubtful designation.
Saturday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Heat having notched a 120-115 overtime victory on Nov. 5 and the Pistons countering with a 98-93 win on Jan. 18.
The Pistons (27-30) got their post-All-Star-break stretch off to a good start Friday night, edging the Atlanta Hawks by a 125-122 score despite a third-quarter ejection of Blake Griffin for their fifth win in the last six games overall. Reggie Jackson paced the Pistons with 32 points, adding eight assists, five rebounds and two steals. Andre Drummond posted a 26-point, 21-rebound double-double that also included two assists, five steals and one block. Griffin totaled 15 points, four rebounds, one assist and one block before exiting. Bruce Brown collected 12 points, four rebounds, one assist, two blocks and one steal. Ish Smith finished with 10 points, four assists and one rebound. Wayne Ellington and Thon Maker offered nine points apiece.
The Pistons will come into Saturday's game without any injuries to report.
The Heat (26-31) couldn't get anything get any momentum for the stretch run in their return to the court Thursday, as they fell to the Philadelphia 76ers by a 106-102 score for their fourth loss in five games. Dwyane Wade paced the Heat with 19 points, adding six assists, four rebounds, one steal and one block. Dion Waiters produced 18 points, five boards, one assist and three steals. Kelly Olynyk furnished 15 points, six rebounds and three assists. Josh Richardson totaled 13 points, five assists, two rebounds and one block. Justise Winslow stuffed the stat sheet with 11 points, seven rebounds, five assists and three steals.
The Heat will list Goran Dragic (knee) as questionable for Saturday's contest, while James Johnson (shoulder) will carry a doubtful designation.
Saturday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Heat having notched a 120-115 overtime victory on Nov. 5 and the Pistons countering with a 98-93 win on Jan. 18.
Celtics Make Windy City Trek to Battle Bulls
The Boston Celtics take on the Chicago Bulls at United Center on Saturday evening.
The Celtics (37-22) got their stretch run off to a sour start Thursday, as they dropped a controversial 98-97 decision to the Milwaukee Bucks, a game that had multiple missed calls by the officials on the last play according to the NBA itself. Kyrie Irving paced the Celtics with 22 points, adding five assists, one rebound, two steals and two blocks. Al Horford contributed a 21-point, 17-rebound double-double that also included five assists, three blocks and two steals. Jayson Tatum generated a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double. Jaylen Brown led the bench with 15 points, while Marcus Morris produced 11 points, six rebounds and two assists.
The Celtics will list Gordon Hayward (ankle) as probable for Saturday's game. Aron Baynes (foot) will remain out.
The Bulls (15-44) managed to notch a rare win in their return to action Friday night. They squeaked by the Orlando Magic, 110-109, on a pair of Lauri Markkanen free throws. Markkanen led the way for the Bulls with 25 points, adding 11 rebounds, two assists and one steal. Zach LaVine followed with 22 points, six assists, four rebounds and two steals. Robin Lopez supplied 18 points, six boards, one assist and three steals. Otto Porter, Jr. furnished 17 points, five boards, four assists, one steal and one block. Kris Dunn registered eight points, three rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The Bulls will list Chandler Hutchison (toe) as questionable for Saturday's contest, while Wendell Carter, Jr. (thumb) remains out.
Saturday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Celtics own a 2-0 series lead, having notched 111-82 and 133-77 wins on Nov. 18 and Dec. 8, respectively.
The Celtics (37-22) got their stretch run off to a sour start Thursday, as they dropped a controversial 98-97 decision to the Milwaukee Bucks, a game that had multiple missed calls by the officials on the last play according to the NBA itself. Kyrie Irving paced the Celtics with 22 points, adding five assists, one rebound, two steals and two blocks. Al Horford contributed a 21-point, 17-rebound double-double that also included five assists, three blocks and two steals. Jayson Tatum generated a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double. Jaylen Brown led the bench with 15 points, while Marcus Morris produced 11 points, six rebounds and two assists.
The Celtics will list Gordon Hayward (ankle) as probable for Saturday's game. Aron Baynes (foot) will remain out.
