Pistons Host Struggling Kings
By Dan Bruno
The Detroit Pistons play host to the Sacramento Kings at Little Caesars Arena on Wednesday evening.
The Pistons (16-28) are coming off a loss in Washington in their most recent contest and have dropped six of their last 10 games. This marks their first game of a four-game home stand, where they can look to build some momentum and improve upon their 8-13 home record. Derrick Rose continues to play great for Detroit and is averaging team highs with 18.4 points and 5.8 assists per game. Sekou Doumbouya is keeping up his solid play in extended minutes, as he is averaging 12.2 points on 48.9 percent shooting, and 4.9 rebounds, in 29.5 minutes per game, over the last 10 games. Andre Drummond (face) and Reggie Jackson (back) are both questionable for action on Wednesday, while Markieff Morris is considered probable to play. The Pistons are shooting 46.8 percent from the field, including 37.2 percent from long range. They average 24.5 assists per game, but they are giving up 15.1 turnovers per game, which is fourth most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Kings (15-28) have dropped seven of their last 10 games, including their last five in a row. This marks the third game of a five-game road trip, as they enter with a 7-15 road record. The Kings average 106.8 points per game, but they are giving up an average of 110.1 points against. They are shooting 45.5 percent from the field, including 35.5 percent from long range. Buddy Hield leads the Kings with 20.1 points per game. De'Aaron Fox has been playing well, averaging 21.3 points, 8.1 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 2.0 steals, over the last 10 games. Harrison Barnes remains quiet, but steady, averaging 14.4 points on 48.6 percent shooting, 3.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists, in 34.8 minutes per game, over the last 10 games.
The Pistons (16-28) are coming off a loss in Washington in their most recent contest and have dropped six of their last 10 games. This marks their first game of a four-game home stand, where they can look to build some momentum and improve upon their 8-13 home record. Derrick Rose continues to play great for Detroit and is averaging team highs with 18.4 points and 5.8 assists per game. Sekou Doumbouya is keeping up his solid play in extended minutes, as he is averaging 12.2 points on 48.9 percent shooting, and 4.9 rebounds, in 29.5 minutes per game, over the last 10 games. Andre Drummond (face) and Reggie Jackson (back) are both questionable for action on Wednesday, while Markieff Morris is considered probable to play. The Pistons are shooting 46.8 percent from the field, including 37.2 percent from long range. They average 24.5 assists per game, but they are giving up 15.1 turnovers per game, which is fourth most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Kings (15-28) have dropped seven of their last 10 games, including their last five in a row. This marks the third game of a five-game road trip, as they enter with a 7-15 road record. The Kings average 106.8 points per game, but they are giving up an average of 110.1 points against. They are shooting 45.5 percent from the field, including 35.5 percent from long range. Buddy Hield leads the Kings with 20.1 points per game. De'Aaron Fox has been playing well, averaging 21.3 points, 8.1 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 2.0 steals, over the last 10 games. Harrison Barnes remains quiet, but steady, averaging 14.4 points on 48.6 percent shooting, 3.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists, in 34.8 minutes per game, over the last 10 games.
Magic Look To Stay Strong At Home
By Dan Bruno
The Orlando Magic play host to the Oklahoma City Thunder at Amway Center on Wednesday evening.
This marks the first game of a three-game home stand and the first game back home after a six-game road trip for the Magic (21-23), where they went 3-3, closing the trip on a high note with a win in their most recent contest. They have won two in a row at home, where they have a 13-8 record. Evan Fournier leads the Magic with 19.1 points per game, and he is coming off an impressive, 26-point performance in the Magic's most recent contest. Nikola Vucevic is averaging 18.9 points and and team-high 11.1 rebounds per game. Aaron Gordon has been solid lately, averaging 13.9 points on 49 percent shooting, 7.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.0 steals per game, over the last 10 games. The Magic average 103.8 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, but they are holding their opponents to a league-low 103.9 points per game. They average 8.6 steals per game, which is third most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Thunder (25-19) have won six of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row. This marks their second game of a two-game road trip, which began with an impressive win in Houston on Monday. Chris Paul came up huge in the win against his former team, with 28 points, eight rebounds, three assists, two steals and a block, in 33 minutes of action. Paul is averaging 17.0 points, 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to impress, averaging 19.4 points on 51.8 percent shooting, 8.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.3 steals per game, over the last 10 games. Dennis Schroder continues to give the Thunder a huge boost off the bench, averaging 18.1 points, 4.0 assists and 3.8 rebounds, in 33 minutes per game. The Thunder average 21.8 assists per game, which is fifth fewest in the league.
