Sixers Looking To Bounce Against Magic
The Philadelphia 76ers will host the Orlando Magic at Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday night.
The 76ers (25-18) are looking to bounce back following their loss Monday against the Washington Wizards. Joel Embiid was the best player for the 76ers since he ended with a game-high 32 points while also adding eight rebounds, and Tyrese Maxey delivered 18 points and four boards. No other Philadelphia player scored in double digits in this one, perhaps exemplifying the struggles the team had on the offensive side of the ball. Tobias Harris looked disappointing and ended with seven points (3-11 FG).
The Sixers are listing Danny Green (hip) as a game-time decision, while Matisse Thybulle (shoulder), Shake Milton (back) and Ben Simmons (personal) remain out.
The Magic (8-37) had another dismal performance on both ends of the court Monday and lost to the Portland Trail Blazers by a 98-88 score. Franz Wagner and Moritz Wagner tallied 14 points each to lead the Magic. Gary Harris totaled 10 points, three rebounds and a steal, while Jalen Suggs chipped in 10 points, six rebounds, three assists and a steal. The Magic shot 38 percent from the field, including 8-of-32 from deep.
Orlando is listing Wendell Carter (hamstring) as a game-time call but several other players are out. The list includes Markelle Fultz (knee), E’Twaun Moore (knee), Michael Carter-Williams (ankle) and Jonathan Isaac (knee).
The 76ers (25-18) are looking to bounce back following their loss Monday against the Washington Wizards. Joel Embiid was the best player for the 76ers since he ended with a game-high 32 points while also adding eight rebounds, and Tyrese Maxey delivered 18 points and four boards. No other Philadelphia player scored in double digits in this one, perhaps exemplifying the struggles the team had on the offensive side of the ball. Tobias Harris looked disappointing and ended with seven points (3-11 FG).
The Sixers are listing Danny Green (hip) as a game-time decision, while Matisse Thybulle (shoulder), Shake Milton (back) and Ben Simmons (personal) remain out.
The Magic (8-37) had another dismal performance on both ends of the court Monday and lost to the Portland Trail Blazers by a 98-88 score. Franz Wagner and Moritz Wagner tallied 14 points each to lead the Magic. Gary Harris totaled 10 points, three rebounds and a steal, while Jalen Suggs chipped in 10 points, six rebounds, three assists and a steal. The Magic shot 38 percent from the field, including 8-of-32 from deep.
Orlando is listing Wendell Carter (hamstring) as a game-time call but several other players are out. The list includes Markelle Fultz (knee), E’Twaun Moore (knee), Michael Carter-Williams (ankle) and Jonathan Isaac (knee).
Nets Take On Wizards Without Kevin Durant
The Washington Wizards will host the Brooklyn Nets at Capital One Arena on Wednesday night.
The Wizards (23-21) are trending in the right direction of late and are coming off a win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. Montrezl Harrell led the way for the Wizards and scored 18 points off the bench, while Kyle Kuzma contributed 15 points, 16 rebounds, four assists and three blocks. Bradley Beal had 13 points, six assists and five rebounds, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope notched 14 points and three boards. Thomas Bryant had 15 points and five rebounds off the bench, while Corey Kispert and Rui Hachimura each had 11 points.
The Wizards are sporting a clean bill of health when it comes to absences.
The Nets (27-16) came up short in their first game without Kevin Durant, who suffered a knee injury that will keep him out for several weeks, and suffered a 114-107 loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday. Kyrie Irving led the way for Brooklyn with 27 points, supplementing them with nine assists, seven rebounds and one steal. James Harden posted a 22-point, 10-assist double-double that includes seven rebounds and two steals. LaMarcus Aldridge furnished 13 points, five rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Kessler Edwards and Patty Mills posted matching 11-point contributions, with Edwards adding three rebounds. Day'Ron Sharpe supplied 10 points, six boards, two assists, two steals and one block.
Paul Millsap (personal), James Johnson (illness), DeAndre’ Bembry (back) and Nicolas Claxton (hamstring) are all game-time calls for Wednesday’s tilt. Kevin Durant (knee) and Joe Harris (ankle) are both out.
The Wizards (23-21) are trending in the right direction of late and are coming off a win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. Montrezl Harrell led the way for the Wizards and scored 18 points off the bench, while Kyle Kuzma contributed 15 points, 16 rebounds, four assists and three blocks. Bradley Beal had 13 points, six assists and five rebounds, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope notched 14 points and three boards. Thomas Bryant had 15 points and five rebounds off the bench, while Corey Kispert and Rui Hachimura each had 11 points.
