Rockets face Mavericks in Lone Star State showdown
The Dallas Mavericks wrap up their three-game homestand when they take on the Houston Rockets at American Airlines Arena on Sunday.
The Rockets (38-39) have seen their chance at qualifying for the NBA Play-In greatly diminish after losing their last four games. Their latest loss came in a 119-104 to the Miami Heat on Friday, in a game that saw Fred VanVleet shoot just 4-for-13 from the field to finish with 13 points, six rebounds and eight assists. In order for the Rockets to have a chance at making the postseason, they will need to win their remaining five games and hope that the Golden State Warriors lose out. One player who can help lead that charge is Jalen Smith, who is averaging 24.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.0 assist and 1.1 steals over 34.8 minutes per game since the All-Star break.
Amen Thompson (ankle/finger) is probable for Sunday’s game, while Jae’Sean Tate (ankle) has been ruled out.
Meanwhile the Mavericks (47-30) currently sit in fifth place in the Western Conference standings, one game ahead of the Phoenix Suns and two games back of the Los Angeles Clippers. The Mavericks are 9-1 over their last 10 games and are coming off a thrilling 108-106 victory over the Warriors on Friday without Luka Doncic, who sat out due to right knee soreness. P.J. Washington -- who Dallas acquired from the Charlotte Hornets at the trade deadline -- led the way with 32 points, five rebounds, three assists, two blocks and five steals and hit the game-winning layup. The Mavericks could gain home-court advantage in the first round if they finish the season strong and if the Clippers falter down the stretch.
Doncic (ankle) and Maxi Kleber (back) are both questionable for Sunday’s game.
The Mavericks hold a 2-1 series lead over the Rockets heading into Sunday’s contest, which is the fourth and final team these two teams will face each other this season.
The Rockets (38-39) have seen their chance at qualifying for the NBA Play-In greatly diminish after losing their last four games. Their latest loss came in a 119-104 to the Miami Heat on Friday, in a game that saw Fred VanVleet shoot just 4-for-13 from the field to finish with 13 points, six rebounds and eight assists. In order for the Rockets to have a chance at making the postseason, they will need to win their remaining five games and hope that the Golden State Warriors lose out. One player who can help lead that charge is Jalen Smith, who is averaging 24.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.0 assist and 1.1 steals over 34.8 minutes per game since the All-Star break.
Amen Thompson (ankle/finger) is probable for Sunday’s game, while Jae’Sean Tate (ankle) has been ruled out.
Meanwhile the Mavericks (47-30) currently sit in fifth place in the Western Conference standings, one game ahead of the Phoenix Suns and two games back of the Los Angeles Clippers. The Mavericks are 9-1 over their last 10 games and are coming off a thrilling 108-106 victory over the Warriors on Friday without Luka Doncic, who sat out due to right knee soreness. P.J. Washington -- who Dallas acquired from the Charlotte Hornets at the trade deadline -- led the way with 32 points, five rebounds, three assists, two blocks and five steals and hit the game-winning layup. The Mavericks could gain home-court advantage in the first round if they finish the season strong and if the Clippers falter down the stretch.
Doncic (ankle) and Maxi Kleber (back) are both questionable for Sunday’s game.
The Mavericks hold a 2-1 series lead over the Rockets heading into Sunday’s contest, which is the fourth and final team these two teams will face each other this season.
Clippers Host Cavaliers In Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Clippers will host the Cleveland Cavaliers at crypto.com Arena on Sunday.
The Clippers (49-28) have been trending in the right direction of late as the playoffs creep closer and closer. Los Angeles has won two in a row and four of its last five contests, and the team is looking to secure the highest possible seed in an ultra-competitive Western Conference. The Clippers hold a two-game lead over the Dallas Mavericks in the race for fourth place in the West, and in fact, a win here would automatically grant them a playoff berth regardless of what happens with the other games. Reaching the playoffs won’t be enough for the Clippers, though. Not with a core of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and James Harden leading the way. The Clippers see this season as a “championship or bust” campaign, and to increase their chances, they need to earn a high seed in the first round.
The Clippers are listing Kawhi Leonard (knee) and Joshua Primo (ankle) as out.
The Cavaliers (46-32) have only a handful of games left in their schedule, but the team is finishing the regular season on a solid note. Entering Sunday’s heavy slate, the Cavaliers sit in third place in the Eastern Conference with a 0.5-game lead over the two teams sitting behind them, the Orlando Magic and New York Knicks. However, the Cavaliers must bounce back after losing to the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday. This means the Cavaliers have dropped two in a row and four of their last six contests, with each of those four losses coming on the road. Plus, the Cavaliers have gone 1-2 on their current road trip.
