Timberwolves and Pistons Set for Motown Showdown
The Minnesota Timberwolves take on the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on Tuesday night.
The Timberwolves (21-47) are wrapping up a lost season overall, but they're actually doing it with some momentum. Minnesota checks into Tuesday's contest having won five of its last eight games, with its most recent time on the court resulting in a 128-96 win over the Orlando Magic on Sunday night. Karl-Anthony Towns and D'Angelo Russell co-led the Timberwolves with 27 points, with Towns adding nine rebounds and Russell dishing out eight assists. Ricky Rubio offered 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and one steal. Anthony Edwards supplied a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included five assists and one block.
The Timberwolves will list Juancho Hernangomez (quadriceps) as questionable for Tuesday's game. Malik Beasley (hamstring) will remain out.
The Pistons (20-49) have also endured a difficult campaign, and they'll check into Tuesday's contest with six losses over the last seven games. Their most recent stumble occurred Sunday night, when they fell to the Chicago Bulls by a 108-96 score. Killian Hayes led the Pistons with 21 points, adding eight assists and seven rebounds. Saddiq Bey supplied 20 points, seven rebounds and one assist. Isaiah Stewart totaled 19 points, seven boards, three assists and two blocks. Saben Lee delivered 13 points, seven assists, one rebound and two steals. Tyler Cook finished with 12 points, six rebounds and one assist.
The Pistons will list Josh Jackson (mouth) and Frank Jackson (ankle) as questionable for Tuesday's contest. Cory Joseph (ankle), Dennis Smith (knee), Wayne Ellington (calf), Hamidou Diallo (COVID-19 protocols), Rodney McGruder (elbow), Mason Plumlee (rest) and Grant (knee) will all be out.
Tuesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Timberwolves hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 111-101 win Dec. 23.
The Timberwolves (21-47) are wrapping up a lost season overall, but they're actually doing it with some momentum. Minnesota checks into Tuesday's contest having won five of its last eight games, with its most recent time on the court resulting in a 128-96 win over the Orlando Magic on Sunday night. Karl-Anthony Towns and D'Angelo Russell co-led the Timberwolves with 27 points, with Towns adding nine rebounds and Russell dishing out eight assists. Ricky Rubio offered 18 points, two rebounds, two assists and one steal. Anthony Edwards supplied a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included five assists and one block.
The Timberwolves will list Juancho Hernangomez (quadriceps) as questionable for Tuesday's game. Malik Beasley (hamstring) will remain out.
The Pistons (20-49) have also endured a difficult campaign, and they'll check into Tuesday's contest with six losses over the last seven games. Their most recent stumble occurred Sunday night, when they fell to the Chicago Bulls by a 108-96 score. Killian Hayes led the Pistons with 21 points, adding eight assists and seven rebounds. Saddiq Bey supplied 20 points, seven rebounds and one assist. Isaiah Stewart totaled 19 points, seven boards, three assists and two blocks. Saben Lee delivered 13 points, seven assists, one rebound and two steals. Tyler Cook finished with 12 points, six rebounds and one assist.
The Pistons will list Josh Jackson (mouth) and Frank Jackson (ankle) as questionable for Tuesday's contest. Cory Joseph (ankle), Dennis Smith (knee), Wayne Ellington (calf), Hamidou Diallo (COVID-19 protocols), Rodney McGruder (elbow), Mason Plumlee (rest) and Grant (knee) will all be out.
Tuesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Timberwolves hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 111-101 win Dec. 23.
Nuggets and Hornets Tangle in Interconference Clash
The Denver Nuggets take on the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on Tuesday night.
The Nuggets (44-24) have enjoyed a very successful season overall and currently slot into the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference, but they'll check into Tuesday's game having dropped consecutive games yet still within one game of the No. 3-seeded Clippers. Denver's most recent stumble came Saturday night, when they fell to the Brooklyn Nets by a 125-119 score. Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 29 points, complementing them with seven rebounds and six assists. Michael Porter, Jr. delivered 28 points, four boards, two assists and two steals. Facundo Campazzo supplied 19 points, five assists, two rebounds and three steals. Markus Howard poured in 13 points, while Austin Rivers finished with 12 points, five rebounds, one assist and two steals.
