Celtics host Wizards in regular-season finale Sunday
The Washington Wizards face the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Sunday afternoon. It’s the fourth and final game between these two teams this season, with Boston holding a 3-0 series lead.
The Wizards (15-66) lost their fifth straight game Friday in a 129-127 thriller against the Chicago Bulls, in a game that saw Deni Avdija nearly register his first career triple-double with 24 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists. Washington has lost eight of its last nine games, and the team is playing for pride at this point. There are some positives that the Wizards can build upon heading into the 2024-25 season, such as the development of Avdija and Corey Kispert, both of whom have had career years in what has otherwise been a disappointing season.
As far as injuries go, Tyus Jones (back), Richaun Holmes (toe), Kyle Kuzma (ankle), Marvin Bagley (knee), Landry Shamet (calf) and Jordan Poole (illness) are all listed as questionable.
Meanwhile the Celtics (63-18) will end the regular season with the best record in the NBA. After dropping to the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks earlier this week, Boston opted to rest their starters plus Al Horford in Friday’s 131-98 blowout victory over the Charlotte Hornets. The Celtics’ win Friday displayed the talent of their bench, which was a major question mark heading into the 2023-24 season. Payton Pritchard had a career night with 31 points, three rebounds and 11 assists for his third double-double of the season.
For Sunday’s game, Jayson Tatum (knee), Jaylen Brown (hand), Kristaps Porzingis (hamstring), Jrue Holiday (knee), Derrick White (ankle) and Al Horford (toe) are all listed as questionable, though expect all of them to sit for the Celtics’ regular-season finale.
The Wizards (15-66) lost their fifth straight game Friday in a 129-127 thriller against the Chicago Bulls, in a game that saw Deni Avdija nearly register his first career triple-double with 24 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists. Washington has lost eight of its last nine games, and the team is playing for pride at this point. There are some positives that the Wizards can build upon heading into the 2024-25 season, such as the development of Avdija and Corey Kispert, both of whom have had career years in what has otherwise been a disappointing season.
As far as injuries go, Tyus Jones (back), Richaun Holmes (toe), Kyle Kuzma (ankle), Marvin Bagley (knee), Landry Shamet (calf) and Jordan Poole (illness) are all listed as questionable.
Meanwhile the Celtics (63-18) will end the regular season with the best record in the NBA. After dropping to the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks earlier this week, Boston opted to rest their starters plus Al Horford in Friday’s 131-98 blowout victory over the Charlotte Hornets. The Celtics’ win Friday displayed the talent of their bench, which was a major question mark heading into the 2023-24 season. Payton Pritchard had a career night with 31 points, three rebounds and 11 assists for his third double-double of the season.
For Sunday’s game, Jayson Tatum (knee), Jaylen Brown (hand), Kristaps Porzingis (hamstring), Jrue Holiday (knee), Derrick White (ankle) and Al Horford (toe) are all listed as questionable, though expect all of them to sit for the Celtics’ regular-season finale.
Cavaliers host Hornets in regular-season finale Sunday
The Charlotte Hornets take on the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Sunday afternoon. It’s the third and final game between the two teams this season, with the series tied 1-1.
The Hornets (20-61) have lost three of their last four games, with their latest loss coming at the hands of the Boston Celtics on Friday, 131-98, despite Boston resting all of their starters. The 2023-24 season was seen as a rebuilding year for the Hornets given their young talent, but any hopes they would exceed expectations were severely dampened when franchise point guard LaMelo Ball sustained a right ankle injury, which limited him to just 22 games this season. Charlotte does have promising talent to build around heading into the 2024-25 season, including Ball and 2023 second overall pick Brandon Miller.
Grant Williams (ankle) and Nick Richards (foot) are both listed as questionable for Sunday’s game.
Meanwhile the Cavaliers (48-33) are coming off a crucial 129-120 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday. The Cavaliers sit in fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings, and they could end up as high as the second seed depending on the results from the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks on Sunday. Cleveland was knocked out of the first round in last year's playoffs, and the team has much to prove heading into the knockout stage. The Cavaliers’ performance in the postseason could have major ramifications for the team heading into the offseason, including whether All-Star Donovan Mitchell wants to sign an extension or look to play elsewhere in 2024-25.
Ty Jerome (ankle) and Sam Merill (neck) are both listed as questionable for Sunday’s game.
The Hornets (20-61) have lost three of their last four games, with their latest loss coming at the hands of the Boston Celtics on Friday, 131-98, despite Boston resting all of their starters. The 2023-24 season was seen as a rebuilding year for the Hornets given their young talent, but any hopes they would exceed expectations were severely dampened when franchise point guard LaMelo Ball sustained a right ankle injury, which limited him to just 22 games this season. Charlotte does have promising talent to build around heading into the 2024-25 season, including Ball and 2023 second overall pick Brandon Miller.
Grant Williams (ankle) and Nick Richards (foot) are both listed as questionable for Sunday’s game.
Meanwhile the Cavaliers (48-33) are coming off a crucial 129-120 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday. The Cavaliers sit in fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings, and they could end up as high as the second seed depending on the results from the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks on Sunday. Cleveland was knocked out of the first round in last year's playoffs, and the team has much to prove heading into the knockout stage. The Cavaliers’ performance in the postseason could have major ramifications for the team heading into the offseason, including whether All-Star Donovan Mitchell wants to sign an extension or look to play elsewhere in 2024-25.
Ty Jerome (ankle) and Sam Merill (neck) are both listed as questionable for Sunday’s game.