The Wizards are sporting a clean bill of health when it comes to absences.
The Nets (27-16) came up short in their first game without Kevin Durant, who suffered a knee injury that will keep him out for several weeks, and suffered a 114-107 loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday. Kyrie Irving led the way for Brooklyn with 27 points, supplementing them with nine assists, seven rebounds and one steal. James Harden posted a 22-point, 10-assist double-double that includes seven rebounds and two steals. LaMarcus Aldridge furnished 13 points, five rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Kessler Edwards and Patty Mills posted matching 11-point contributions, with Edwards adding three rebounds. Day'Ron Sharpe supplied 10 points, six boards, two assists, two steals and one block.
Paul Millsap (personal), James Johnson (illness), DeAndre’ Bembry (back) and Nicolas Claxton (hamstring) are all game-time calls for Wednesday’s tilt. Kevin Durant (knee) and Joe Harris (ankle) are both out.
Timberwolves and Hawks Set for Interconference Battle
The Minnesota Timberwolves take on the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on Wednesday night.
The Timberwolves (22-22) have been on an upswing of late in what has been an inconsistent season, as they’ll enter Wednesday having won two straight and six of the last eight contests overall. Their most recent success was a narrow one, as they edged the New York Knicks by a 112-110 score Tuesday night. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 21 points, complementing them with three rebounds, three assists and two steals. Karl-Anthony Towns totaled 20 points, five rebounds, three assists and one steal. D’Angelo Russell delivered 17 points, four assists, two rebounds, one steal and one block. Jaylen Nowell compiled 14 points, six rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Timberwolves will likely remain without Jordan McLaughlin (COVID-19 protocols) for Wednesday’s game.
The Hawks (18-25) have been mired in a long stretch of futility that has endangered their season, but they will come into Wednesday’s clash having just snapped a five-game losing streak with a 121-114 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday night. Trae Young led the Hawks with 30 points, complementing them with 11 assists, four rebounds and one steal. De’Andre Hunter supplied 20 points, nine boards, two assists and one block. John Collins generated a 16-point, 12-rebound double-double that include two assists and three blocks. Danilo Gallinari matched Collins’ scoring and added three rebounds and three assists. Kevin Huerter registered 13 points, eight rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. Onyeka Okongwu tallied 12 points, eight boards, three assists, three blocks and one steal.
The Hawks are expected to be without Bogdan Bogdanovic (knee) and Clint Capela (ankle) for Wednesday’s game.
Wednesday’s game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 121-110 win Dec. 6.
The Timberwolves (22-22) have been on an upswing of late in what has been an inconsistent season, as they’ll enter Wednesday having won two straight and six of the last eight contests overall. Their most recent success was a narrow one, as they edged the New York Knicks by a 112-110 score Tuesday night. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 21 points, complementing them with three rebounds, three assists and two steals. Karl-Anthony Towns totaled 20 points, five rebounds, three assists and one steal. D’Angelo Russell delivered 17 points, four assists, two rebounds, one steal and one block. Jaylen Nowell compiled 14 points, six rebounds, three assists and one steal.
The Timberwolves will likely remain without Jordan McLaughlin (COVID-19 protocols) for Wednesday’s game.
The Hawks (18-25) have been mired in a long stretch of futility that has endangered their season, but they will come into Wednesday’s clash having just snapped a five-game losing streak with a 121-114 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday night. Trae Young led the Hawks with 30 points, complementing them with 11 assists, four rebounds and one steal. De’Andre Hunter supplied 20 points, nine boards, two assists and one block. John Collins generated a 16-point, 12-rebound double-double that include two assists and three blocks. Danilo Gallinari matched Collins’ scoring and added three rebounds and three assists. Kevin Huerter registered 13 points, eight rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. Onyeka Okongwu tallied 12 points, eight boards, three assists, three blocks and one steal.
The Hawks are expected to be without Bogdan Bogdanovic (knee) and Clint Capela (ankle) for Wednesday’s game.
Wednesday’s game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 121-110 win Dec. 6.
Wizards, Celtics Looking To Keep Winning
The Boston Celtics will host the Charlotte Hornets at TD Garden on Wednesday night.
The Celtics (23-22) are coming off a win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday. Jayson Tatum carried the Celtics in this contest, as he ended with 27 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Dennis Schroder and Jaylen Brown produced matching 23-point tallies, with Schroder adding nine assists and Brown pulling down eight boards. Al Horford had 12 points, and Grant Williams notched 10 points. No other Boston player scored in double digits here.