The Bulls (15-44) managed to notch a rare win in their return to action Friday night. They squeaked by the Orlando Magic, 110-109, on a pair of Lauri Markkanen free throws. Markkanen led the way for the Bulls with 25 points, adding 11 rebounds, two assists and one steal. Zach LaVine followed with 22 points, six assists, four rebounds and two steals. Robin Lopez supplied 18 points, six boards, one assist and three steals. Otto Porter, Jr. furnished 17 points, five boards, four assists, one steal and one block. Kris Dunn registered eight points, three rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The Bulls will list Chandler Hutchison (toe) as questionable for Saturday's contest, while Wendell Carter, Jr. (thumb) remains out.
Saturday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Celtics own a 2-0 series lead, having notched 111-82 and 133-77 wins on Nov. 18 and Dec. 8, respectively.
Surging Thunder Host Kings on Saturday
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Sacramento Kings at Chesapeake Energy Arena on Saturday.
The Kings (30-28) are shockingly fighting for a playoff berth in the west, as that seemed like a far-fetched goal at the beginning of the season. In fact, this club was projected to finish bottom-five in the league at the start of the year, as they're easily one of the biggest surprises in the NBA. The Kings are just two games behind the Los Angeles Clippers in eighth and many people believe Sacramento will catch them after the Clippers traded Tobias Harris. Where the Kings need to improve is on the defensive end though, as they currently rank 26th in points allowed. That's something that needs to improve if they are to reach the postseason, as they come into this matchup losing two straight. Those losses are actually more encouraging than discouraging though, as they were equal two-point losses against the Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets. Those are the two best teams in the Western Conference and that alone shows just how much this Kings team has improved.
The Thunder (38-20) are coming off one of their best wins of the season on Friday. as they prevailed in double-overtime against the Utah Jazz. Russell Westbrook and Paul George both went off in that game, as they combined for 88 points, 24 rebounds and 15 assists. That's an absurd stat line from both guys, as George capped it off with a game-winner with less than a second remaining. That marked Oklahoma City's 12th win in their last 14 games, as they're trying to climb up to the second-seed in the west. They are now just two games back on the Denver Nuggets in second and it's hard to doubt this team with Westbrook and George playing the way they are. One has to wonder if one of them may get rested here though, as they each played close to 50 minutes on Friday.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Sacramento winning two of the three games. They've all been extremely high-scoring games, as no team has scored fewer than 113 points in all three games.
The Kings (30-28) are shockingly fighting for a playoff berth in the west, as that seemed like a far-fetched goal at the beginning of the season. In fact, this club was projected to finish bottom-five in the league at the start of the year, as they're easily one of the biggest surprises in the NBA. The Kings are just two games behind the Los Angeles Clippers in eighth and many people believe Sacramento will catch them after the Clippers traded Tobias Harris. Where the Kings need to improve is on the defensive end though, as they currently rank 26th in points allowed. That's something that needs to improve if they are to reach the postseason, as they come into this matchup losing two straight. Those losses are actually more encouraging than discouraging though, as they were equal two-point losses against the Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets. Those are the two best teams in the Western Conference and that alone shows just how much this Kings team has improved.
The Thunder (38-20) are coming off one of their best wins of the season on Friday. as they prevailed in double-overtime against the Utah Jazz. Russell Westbrook and Paul George both went off in that game, as they combined for 88 points, 24 rebounds and 15 assists. That's an absurd stat line from both guys, as George capped it off with a game-winner with less than a second remaining. That marked Oklahoma City's 12th win in their last 14 games, as they're trying to climb up to the second-seed in the west. They are now just two games back on the Denver Nuggets in second and it's hard to doubt this team with Westbrook and George playing the way they are. One has to wonder if one of them may get rested here though, as they each played close to 50 minutes on Friday.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Sacramento winning two of the three games. They've all been extremely high-scoring games, as no team has scored fewer than 113 points in all three games.
Warriors Look To Build On Recent Win
By Dan Bruno
The Golden State Warriors play host to the Houston Rockets, at Oracle Arena on Saturday evening.