Pacers Host Hawks In Season Finale
The Indiana Pacers will host the Atlanta Hawks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Sunday afternoon.
The Pacers (46-35) should be highly motivated for this contest, as they have yet to decide their seeding come playoff time. Indiana is looking to avoid the Play-In Tournament and enter Sunday’s action in sixth place in the standings. Depending on what happens in other games, a loss would see them fall to seventh or eighth place, whereas a win could move them up to fifth place. Ergo, the Pacers could face different scenarios that range from playing a one-off elimination game on the road to securing a berth in the first round of the postseason. Fortunately for the Pacers, they’ll play this game at home, where they own a solid 25-15 mark. Indiana has also gone 6-4 over its last 10 games, but the team is looking to bounce back from its latest result, a 129-120 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday.
Obi Toppin (ankle), Jalen Smith (ankle) and Isaiah Jackson (hamstring) are game-time calls for Sunday. Bennedict Mathurin (shoulder) is out for the rest of the season.
The Hawks (36-45) have nothing to play for in this season finale. They’re already locked into the 10th seed and will visit the Chicago Bulls in the Play-In Tournament next week. As such, don’t be surprised if Atlanta ends up resting some key players in this contest, with the team already thinking about what will happen against Chicago. The Hawks have been struggling in recent weeks, however, and their 109-106 road loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday extended their losing skid to five games while also putting their 10-game record at 4-6. To make things even more complicated for the Hawks, their road record of 15-25 is not encouraging at all.
Clint Capela (rest) is questionable for Sunday. Wesley Matthews (hamstring), Seth Lundy (ankle), Jalen Johnson (ankle), Onyeka Okongwu (toe) and Saddiq Bey (knee) are out. Bey will miss the rest of the season with a knee problem.
The Pacers (46-35) should be highly motivated for this contest, as they have yet to decide their seeding come playoff time. Indiana is looking to avoid the Play-In Tournament and enter Sunday’s action in sixth place in the standings. Depending on what happens in other games, a loss would see them fall to seventh or eighth place, whereas a win could move them up to fifth place. Ergo, the Pacers could face different scenarios that range from playing a one-off elimination game on the road to securing a berth in the first round of the postseason. Fortunately for the Pacers, they’ll play this game at home, where they own a solid 25-15 mark. Indiana has also gone 6-4 over its last 10 games, but the team is looking to bounce back from its latest result, a 129-120 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday.
Obi Toppin (ankle), Jalen Smith (ankle) and Isaiah Jackson (hamstring) are game-time calls for Sunday. Bennedict Mathurin (shoulder) is out for the rest of the season.
The Hawks (36-45) have nothing to play for in this season finale. They’re already locked into the 10th seed and will visit the Chicago Bulls in the Play-In Tournament next week. As such, don’t be surprised if Atlanta ends up resting some key players in this contest, with the team already thinking about what will happen against Chicago. The Hawks have been struggling in recent weeks, however, and their 109-106 road loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday extended their losing skid to five games while also putting their 10-game record at 4-6. To make things even more complicated for the Hawks, their road record of 15-25 is not encouraging at all.
Clint Capela (rest) is questionable for Sunday. Wesley Matthews (hamstring), Seth Lundy (ankle), Jalen Johnson (ankle), Onyeka Okongwu (toe) and Saddiq Bey (knee) are out. Bey will miss the rest of the season with a knee problem.
Heat Aim To Inflict Damage In Raptors
The Miami Heat will host the Toronto Raptors at Kaseya Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Heat (45-36) are looking to avoid the Play-In Tournament, but they enter Sunday in eighth place in the standings. If nothing changes, they will visit the Philadelphia 76ers for a one-off elimination game at Wells Fargo Center. However, a win Sunday, coupled with losses from the 76ers and the Indiana Pacers, could push the Heat to sixth place and out of the Play-In tournament. Ergo, the Heat could face different scenarios that range from playing a one-off elimination game on the road to securing a berth in the first round of the postseason. Still, Miami must focus on Sunday’s task and defeat the Raptors. Otherwise, what happens in other games won’t matter. The Heat enter this game fresh off a 125-103 win over the Raptors on Friday, but their 3-2 record in their last five games doesn’t inspire confidence.
Duncan Robinson (back) is questionable to play Sunday. Terry Rozier (neck) is out. Josh Richardson (shoulder) is out for the season.
The Raptors (25-56) have nothing to play for in this season finale. Aside from being out of playoff contention for quite some time, Toronto can’t move up or down in the standings, as they have locked the sixth-worst record in the league. As things stand now, the Raptors organization will look forward to start preparing for the 2024 NBA Draft. The Raptors would hope to end the season on a high note with a win, but their recent results simply haven’t been good, as they enter this game on a three-game losing skid following the 125-103 loss to the Heat on Friday. Furthermore, Toronto also owns a negative 2-8 mark across its last 10 games while going 11-29 on the road throughout the campaign.
Jakob Poeltl (finger), Chris Boucher (knee), Jontay Porter (personal), Immanuel Quickley (groin), Scottie Barnes (hand), D.J. Canton (ankle) and Mouhamadou Gueye (thumb) are all out for the season finale.
The Heat (45-36) are looking to avoid the Play-In Tournament, but they enter Sunday in eighth place in the standings. If nothing changes, they will visit the Philadelphia 76ers for a one-off elimination game at Wells Fargo Center. However, a win Sunday, coupled with losses from the 76ers and the Indiana Pacers, could push the Heat to sixth place and out of the Play-In tournament. Ergo, the Heat could face different scenarios that range from playing a one-off elimination game on the road to securing a berth in the first round of the postseason. Still, Miami must focus on Sunday’s task and defeat the Raptors. Otherwise, what happens in other games won’t matter. The Heat enter this game fresh off a 125-103 win over the Raptors on Friday, but their 3-2 record in their last five games doesn’t inspire confidence.