Marcus Smart (COVID-19) is questionable for this contest, the same as Robert Williams (personal) and Aaron Nesmith (ankle). The Celtics have not ruled out any of these players yet, though.
The Hornets (24-20) didn’t look at their best but still topped the New York Knicks on Monday. Despite the win, it’s worth noting only three Charlotte players scored in double digits here. Miles Bridges led the way with an impressive 38-point effort that also included 12 rebounds and five assists, while Terry Rozier contributed 22 points, seven assists and six rebounds to the winning cause. Gordon Hayward posted 16 points, four assists and two steals. Cody Martin had nine points and seven rebounds.
Kelly Oubre (COVID-19) is tipped to be a game-time decision Wednesday, and the Hornets do not have any other injury concern.
The Celtics (23-22) are coming off a win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday. Jayson Tatum carried the Celtics in this contest, as he ended with 27 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Dennis Schroder and Jaylen Brown produced matching 23-point tallies, with Schroder adding nine assists and Brown pulling down eight boards. Al Horford had 12 points, and Grant Williams notched 10 points. No other Boston player scored in double digits here.
Marcus Smart (COVID-19) is questionable for this contest, the same as Robert Williams (personal) and Aaron Nesmith (ankle). The Celtics have not ruled out any of these players yet, though.
The Hornets (24-20) didn’t look at their best but still topped the New York Knicks on Monday. Despite the win, it’s worth noting only three Charlotte players scored in double digits here. Miles Bridges led the way with an impressive 38-point effort that also included 12 rebounds and five assists, while Terry Rozier contributed 22 points, seven assists and six rebounds to the winning cause. Gordon Hayward posted 16 points, four assists and two steals. Cody Martin had nine points and seven rebounds.
Kelly Oubre (COVID-19) is tipped to be a game-time decision Wednesday, and the Hornets do not have any other injury concern.
Heat, Blazers Collide Wednesday
The Miami Heat will host the Portland Trail Blazers at FTX Arena on Wednesday night.
The Heat (28-16) are coming off a 104-99 win over the Toronto Raptors on Monday. Tyler Herro led the Heat with 23 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals, in 34 minutes off the bench. Jimmy Butler followed up with 19 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists and a steal, while Gabe Vincent chipped in 15 points on 6-of-12 shooting. The Heat shot 46 percent from the field, including 9-of-24 from long range.
Damian Lillard (abdomen) is out for this contest, and four other players have been listed as game-time decisions. The list includes Cody Zeller (knee), Larry Nance (knee), Norman Powell (COVID-19) and CJ Elleby (ankle).
The Trail Blazers (18-25) are coming off a win over the Orlando Magic on Monday. Jusuf Nurkic led the Trail Blazers with 21 points on 10-of-21 shooting, 22 rebounds, two assists, four steals and two blocks. C.J. McCollum followed up with 16 points on 7-of-13 shooting. Ben McLemore chipped in 14 points, while Nassir Little totaled 13 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block. The Trail Blazers shot just 41 percent from the field. That win pushed Portland’s winning streak to two contests.
Kyle Lowry (personal), Markieff Morris (COVID-19) and KZ Okpala (wrist) are all game-time decisions for Wednesday’s matchup. Victor Oladipo (quadriceps) remains out.
The Heat (28-16) are coming off a 104-99 win over the Toronto Raptors on Monday. Tyler Herro led the Heat with 23 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals, in 34 minutes off the bench. Jimmy Butler followed up with 19 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists and a steal, while Gabe Vincent chipped in 15 points on 6-of-12 shooting. The Heat shot 46 percent from the field, including 9-of-24 from long range.
Damian Lillard (abdomen) is out for this contest, and four other players have been listed as game-time decisions. The list includes Cody Zeller (knee), Larry Nance (knee), Norman Powell (COVID-19) and CJ Elleby (ankle).
The Trail Blazers (18-25) are coming off a win over the Orlando Magic on Monday. Jusuf Nurkic led the Trail Blazers with 21 points on 10-of-21 shooting, 22 rebounds, two assists, four steals and two blocks. C.J. McCollum followed up with 16 points on 7-of-13 shooting. Ben McLemore chipped in 14 points, while Nassir Little totaled 13 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, a steal and a block. The Trail Blazers shot just 41 percent from the field. That win pushed Portland’s winning streak to two contests.
Kyle Lowry (personal), Markieff Morris (COVID-19) and KZ Okpala (wrist) are all game-time decisions for Wednesday’s matchup. Victor Oladipo (quadriceps) remains out.