The Cavaliers are listing Isaac Okoro (toe) as a game-time call for Sunday. Ty Jerome (ankle) and Dean Wade (knee) are out.
The Clippers (49-28) have been trending in the right direction of late as the playoffs creep closer and closer. Los Angeles has won two in a row and four of its last five contests, and the team is looking to secure the highest possible seed in an ultra-competitive Western Conference. The Clippers hold a two-game lead over the Dallas Mavericks in the race for fourth place in the West, and in fact, a win here would automatically grant them a playoff berth regardless of what happens with the other games. Reaching the playoffs won’t be enough for the Clippers, though. Not with a core of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and James Harden leading the way. The Clippers see this season as a “championship or bust” campaign, and to increase their chances, they need to earn a high seed in the first round.
The Clippers are listing Kawhi Leonard (knee) and Joshua Primo (ankle) as out.
The Cavaliers (46-32) have only a handful of games left in their schedule, but the team is finishing the regular season on a solid note. Entering Sunday’s heavy slate, the Cavaliers sit in third place in the Eastern Conference with a 0.5-game lead over the two teams sitting behind them, the Orlando Magic and New York Knicks. However, the Cavaliers must bounce back after losing to the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday. This means the Cavaliers have dropped two in a row and four of their last six contests, with each of those four losses coming on the road. Plus, the Cavaliers have gone 1-2 on their current road trip.
The Cavaliers are listing Isaac Okoro (toe) as a game-time call for Sunday. Ty Jerome (ankle) and Dean Wade (knee) are out.
Heat, Pacers Collide In Huge Playoff Battle
The Indiana Pacers will host the Miami Heat at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Sunday.
The Pacers (44-34) are coming off a 126-112 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday, meaning the team bounced back from their 115-111 loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Indiana are looking to end its season on a strong note, as the team has won three of its last four contests while recording each of those victories by a double-digit margin. The Pacers also believe they could get a positive result here based on their home record, as they’ve gone 24-15 at home. The Pacers hold a 0.5-game lead in the standings over the Heat, so this game will be pivotal for both teams in terms of the playoff seeding.
The Pacers are listing Tyrese Haliburton (back) and Jalen Smith (ankle) as game-time calls for Sunday. Bennedict Mathurin (shoulder) is out for the rest of the season.
The Heat (43-34) are looking to leave the Play-In Tournament zone and want to sneak into the Top 6. For that to happen, winning here over the Pacers would get the job done, though Miami will still have to watch the standings closely in the final week of the regular season. The Heat are trending in the right direction of late, and their 119-104 win over the Houston Rockets means the team has won four of its last five contests. Plus, the Heat are also a team that can get the job done playing away from home, where they’ve gone 23-16 so far in 2023-24.
The Heat are listing Josh Richardson (shoulder) as out for the season. The entire current rotation is available for head coach Erik Spoelstra.
The Pacers (44-34) are coming off a 126-112 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday, meaning the team bounced back from their 115-111 loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Indiana are looking to end its season on a strong note, as the team has won three of its last four contests while recording each of those victories by a double-digit margin. The Pacers also believe they could get a positive result here based on their home record, as they’ve gone 24-15 at home. The Pacers hold a 0.5-game lead in the standings over the Heat, so this game will be pivotal for both teams in terms of the playoff seeding.
The Pacers are listing Tyrese Haliburton (back) and Jalen Smith (ankle) as game-time calls for Sunday. Bennedict Mathurin (shoulder) is out for the rest of the season.
The Heat (43-34) are looking to leave the Play-In Tournament zone and want to sneak into the Top 6. For that to happen, winning here over the Pacers would get the job done, though Miami will still have to watch the standings closely in the final week of the regular season. The Heat are trending in the right direction of late, and their 119-104 win over the Houston Rockets means the team has won four of its last five contests. Plus, the Heat are also a team that can get the job done playing away from home, where they’ve gone 23-16 so far in 2023-24.
The Heat are listing Josh Richardson (shoulder) as out for the season. The entire current rotation is available for head coach Erik Spoelstra.
Celtics, Blazers Collide In Battle Of Opposites
The Boston Celtics will host the Portland Trail Blazers at TD Garden on Sunday.