This marks the first game of a three-game home stand and the first game back home after a six-game road trip for the Magic (21-23), where they went 3-3, closing the trip on a high note with a win in their most recent contest. They have won two in a row at home, where they have a 13-8 record. Evan Fournier leads the Magic with 19.1 points per game, and he is coming off an impressive, 26-point performance in the Magic's most recent contest. Nikola Vucevic is averaging 18.9 points and and team-high 11.1 rebounds per game. Aaron Gordon has been solid lately, averaging 13.9 points on 49 percent shooting, 7.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.0 steals per game, over the last 10 games. The Magic average 103.8 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, but they are holding their opponents to a league-low 103.9 points per game. They average 8.6 steals per game, which is third most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Thunder (25-19) have won six of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row. This marks their second game of a two-game road trip, which began with an impressive win in Houston on Monday. Chris Paul came up huge in the win against his former team, with 28 points, eight rebounds, three assists, two steals and a block, in 33 minutes of action. Paul is averaging 17.0 points, 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to impress, averaging 19.4 points on 51.8 percent shooting, 8.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.3 steals per game, over the last 10 games. Dennis Schroder continues to give the Thunder a huge boost off the bench, averaging 18.1 points, 4.0 assists and 3.8 rebounds, in 33 minutes per game. The Thunder average 21.8 assists per game, which is fifth fewest in the league.
Raptors Look To Build On Four-Game Winning Streak
By Dan Bruno
The Toronto Raptors play host to the Philadelphia 76ers at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday evening.
The Raptors (29-14) have won seven of their last 10 games, including their last four in a row. They are coming off a win in Atlanta, where six players scored in double digits, led by Norman Powell, who tallied 27 points on 7-of-14 shooting, in 25 minutes off the bench. Powell has been playing great since returning from injury, averaging 23.6 points on 59.2 percent shooting, over the last five games. Pascal Siakam is still easing back into action, as he is averaging 16.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.2 blocks and 1.0 steals, over the last five games. Kyle Lowry continues to drive the team, averaging 18.6 points, 8.0 assists, 3.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals, over the last 10 games. The Raptors maintain a very strong defense, holding opposing teams to 42.7 percent shooting, which is second lowest in the league. On the offensive end, the Raptors average 112.0 points per game and are shooting 37.3 percent from long range, which is third best in the league.
Meanwhile, the 76ers (29-16) have won six of their last 10 games, including their last four in a row. This marks their third and final game of a road trip, as they look to build on their 9-14 road record. Joel Embiid (finger) has missed the last seven games and will remain out through Wednesday's action. While Embiid has been sidelined, the Sixers have managed to keep up the pace largely thanks to the great play of Ben Simmons, who is averaging 21.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, 7.7 assists and 1.9 steals, over the last 10 games, and is coming off a career-high, 34-point outing. Tobias Harris has topped 20 points once in the last five games and is averaging 17.9 points on 45.8 percent shooting, over the last 10 games. The 76ers do a great job of moving the ball, as they average 26.4 assists per game, which is third most in the league.
The Raptors (29-14) have won seven of their last 10 games, including their last four in a row. They are coming off a win in Atlanta, where six players scored in double digits, led by Norman Powell, who tallied 27 points on 7-of-14 shooting, in 25 minutes off the bench. Powell has been playing great since returning from injury, averaging 23.6 points on 59.2 percent shooting, over the last five games. Pascal Siakam is still easing back into action, as he is averaging 16.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.2 blocks and 1.0 steals, over the last five games. Kyle Lowry continues to drive the team, averaging 18.6 points, 8.0 assists, 3.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals, over the last 10 games. The Raptors maintain a very strong defense, holding opposing teams to 42.7 percent shooting, which is second lowest in the league. On the offensive end, the Raptors average 112.0 points per game and are shooting 37.3 percent from long range, which is third best in the league.
Meanwhile, the 76ers (29-16) have won six of their last 10 games, including their last four in a row. This marks their third and final game of a road trip, as they look to build on their 9-14 road record. Joel Embiid (finger) has missed the last seven games and will remain out through Wednesday's action. While Embiid has been sidelined, the Sixers have managed to keep up the pace largely thanks to the great play of Ben Simmons, who is averaging 21.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, 7.7 assists and 1.9 steals, over the last 10 games, and is coming off a career-high, 34-point outing. Tobias Harris has topped 20 points once in the last five games and is averaging 17.9 points on 45.8 percent shooting, over the last 10 games. The 76ers do a great job of moving the ball, as they average 26.4 assists per game, which is third most in the league.