Cavaliers and Bulls Meet for Windy City Battle
The Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Chicago Bulls at United Center on Wednesday night.
The Cavaliers (27-18) have been one of the biggest surprises of either conference thus far this season, and they'll enter Wednesday's game in the midst of an impressive stretch that's seen them rattle off five straight victories. Their most recent success came Monday afternoon, when they notched a 114-107 win over the Brooklyn Nets. Darius Garland paced the Cavaliers with a 22-point, 12-assist double-double that included six rebounds and two steals. Isaac Okoro totaled 15 points. Jarrett Allen and Lauri Markkanen posted 14 points apiece while pulling down 10 and six rebounds, respectively. Kevin Love turned in 14 points, five rebounds and five assists. Evan Mobley registered 12 points, six boards, one assist and one block.
The Cavaliers will remain without Lamar Stevens (knee) and Rajon Rondo (hamstring) for Wednesday's game.
The Bulls (27-15) have also exceeded expectations for the most part this season, but they check into Wednesday's contest with a four-game losing streak in tow. Their most recent stumble came Monday afternoon, when they fell to the Memphis Grizzlies by a 119-106 score. DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 24 points, complementing them with five assists. Coby White tallied 16 points, six boards and five assists. Ayo Dosunmu supplied 15 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, five steals and two blocks. Troy Brown delivered 14 points, five boards and one block. Matt Thomas and Malcolm Hill posted 13 and 12 points, respectively, with Hill adding eight rebounds.
The Bulls are expected to remain without Lonzo Ball (knee), Zach LaVine (knee), Javonte Green (groin) and Derrick Jones (knee) for Wednesday's contest. Alex Caruso (foot/conditioning) will be listed as probable.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Cavaliers hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 115-92 win Dec. 8.
The Cavaliers (27-18) have been one of the biggest surprises of either conference thus far this season, and they'll enter Wednesday's game in the midst of an impressive stretch that's seen them rattle off five straight victories. Their most recent success came Monday afternoon, when they notched a 114-107 win over the Brooklyn Nets. Darius Garland paced the Cavaliers with a 22-point, 12-assist double-double that included six rebounds and two steals. Isaac Okoro totaled 15 points. Jarrett Allen and Lauri Markkanen posted 14 points apiece while pulling down 10 and six rebounds, respectively. Kevin Love turned in 14 points, five rebounds and five assists. Evan Mobley registered 12 points, six boards, one assist and one block.
The Cavaliers will remain without Lamar Stevens (knee) and Rajon Rondo (hamstring) for Wednesday's game.
The Bulls (27-15) have also exceeded expectations for the most part this season, but they check into Wednesday's contest with a four-game losing streak in tow. Their most recent stumble came Monday afternoon, when they fell to the Memphis Grizzlies by a 119-106 score. DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 24 points, complementing them with five assists. Coby White tallied 16 points, six boards and five assists. Ayo Dosunmu supplied 15 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, five steals and two blocks. Troy Brown delivered 14 points, five boards and one block. Matt Thomas and Malcolm Hill posted 13 and 12 points, respectively, with Hill adding eight rebounds.
The Bulls are expected to remain without Lonzo Ball (knee), Zach LaVine (knee), Javonte Green (groin) and Derrick Jones (knee) for Wednesday's contest. Alex Caruso (foot/conditioning) will be listed as probable.
Wednesday's game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season. The Cavaliers hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 115-92 win Dec. 8.
Bucks Looking To End Two-Game Slide
By Dan Bruno
The Milwaukee Bucks play host to the Memphis Grizzlies at Fiserv Forum on Wednesday evening.
This marks the first game of a three-game home stand for the Bucks (27-19), as they will look to bounce back from a two-game slide and add to their, 14-8, home record. Giannis Antetokounmpo continues his great play and is leading the team, averaging 31.2 points, 9.8 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.8 blocks, over the last five games. Khris Middleton has been hot lately, averaging 25.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.8 steals, over the last five games. Jrue Holiday (ankle) has been sidelined for the last six games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. If Holliday remains out, George Hill will continue to pick up extra playing time. The Bucks are averaging 111.7 points per game, and they are holding opponents to an average of 108.0 points per game.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies (31-15) have won nine of their last 10 games. This marks their first game of a four-game road trip, as they will be looking to build off a win in their last contest and add to their, 14-6, road record. Ja Morant continues his stellar play, averaging 21.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 7.0 assists, over the last five outings. Desmond Bane is coming off an impressive, 25-point outing and is averaging 17.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.1 steals, per game. Jaren Jackson has picked up his play again and is averaging 15.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.3 blocks and 1.4 steals, over the last 10 games. The Grizzlies are averaging 111.8 points per game, which is fourth most in the league. On the other end, they are holding opponents to an average of 107.9 points per game.