The Nuggets will remain without Will Barton (hamstring) and PJ Dozier (groin) for Tuesday's game. Monte Morris (hamstring) will carry a questionable tag, while Aaron Gordon (calf) will be listed as probable.
The Hornets (33-35) are also fighting to solidify a play-in spot in the Eastern Conference, but they arrive Tuesday with a 3-5 mark over their last eight games. Charlotte's most recent stumble came Sunday night, when they fell to the New Orleans Pelicans by a 112-110 score. Terry Rozier led the way with 43 points, adding five rebounds, four assists and one steal. LaMelo Ball managed 22 points, five assists, four rebounds and two steals. Cody Zeller supplied 17 points and eight boards, while P.J. Washington generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included two assists, one steal and one block.
The Hornets will remain without Cody Martin (ankle), Miles Bridges (COVID-19 protocols) and Gordon Hayward (foot) for Tuesday's game. Devonte' Graham (knee) will be listed as questionable.
Tuesday's contest marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Nuggets hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 129-104 win March 17.
The Nuggets (44-24) have enjoyed a very successful season overall and currently slot into the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference, but they'll check into Tuesday's game having dropped consecutive games yet still within one game of the No. 3-seeded Clippers. Denver's most recent stumble came Saturday night, when they fell to the Brooklyn Nets by a 125-119 score. Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 29 points, complementing them with seven rebounds and six assists. Michael Porter, Jr. delivered 28 points, four boards, two assists and two steals. Facundo Campazzo supplied 19 points, five assists, two rebounds and three steals. Markus Howard poured in 13 points, while Austin Rivers finished with 12 points, five rebounds, one assist and two steals.
The Nuggets will remain without Will Barton (hamstring) and PJ Dozier (groin) for Tuesday's game. Monte Morris (hamstring) will carry a questionable tag, while Aaron Gordon (calf) will be listed as probable.
The Hornets (33-35) are also fighting to solidify a play-in spot in the Eastern Conference, but they arrive Tuesday with a 3-5 mark over their last eight games. Charlotte's most recent stumble came Sunday night, when they fell to the New Orleans Pelicans by a 112-110 score. Terry Rozier led the way with 43 points, adding five rebounds, four assists and one steal. LaMelo Ball managed 22 points, five assists, four rebounds and two steals. Cody Zeller supplied 17 points and eight boards, while P.J. Washington generated a 14-point, 12-rebound double-double that also included two assists, one steal and one block.
The Hornets will remain without Cody Martin (ankle), Miles Bridges (COVID-19 protocols) and Gordon Hayward (foot) for Tuesday's game. Devonte' Graham (knee) will be listed as questionable.
Tuesday's contest marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Nuggets hold a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 129-104 win March 17.
Heat and Celtics Primed for Beantown Rematch
The Miami Heat takes on the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Tuesday night.
The Heat (37-31) are trending in the right direction as the postseason nears, as they've won five of the last six games. Miami's most recent success came at the expense of these same Celtics, which they toppled by a 130-124 score Sunday afternoon. Jimmy Butler paced the Heat with 26 points, adding 11 assists, eight rebounds and two steals. Duncan Robinson poured in 22 points and added three rebounds, one assist and one steal. Bam Adebayo furnished 20 points, six boards, three assists and two steals. Trevor Ariza delivered 19 points, four rebounds, one assist, three steals and one block. Tyler Herro and Kendrick Nunn poured in 12 points apiece.
The Heat will continue without Victor Oladipo (knee) for Tuesday's game.