Clippers and Hawks Meet in Interconference Battle
The Los Angeles Clippers take on the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on Wednesday night.
The Clippers (31-13) continue to enjoy a stellar season, and theya™ll check into Wednesday's game having won six of their last seven games. Their most recent success was particularly impressive, as they notched a 110-107 road victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday night. Kawhi Leonard led the way with 36 points, adding 11 rebounds, two assists, three steals and two blocks. Landry Shamet poured in 18 points, adding three rebounds and one assist. Lou Williams supplied 16 points, five rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Montrezl Harrell furnished 12 points, nine boards, one assist and two steals.
The Clippers will likely list Paul George (hamstring) and Patrick Beverley (groin) as questionable at best for Wednesday's game.
The Hawks (10-34) come into Wednesday's contest in the midst of another extended stretch of losing, as theya™ve dropped six of their last eight games. Their most recent debacle came against the Toronto Raptors, which toppled them by a 122-117 score on Monday afternoon. Trae Young led the way with 42 points, complementing them with 15 assists, six rebounds and one steal. John Collins generated a 17-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included three blocks. Cam Reddish and De'Andre Hunter posted matching 13-point tallies while pulling down eight and six rebounds. Bruno Fernando delivered 12 points, four boards and one steal.
The Hawks will remain without Jabari Parker (shoulder) and Chandler Parsons (concussion) for Wednesday's game. Alex Len (back) is likely to be listed as questionable at best.
Wednesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Clippers hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 150-101 win Nov. 16.
The Clippers (31-13) continue to enjoy a stellar season, and theya™ll check into Wednesday's game having won six of their last seven games. Their most recent success was particularly impressive, as they notched a 110-107 road victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday night. Kawhi Leonard led the way with 36 points, adding 11 rebounds, two assists, three steals and two blocks. Landry Shamet poured in 18 points, adding three rebounds and one assist. Lou Williams supplied 16 points, five rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block. Montrezl Harrell furnished 12 points, nine boards, one assist and two steals.
The Clippers will likely list Paul George (hamstring) and Patrick Beverley (groin) as questionable at best for Wednesday's game.
The Hawks (10-34) come into Wednesday's contest in the midst of another extended stretch of losing, as theya™ve dropped six of their last eight games. Their most recent debacle came against the Toronto Raptors, which toppled them by a 122-117 score on Monday afternoon. Trae Young led the way with 42 points, complementing them with 15 assists, six rebounds and one steal. John Collins generated a 17-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included three blocks. Cam Reddish and De'Andre Hunter posted matching 13-point tallies while pulling down eight and six rebounds. Bruno Fernando delivered 12 points, four boards and one steal.
The Hawks will remain without Jabari Parker (shoulder) and Chandler Parsons (concussion) for Wednesday's game. Alex Len (back) is likely to be listed as questionable at best.
Wednesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Clippers hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 150-101 win Nov. 16.
Grizzlies and Celtics Meet for Interconference Clash
The Memphis Grizzlies take on the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Wednesday night.
The Grizzlies (20-23) had recently put together a season-best seven-game winning streak that offered the potential to turn their season around, but they saw that stretch of victories snapped by the New Orleans Pelicans, 126-116, on Monday. Dillon Brooks led the way for Memphis with 31 points, adding nine rebounds, four assists and two steals. Jaren Jackson, Jr. pitched in 19 points, six boards, one assist and two blocks. Ja Morant followed with 16 points, nine assists, three rebounds and one steal. Jonas Valanciunas furnished 14 points, 11 boards, one assist and two steals. De'Anthony Melton poured in 10 points.
The Grizzlies will be without Bruno Caboclo (knee) and Andre Iguodala (team decision) for Wednesday's game.
The Celtics (28-14) entered a Monday showdown against the Los Angeles Lakers reeling from a three-game losing streak, but they righted their ship in sensational fashion by lambasting LeBron James and company, 139-107. Jayson Tatum paced the Celtics with 27 points, complementing them with five boards, three assists and one steal. Kemba Walker and Jaylen Brown generated matching 20-point, four-rebound tallies while dishing out seven and six assists, respectively. Enes Kanter supplied an 18-point, 11-rebound double-double. Gordon Hayward went for 16 points, six rebounds and five assists.