This marks the first game of a three-game home stand for the Bucks (27-19), as they will look to bounce back from a two-game slide and add to their, 14-8, home record. Giannis Antetokounmpo continues his great play and is leading the team, averaging 31.2 points, 9.8 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.8 blocks, over the last five games. Khris Middleton has been hot lately, averaging 25.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.8 steals, over the last five games. Jrue Holiday (ankle) has been sidelined for the last six games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. If Holliday remains out, George Hill will continue to pick up extra playing time. The Bucks are averaging 111.7 points per game, and they are holding opponents to an average of 108.0 points per game.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies (31-15) have won nine of their last 10 games. This marks their first game of a four-game road trip, as they will be looking to build off a win in their last contest and add to their, 14-6, road record. Ja Morant continues his stellar play, averaging 21.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 7.0 assists, over the last five outings. Desmond Bane is coming off an impressive, 25-point outing and is averaging 17.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.1 steals, per game. Jaren Jackson has picked up his play again and is averaging 15.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.3 blocks and 1.4 steals, over the last 10 games. The Grizzlies are averaging 111.8 points per game, which is fourth most in the league. On the other end, they are holding opponents to an average of 107.9 points per game.
Mavs Looking To Build On Three-Game Streak
By Dan Bruno
The Dallas Mavericks play host to the Toronto Raptors at American Airlines Center on Wednesday evening.
This marks the third game of a five-game home stand for the Mavs (25-19), as they will look to keep building on a three-game win streak and add to their, 13-8, home record. Luka Doncic leads the team, averaging 24.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, 8.8 assists and 1.2 steals, per game. Kristaps Porzingis is averaging 20.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.8 blocks, while Jalen Brunson is averaging 16.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 1.0 steals, per game. Reggie Bullock (knee) and Maxi Kleber (knee) are listed as questionable for action. The Mavs are averaging 105.5 points per game, and they are holding opponents to an average of 102.7 points per game, which is third fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Raptors (21-20) have won seven of their last 10 games but will be looking to bounce back from a loss in their most recent contest, as they have a chance to add to their, 9-9, road record. Fred VanVleet continues his top level play, averaging 27.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 6.6 assists and 1.9 steals, over the last 10 games. Pascal Siakam has also been playing well, averaging 23.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 2.0 steals, over the last 10 games. Gary Trent (ankle) has missed the last five games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. If Trent remains out, Chris Boucher and Precious Achiuwa will continue to see a boost in playing time. The Raptors are averaging 107.0 points per game, while they are giving up an average of 106.0 points against.
This marks the third game of a five-game home stand for the Mavs (25-19), as they will look to keep building on a three-game win streak and add to their, 13-8, home record. Luka Doncic leads the team, averaging 24.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, 8.8 assists and 1.2 steals, per game. Kristaps Porzingis is averaging 20.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.8 blocks, while Jalen Brunson is averaging 16.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 1.0 steals, per game. Reggie Bullock (knee) and Maxi Kleber (knee) are listed as questionable for action. The Mavs are averaging 105.5 points per game, and they are holding opponents to an average of 102.7 points per game, which is third fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Raptors (21-20) have won seven of their last 10 games but will be looking to bounce back from a loss in their most recent contest, as they have a chance to add to their, 9-9, road record. Fred VanVleet continues his top level play, averaging 27.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 6.6 assists and 1.9 steals, over the last 10 games. Pascal Siakam has also been playing well, averaging 23.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 2.0 steals, over the last 10 games. Gary Trent (ankle) has missed the last five games and remains questionable for action on Wednesday. If Trent remains out, Chris Boucher and Precious Achiuwa will continue to see a boost in playing time. The Raptors are averaging 107.0 points per game, while they are giving up an average of 106.0 points against.
Spurs Looking To Get Back On Track At Home
By Dan Bruno
The San Antonio Spurs play host to the Oklahoma City Thunder at AT&T Center on Wednesday evening.