The Celtics (61-16) have already clinched the best record in the NBA this season. Essentially, this means the road for the Larry O’Brien trophy will go through the TD Garden as long as Boston remains alive in the playoffs. This has allow head coach Joe Mazzulla to avoid risking players in the final weeks of the season, and don’t be surprised if the Celtics hand out additional minutes to fringe rotation players down the stretch. Names such as Sam Hauser, Luke Kornet and Payton Pritchard have responded when called upon duty, making Boston one of the most complete rosters in The Association. The Celtics also own the best record at home with a 34-3 mark.
The Celtics are listing Jaylen Brown (hand), Jayson Tatum (knee) and Jaden Springer (knee) all as questionable for Sunday.
The Trail Blazers (21-56) might be on a two-game winning streak, but don’t be confused. Portland has nothing to play for in the final games of the season and shouldn’t be a match for the Celtics even if Boston rotates their starting lineup heavily. The Trail Blazers secured those wins against two other rebuilding teams, the Charlotte Hornets and the Washington Wizards, so facing Boston will be a completely different challenge for them. The Blazers have gone 10-29 when playing away from home this season, including a 2-4 mark in their current road trip. That road trip ends with this game at Boston. The previous meeting between these two teams ended with a 121-99 win for the Celtics.
Jerami Grant (hamstring) and Ibou Badji (back) are listed as questionable for this game. Matisse Thybulle (ankle), Shaedon Sharpe (abdomen), Malcolm Brogdon (elbow) and Anfernee Simons (knee) are out. Robert Williams (knee) and Toumani Camara (ribs) will miss the rest of the campaign.
The Celtics (61-16) have already clinched the best record in the NBA this season. Essentially, this means the road for the Larry O’Brien trophy will go through the TD Garden as long as Boston remains alive in the playoffs. This has allow head coach Joe Mazzulla to avoid risking players in the final weeks of the season, and don’t be surprised if the Celtics hand out additional minutes to fringe rotation players down the stretch. Names such as Sam Hauser, Luke Kornet and Payton Pritchard have responded when called upon duty, making Boston one of the most complete rosters in The Association. The Celtics also own the best record at home with a 34-3 mark.
The Celtics are listing Jaylen Brown (hand), Jayson Tatum (knee) and Jaden Springer (knee) all as questionable for Sunday.
The Trail Blazers (21-56) might be on a two-game winning streak, but don’t be confused. Portland has nothing to play for in the final games of the season and shouldn’t be a match for the Celtics even if Boston rotates their starting lineup heavily. The Trail Blazers secured those wins against two other rebuilding teams, the Charlotte Hornets and the Washington Wizards, so facing Boston will be a completely different challenge for them. The Blazers have gone 10-29 when playing away from home this season, including a 2-4 mark in their current road trip. That road trip ends with this game at Boston. The previous meeting between these two teams ended with a 121-99 win for the Celtics.
Jerami Grant (hamstring) and Ibou Badji (back) are listed as questionable for this game. Matisse Thybulle (ankle), Shaedon Sharpe (abdomen), Malcolm Brogdon (elbow) and Anfernee Simons (knee) are out. Robert Williams (knee) and Toumani Camara (ribs) will miss the rest of the campaign.
Bulls and Magic Clash in Florida
The Chicago Bulls take on the Orlando Magic at Amway Center on Sunday evening.
The Bulls (37-40) continue to find consistency elusive as the season enters its final week, as they've alternated wins and losses over the last five games following a three-game skid. Their most recent success came their last time on the floor Friday night, when they toppled the New York Knicks by a 108-100 score. Javonte Green paced the Bulls with a 25-point, 13-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and one block. Ayo Dosunmu managed 24 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. DeMar DeRozan generated a 20-point, 10-assist double-double that included five rebounds and one steal. Nikola Vucevic posted a 16-point, 13-rebound double-double that included six assists and one block. Andre Drummond turned in 10 points, 16 rebounds, three seals and one block.
The Bulls will list Coby White (ankle) and Alex Caruso ankle) as questionable for Sunday's game. Torrey Craig (knee) will carry a probable tag, while Julian Phillips (foot) will remain out.
The Magic (45-32) are prepping for the postseason, and they'll come into Sunday's game having just seen a three-game winning streak snapped by a surprising 124-114 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night. Paolo Banchero led the Magic with 32 points, adding eight rebounds, eight assists, two blocks and one steal. Franz Wagner supplied 22 points, seven boards, one assist and one steal. Markelle Fultz furnished 15 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Wendell Carter Jr. turned in 13 points, seven rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Gary Harris delivered 12 points, six assists, three rebounds and two steals.
The Magic will list Caleb Houstan (ankle) as questionable for Sunday's contest.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Magic holds a 3-0 series lead.