The Celtics will list Walker (knee) as probable for Wednesday's contest, while Brown (ankle) will carry a questionable tag.
Wednesday's game marks the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The Celtics swept the two-game 2018-19 season series from the Grizzlies.
The Grizzlies (20-23) had recently put together a season-best seven-game winning streak that offered the potential to turn their season around, but they saw that stretch of victories snapped by the New Orleans Pelicans, 126-116, on Monday. Dillon Brooks led the way for Memphis with 31 points, adding nine rebounds, four assists and two steals. Jaren Jackson, Jr. pitched in 19 points, six boards, one assist and two blocks. Ja Morant followed with 16 points, nine assists, three rebounds and one steal. Jonas Valanciunas furnished 14 points, 11 boards, one assist and two steals. De'Anthony Melton poured in 10 points.
The Grizzlies will be without Bruno Caboclo (knee) and Andre Iguodala (team decision) for Wednesday's game.
The Celtics (28-14) entered a Monday showdown against the Los Angeles Lakers reeling from a three-game losing streak, but they righted their ship in sensational fashion by lambasting LeBron James and company, 139-107. Jayson Tatum paced the Celtics with 27 points, complementing them with five boards, three assists and one steal. Kemba Walker and Jaylen Brown generated matching 20-point, four-rebound tallies while dishing out seven and six assists, respectively. Enes Kanter supplied an 18-point, 11-rebound double-double. Gordon Hayward went for 16 points, six rebounds and five assists.
The Celtics will list Walker (knee) as probable for Wednesday's contest, while Brown (ankle) will carry a questionable tag.
Wednesday's game marks the first of two meetings between the teams this season. The Celtics swept the two-game 2018-19 season series from the Grizzlies.
Wizards and Heat Meet in South Florida
The Washington Wizards take on the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena on Wednesday night.
The Wizards (14-28) continue to struggle to consistently string wins together, and accordingly, they'll check into Wednesday's game having dropped four of their last six decisions. However, one of their two victories during that stretch came Monday afternoon, when they dropped the Detroit Pistons by a 106-100 score. Bradley Beal led the way for Washington with 29 points and added six assists, one rebound and one steal. Ian Mahinmi registered 21 points, seven rebounds, one assist, three blocks and two steals. Thomas Bryant turned in 13 points, six boards, one assist and one block.
The Wizards will continue without Moritz Wagner (ankle), Garrison Mathews (ankle) and Rui Hachimura (groin) for Wednesday's game. Anzejs Pasecniks (ankle) is likely to be listed no better than questionable.
The Heat (30-13) continues to enjoy an outstanding season overall, although they'll come into Wednesday's contest with a rather ordinary 3-3 record over their last six games. They did manage one of those wins their last time on the court, however, as they generated a 118-113 comeback overtime victory against the Sacramento Kings on Monday evening. Kendrick Nunn led the Heat with 25 points and added seven rebounds and six assists. James Johnson came off the bench to contribute 22 points, six boards, three assists and two blocks. Goran Dragic furnished 18 points, four assists, two rebounds and one steal. Bam Adebayo had 16 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block. Duncan Robinson poured in 12 points.
The Heat will be without Justise Winslow (back) for Wednesday's contest. Jimmy Butler (hip) is likely to carry a questionable designation at best after missing Monday's game.
Wednesday's contest marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Heat having notched a 112-103 win Dec. 6 and the Wizards prevailing by a 123-105 score Dec. 30.
The Wizards (14-28) continue to struggle to consistently string wins together, and accordingly, they'll check into Wednesday's game having dropped four of their last six decisions. However, one of their two victories during that stretch came Monday afternoon, when they dropped the Detroit Pistons by a 106-100 score. Bradley Beal led the way for Washington with 29 points and added six assists, one rebound and one steal. Ian Mahinmi registered 21 points, seven rebounds, one assist, three blocks and two steals. Thomas Bryant turned in 13 points, six boards, one assist and one block.
The Wizards will continue without Moritz Wagner (ankle), Garrison Mathews (ankle) and Rui Hachimura (groin) for Wednesday's game. Anzejs Pasecniks (ankle) is likely to be listed no better than questionable.