Duncan Robinson (back) is questionable to play Sunday. Terry Rozier (neck) is out. Josh Richardson (shoulder) is out for the season.
The Raptors (25-56) have nothing to play for in this season finale. Aside from being out of playoff contention for quite some time, Toronto can’t move up or down in the standings, as they have locked the sixth-worst record in the league. As things stand now, the Raptors organization will look forward to start preparing for the 2024 NBA Draft. The Raptors would hope to end the season on a high note with a win, but their recent results simply haven’t been good, as they enter this game on a three-game losing skid following the 125-103 loss to the Heat on Friday. Furthermore, Toronto also owns a negative 2-8 mark across its last 10 games while going 11-29 on the road throughout the campaign.
Jakob Poeltl (finger), Chris Boucher (knee), Jontay Porter (personal), Immanuel Quickley (groin), Scottie Barnes (hand), D.J. Canton (ankle) and Mouhamadou Gueye (thumb) are all out for the season finale.
Knicks Host Bulls Gunning For Second Seed
The New York Knicks will host the Chicago Bulls at Madison Square Garden on Sunday afternoon.
The Knicks (49-32) are having a strong season, and their results probably have been even better than expected. Considering the team spent most of the second half of the campaign without two key contributors such as Julius Randle and OG Anunoby, the Knicks managed to stay afloat, and they even have something to play for on the final day of the regular season. As things stand, the Knicks are tied with the Milwaukee Bucks for the second seed in the Eastern Conference. New York knows it must win and wait for a Bucks’ loss, but the team needs to take care of getting the job done at MSG on Sunday. Fortunately for them, the Knicks have gone 26-14 at home, and they also enter this game on the heels of a four-game winning streak. Their most recent result was a 111-107 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday.
The Knicks are listing will be without Julius Randle (shoulder). The rest of the team is fully available and at full strength.
The Bulls (39-42) are playoff-bound, but the team needs to win two games in the Play-In Tournament to even have a shot at featuring in the playoffs. Even if they get the job done and win both games, their prize would be to face the Boston Celtics in a seven-game series in the first round of the Eastern Conference. Chicago can rely on a decent road record to pull the upset here, as the Bulls have gone 19-21 on enemy territory this season. Furthermore, they’ve won their last two on the road -- albeit against the Wizards and Pistons -- and also topped the Knicks in their previous meeting on April 5 by a 108-100 score.
The Bulls are listing Andre Drummond (ankle), Javonte Green (rest), Ayo Dosunmu (quadriceps) and Onuralp Bitim (wrist) as game-time calls. Julian Phillips (foot) is out, while Patrick Williams (foot), Zach LaVine (foot) and Lonzo Ball (knee) are out for the season.
The Knicks (49-32) are having a strong season, and their results probably have been even better than expected. Considering the team spent most of the second half of the campaign without two key contributors such as Julius Randle and OG Anunoby, the Knicks managed to stay afloat, and they even have something to play for on the final day of the regular season. As things stand, the Knicks are tied with the Milwaukee Bucks for the second seed in the Eastern Conference. New York knows it must win and wait for a Bucks’ loss, but the team needs to take care of getting the job done at MSG on Sunday. Fortunately for them, the Knicks have gone 26-14 at home, and they also enter this game on the heels of a four-game winning streak. Their most recent result was a 111-107 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday.
The Knicks are listing will be without Julius Randle (shoulder). The rest of the team is fully available and at full strength.
The Bulls (39-42) are playoff-bound, but the team needs to win two games in the Play-In Tournament to even have a shot at featuring in the playoffs. Even if they get the job done and win both games, their prize would be to face the Boston Celtics in a seven-game series in the first round of the Eastern Conference. Chicago can rely on a decent road record to pull the upset here, as the Bulls have gone 19-21 on enemy territory this season. Furthermore, they’ve won their last two on the road -- albeit against the Wizards and Pistons -- and also topped the Knicks in their previous meeting on April 5 by a 108-100 score.
The Bulls are listing Andre Drummond (ankle), Javonte Green (rest), Ayo Dosunmu (quadriceps) and Onuralp Bitim (wrist) as game-time calls. Julian Phillips (foot) is out, while Patrick Williams (foot), Zach LaVine (foot) and Lonzo Ball (knee) are out for the season.
Bucks and Magic Close Out Regular Season
The Milwaukee Bucks take on the Orlando Magic at Amway Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Bucks (49-32) are closing out the regular season in somewhat shaky fashion, as they enter Sunday's game having dropped seven of their last 10 games. Milwaukee is in possession of the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference but tied with the No. 3-seeded Knicks in the standings. The Bucks' most recent time on the floor resulted in one of those losses, as they fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder by a 125-107 score Friday night. Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez co-led the Bucks with 18 points apiece, with Middleton adding seven rebounds and six assists. Malik Beasley furnished 17 points, two boards and two assists. Danilo Gallinari furnished 11 points, four rebounds and one steal.
The Bucks will remain without Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) and AJ Green (ankle for Sunday's game. Damian Lillard (groin), Thanasis Antetokounmpo (hamstring) and MarJon Beauchamp (ankle) will carry probable tags.