The Bulls (37-40) continue to find consistency elusive as the season enters its final week, as they've alternated wins and losses over the last five games following a three-game skid. Their most recent success came their last time on the floor Friday night, when they toppled the New York Knicks by a 108-100 score. Javonte Green paced the Bulls with a 25-point, 13-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and one block. Ayo Dosunmu managed 24 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. DeMar DeRozan generated a 20-point, 10-assist double-double that included five rebounds and one steal. Nikola Vucevic posted a 16-point, 13-rebound double-double that included six assists and one block. Andre Drummond turned in 10 points, 16 rebounds, three seals and one block.
The Bulls will list Coby White (ankle) and Alex Caruso ankle) as questionable for Sunday's game. Torrey Craig (knee) will carry a probable tag, while Julian Phillips (foot) will remain out.
The Magic (45-32) are prepping for the postseason, and they'll come into Sunday's game having just seen a three-game winning streak snapped by a surprising 124-114 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night. Paolo Banchero led the Magic with 32 points, adding eight rebounds, eight assists, two blocks and one steal. Franz Wagner supplied 22 points, seven boards, one assist and one steal. Markelle Fultz furnished 15 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Wendell Carter Jr. turned in 13 points, seven rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Gary Harris delivered 12 points, six assists, three rebounds and two steals.
The Magic will list Caleb Houstan (ankle) as questionable for Sunday's contest.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Magic holds a 3-0 series lead.
Pelicans and Suns Set for Conference Showdown
The New Orleans Pelicans take on the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on Sunday evening.
The Pelicans (45-32) are headed toward the postseason, but they're presently lacking any semblance of momentum since they've dropped four consecutive contests. Their most recent stumble was a narrow one, as they fell to the San Antonio Spurs by a 111-109 score Friday night.
CJ McCollum paced the Pelicans with 31 points, supplementing them with six rebounds, four assists and one block. Jonas Valanciunas totaled 26 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Trey Murphy finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals. Herbert Jones delivered 15 points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals.
The Pelicans will list Zion Williamson (finger), Naji Marshall (shoulder) and Jose Alvarado (oblique) as questionable for Sunday's game. Brandon Ingram (knee) will remain out.
The Suns (46-31), conversely, are trending in the right direction as they get closer to starting their expected postseason journey. Phoenix enters Sunday's contest having won eight of the last 10 games, including three straight. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they forged an impressive 97-87 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Grayson Allen led the Suns with 23 points, adding eight rebounds, one assist and two steals. Kevin Durant finished with 22 points, six rebounds, six assists and one steal. Bradley Beal posted 14 points, three rebounds and two assists. Devin Booker generated a 13-point, 13-assist double-double that included three rebounds and three steals. Jusuf Nurkic turned in 11 points, 15 rebounds, six assists, three steals and one block.
The Suns will remain without Damion Lee (knee) for Sunday's game.
Sunday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Suns hold a 2-0 series lead.
The Pelicans (45-32) are headed toward the postseason, but they're presently lacking any semblance of momentum since they've dropped four consecutive contests. Their most recent stumble was a narrow one, as they fell to the San Antonio Spurs by a 111-109 score Friday night.
CJ McCollum paced the Pelicans with 31 points, supplementing them with six rebounds, four assists and one block. Jonas Valanciunas totaled 26 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and one steal. Trey Murphy finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals. Herbert Jones delivered 15 points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals.
The Pelicans will list Zion Williamson (finger), Naji Marshall (shoulder) and Jose Alvarado (oblique) as questionable for Sunday's game. Brandon Ingram (knee) will remain out.
The Suns (46-31), conversely, are trending in the right direction as they get closer to starting their expected postseason journey. Phoenix enters Sunday's contest having won eight of the last 10 games, including three straight. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they forged an impressive 97-87 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Grayson Allen led the Suns with 23 points, adding eight rebounds, one assist and two steals. Kevin Durant finished with 22 points, six rebounds, six assists and one steal. Bradley Beal posted 14 points, three rebounds and two assists. Devin Booker generated a 13-point, 13-assist double-double that included three rebounds and three steals. Jusuf Nurkic turned in 11 points, 15 rebounds, six assists, three steals and one block.
The Suns will remain without Damion Lee (knee) for Sunday's game.
Sunday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Suns hold a 2-0 series lead.
Wizards and Raptors Face Off North of the Border
The Washington Wizards take on the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on Sunday evening.