The Heat (30-13) continues to enjoy an outstanding season overall, although they'll come into Wednesday's contest with a rather ordinary 3-3 record over their last six games. They did manage one of those wins their last time on the court, however, as they generated a 118-113 comeback overtime victory against the Sacramento Kings on Monday evening. Kendrick Nunn led the Heat with 25 points and added seven rebounds and six assists. James Johnson came off the bench to contribute 22 points, six boards, three assists and two blocks. Goran Dragic furnished 18 points, four assists, two rebounds and one steal. Bam Adebayo had 16 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block. Duncan Robinson poured in 12 points.
The Heat will be without Justise Winslow (back) for Wednesday's contest. Jimmy Butler (hip) is likely to carry a questionable designation at best after missing Monday's game.
Wednesday's contest marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Heat having notched a 112-103 win Dec. 6 and the Wizards prevailing by a 123-105 score Dec. 30.
Knicks Host Traveling Lakers
By Dan Bruno
The New York Knicks play host to the Los Angeles Lakers at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday evening.
The Knicks (12-32) have dropped eight of their last 10 games but are coming off a win in their most recent contest, where they topped the hosting Cavaliers. This marks their first game of a three-game home stand, as they look to bounce back from two straight home losses and build on their 6-15 home record. Julius Randle is averaging 18.9 points, 9.2 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. Mitchell Robinson continues to contribute off the bench and is averaging 7.2 points on 70.5 percent shooting, 5.0 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.1 steals, in 22.7 minutes per game. The Knicks average 104.3 points per game, which is third fewest in the league, while they are giving up an average of 112.2 points against. Marcus Morris Sr. (ankle) is questionable for action.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (34-9) have won eight of their last 10 games but are coming off a 32-point loss in Boston, in their most recent contest. This marks their third game of a five-game road trip, as they look to get back on track and build on their 18-4 road record. The Lakers average 114.0 points per game, which is seventh most in the league, while they are shooting a league-best 48.5 percent from the field. They average 8.4 steals per game, which is fifth most in the league, and they are averaging a league-best 7.3 blocks per game. Anthony Davis (glute) was quiet in the Lakers' most recent contest, which marked his first game back from a five-game absence, and he is listed as probable for action on Wednesday. LeBron James continues to dominate, as he is averaging 25.7 points, 11.3 assists, 8.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals, over the last 10 games. Kyle Kuzma has been playing well, averaging 16.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists, over the last 10 games, while the Lakers' duo of Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee do a great job controlling the paint.
The Knicks (12-32) have dropped eight of their last 10 games but are coming off a win in their most recent contest, where they topped the hosting Cavaliers. This marks their first game of a three-game home stand, as they look to bounce back from two straight home losses and build on their 6-15 home record. Julius Randle is averaging 18.9 points, 9.2 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. Mitchell Robinson continues to contribute off the bench and is averaging 7.2 points on 70.5 percent shooting, 5.0 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.1 steals, in 22.7 minutes per game. The Knicks average 104.3 points per game, which is third fewest in the league, while they are giving up an average of 112.2 points against. Marcus Morris Sr. (ankle) is questionable for action.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (34-9) have won eight of their last 10 games but are coming off a 32-point loss in Boston, in their most recent contest. This marks their third game of a five-game road trip, as they look to get back on track and build on their 18-4 road record. The Lakers average 114.0 points per game, which is seventh most in the league, while they are shooting a league-best 48.5 percent from the field. They average 8.4 steals per game, which is fifth most in the league, and they are averaging a league-best 7.3 blocks per game. Anthony Davis (glute) was quiet in the Lakers' most recent contest, which marked his first game back from a five-game absence, and he is listed as probable for action on Wednesday. LeBron James continues to dominate, as he is averaging 25.7 points, 11.3 assists, 8.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals, over the last 10 games. Kyle Kuzma has been playing well, averaging 16.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists, over the last 10 games, while the Lakers' duo of Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee do a great job controlling the paint.
Timberwolves and Bulls Tangle in Windy City
The Minnesota Timberwolves take on the Chicago Bulls at United Center on Wednesday night.
The Timberwolves (15-28) find themselves in the midst of another extended losing stretch, as they'll head into Wednesday's contest with six straight defeats in tow. Their most recent stumble came against the Denver Nuggets, which edged them by a 107-100 score Monday night. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with 28 points, adding eight rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block. Josh Okogie delivered 16 points, eight rebounds, one assist and one steal. Andrew Wiggins tallied 15 points, six boards, two assists and one block.