This marks the fifth game of a seven-game home stand for the Spurs (16-28), where they have gone, 1-3, so far, with a win over the Clippers, and losses to the Rockets, Cavs and Suns. The Spurs will look to bounce back from a loss in their last contest and add to their, 8-13, home record. Dejounte Murray leads the team, averaging 19.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, 8.8 assists and 2.0 steals per game. Keldon Johnson is averaging 14.9 points and 6.4 rebounds. while Derrick White is averaging 14.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 1.2 steals per game. The Spurs average 110.5 points per game, and they are shooting an average of 46.1 percent from the field.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a four-game road trip for the Thunder (14-29), as they will look to bounce back from two straight losses and add to their, 6-15, road record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been playing at a high level, averaging 25.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.2 blocks, over the last five outings. Josh Giddey is also playing well, averaging 13.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 6.2 assists and 1.0 steals, over the same span. Kenrich Williams (COVID-19) has missed the last four games and will remain out through Wednesday's action. The Thunder are averaging a league-low, 100.8 points per game. They are shooting an average of 41.8 percent from the field, which is second worst in the league.
This marks the fifth game of a seven-game home stand for the Spurs (16-28), where they have gone, 1-3, so far, with a win over the Clippers, and losses to the Rockets, Cavs and Suns. The Spurs will look to bounce back from a loss in their last contest and add to their, 8-13, home record. Dejounte Murray leads the team, averaging 19.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, 8.8 assists and 2.0 steals per game. Keldon Johnson is averaging 14.9 points and 6.4 rebounds. while Derrick White is averaging 14.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 1.2 steals per game. The Spurs average 110.5 points per game, and they are shooting an average of 46.1 percent from the field.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a four-game road trip for the Thunder (14-29), as they will look to bounce back from two straight losses and add to their, 6-15, road record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been playing at a high level, averaging 25.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.2 blocks, over the last five outings. Josh Giddey is also playing well, averaging 13.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 6.2 assists and 1.0 steals, over the same span. Kenrich Williams (COVID-19) has missed the last four games and will remain out through Wednesday's action. The Thunder are averaging a league-low, 100.8 points per game. They are shooting an average of 41.8 percent from the field, which is second worst in the league.
Jazz Host Rockets on Wednesday
The Houston Rockets travel to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Jazz at Vivint Arena on Wednesday.
The Rockets (13-32) have been playing better recently, winning two of their last three games coming into this matchup. In any case, they still have the worst record in the Western Conference, and the winning ways aren't likely to continue. What fans really want to see is the development, and it looks like that is starting to happen. Christian Wood and Kevin Porter Jr have both had All-Star games at times this season, while the 19-year-old Jalen Green continues to have growing pains. That core threesome is plenty good, but the immaturity is glaring. Where it's really evident is in their defense, with the Rockets owning the worst defensive rating in the NBA. That's something that can change over time, but it will remain an issue as long as this core sticks together.
The Jazz (29-15) are in the worst stretch of their season, entering this matchup losing five of their last six games. It's not like the losses came against tough teams either, taking defeats at the hands of the Los Angeles Lakers, Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors and Indiana Pacers. Those are all teams that Utah is expected to beat but missing Rudy Gobert for most of them was surely a major reason why they were struggling. He's developed into one of the best two-way players in the NBA, and his presence for this team can't be overlooked. He just came off the COVID IL in Utah's win over the Nuggets on Sunday, but they followed that up with an ugly loss against the Lakers on Monday. It's likely just a blip on the radar, though, because this team led the NBA in wins last season and is right there again this year.
These teams played back on October 28, with Utah dominating, 122-91. That gives the Jazz four straight wins in this series, dating back to the beginning of last season.
The Rockets (13-32) have been playing better recently, winning two of their last three games coming into this matchup. In any case, they still have the worst record in the Western Conference, and the winning ways aren't likely to continue. What fans really want to see is the development, and it looks like that is starting to happen. Christian Wood and Kevin Porter Jr have both had All-Star games at times this season, while the 19-year-old Jalen Green continues to have growing pains. That core threesome is plenty good, but the immaturity is glaring. Where it's really evident is in their defense, with the Rockets owning the worst defensive rating in the NBA. That's something that can change over time, but it will remain an issue as long as this core sticks together.
The Jazz (29-15) are in the worst stretch of their season, entering this matchup losing five of their last six games. It's not like the losses came against tough teams either, taking defeats at the hands of the Los Angeles Lakers, Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors and Indiana Pacers. Those are all teams that Utah is expected to beat but missing Rudy Gobert for most of them was surely a major reason why they were struggling. He's developed into one of the best two-way players in the NBA, and his presence for this team can't be overlooked. He just came off the COVID IL in Utah's win over the Nuggets on Sunday, but they followed that up with an ugly loss against the Lakers on Monday. It's likely just a blip on the radar, though, because this team led the NBA in wins last season and is right there again this year.