The Celtics (35-33) have not been anywhere near as effective as their opponent recently, as they've dropped three of the last four and six of the last nine overall. Additionally, Monday brought the news that Jaylen Brown will miss the rest of the season with a wrist injury. In Sunday's defeat at the hands of the Heat, Evan Fournier paced Boston with 30 points, complementing them with eight assists, three rebounds and one block. Jayson Tatum turned in 29 points, six assists, five rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Kemba Walker compiled 18 points, six assists, two rebounds and two steals. Marcus Smart and Aaron Nesmith put up 16 points each while recording four assists and four rebounds, respectively.
In addition to Brown, the Celtics are also likely to be without Robert Williams (toe) for Tuesday's game, as he's listed as doubtful.
Tuesday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Celtics having notched a 107-105 win Jan. 6 before Sunday's loss.
The Heat (37-31) are trending in the right direction as the postseason nears, as they've won five of the last six games. Miami's most recent success came at the expense of these same Celtics, which they toppled by a 130-124 score Sunday afternoon. Jimmy Butler paced the Heat with 26 points, adding 11 assists, eight rebounds and two steals. Duncan Robinson poured in 22 points and added three rebounds, one assist and one steal. Bam Adebayo furnished 20 points, six boards, three assists and two steals. Trevor Ariza delivered 19 points, four rebounds, one assist, three steals and one block. Tyler Herro and Kendrick Nunn poured in 12 points apiece.
The Heat will continue without Victor Oladipo (knee) for Tuesday's game.
The Celtics (35-33) have not been anywhere near as effective as their opponent recently, as they've dropped three of the last four and six of the last nine overall. Additionally, Monday brought the news that Jaylen Brown will miss the rest of the season with a wrist injury. In Sunday's defeat at the hands of the Heat, Evan Fournier paced Boston with 30 points, complementing them with eight assists, three rebounds and one block. Jayson Tatum turned in 29 points, six assists, five rebounds, two blocks and one steal. Kemba Walker compiled 18 points, six assists, two rebounds and two steals. Marcus Smart and Aaron Nesmith put up 16 points each while recording four assists and four rebounds, respectively.
In addition to Brown, the Celtics are also likely to be without Robert Williams (toe) for Tuesday's game, as he's listed as doubtful.
Tuesday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Celtics having notched a 107-105 win Jan. 6 before Sunday's loss.
Shorthanded Raptors Host Clippers
By Dan Bruno
The Toronto Raptors play host to the Los Angeles Clippers at Amalie Arena on Tuesday evening.
The Raptors (27-41) have dropped seven of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to get back on track and improve on their, 16-18, home record, as they face the third and final game of a home stand. Pascal Siakam (shoulder), Kyle Lowry (rest), Fred VanVleet (rest) and OG Anunoby (calf) will be sidelined through Tuesday's contest, while Chris Boucher (knee) is questionable for action. With the starting backcourt sidelined, Malachi Flynn will continue to see extended minutes, as he is averaging 8.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.7 assists, in 21 minutes per game, over the last 10 games. The Raptors continue to struggle on the offensive end, as they are shooting an average of 44.9 percent from the field, which is fifth worst in the league, but they limit themselves to 12.5 turnovers per game, which is eighth fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Clippers (45-23) have won six of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a loss in their most recent outing. They will look to get back on track and improve on their, 19-13, road record, as they face the first game of a four-game road trip. Serge Ibaka (back) is expected to remain out. Kawhi Leonard is back in action and averaging, 25.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.6 steals per game. Paul George continues to play well, averaging 23.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.2 steals, while DeMarcus Cousins has been finding his groove, averaging 9.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.2 assists, over his last nine games. The Clippers are averaging 114.0 points per game and they are shooting an average of 48.2 percent from the field, which is sixth best in the league. They do a good job on the defensive end, holding opponents to an average of 107.9 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league.