The Timberwolves will continue without Jake Layman (toe) on Wednesday.
The Bulls (16-29) haven't been exactly consistent themselves of late, as they'll check into Wednesday's game having lost nine of their last 12 games. Their recent time on the court resulted in one of those losses, as they fell by a 111-98 score to the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday afternoon. Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 24 points, adding five rebounds, one assist and three steals. Kris Dunn provided 15 points, five boards, two assists and three steals. Thaddeus Young delivered 14 points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Lauri Markkanen and Chandler Hutchison generated eight points apiece while pulling down eight and five boards, respectively.
The Bulls will remain without Wendell Carter, Jr. (ankle), Daniel Gafford (thumb) and Otto Porter, Jr. (foot) for Wednesday's game.
Wednesday's game marks first of two meetings between the teams this season. The Timberwolves swept the two-game 2018-19 season series from the Bulls.
The Timberwolves (15-28) find themselves in the midst of another extended losing stretch, as they'll head into Wednesday's contest with six straight defeats in tow. Their most recent stumble came against the Denver Nuggets, which edged them by a 107-100 score Monday night. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with 28 points, adding eight rebounds, five assists, one steal and one block. Josh Okogie delivered 16 points, eight rebounds, one assist and one steal. Andrew Wiggins tallied 15 points, six boards, two assists and one block.
The Timberwolves will continue without Jake Layman (toe) on Wednesday.
The Bulls (16-29) haven't been exactly consistent themselves of late, as they'll check into Wednesday's game having lost nine of their last 12 games. Their recent time on the court resulted in one of those losses, as they fell by a 111-98 score to the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday afternoon. Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 24 points, adding five rebounds, one assist and three steals. Kris Dunn provided 15 points, five boards, two assists and three steals. Thaddeus Young delivered 14 points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Lauri Markkanen and Chandler Hutchison generated eight points apiece while pulling down eight and five boards, respectively.
The Bulls will remain without Wendell Carter, Jr. (ankle), Daniel Gafford (thumb) and Otto Porter, Jr. (foot) for Wednesday's game.
Wednesday's game marks first of two meetings between the teams this season. The Timberwolves swept the two-game 2018-19 season series from the Bulls.
Rockets Host Nuggets on Wednesday
The Denver Nuggets travel to Texas to face the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on Wednesday.
The Nuggets (30-13) enter this matchup winning six of their last eight games. What makes that run miraculous is the fact that they're playing without three starters right now. Jamal Murray, Paul Millsap and Gary Harris are all injured and it's really tested the depth of this team. The good news is that this is one of the deepest rosters in the NBA. Players like Monte Morris, Will Barton and Michael Porter Jr have stepped up in their absences and it's leaving questions as to how they'll get all of these players minutes when they're all fully healthy. Some would argue that Porter is one of their most talented players and it's becoming evident that they can't keep leaving him on the bench. As long as Denver remains a Top-3 defense, this should remain one of the most dangerous teams in the NBA despite all of the injuries.
The Rockets (26-16) come into this matchup in the midst of a four-game losing streak which is probably their worst stretch of the season. One thing needs to be taken into consideration though and that's the competition. Those four defeats came against the Los Angeles Lakers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Memphis Grizzlies and Portland Trail Blazers. Three of those are some of the hottest teams in the league while Portland has the ability to beat anyone on any given night. A 1-for-17 three-point performance from James Harden in the last game has a lot of people questioning his ability as a leader but getting up shots after that loss shows just how much he cares about his game.
These teams have split their two meetings this season, with the home team prevailing in both. Prior to that, Houston won 10 of their previous 11 games over the Nuggets.
The Nuggets (30-13) enter this matchup winning six of their last eight games. What makes that run miraculous is the fact that they're playing without three starters right now. Jamal Murray, Paul Millsap and Gary Harris are all injured and it's really tested the depth of this team. The good news is that this is one of the deepest rosters in the NBA. Players like Monte Morris, Will Barton and Michael Porter Jr have stepped up in their absences and it's leaving questions as to how they'll get all of these players minutes when they're all fully healthy. Some would argue that Porter is one of their most talented players and it's becoming evident that they can't keep leaving him on the bench. As long as Denver remains a Top-3 defense, this should remain one of the most dangerous teams in the NBA despite all of the injuries.