The Magic (46-35) are also heading into the postseason in poor form, as they've dropped seven of their last 11 contests. Their most recent defeat came Friday night, when they fell to the Philadelphia 76ers by a 125-113 score. Franz Wagner paced the Magic with 24 points, supplementing them with six rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Paolo Banchero generated a 22-point, 15-rebound double-double that included seven assists and one block. Jalen Suggs registered 20 points, four rebounds and two assists. Moritz Wagner delivered 17 points, six boards, two assists, one steal and one block.
The Magic will list Carter (back) as questionable for Sunday's game.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Bucks hold a 2-1 series lead.
The Bucks (49-32) are closing out the regular season in somewhat shaky fashion, as they enter Sunday's game having dropped seven of their last 10 games. Milwaukee is in possession of the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference but tied with the No. 3-seeded Knicks in the standings. The Bucks' most recent time on the floor resulted in one of those losses, as they fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder by a 125-107 score Friday night. Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez co-led the Bucks with 18 points apiece, with Middleton adding seven rebounds and six assists. Malik Beasley furnished 17 points, two boards and two assists. Danilo Gallinari furnished 11 points, four rebounds and one steal.
The Bucks will remain without Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) and AJ Green (ankle for Sunday's game. Damian Lillard (groin), Thanasis Antetokounmpo (hamstring) and MarJon Beauchamp (ankle) will carry probable tags.
The Magic (46-35) are also heading into the postseason in poor form, as they've dropped seven of their last 11 contests. Their most recent defeat came Friday night, when they fell to the Philadelphia 76ers by a 125-113 score. Franz Wagner paced the Magic with 24 points, supplementing them with six rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block. Paolo Banchero generated a 22-point, 15-rebound double-double that included seven assists and one block. Jalen Suggs registered 20 points, four rebounds and two assists. Moritz Wagner delivered 17 points, six boards, two assists, one steal and one block.
The Magic will list Carter (back) as questionable for Sunday's game.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Bucks hold a 2-1 series lead.
Nets and 76ers Close Out Season in Philly
The Brooklyn Nets take on the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Nets (32-49) are wrapping up a disappointing season overall, but they enter Sunday's finale having prevailed in six of their last 10 games. However, their most recent time on the floor resulted in a loss, as they dropped a 111-107 decision to the New York Knicks. Cam Thomas led the Nets with 41 points, complementing them with six assists and one rebound. Trendon Watford generated a 17-point, 13-rebound double-double that included three assists. Lonnie Walker furnished 15 points, four rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Jalen Wilson supplied 11 points, seven rebounds and one steal.
The Nets will be without Dennis Schroder (Achilles), Dennis Smith (hip), Cameron Johnson (toe), Dorian Finney-Smith (knee) and Day'Ron Sharpe (wrist) for Sunday's game.
The 76ers (46-35) are approaching the postseason with a head of steam, as they've recorded seven consecutive victories to put themselves in position to vault into the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference with a win and a Pacers loss in one of several scenarios where they could improve their playoff lot. Philadelphia's most recent success came at the expense of the Orlando Magic, which they toppled by a 125-113 score Friday night. Joel Embiid led the 76ers with 32 points, supplementing them with 13 rebounds, seven assists and one block. Tyrese Maxey delivered 28 points, three assists, two rebounds and one block. Kelly Oubre turned in 21 points, nine rebounds, two assists and one block. Tobias Harris registered 14 points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks.
The 76ers will list Embiid (knee), KJ Martin (toe) and De'Anthony Melton (back) as questionable for Sunday's game. Robert Covington (knee) will remain out.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 2-1 series lead.
The Nets (32-49) are wrapping up a disappointing season overall, but they enter Sunday's finale having prevailed in six of their last 10 games. However, their most recent time on the floor resulted in a loss, as they dropped a 111-107 decision to the New York Knicks. Cam Thomas led the Nets with 41 points, complementing them with six assists and one rebound. Trendon Watford generated a 17-point, 13-rebound double-double that included three assists. Lonnie Walker furnished 15 points, four rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Jalen Wilson supplied 11 points, seven rebounds and one steal.
The Nets will be without Dennis Schroder (Achilles), Dennis Smith (hip), Cameron Johnson (toe), Dorian Finney-Smith (knee) and Day'Ron Sharpe (wrist) for Sunday's game.
The 76ers (46-35) are approaching the postseason with a head of steam, as they've recorded seven consecutive victories to put themselves in position to vault into the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference with a win and a Pacers loss in one of several scenarios where they could improve their playoff lot. Philadelphia's most recent success came at the expense of the Orlando Magic, which they toppled by a 125-113 score Friday night. Joel Embiid led the 76ers with 32 points, supplementing them with 13 rebounds, seven assists and one block. Tyrese Maxey delivered 28 points, three assists, two rebounds and one block. Kelly Oubre turned in 21 points, nine rebounds, two assists and one block. Tobias Harris registered 14 points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks.
The 76ers will list Embiid (knee), KJ Martin (toe) and De'Anthony Melton (back) as questionable for Sunday's game. Robert Covington (knee) will remain out.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Nets hold a 2-1 series lead.
Lakers and Pelicans Set for Big Easy Finale
The Los Angeles Lakers take on the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Lakers (46-35) could head into the postseason as either the No. 8 or No. 10 seed in the Western Conference, and they enter Sunday's finale having won 10 of their last 13 games. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they got by the Memphis Grizzlies by a 123-120 score. LeBron James led the Lakers with 37 points, adding nine rebounds, five assists and two steals. Anthony Davis posted a 36-point, 14-rebound double-double that included five assists, two blocks and one steal. Rui Hachimura supplied 14 points, five rebounds, one assist and one steal. Austin Reaves netted 13 points.