The Raptors (27-41) have dropped seven of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to get back on track and improve on their, 16-18, home record, as they face the third and final game of a home stand. Pascal Siakam (shoulder), Kyle Lowry (rest), Fred VanVleet (rest) and OG Anunoby (calf) will be sidelined through Tuesday's contest, while Chris Boucher (knee) is questionable for action. With the starting backcourt sidelined, Malachi Flynn will continue to see extended minutes, as he is averaging 8.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.7 assists, in 21 minutes per game, over the last 10 games. The Raptors continue to struggle on the offensive end, as they are shooting an average of 44.9 percent from the field, which is fifth worst in the league, but they limit themselves to 12.5 turnovers per game, which is eighth fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Clippers (45-23) have won six of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a loss in their most recent outing. They will look to get back on track and improve on their, 19-13, road record, as they face the first game of a four-game road trip. Serge Ibaka (back) is expected to remain out. Kawhi Leonard is back in action and averaging, 25.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.6 steals per game. Paul George continues to play well, averaging 23.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.2 steals, while DeMarcus Cousins has been finding his groove, averaging 9.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.2 assists, over his last nine games. The Clippers are averaging 114.0 points per game and they are shooting an average of 48.2 percent from the field, which is sixth best in the league. They do a good job on the defensive end, holding opponents to an average of 107.9 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league.
Streaking Bulls Host Nets
By Dan Bruno
The Chicago Bulls play host to the Brooklyn Nets at United Center on Tuesday evening.
The Bulls (29-39) have won their last three games, but they are, 5-5, in their last 10 games. They will look to get back on track and to improve on their, 13-20, home record. Zach LaVine has been back in action and is averaging 19.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.0 steals, over the last two games. Nikola Vucevic continues to play well, averaging 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists and and 1.0 steals, while Coby White is averaging 15.2 points, 4.7 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game. The Bulls are shooting an average of 47.7 percent from the field, which is eighth best in the league, while they are scoring an average of 110.9 points per game. However, they need to do a better job of taking care of the ball, as they are giving up 14.6 turnovers per game, which is fourth most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Nets (44-24) are, 5-5, in their last 10 games, but they are coming off a win in their most recent contest. They will look to build some momentum and add to their, 19-16, road record, as they face the fifth and final game of a road trip. James Harden (hamstring) will remain sidelined, but Kevin Durant continues to play at a very high level, 28.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.3 blocks, in 33 minutes per game. Kyrie Irving also continues to play well, averaging 27.4 points, 6.2 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game, while Joe Harris is averaging 14.1 points, while shooting an average of 48 percent from long range. The Nets are averaging 118.6 points per game, which is second most in the league, and they are shooting a league-best 49.2 percent from the field. On the other hand, they are giving up an average of 114.6 points per game, which is eighth most in the league.
The Bulls (29-39) have won their last three games, but they are, 5-5, in their last 10 games. They will look to get back on track and to improve on their, 13-20, home record. Zach LaVine has been back in action and is averaging 19.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.0 steals, over the last two games. Nikola Vucevic continues to play well, averaging 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists and and 1.0 steals, while Coby White is averaging 15.2 points, 4.7 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game. The Bulls are shooting an average of 47.7 percent from the field, which is eighth best in the league, while they are scoring an average of 110.9 points per game. However, they need to do a better job of taking care of the ball, as they are giving up 14.6 turnovers per game, which is fourth most in the league.
Meanwhile, the Nets (44-24) are, 5-5, in their last 10 games, but they are coming off a win in their most recent contest. They will look to build some momentum and add to their, 19-16, road record, as they face the fifth and final game of a road trip. James Harden (hamstring) will remain sidelined, but Kevin Durant continues to play at a very high level, 28.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.3 blocks, in 33 minutes per game. Kyrie Irving also continues to play well, averaging 27.4 points, 6.2 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game, while Joe Harris is averaging 14.1 points, while shooting an average of 48 percent from long range. The Nets are averaging 118.6 points per game, which is second most in the league, and they are shooting a league-best 49.2 percent from the field. On the other hand, they are giving up an average of 114.6 points per game, which is eighth most in the league.