The Wizards (15-63) are putting the finishing touches on another losing season, and fittingly, they'll come into Sunday having dropped five of their last six contests. Their most recent stumble came Friday night, when they fell to the Portland Trail Blazers by a 108-102 score. Deni Avdija led the Wizards with a 22-point, 12-rebound double-double that included two blocks and one steal. Jordan Poole furnished 20 points, nine assists and five rebounds. Tristan Vukcevic supplied 17 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and one block. Corey Kispert registered 12 points, five assists, three rebounds and two steals.
The Wizards will list Kyle Kuzma (ankle) and Richaun Holmes (toe) as questionable for Sunday's game. Marvin Bagley (knee), Tyus Jones (back) and Landry Shamet (calf) will remain out.
The Raptors (24-53) are closing out a forgettable season, and they'd been mired in a 15-game losing streak before shocking the Milwaukee Bucks by a 117-111 score Friday night. Gary Trent paced the Raptors with 31 points, adding five rebounds, three assists and two steals. RJ Barrett offered 26 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and one block. Immanuel Quickley generated a 25-point, 11-rebound double-double that included nine assists and three steals. Kelly Olynyk tallied 12 points, seven rebounds and two assists.
The Raptors will remain without Scottie Barnes (hand), Chris Boucher (knee), Jakob Poeltl (finger), D.J. Carton (ankle) and Jontay Porter (personal) for Sunday's game. Bruce Brown (knee) and Trent (illness) will carry questionable tags.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Raptors hold a 2-1 series lead.
The Wizards (15-63) are putting the finishing touches on another losing season, and fittingly, they'll come into Sunday having dropped five of their last six contests. Their most recent stumble came Friday night, when they fell to the Portland Trail Blazers by a 108-102 score. Deni Avdija led the Wizards with a 22-point, 12-rebound double-double that included two blocks and one steal. Jordan Poole furnished 20 points, nine assists and five rebounds. Tristan Vukcevic supplied 17 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and one block. Corey Kispert registered 12 points, five assists, three rebounds and two steals.
The Wizards will list Kyle Kuzma (ankle) and Richaun Holmes (toe) as questionable for Sunday's game. Marvin Bagley (knee), Tyus Jones (back) and Landry Shamet (calf) will remain out.
The Raptors (24-53) are closing out a forgettable season, and they'd been mired in a 15-game losing streak before shocking the Milwaukee Bucks by a 117-111 score Friday night. Gary Trent paced the Raptors with 31 points, adding five rebounds, three assists and two steals. RJ Barrett offered 26 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and one block. Immanuel Quickley generated a 25-point, 11-rebound double-double that included nine assists and three steals. Kelly Olynyk tallied 12 points, seven rebounds and two assists.
The Raptors will remain without Scottie Barnes (hand), Chris Boucher (knee), Jakob Poeltl (finger), D.J. Carton (ankle) and Jontay Porter (personal) for Sunday's game. Bruce Brown (knee) and Trent (illness) will carry questionable tags.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Raptors hold a 2-1 series lead.
Hornets Look To Stay On Track At Home
By Dan Bruno
The Charlotte Hornets play host to the Oklahoma City Thunder at Spectrum Center on Sunday evening.
The Hornets (19-58) are coming off a win and face the seventh game of an eight-game home stand looking to improve on their, 11-28, home record. They remain shorthanded due to long-standing injury trouble but have still seen significant bright spots as others step up. Brandon Miller is coming off an impressive outing, as he tallied 32 points, six rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block in the last game. He is also averaging 20.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists across the last 10 games. Miles Bridges continues to press on, averaging 21.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.1 steals on the season. Vasilije Micic also remains consistent, averaging 11.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, 10.2 assists and 1.2 steals across his last five appearances.
Meanwhile, the Thunder (52-25) have dropped three in a row and hope to end the slide on the fifth and final game of a road trip and with the chance to add to their, 23-17, road record. Unfortunately, they remain without leading scorer, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (quadriceps), who has missed the last three games. Jalen Williams (ankle), who is the squad's second-leading scorer will also remain sidelined, while Gordon Hayward (leg) is listed as questionable for action. Isaiah Joe (ankle) got the start in the last game, turning in 10 points, four rebounds, three assists and a steal, and is listed as probable for another start. Josh Giddey is averaging 16.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 7.6 assists across the last five gams and must continue to step up for his shorthanded squad. Chet Holmgren must also look to step up, as he is averaging 15.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.6 blocks over the last 10 outings.