The Lakers will list Davis (eye) as probable for Sunday's game. Jarred Vanderbilt (foot) and Christian Wood (knee) will be out.
The Pelicans (49-32) have gotten hot at the right time of year, as they enter Sunday's finale having won four straight games. New Orleans owns a one-game lead over the Phoenix Suns for the coveted No. 6 seed in the West, but with Phoenix having prevailed in the season series between the teams, Willie Green's squad must prevail Sunday to ensure they don't fall into the play-in level. The Pels' most recent success unfolded Friday night, when they got by the Golden State Warriors by a 114-109 score. CJ McCollum paced the Pelicans with 28 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Zion Williamson registered 26 points, three rebounds, three assists, six steals and one block. Trey Murphy furnished 24 points, eight rebounds, two assists and one steal. Herbert Jones finished with 13 points, five boards, four assists, one steal and one block. Jonas Valanciunas contributed 10 points, five rebounds and one assist.
The Pelicans will list Brandon Ingram (knee) and Naji Marshall (shoulder) as questionable for Sunday's game.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Lakers hold a 2-1 series lead.
The Lakers (46-35) could head into the postseason as either the No. 8 or No. 10 seed in the Western Conference, and they enter Sunday's finale having won 10 of their last 13 games. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they got by the Memphis Grizzlies by a 123-120 score. LeBron James led the Lakers with 37 points, adding nine rebounds, five assists and two steals. Anthony Davis posted a 36-point, 14-rebound double-double that included five assists, two blocks and one steal. Rui Hachimura supplied 14 points, five rebounds, one assist and one steal. Austin Reaves netted 13 points.
The Lakers will list Davis (eye) as probable for Sunday's game. Jarred Vanderbilt (foot) and Christian Wood (knee) will be out.
The Pelicans (49-32) have gotten hot at the right time of year, as they enter Sunday's finale having won four straight games. New Orleans owns a one-game lead over the Phoenix Suns for the coveted No. 6 seed in the West, but with Phoenix having prevailed in the season series between the teams, Willie Green's squad must prevail Sunday to ensure they don't fall into the play-in level. The Pels' most recent success unfolded Friday night, when they got by the Golden State Warriors by a 114-109 score. CJ McCollum paced the Pelicans with 28 points, supplementing them with five rebounds, five assists and two blocks. Zion Williamson registered 26 points, three rebounds, three assists, six steals and one block. Trey Murphy furnished 24 points, eight rebounds, two assists and one steal. Herbert Jones finished with 13 points, five boards, four assists, one steal and one block. Jonas Valanciunas contributed 10 points, five rebounds and one assist.
The Pelicans will list Brandon Ingram (knee) and Naji Marshall (shoulder) as questionable for Sunday's game.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Lakers hold a 2-1 series lead.
Jazz and Warriors Wrap Up Regular Season
The Utah Jazz takes on the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Jazz (31-50) head into the regular-season finale with a smidgen of momentum after a 13-game losing streak, as they've prevailed in back-to-back games. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they edged the Los Angeles Clippers by a 110-109 score. Kenneth Lofton led the Jazz with 27 points, nine rebounds, eight assists and one steal. Keyonte George totaled 14 points, two assists and one rebound. Darius Bazley and Talen Horton-Tucker generated matching 12-point contributions while adding five rebounds and four assists, respectively. Johnny Juzang matched his teammates' scoring total and also provided two assists and two steals. Luke Samanic recorded 11 points, six rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The Jazz will remain without John Collins (back), Jordan Clarkson (back), Walker Kessler (nose), Lauri Markkanen (shoulder) and Kris Dunn (foot) for Sunday's game. Collin Sexton (illness) will carry a questionable tag.
The Warriors (45-36) have clinched the 10th and final seed in the Western Conference, and they'll enter Sunday's finale having just seen a three-game winning streak snapped by a 114-109 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 33 points, complementing them with five assists, four rebounds and one steal. Klay Thompson managed 19 points, six boards, one assist, two blocks and one steal. Andrew Wiggins tallied 18 points and four rebounds. Trayce Jackson-Davis generated a 10-point, 11-rebound double-double that included two assists and one steal. Draymond Green did not attempt a shot but finished with 12 rebounds, 11 assists, one steal and one block.
The Warriors will list Curry (ankle), Green (knee), Jonathan Kuminga (pelvis), Chris Paul (hamstring) and Thompson (knee) as questionable for Sunday's game. Gary Payton (calf) will remain out.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Warriors hold a 3-0 series lead.
The Jazz (31-50) head into the regular-season finale with a smidgen of momentum after a 13-game losing streak, as they've prevailed in back-to-back games. Their most recent success came Friday night, when they edged the Los Angeles Clippers by a 110-109 score. Kenneth Lofton led the Jazz with 27 points, nine rebounds, eight assists and one steal. Keyonte George totaled 14 points, two assists and one rebound. Darius Bazley and Talen Horton-Tucker generated matching 12-point contributions while adding five rebounds and four assists, respectively. Johnny Juzang matched his teammates' scoring total and also provided two assists and two steals. Luke Samanic recorded 11 points, six rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The Jazz will remain without John Collins (back), Jordan Clarkson (back), Walker Kessler (nose), Lauri Markkanen (shoulder) and Kris Dunn (foot) for Sunday's game. Collin Sexton (illness) will carry a questionable tag.