The Warriors (42-16) have won eight of their last 10 games, including their first game back after the all-star break, where they defeated the visiting Kings by just two points, 125-123. The Warriors have won their last five home games, and are 23-7 at home this season. They retain a firm hold on first place in the West, with a 2.5-game lead over second place. DeMarcus Cousins has looked good in his short time with the team, averaging 14.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks per game so far, including 17 points and 10 rebounds, in 27 minutes, in the Warriors' most recent contest. Stephen Curry continues to impress, as he leads the team with averages of 28.8 points, 5.3 assists, 5.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. Kevin Durant is averaging 27.6 point, 7.0 rebounds, 5.9 assists and 1.2 blocks per game, as he is truly doing it all for the Warriors this season.
Meanwhile, this marks the third and final game of a road trip for the Rockets (33-25), where they have gone 0-2 so far. They are 5-5 in their last 10 games overall, and are 13-16 on the road this season. Chris Paul has looked good since returning to the lineup, averaging 16.6 points, 8.1 assists, 5.1 rebounds and 2.0 steals, over his last nine games. James Harden, on the other hand, has been amazing all season, averaging 36.5 points, 7.7 assists, 6.6 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game. Harden (neck) is listed as questionable for action on Saturday. Clint Capela was back in action for Houston, as of their most recent contest. The Rockets will be better with him in the line up, as he averages 17.5 points, 12.5 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.8 blocks per game so far this season.
The Warriors (42-16) have won eight of their last 10 games, including their first game back after the all-star break, where they defeated the visiting Kings by just two points, 125-123. The Warriors have won their last five home games, and are 23-7 at home this season. They retain a firm hold on first place in the West, with a 2.5-game lead over second place. DeMarcus Cousins has looked good in his short time with the team, averaging 14.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks per game so far, including 17 points and 10 rebounds, in 27 minutes, in the Warriors' most recent contest. Stephen Curry continues to impress, as he leads the team with averages of 28.8 points, 5.3 assists, 5.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. Kevin Durant is averaging 27.6 point, 7.0 rebounds, 5.9 assists and 1.2 blocks per game, as he is truly doing it all for the Warriors this season.
Meanwhile, this marks the third and final game of a road trip for the Rockets (33-25), where they have gone 0-2 so far. They are 5-5 in their last 10 games overall, and are 13-16 on the road this season. Chris Paul has looked good since returning to the lineup, averaging 16.6 points, 8.1 assists, 5.1 rebounds and 2.0 steals, over his last nine games. James Harden, on the other hand, has been amazing all season, averaging 36.5 points, 7.7 assists, 6.6 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game. Harden (neck) is listed as questionable for action on Saturday. Clint Capela was back in action for Houston, as of their most recent contest. The Rockets will be better with him in the line up, as he averages 17.5 points, 12.5 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.8 blocks per game so far this season.
Blistering Bucks Host T'Wolves on Saturday
The Milwaukee Bucks play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Fiserv Forum on Saturday.
The Timberwolves (28-30) got a huge win on Friday, as they handed the New York Knicks a 115-104 home defeat. While defeating the Knicks is nothing special, it's the fact that they got it done with Karl-Anthony Towns sidelined. Towns is currently in the concussion protocol, as he suffered that injury in a car accident on Thursday. That marks Minnesota's third-straight win, as this appears to be one final run at the postseason. The Timberwolves are just 3.5 games back on the Los Angeles Clippers in eighth and many would argue that Minnesota is the most talented of those teams. The three-game winning streak directly correlates with Dario Saric entering the starting lineup and it's a wonder why they didn't make that move sooner with the talent he possesses.
The Bucks (44-14) come into this matchup winning 15 of their last 17 games, as they continue to shock the league. What's most impressive is the fact that they haven't lost two straight games all season long and do not own a losing record against any opponent. That shows just how dangerous this team is, as they're the only club in the league who sits top three in offensive and defensive efficiency. All these stats speak loudly and it says a lot about how far this franchise has come. It's hard not to give Giannis Antetokounmpo a lot of the credit, as he's garnering MVP consideration with his averages of 27.2 points, 12.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game. That pairs beautifully with role players like Khris Middleton Brook Lopez, Malcolm Brogdon and Eric Bledsoe, as this is the best starting five in the NBA.
Milwaukee blew out Minnesota on the road in their first meeting this season, 125-95.