The Hornets (19-58) are coming off a win and face the seventh game of an eight-game home stand looking to improve on their, 11-28, home record. They remain shorthanded due to long-standing injury trouble but have still seen significant bright spots as others step up. Brandon Miller is coming off an impressive outing, as he tallied 32 points, six rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block in the last game. He is also averaging 20.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists across the last 10 games. Miles Bridges continues to press on, averaging 21.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.1 steals on the season. Vasilije Micic also remains consistent, averaging 11.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, 10.2 assists and 1.2 steals across his last five appearances.
Meanwhile, the Thunder (52-25) have dropped three in a row and hope to end the slide on the fifth and final game of a road trip and with the chance to add to their, 23-17, road record. Unfortunately, they remain without leading scorer, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (quadriceps), who has missed the last three games. Jalen Williams (ankle), who is the squad's second-leading scorer will also remain sidelined, while Gordon Hayward (leg) is listed as questionable for action. Isaiah Joe (ankle) got the start in the last game, turning in 10 points, four rebounds, three assists and a steal, and is listed as probable for another start. Josh Giddey is averaging 16.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 7.6 assists across the last five gams and must continue to step up for his shorthanded squad. Chet Holmgren must also look to step up, as he is averaging 15.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.6 blocks over the last 10 outings.
Skidding Bucks Host Struggling Knicks
By Dan Bruno
The Milwaukee Bucks play host to the New York Knicks at Fiserv Forum on Sunday evening.
The Bucks (47-30) enter on a three-game slide and look to thing things around on the third game of a five-game home stand with the chance to build no their, 29-10, home record. Giannis Antetokounmpo (hip) leads the team, averaging 30.7 points, 11.5 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks on the season, but he missed the last game and is listed as questionable for action. Patrick Beverley (ankle) is also listed as questionable to play. Damian Lillard looked good with 36 points on 10-for-24 shooting in the last game, which marked his return from a three-game absence. Brook Lopez stands solid in his role, averaging 13.2 points, including 1.6 three-pointers, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks over the lats five games. The Bucks average 119.9 points per game, which is third most in the league, but they give up an average of 116.8 points per game, which is ninth most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Knicks (45-32) have dropped four of their last five games but hope to get back on track as they face the second game of a four-game road trip with an opportunity to improve on their, 20-18, road record. Jalen Brunson continues to lead the way with impressive play, averaging 36.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 9.0 assists and 1.4 steals over the last five games. Donte DiVincenzo also continues to step up and is averaging 15.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 steals on the season. Josh Hart provides an all-around effort, averaging 9.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 0.9 steals per game. The Knicks average 112.3 points per game, while they hold opponents to an average of 107.9 points per game, which is second fewest in the league.
The Bucks (47-30) enter on a three-game slide and look to thing things around on the third game of a five-game home stand with the chance to build no their, 29-10, home record. Giannis Antetokounmpo (hip) leads the team, averaging 30.7 points, 11.5 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks on the season, but he missed the last game and is listed as questionable for action. Patrick Beverley (ankle) is also listed as questionable to play. Damian Lillard looked good with 36 points on 10-for-24 shooting in the last game, which marked his return from a three-game absence. Brook Lopez stands solid in his role, averaging 13.2 points, including 1.6 three-pointers, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks over the lats five games. The Bucks average 119.9 points per game, which is third most in the league, but they give up an average of 116.8 points per game, which is ninth most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Knicks (45-32) have dropped four of their last five games but hope to get back on track as they face the second game of a four-game road trip with an opportunity to improve on their, 20-18, road record. Jalen Brunson continues to lead the way with impressive play, averaging 36.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 9.0 assists and 1.4 steals over the last five games. Donte DiVincenzo also continues to step up and is averaging 15.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 steals on the season. Josh Hart provides an all-around effort, averaging 9.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 0.9 steals per game. The Knicks average 112.3 points per game, while they hold opponents to an average of 107.9 points per game, which is second fewest in the league.
Spurs Host Streaking 76ers
By Dan Bruno
The San Antonio Spurs play host to the Philadelphia 76ers at Frost Bank Center on Sunday evening.
The Spurs (19-58) ended a two-game slide with a win in their last outing and look to stay on track as they return home for a one-game stand with the chance to improve on their, 10-28, home record. Victor Wembanyama continues to impress, averaging 26.2 points, 12.8 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 1.6 steals and 4.2 blocks over the last five games. Malaki Branham is also playing well, averaging 16.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists across three consecutive starts. Tre Jones is averaging 9.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.0 steals on the season, while Keldon Johnson (foot) averages 15.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game. Johnson has missed the last three games but is listed as probable for action on Sunday.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a back-to-back for the 76ers (43-35), after a 20-point win in Memphis on Saturday evening. They jumped out to a quick 10-point lead in the first and rallied to a 20-point cushion by halftime. They came out a bit flat in the third but reclaimed momentum in the fourth to confidently closed out a fourth straight win. Joel Embiid led the way with 30 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks, in the win. Kelly Oubre followed up with 17 points, five rebounds, five assists, two steals and a block, while Paul Reed logged six points, five rebounds, five assists and four steals. The Sixers will look to keep rolling as they face their third and final game of a road trip, also marking their final road game of the season, with a chance to improve on their, 21-19, road record.