The Warriors (45-36) have clinched the 10th and final seed in the Western Conference, and they'll enter Sunday's finale having just seen a three-game winning streak snapped by a 114-109 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 33 points, complementing them with five assists, four rebounds and one steal. Klay Thompson managed 19 points, six boards, one assist, two blocks and one steal. Andrew Wiggins tallied 18 points and four rebounds. Trayce Jackson-Davis generated a 10-point, 11-rebound double-double that included two assists and one steal. Draymond Green did not attempt a shot but finished with 12 rebounds, 11 assists, one steal and one block.
The Warriors will list Curry (ankle), Green (knee), Jonathan Kuminga (pelvis), Chris Paul (hamstring) and Thompson (knee) as questionable for Sunday's game. Gary Payton (calf) will remain out.
Sunday's game marks the fourth and final meeting between the teams this season. The Warriors hold a 3-0 series lead.
Slumping Clippers Host Shorthanded Rockets
By Dan Bruno
The Los Angeles Clippers play host to the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday afternoon.
The Clippers (51-30) have dropped two in a row and close out their season with one last chance to improve on their, 25-15, home record. The squad's leading scorer, Kawhi Leonard (knee) has missed the last seven games and will remain out through Sunday's action. Paul George (knee) also missed the game-before last and was limited in the most recent outing but is expected to be ready for Sunday. Prior to the one-game absence, George averaged 24.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.4 steals over five games. James Harden (foot) missed the two games prior to the most recent outing and is listed as questionable for action. Norman Powell, Russell Westbrook and Amir Coffey continue to chip in well off the bench. Ivica Zubac continues to do a good job in the paint, averaging 11.7 points, 9.2 rebounds and 1.2 blocks on the season.
Meanwhile, the Rockets (40-41) have won two of their last three games and look to stay on track to close out their season with a chance to improve on their, 13-27, road record. They expect to be without Dillon Brooks (groin) and Fred VanVleet (hip), in addition to Alperen Sengun (ankle), who remains sidelined. Jock Landale and Cam Whitmore are expected to join Jalen Green, Amen Thompson and Jabari Smith as the five starters. Green turned in 26 points and nine rebounds in the last game but is averaging 17.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.0 steals across the last five outings. Thompson has turned in back-to-back double-doubles and is averaging 13.0 points, 9.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.4 steals over his last 10 appearances. The Rockets need to find more discipline on the defensive end as they give up the league's second-most free throws per game.
The Clippers (51-30) have dropped two in a row and close out their season with one last chance to improve on their, 25-15, home record. The squad's leading scorer, Kawhi Leonard (knee) has missed the last seven games and will remain out through Sunday's action. Paul George (knee) also missed the game-before last and was limited in the most recent outing but is expected to be ready for Sunday. Prior to the one-game absence, George averaged 24.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.4 steals over five games. James Harden (foot) missed the two games prior to the most recent outing and is listed as questionable for action. Norman Powell, Russell Westbrook and Amir Coffey continue to chip in well off the bench. Ivica Zubac continues to do a good job in the paint, averaging 11.7 points, 9.2 rebounds and 1.2 blocks on the season.
Meanwhile, the Rockets (40-41) have won two of their last three games and look to stay on track to close out their season with a chance to improve on their, 13-27, road record. They expect to be without Dillon Brooks (groin) and Fred VanVleet (hip), in addition to Alperen Sengun (ankle), who remains sidelined. Jock Landale and Cam Whitmore are expected to join Jalen Green, Amen Thompson and Jabari Smith as the five starters. Green turned in 26 points and nine rebounds in the last game but is averaging 17.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.0 steals across the last five outings. Thompson has turned in back-to-back double-doubles and is averaging 13.0 points, 9.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.4 steals over his last 10 appearances. The Rockets need to find more discipline on the defensive end as they give up the league's second-most free throws per game.
Timberwolves Host High-Powered Suns
By Dan Bruno
The Minnesota Timberwolves play host to the Phoenix Suns at Target Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Timberwolves (56-25) have won three of the last four games and look to keep the momentum going with the chance to add to their, 30-10, home record. Anthony Edwards (illness) averages 26.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.3 steals over the last three games but is listed as questionable for action. The squad got a boost in the last game, as Karl-Anthony Towns (knee) made his return from a month-long absence and posted 11 points, five rebounds, eight assists and a block, in 28 minutes of action. However, Towns is also listed as questionable for Sunday. Rudy Gobert continues to hold down the fort in the frontcourt, averaging 15.8 points, 14.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.4 steals and 2.6 blocks over the last five outings. Naz Reid also continues to play well, averaging 16.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks across the last 10 games. The Timberwolves average 113.1 points per game, and they hold opponents to a league low of 106.3 points per game.
Meanwhile, the Suns (48-33) have won two in a row and hope to stay on track with a chance to close out their season by adding to their, 23-17, road record. Kevin Durant continues to lead the squad, averaging 27.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 0.9 steals and 1.2 blocks per game. Devin Booker averages 27.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 0.9 steals, while Bradley Beal is averaging 17.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.0 steals per game. The Suns score an average of 116.1 points per game, which is 10th most in the league, and they hold opponents to an average of 113.3 points per game. They enter the game seated seventh place in the West and sit 1.0 game behind the sixth-place Pelicans.