The Timberwolves (28-30) got a huge win on Friday, as they handed the New York Knicks a 115-104 home defeat. While defeating the Knicks is nothing special, it's the fact that they got it done with Karl-Anthony Towns sidelined. Towns is currently in the concussion protocol, as he suffered that injury in a car accident on Thursday. That marks Minnesota's third-straight win, as this appears to be one final run at the postseason. The Timberwolves are just 3.5 games back on the Los Angeles Clippers in eighth and many would argue that Minnesota is the most talented of those teams. The three-game winning streak directly correlates with Dario Saric entering the starting lineup and it's a wonder why they didn't make that move sooner with the talent he possesses.
The Bucks (44-14) come into this matchup winning 15 of their last 17 games, as they continue to shock the league. What's most impressive is the fact that they haven't lost two straight games all season long and do not own a losing record against any opponent. That shows just how dangerous this team is, as they're the only club in the league who sits top three in offensive and defensive efficiency. All these stats speak loudly and it says a lot about how far this franchise has come. It's hard not to give Giannis Antetokounmpo a lot of the credit, as he's garnering MVP consideration with his averages of 27.2 points, 12.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game. That pairs beautifully with role players like Khris Middleton Brook Lopez, Malcolm Brogdon and Eric Bledsoe, as this is the best starting five in the NBA.
Milwaukee blew out Minnesota on the road in their first meeting this season, 125-95.
Jazz Host Mavericks on Friday
The Dallas Mavericks travel to Salt Lake City to play the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena on Saturday.
The Mavericks (26-32) have really killed themselves with their road form, as they are currently 6-22 outside of Dallas. What's more concerning is the fact that Luka Doncic is dealing with an ankle issue. He's obviously the key to the franchise and Dallas is going to take every precaution to make sure he's right going forward. That's why it would be shocking to see him suit up here, as they'll be extremely shorthanded after their trade with the Knicks. This is a team to look out for next year though, as Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis form one of the most dangerous young cores in the NBA. If they can just add one superstar in this tasty offseason group, this could quickly become one of the best teams in the Western Conference next season. In the meantime, it's time for players like Jalen Brunson, Maxi Kleber and Dwight Powell to step up and try to salvage this season.
The Jazz (32-26) had a heartbreaking loss on Friday, as they were defeated in double-overtime by the Oklahoma City Thunder. There was an unsightly 21 ties and 23 lead changes in that defeat, as Paul George daggered them with a game-winning floater in the final seconds to pull out a 148-147 win. The fact that Utah was competitive in that game is promising but a loss like that can be devastating. What makes that even worse is the fact that it didn't end until close to midnight, as they'll have to hop on a plane and play this game about 20 hours after that defeat. The recent form is something that they need to build off of though, as Utah won 12 of their previous 16 games before that loss on Friday. That's what's more important, as losses like that are inevitable.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Utah prevailing in two of three. Dallas had their biggest win of the season in their last matchup though, as they defeated Utah, 118-68.
The Mavericks (26-32) have really killed themselves with their road form, as they are currently 6-22 outside of Dallas. What's more concerning is the fact that Luka Doncic is dealing with an ankle issue. He's obviously the key to the franchise and Dallas is going to take every precaution to make sure he's right going forward. That's why it would be shocking to see him suit up here, as they'll be extremely shorthanded after their trade with the Knicks. This is a team to look out for next year though, as Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis form one of the most dangerous young cores in the NBA. If they can just add one superstar in this tasty offseason group, this could quickly become one of the best teams in the Western Conference next season. In the meantime, it's time for players like Jalen Brunson, Maxi Kleber and Dwight Powell to step up and try to salvage this season.
The Jazz (32-26) had a heartbreaking loss on Friday, as they were defeated in double-overtime by the Oklahoma City Thunder. There was an unsightly 21 ties and 23 lead changes in that defeat, as Paul George daggered them with a game-winning floater in the final seconds to pull out a 148-147 win. The fact that Utah was competitive in that game is promising but a loss like that can be devastating. What makes that even worse is the fact that it didn't end until close to midnight, as they'll have to hop on a plane and play this game about 20 hours after that defeat. The recent form is something that they need to build off of though, as Utah won 12 of their previous 16 games before that loss on Friday. That's what's more important, as losses like that are inevitable.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Utah prevailing in two of three. Dallas had their biggest win of the season in their last matchup though, as they defeated Utah, 118-68.