The Spurs (19-58) ended a two-game slide with a win in their last outing and look to stay on track as they return home for a one-game stand with the chance to improve on their, 10-28, home record. Victor Wembanyama continues to impress, averaging 26.2 points, 12.8 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 1.6 steals and 4.2 blocks over the last five games. Malaki Branham is also playing well, averaging 16.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists across three consecutive starts. Tre Jones is averaging 9.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.0 steals on the season, while Keldon Johnson (foot) averages 15.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game. Johnson has missed the last three games but is listed as probable for action on Sunday.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a back-to-back for the 76ers (43-35), after a 20-point win in Memphis on Saturday evening. They jumped out to a quick 10-point lead in the first and rallied to a 20-point cushion by halftime. They came out a bit flat in the third but reclaimed momentum in the fourth to confidently closed out a fourth straight win. Joel Embiid led the way with 30 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks, in the win. Kelly Oubre followed up with 17 points, five rebounds, five assists, two steals and a block, while Paul Reed logged six points, five rebounds, five assists and four steals. The Sixers will look to keep rolling as they face their third and final game of a road trip, also marking their final road game of the season, with a chance to improve on their, 21-19, road record.
Nets Host Kings on Sunday
The Brooklyn Nets play host to the Sacramento Kings at Barclay's Center on Sunday.
The Kings (44-33) have been trying to stay out of the Play-In Tourney pool, sitting ninth in the Western Conference. The good news is that they're not in jeopardy to fall out of it, but they are two games back of the Phoenix Suns in sixth. There are also two teams ahead of them, and it looks like Sacramento will have to battle their way through that tournament. The recent form has put them in this spot, entering this matchup losing four of their last six games. That directly correlates with a knee injury to Malik Monk, who was in line to win Sixth Man of the Year. Missing his 15-20 points and playmaking off of the pine has been a disaster, and it's hard to imagine this team getting past the Play-In without him.
The Nets (31-47) have been struggling in the second half of the season, but they had one of their biggest wins on Sunday. Beating the Detroit Pistons is nothing to be proud of, but overcoming a double-digit fourth-quarter deficit is a great sign for this struggling team. It's also their fifth win in their last seven games, taking care of some of the worst teams in the NBA in that span. Cam Thomas has been the guy they've been leaning on, averaging over 25 points per game since being inserted into the starting lineup. He might be a guy to build around in the future because there are not really many young options on this roster.
These teams played on December 11, with Sacramento prevailing, 131-118. That gives the Kings four wins in their last five matchups with the Nets.
The Kings (44-33) have been trying to stay out of the Play-In Tourney pool, sitting ninth in the Western Conference. The good news is that they're not in jeopardy to fall out of it, but they are two games back of the Phoenix Suns in sixth. There are also two teams ahead of them, and it looks like Sacramento will have to battle their way through that tournament. The recent form has put them in this spot, entering this matchup losing four of their last six games. That directly correlates with a knee injury to Malik Monk, who was in line to win Sixth Man of the Year. Missing his 15-20 points and playmaking off of the pine has been a disaster, and it's hard to imagine this team getting past the Play-In without him.
The Nets (31-47) have been struggling in the second half of the season, but they had one of their biggest wins on Sunday. Beating the Detroit Pistons is nothing to be proud of, but overcoming a double-digit fourth-quarter deficit is a great sign for this struggling team. It's also their fifth win in their last seven games, taking care of some of the worst teams in the NBA in that span. Cam Thomas has been the guy they've been leaning on, averaging over 25 points per game since being inserted into the starting lineup. He might be a guy to build around in the future because there are not really many young options on this roster.
These teams played on December 11, with Sacramento prevailing, 131-118. That gives the Kings four wins in their last five matchups with the Nets.
Warriors Host Jazz on Sunday
The Golden State Warriors play host to the Utah Jazz at Chase Center on Sunday.