The Timberwolves (56-25) have won three of the last four games and look to keep the momentum going with the chance to add to their, 30-10, home record. Anthony Edwards (illness) averages 26.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.3 steals over the last three games but is listed as questionable for action. The squad got a boost in the last game, as Karl-Anthony Towns (knee) made his return from a month-long absence and posted 11 points, five rebounds, eight assists and a block, in 28 minutes of action. However, Towns is also listed as questionable for Sunday. Rudy Gobert continues to hold down the fort in the frontcourt, averaging 15.8 points, 14.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.4 steals and 2.6 blocks over the last five outings. Naz Reid also continues to play well, averaging 16.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks across the last 10 games. The Timberwolves average 113.1 points per game, and they hold opponents to a league low of 106.3 points per game.
Meanwhile, the Suns (48-33) have won two in a row and hope to stay on track with a chance to close out their season by adding to their, 23-17, road record. Kevin Durant continues to lead the squad, averaging 27.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 0.9 steals and 1.2 blocks per game. Devin Booker averages 27.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 0.9 steals, while Bradley Beal is averaging 17.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.0 steals per game. The Suns score an average of 116.1 points per game, which is 10th most in the league, and they hold opponents to an average of 113.3 points per game. They enter the game seated seventh place in the West and sit 1.0 game behind the sixth-place Pelicans.
Slumping Kings Host Trail Blazers
By Dan Bruno
The Sacramento Kings play host to the Portland Trail Blazers at Golden 1 Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Kings (45-36) enter on a three-game slide but hope to end their season on a high note by adding one more to their, 23-17, home record. They hold on to ninth place in the West but must get the win in order to avoid dropping to 10th. De'Aaron Fox leads the squad with averages of 26.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 2.0 steals per game. Domantas Sabonis is averaging 19.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 0.9 steals, while Keegan Murray averages 15.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.0 steals per game. The Kings average 116.5 points per game, and they give up an average of 115.2 points per game. Malik Monk (knee) remains sidelined.
Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers (21-60) have dropped four in a row and enter their final game of the season with an opportunity to improve on their, 10-30, road record. They have to battle through injury trouble, as Deandre Ayton (back) and Scoot Henderson (hip) are listed as questionable for action, while Anfernee Simons (knee), and Jabari Walker (knee) are listed as doubtful, and Malcolm Brogdon (elbow), Jerami Grant (hamstring) and Matisse Thybulle (ankle) will be sidelined. As a result, Kris Murray, who is averaging 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.6 steals over the last five games, will continue to have opportunity to thrive. Rayan Rupert will also continue to get more action, as he is averaging 4.8 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists over the last five outings. Justin Minaya is averaging 3.8 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists, in 25 minutes per game over the last five games and could pick up his first start of the season on Sunday.
The Kings (45-36) enter on a three-game slide but hope to end their season on a high note by adding one more to their, 23-17, home record. They hold on to ninth place in the West but must get the win in order to avoid dropping to 10th. De'Aaron Fox leads the squad with averages of 26.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 2.0 steals per game. Domantas Sabonis is averaging 19.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 0.9 steals, while Keegan Murray averages 15.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.0 steals per game. The Kings average 116.5 points per game, and they give up an average of 115.2 points per game. Malik Monk (knee) remains sidelined.
Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers (21-60) have dropped four in a row and enter their final game of the season with an opportunity to improve on their, 10-30, road record. They have to battle through injury trouble, as Deandre Ayton (back) and Scoot Henderson (hip) are listed as questionable for action, while Anfernee Simons (knee), and Jabari Walker (knee) are listed as doubtful, and Malcolm Brogdon (elbow), Jerami Grant (hamstring) and Matisse Thybulle (ankle) will be sidelined. As a result, Kris Murray, who is averaging 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.6 steals over the last five games, will continue to have opportunity to thrive. Rayan Rupert will also continue to get more action, as he is averaging 4.8 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists over the last five outings. Justin Minaya is averaging 3.8 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists, in 25 minutes per game over the last five games and could pick up his first start of the season on Sunday.
Spurs Host Pistons in Finale
The San Antonio Spurs play host to the Detroit Pistons at Frost Bank Center on Sunday.
The Pistons (14-67) have been the worst team in the NBA for most of the season, and it looks like they'll finish the year with the worst record in the league. That's never something a team wants to do, but it should allow them to add to their rebuild. Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren have looked amazing at times this season, and this club needs more pieces to add to those two. What's unfortunate is that this is one of the worst draft classes in recent memory, and it doesn't appear there's much immediate help for this disastrous franchise. That means more tough times could be on the horizon next season, but fans will be happy to see their record at 0-0 after this game.
The Spurs (21-60) have been a dangerous club in the second half of the season, playing spoiler on Friday. They grabbed a comeback win against the Denver Nuggets, moving the world champs from the top seed in the West down to the three-seed. That doesn't mean anything for San Antonio but to grab a win like that shows how much talent this club possesses. Most of that talent comes from Victor Wembanyama, who truly looks like a revolutionary player in his rookie season. He's leading the league in blocks and looks like the best defender in the NBA. It's scary to think this is the worst Wembanyama we will see because he's already one of the best players in the NBA.
San Antonio beat Detroit in their one meeting, 130-108, on January 10. These clubs have traded off wins and losses in their last five matchups.
The Pistons (14-67) have been the worst team in the NBA for most of the season, and it looks like they'll finish the year with the worst record in the league. That's never something a team wants to do, but it should allow them to add to their rebuild. Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren have looked amazing at times this season, and this club needs more pieces to add to those two. What's unfortunate is that this is one of the worst draft classes in recent memory, and it doesn't appear there's much immediate help for this disastrous franchise. That means more tough times could be on the horizon next season, but fans will be happy to see their record at 0-0 after this game.