These teams played back on October 28, with Utah dominating, 122-91. That gives the Jazz four straight wins in this series, dating back to the beginning of last season.
Nuggets Host Clippers on Wednesday
The Los Angeles Clippers travel to Colorado to face the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena on Wednesday.
The Clippers (22-23) were expected to struggle without Kawhi Leonard (knee) this season, but fans were horrified when Paul George went down with an elbow issue. Since then, this has been one of the worst teams in the NBA. In fact, Los Angeles comes into this matchup losing 11 of their last 17 games. The nature of those losses is what's really disturbing, though, with the Clips losing nine of those by seven points or more. It's not like it was a gauntlet of a schedule either, and it's becoming clear that this team is void of talent with their two superstars out of the lineup. The good news is that they got a rare win on Monday over Indiana, and they'll look to carry that momentum over here.
The Nuggets (22-20) suffered a blowout loss against the Utah Jazz on Sunday in their most recent game, but that's an outlier in an otherwise great stretch. Before that, Denver won seven of their previous 10 games. The streak should have been longer than that, too, with the Nuggets blowing 20-point leads in two of those losses. That's been one major issue all year, though, because Denver owns the worst point differential in the second half. That's not something you expect to see from a contender like this, but those sorts of things happen when two of your best players are out of the lineup. That includes Michael Porter Jr (back) and Jamal Murray (knee), with Murray looking likely to return sometime in the next month.
These teams have played two narrow games this season, splitting those two matchups. Both of those were decided by three points or fewer. With that said, the Nuggets have won three of their last four games in this series.
The Clippers (22-23) were expected to struggle without Kawhi Leonard (knee) this season, but fans were horrified when Paul George went down with an elbow issue. Since then, this has been one of the worst teams in the NBA. In fact, Los Angeles comes into this matchup losing 11 of their last 17 games. The nature of those losses is what's really disturbing, though, with the Clips losing nine of those by seven points or more. It's not like it was a gauntlet of a schedule either, and it's becoming clear that this team is void of talent with their two superstars out of the lineup. The good news is that they got a rare win on Monday over Indiana, and they'll look to carry that momentum over here.
The Nuggets (22-20) suffered a blowout loss against the Utah Jazz on Sunday in their most recent game, but that's an outlier in an otherwise great stretch. Before that, Denver won seven of their previous 10 games. The streak should have been longer than that, too, with the Nuggets blowing 20-point leads in two of those losses. That's been one major issue all year, though, because Denver owns the worst point differential in the second half. That's not something you expect to see from a contender like this, but those sorts of things happen when two of your best players are out of the lineup. That includes Michael Porter Jr (back) and Jamal Murray (knee), with Murray looking likely to return sometime in the next month.
These teams have played two narrow games this season, splitting those two matchups. Both of those were decided by three points or fewer. With that said, the Nuggets have won three of their last four games in this series.
Pistons Visit Kings in Wednesday Clash
The Detroit Pistons take on the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on Wednesday night.
The Pistons (10-38) have had some rare brushes with success of late, going 3-3 over their last six games. However, their most recent time on the floor Tuesday night resulted in one of those losses, a 102-86 defeat at the hands of the Golden State Warriors. Rodney McGruder led the Pistons with 19 points, complementing them with five rebounds, one assist and one steal. Hamidou Diallo generated a 16-point, 13-rebound double-double that included two steals and one block. Isaiah Stewart posted 14 points, 11 rebounds and one block. Trey Lyles finished with 13 points, five boards, two assists and one block. Saddiq Bey poured in 10 points.
The Pistons are likely to remain without Frank Jackson (conditioning) for Wednesday’s game. Kelly Olynyk (knee) and Jerami Grant (thumb) will remain out.
The Kings (18-28) have been frequent visitors to the loss column of late, dropping six of the last eight contests. Their most recent stumble came Sunday night, when they fell to the Houston Rockets by a 118-112 score. Buddy Hield paced the Kings with 27 points, complementing them with five rebounds, two assists and four steals. Terence Davis supplied 17 points, six boards, five assists and four steals. Davion Mitchell registered 16 points, seven assists, four rebounds and four steals. Chimezie Metu and De'Aaron Fox posted matching 14-point tallies, with Metu pulling down seven rebounds and Fox contributing four assists and three rebounds. Harrison Barnes delivered 12 points, three assists, two rebounds and two steals.