The Rockets (26-16) come into this matchup in the midst of a four-game losing streak which is probably their worst stretch of the season. One thing needs to be taken into consideration though and that's the competition. Those four defeats came against the Los Angeles Lakers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Memphis Grizzlies and Portland Trail Blazers. Three of those are some of the hottest teams in the league while Portland has the ability to beat anyone on any given night. A 1-for-17 three-point performance from James Harden in the last game has a lot of people questioning his ability as a leader but getting up shots after that loss shows just how much he cares about his game.
These teams have split their two meetings this season, with the home team prevailing in both. Prior to that, Houston won 10 of their previous 11 games over the Nuggets.
Suns Hosr Pacers on Wednesday
The Indiana Pacers travel to Arizona to face the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on Wednesday.
The Pacers (28-16) have been a different team when they have to hop on a plane to play, owning an 11-11 record outside of Bankers Life Fieldhouse. That's a really surprising statistic from a club that many people consider to be a defensive-minded team because defense usually travels. The thing fans are really looking forward to is the return of Victor Oladipo. The All-Star guard had a nightmarish leg injury last season and he's about a week from a return. That would be a welcomed sight from a team that has grown a lot this season but one has to wonder how these players will respond. Malcolm Brogdon and Domantas Sabonis have thrived in their expanded roles and they'd hate to mess that up by bringing Oladipo in. In any case, they can't be any worse with a superstar back in the fold and that's frightening with Indiana winning seven of their last eight games in total.
The Suns (18-25) come into this matchup winning four of their last six games and fans are hopeful it's the start of a big run. This is a club that showed serious signs of promise early on and they actually have a slim chance of making the playoffs because of that quality start. What they really love to see is DeAndre Ayton balling out. The former top-pick is averaging about 27 points and 16 rebounds per game since being reinserted into the starting lineup and being benched clearly lit a fire underneath him. That pairs really nicely with great seasons from Devin Booker, Ricky Rubio and Kelly Oubre Jr, making this a team no one wants to face on any given night.
Indiana swept the two-game season series over Phoenix last year and has won seven of their last eight games over them in total.
The Pacers (28-16) have been a different team when they have to hop on a plane to play, owning an 11-11 record outside of Bankers Life Fieldhouse. That's a really surprising statistic from a club that many people consider to be a defensive-minded team because defense usually travels. The thing fans are really looking forward to is the return of Victor Oladipo. The All-Star guard had a nightmarish leg injury last season and he's about a week from a return. That would be a welcomed sight from a team that has grown a lot this season but one has to wonder how these players will respond. Malcolm Brogdon and Domantas Sabonis have thrived in their expanded roles and they'd hate to mess that up by bringing Oladipo in. In any case, they can't be any worse with a superstar back in the fold and that's frightening with Indiana winning seven of their last eight games in total.
The Suns (18-25) come into this matchup winning four of their last six games and fans are hopeful it's the start of a big run. This is a club that showed serious signs of promise early on and they actually have a slim chance of making the playoffs because of that quality start. What they really love to see is DeAndre Ayton balling out. The former top-pick is averaging about 27 points and 16 rebounds per game since being reinserted into the starting lineup and being benched clearly lit a fire underneath him. That pairs really nicely with great seasons from Devin Booker, Ricky Rubio and Kelly Oubre Jr, making this a team no one wants to face on any given night.
Indiana swept the two-game season series over Phoenix last year and has won seven of their last eight games over them in total.
Pelicans Host Spurs on Wednesday
The San Antonio Spurs travel to The Big Easy to face the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on Wednesday.
The Spurs (19-23) have had a nightmare schedule recently but some of their wins are telling. In fact, San Antonio's last five wins have come against the Milwaukee Bucks, Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics, Phoenix Suns and Miami Heat. That's quite the gauntlet and it's clear that San Antonio is out of their early-season swoon with wins like those in their back pocket. That means easier games are right around the corner and it's a great sign that the Spurs got out all of those tough Eastern Conference games early in the season. The thing that's hard to understand is their defense. The Spurs currently sit 26th in points allowed and that's a shocking statistic from an organization that usually sets their foundation based on defensive play. That's something that needs to improve, particularly in a matchup against one of the most talented offenses in the NBA.
The Pelicans (17-27) had one of the worst records in the NBA about a month ago but recent results have this looking like the team we expected to see all season long. In fact, New Orleans comes into this matchup winning 10 of their last 14 games. What makes that even scarier is the fact that Jrue Holiday just returned from injury in their last outing to drop 36 points and that Zion Williamson is expected to make his NBA debut here. The top-pick from last year's draft has all the talent in the world and it'll be fascinating to see how he gels with guys like Holiday and Brandon Ingram. Another big step is to get the defense to match their offensive capabilities, with the Pelicans sitting 29th in points allowed. That won't get them into the postseason but this talent is plenty capable of getting them there in a wide-open Western Conference.