The Jazz (29-48) come into this matchup amid an 11-game losing streak. They've also lost 22 of their last 25 games in total, posting one of the worst records in the NBA since the break. It's hard to believe that a team this talented could have a run like that, but it's much more understandable when you look at the injury report. Lauri Markkanen, Walker Kessler, Jordan Clarkson and John Collins are all out here, and it sounds like all of those guys might be done for the year. The major on-court issue has been this team's defense, posting the worst defensive rating in the NBA. That's hard to fathom since this used to be the best defense behind Rudy Gobert, but that's a thing of the past.
The Warriors (42-35) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, entering this matchup winning six of their last seven games. That winning streak was necessary, too, because this team was battling for a Play-In spot before that. The hot stretch has Golden State sitting 10th in the west, four games clear of the Houston Rockets behind them. That means just one more win will guarantee them that spot, but they likely won't move up with so many deadly teams ahead of them. All of that means that this dynasty needs to win two games to reach the actual postseason, but that's going to be an uphill battle against teams like the Lakers, Kings and Pelicans.
Golden State has won both of their games over Utah this year. They have won nine of their last 11 games over the Jazz in total.
The Jazz (29-48) come into this matchup amid an 11-game losing streak. They've also lost 22 of their last 25 games in total, posting one of the worst records in the NBA since the break. It's hard to believe that a team this talented could have a run like that, but it's much more understandable when you look at the injury report. Lauri Markkanen, Walker Kessler, Jordan Clarkson and John Collins are all out here, and it sounds like all of those guys might be done for the year. The major on-court issue has been this team's defense, posting the worst defensive rating in the NBA. That's hard to fathom since this used to be the best defense behind Rudy Gobert, but that's a thing of the past.
The Warriors (42-35) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, entering this matchup winning six of their last seven games. That winning streak was necessary, too, because this team was battling for a Play-In spot before that. The hot stretch has Golden State sitting 10th in the west, four games clear of the Houston Rockets behind them. That means just one more win will guarantee them that spot, but they likely won't move up with so many deadly teams ahead of them. All of that means that this dynasty needs to win two games to reach the actual postseason, but that's going to be an uphill battle against teams like the Lakers, Kings and Pelicans.
Golden State has won both of their games over Utah this year. They have won nine of their last 11 games over the Jazz in total.
Lakers Host T'Wolves on Sunday
The Los Angeles Lakers play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday.
The Timberwolves (55-24) come into this matchup winning nine of their last 12 outings. That run has bumped Minnesota back to the top of the Western Conference, tied with the Denver Nuggets for that number-one seed. The Oklahoma City Thunder are just one game behind as well, and it'll be up to those three clubs to figure this thing out. It's quite a testament to this young team to see them in this position because they haven't lost a step since losing Karl-Anthony Towns. Many people believed that was the final straw in their pursuit for the best record in the Western Conference, but Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid had other ideas.
The Lakers (45-33) have been one of the hottest teams since the All-Star break, entering this matchup winning nine of their last 10 games. This club was battling for a Play-In spot before that run, but now they're vying to avoid that tourney altogether. Los Angeles is now eighth in the Western Conference, sitting just 1.5 games behind the Phoenix Suns in sixth. Not many people thought the Lakers could be in this position a month ago, but it's no surprise with the way Anthony Davis is playing. He collected 22 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, three steals and six blocks in a win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday. Attaining defensive statistics like those show how ridiculous this guy can be and it's been fun watching him stay healthy for one of the first times in his career.
This is the fourth matchup between these teams, with Minnesota winning seven of their last 10 games over LA in total.
The Timberwolves (55-24) come into this matchup winning nine of their last 12 outings. That run has bumped Minnesota back to the top of the Western Conference, tied with the Denver Nuggets for that number-one seed. The Oklahoma City Thunder are just one game behind as well, and it'll be up to those three clubs to figure this thing out. It's quite a testament to this young team to see them in this position because they haven't lost a step since losing Karl-Anthony Towns. Many people believed that was the final straw in their pursuit for the best record in the Western Conference, but Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid had other ideas.
The Lakers (45-33) have been one of the hottest teams since the All-Star break, entering this matchup winning nine of their last 10 games. This club was battling for a Play-In spot before that run, but now they're vying to avoid that tourney altogether. Los Angeles is now eighth in the Western Conference, sitting just 1.5 games behind the Phoenix Suns in sixth. Not many people thought the Lakers could be in this position a month ago, but it's no surprise with the way Anthony Davis is playing. He collected 22 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, three steals and six blocks in a win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday. Attaining defensive statistics like those show how ridiculous this guy can be and it's been fun watching him stay healthy for one of the first times in his career.
This is the fourth matchup between these teams, with Minnesota winning seven of their last 10 games over LA in total.