The Kings are likely to remain without Tyrese Haliburton (COVID-19 protocols) for Wednesday’s contest.
Wednesday’s game marks the second and final meeting of the season between the teams. The Kings hold a 1-0 series lead, notching a 129-107 victory Nov. 15.
The Pistons (10-38) have had some rare brushes with success of late, going 3-3 over their last six games. However, their most recent time on the floor Tuesday night resulted in one of those losses, a 102-86 defeat at the hands of the Golden State Warriors. Rodney McGruder led the Pistons with 19 points, complementing them with five rebounds, one assist and one steal. Hamidou Diallo generated a 16-point, 13-rebound double-double that included two steals and one block. Isaiah Stewart posted 14 points, 11 rebounds and one block. Trey Lyles finished with 13 points, five boards, two assists and one block. Saddiq Bey poured in 10 points.
The Pistons are likely to remain without Frank Jackson (conditioning) for Wednesday’s game. Kelly Olynyk (knee) and Jerami Grant (thumb) will remain out.
The Kings (18-28) have been frequent visitors to the loss column of late, dropping six of the last eight contests. Their most recent stumble came Sunday night, when they fell to the Houston Rockets by a 118-112 score. Buddy Hield paced the Kings with 27 points, complementing them with five rebounds, two assists and four steals. Terence Davis supplied 17 points, six boards, five assists and four steals. Davion Mitchell registered 16 points, seven assists, four rebounds and four steals. Chimezie Metu and De'Aaron Fox posted matching 14-point tallies, with Metu pulling down seven rebounds and Fox contributing four assists and three rebounds. Harrison Barnes delivered 12 points, three assists, two rebounds and two steals.
The Kings are likely to remain without Tyrese Haliburton (COVID-19 protocols) for Wednesday’s contest.
Wednesday’s game marks the second and final meeting of the season between the teams. The Kings hold a 1-0 series lead, notching a 129-107 victory Nov. 15.
Lakers Host Pacers on Wednesday
The Los Angeles Lakers play host to the Indiana Pacers at Crypto Center on Wednesday.
The Pacers (15-29) have been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA. They have one of the most talented rosters in the Eastern Conference but sit near the bottom of the standings. Numerous issues have landed them in this spot, with a 3-17 road record looking like the major factor. What's also killed them is their late-game execution, posting a 2-13 record in games decided by four points or fewer. Those two statistics would kill any team, especially one with so many talented players. The ugly record has many people calling for a rebuild. That'd be a sad development with guys like Myles Turner, Domantas Sabonis, Caris LeVert and Malcolm Brogdon all looking like prime candidates to be moved.
The Lakers (22-22) had three bad losses before a shocking win over the Utah Jazz on Monday. That victory came after an apology from LeBron James, with the superstar providing 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in that victory. More importantly, Los Angeles held Utah to 95 points on 37 percent shooting. Games like that have been rare occurrences for one of the worst defenses in the NBA, and some effort on that side of the floor could get them on a serious run. Another bit of good news came on Monday, too, with Anthony Davis getting cleared for on-court work. That means his return could happen in weeks rather than months, and that's yet another encouraging sign for this disappointing team.
These teams played an overtime thriller on November 24, with Los Angeles prevailing, 124-116. That gives the Lakers three straight wins in this series after a season sweep last year.
The Pacers (15-29) have been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA. They have one of the most talented rosters in the Eastern Conference but sit near the bottom of the standings. Numerous issues have landed them in this spot, with a 3-17 road record looking like the major factor. What's also killed them is their late-game execution, posting a 2-13 record in games decided by four points or fewer. Those two statistics would kill any team, especially one with so many talented players. The ugly record has many people calling for a rebuild. That'd be a sad development with guys like Myles Turner, Domantas Sabonis, Caris LeVert and Malcolm Brogdon all looking like prime candidates to be moved.
The Lakers (22-22) had three bad losses before a shocking win over the Utah Jazz on Monday. That victory came after an apology from LeBron James, with the superstar providing 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in that victory. More importantly, Los Angeles held Utah to 95 points on 37 percent shooting. Games like that have been rare occurrences for one of the worst defenses in the NBA, and some effort on that side of the floor could get them on a serious run. Another bit of good news came on Monday, too, with Anthony Davis getting cleared for on-court work. That means his return could happen in weeks rather than months, and that's yet another encouraging sign for this disappointing team.
These teams played an overtime thriller on November 24, with Los Angeles prevailing, 124-116. That gives the Lakers three straight wins in this series after a season sweep last year.