This is the first meeting between these teams this season, with San Antonio winning the season series last year, 3-1.
The Spurs (19-23) have had a nightmare schedule recently but some of their wins are telling. In fact, San Antonio's last five wins have come against the Milwaukee Bucks, Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics, Phoenix Suns and Miami Heat. That's quite the gauntlet and it's clear that San Antonio is out of their early-season swoon with wins like those in their back pocket. That means easier games are right around the corner and it's a great sign that the Spurs got out all of those tough Eastern Conference games early in the season. The thing that's hard to understand is their defense. The Spurs currently sit 26th in points allowed and that's a shocking statistic from an organization that usually sets their foundation based on defensive play. That's something that needs to improve, particularly in a matchup against one of the most talented offenses in the NBA.
The Pelicans (17-27) had one of the worst records in the NBA about a month ago but recent results have this looking like the team we expected to see all season long. In fact, New Orleans comes into this matchup winning 10 of their last 14 games. What makes that even scarier is the fact that Jrue Holiday just returned from injury in their last outing to drop 36 points and that Zion Williamson is expected to make his NBA debut here. The top-pick from last year's draft has all the talent in the world and it'll be fascinating to see how he gels with guys like Holiday and Brandon Ingram. Another big step is to get the defense to match their offensive capabilities, with the Pelicans sitting 29th in points allowed. That won't get them into the postseason but this talent is plenty capable of getting them there in a wide-open Western Conference.
This is the first meeting between these teams this season, with San Antonio winning the season series last year, 3-1.
Warriors Host Jazz on Tuesday
The Utah Jazz travel to San Francisco to face the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on Wednesday.
The Jazz (30-13) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now. That's evident when you see that they've won 17 of their last 19 games, winning many of them in dominating fashion. What makes them so scary is their defense, allowing the fifth-fewest points in the league. That mark just continues to get better as the season progresses and they have the talent to be sitting at the top of the league in that statistic by the end of the season. That pairs nicely with their increase in offense, going from 28th in scoring all the way up to 16th in that same stretch. One would argue that the offense is only going to get better too, with Mike Conley returning from a hamstring issue earlier this week. If they can get him to return to his Memphis form, this could be one of the most dangerous teams in the postseason.
The Warriors (10-35) currently have the worst record in the NBA. That's quite the downfall from a team who has the best record over the last decade but it's really no surprise when you look at the personnel. Losing Kevin Durant and DeMarcus Cousins to free agency is one thing but losing Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Kevon Looney to injury is a whole new ballgame. That has left this roster completely dismantled and it would be hard to see them finishing outside of the bottom three. The good news is that Curry, Thompson and Looney are all expected to be back and fully healthy by the end of the season and that should pair wonderfully with a top-pick from next year's draft.
Utah has already played Golden State three times this season, winning all three of those meetings. That gives the Jazz seven wins in their last nine appearances against the Warriors in total.
The Jazz (30-13) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now. That's evident when you see that they've won 17 of their last 19 games, winning many of them in dominating fashion. What makes them so scary is their defense, allowing the fifth-fewest points in the league. That mark just continues to get better as the season progresses and they have the talent to be sitting at the top of the league in that statistic by the end of the season. That pairs nicely with their increase in offense, going from 28th in scoring all the way up to 16th in that same stretch. One would argue that the offense is only going to get better too, with Mike Conley returning from a hamstring issue earlier this week. If they can get him to return to his Memphis form, this could be one of the most dangerous teams in the postseason.
The Warriors (10-35) currently have the worst record in the NBA. That's quite the downfall from a team who has the best record over the last decade but it's really no surprise when you look at the personnel. Losing Kevin Durant and DeMarcus Cousins to free agency is one thing but losing Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Kevon Looney to injury is a whole new ballgame. That has left this roster completely dismantled and it would be hard to see them finishing outside of the bottom three. The good news is that Curry, Thompson and Looney are all expected to be back and fully healthy by the end of the season and that should pair wonderfully with a top-pick from next year's draft.
Utah has already played Golden State three times this season, winning all three of those meetings. That gives the Jazz seven wins in their last nine appearances against the Warriors in total.