The Spurs (21-60) have been a dangerous club in the second half of the season, playing spoiler on Friday. They grabbed a comeback win against the Denver Nuggets, moving the world champs from the top seed in the West down to the three-seed. That doesn't mean anything for San Antonio but to grab a win like that shows how much talent this club possesses. Most of that talent comes from Victor Wembanyama, who truly looks like a revolutionary player in his rookie season. He's leading the league in blocks and looks like the best defender in the NBA. It's scary to think this is the worst Wembanyama we will see because he's already one of the best players in the NBA.
San Antonio beat Detroit in their one meeting, 130-108, on January 10. These clubs have traded off wins and losses in their last five matchups.
Thunder Host Mavs on Sunday
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Dallas Mavericks at Paycom Center on Sunday.
The Mavericks (50-31) gave away a game on Friday but have been one of the best teams in the NBA outside of that. They chose to rest all of their regulars in that defeat to the Detroit Pistons, but they won 16 of 18 games before that. Giving Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic a night off could be beneficial heading into the postseason because Dallas is locked into the five-seed in the West. That means they'll play the Los Angeles Clippers in fourth, and it'll be fun to watch all of these stars go at it. What's really changed things for the Mavs are the moves at the trade deadline, adding Daniel Gafford and PJ Washington. Those two have been excellent additions with those guards, and they look like one of the most dangerous teams heading into the postseason.
The Thunder (56-25) were fortunate to play the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, taking care of business against that shorthanded team. Milwaukee was without Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, allowing OKC to hand them a 125-107 defeat. That win didn't look huge at the time, but Thunder fans didn't expect to see Denver lose to San Antonio. That result was even bigger since the Nuggets beat the T'Wolves on Wednesday, which has tied all three of these teams atop the Western Conference standings. Fortunately, Oklahoma City has the tiebreaker over both of those teams and will finish with the best record in the Western Conference if they take care of business here.
Oklahoma City has won two of their three matchups with Dallas this year.
The Mavericks (50-31) gave away a game on Friday but have been one of the best teams in the NBA outside of that. They chose to rest all of their regulars in that defeat to the Detroit Pistons, but they won 16 of 18 games before that. Giving Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic a night off could be beneficial heading into the postseason because Dallas is locked into the five-seed in the West. That means they'll play the Los Angeles Clippers in fourth, and it'll be fun to watch all of these stars go at it. What's really changed things for the Mavs are the moves at the trade deadline, adding Daniel Gafford and PJ Washington. Those two have been excellent additions with those guards, and they look like one of the most dangerous teams heading into the postseason.
The Thunder (56-25) were fortunate to play the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, taking care of business against that shorthanded team. Milwaukee was without Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, allowing OKC to hand them a 125-107 defeat. That win didn't look huge at the time, but Thunder fans didn't expect to see Denver lose to San Antonio. That result was even bigger since the Nuggets beat the T'Wolves on Wednesday, which has tied all three of these teams atop the Western Conference standings. Fortunately, Oklahoma City has the tiebreaker over both of those teams and will finish with the best record in the Western Conference if they take care of business here.
Oklahoma City has won two of their three matchups with Dallas this year.
Grizzlies Host Nuggets in Finale
The Memphis Grizzlies play host to the Denver Nuggets at FedEx Forum on Sunday.
The Nuggets (56-25) suffered their worst loss of the season on Friday, losing to the San Antonio Spurs, 121-120. Denver was actually outscored in the fourth quarter, 34-20, losing their grip on the top spot in the Western Conference. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves both won their games on Friday, and all three of those teams are tied for the best record in the West. Unfortunately, those teams have the tiebreaker over Denver, so Nuggets fans have to hope one of them loses today while Denver takes care of business. They currently sit third in the West, and that'll be a much tougher road than finishing first as they did in their championship run last year.
The Grizzlies (27-54) have dealt with as many injuries as any team in the league, limping their way to the finish line. Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson and Marcus Smart are all out right now, but all four players are expected to make a full recovery for next season. This was one of the best teams in the NBA when all of those guys were healthy, but this season has been a disaster without them. They come into this matchup losing four straight games, sending out players that many Memphis fans haven't even heard of. That's just the nature of the final week for an injury-riddled team, and Grizzlies fans will be happy when this game is over and the new season starts.
This is the fourth matchup between these teams, with Denver looking for the season sweep. They have won four straight games over Memphis in total.
The Nuggets (56-25) suffered their worst loss of the season on Friday, losing to the San Antonio Spurs, 121-120. Denver was actually outscored in the fourth quarter, 34-20, losing their grip on the top spot in the Western Conference. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves both won their games on Friday, and all three of those teams are tied for the best record in the West. Unfortunately, those teams have the tiebreaker over Denver, so Nuggets fans have to hope one of them loses today while Denver takes care of business. They currently sit third in the West, and that'll be a much tougher road than finishing first as they did in their championship run last year.
The Grizzlies (27-54) have dealt with as many injuries as any team in the league, limping their way to the finish line. Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson and Marcus Smart are all out right now, but all four players are expected to make a full recovery for next season. This was one of the best teams in the NBA when all of those guys were healthy, but this season has been a disaster without them. They come into this matchup losing four straight games, sending out players that many Memphis fans haven't even heard of. That's just the nature of the final week for an injury-riddled team, and Grizzlies fans will be happy when this game is over and the new season starts.
This is the fourth matchup between these teams, with Denver looking for the season sweep. They have won four straight games over Memphis in total.