Pacers Look To Stay Strong On Second Night Of Back-To-Back
By Dan Bruno
The Indiana Pacers play host to the Philadelphia 76ers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Tuesday evening.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Pacers (32-36), as they are coming off a win in Cleveland on Monday. The contest got out to a competitive start, as they trailed after one quarter, but they fell behind by seven heading into halftime. The Pacers came out stronger in the third and overtook the lead late in the quarter. They kept up the fight through the final frame and rallied to 10-point lead and held on to close out a nine-point win. Domantas Sabonis kept up the great play as he the way with 21 points, 20 rebounds, nine assists, four blocks and two steals. Caris LeVert also had a huge night, with 20 points, 10 rebounds, three rebounds, a steal and a block, while Kelan Martin added 25 points, seven rebound and a block. The Pacers will look to build some momentum off the win and add to their, 12-21, home record, as they face the first game of a three-game home stand.
Meanwhile, the 76ers (47-21) have won their last eight games in a row. They will look to keep rolling and add to their, 20-14, road record, as they face the first game of a two-game trip. Joel Embiid (illness) is listed as questionable for action. Tobias Harris is averaging 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists, in 33 minutes per game. Ben Simmons is averaging 14.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 1.6 steals, while Seth Curry is averaging 12.5 points, 2.8 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game. The 76ers are shooting an average of 47.7 percent from the field, which is ninth best in the league. They do a good job on the defensive end, averaging 9.1 steals per game, which is second most in the league, and they are holding opponents to an average of 108.2 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Pacers (32-36), as they are coming off a win in Cleveland on Monday. The contest got out to a competitive start, as they trailed after one quarter, but they fell behind by seven heading into halftime. The Pacers came out stronger in the third and overtook the lead late in the quarter. They kept up the fight through the final frame and rallied to 10-point lead and held on to close out a nine-point win. Domantas Sabonis kept up the great play as he the way with 21 points, 20 rebounds, nine assists, four blocks and two steals. Caris LeVert also had a huge night, with 20 points, 10 rebounds, three rebounds, a steal and a block, while Kelan Martin added 25 points, seven rebound and a block. The Pacers will look to build some momentum off the win and add to their, 12-21, home record, as they face the first game of a three-game home stand.
Meanwhile, the 76ers (47-21) have won their last eight games in a row. They will look to keep rolling and add to their, 20-14, road record, as they face the first game of a two-game trip. Joel Embiid (illness) is listed as questionable for action. Tobias Harris is averaging 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists, in 33 minutes per game. Ben Simmons is averaging 14.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 1.6 steals, while Seth Curry is averaging 12.5 points, 2.8 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game. The 76ers are shooting an average of 47.7 percent from the field, which is ninth best in the league. They do a good job on the defensive end, averaging 9.1 steals per game, which is second most in the league, and they are holding opponents to an average of 108.2 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league.
Mavericks and Grizzlies Meet in Memphis
The Dallas Mavericks take on the Memphis Grizzlies at FedEx Forum on Tuesday night.
The Mavericks (40-28) have already clinched a division title and currently hold the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference thanks in part to an 8-2 mark over their last 10 games. Dallas' most recent win, their fourth straight victory, came Sunday night, when they throttled the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 124-97 margin, a game in which Luka Doncic was ejected in the third quarter for a flagrant foul on Collin Sexton. Tim Hardaway, Jr. led the Mavericks with 25 points, adding three assists and two rebounds. Josh Richardson furnished 20 points, two rebounds, one assist and two steals. Doncic supplied 15 points, five boards, five assists and two steals. Jalen Brunson registered 13 points, seven assists, one rebound and two steals. Dwight Powell turned in 12 points, nine rebounds, four assists, four blocks and one steal.
The Mavericks will continue without Kristaps Porzingis (knee) for Tuesday's game. Maxi Kleber (Achilles) will be listed as questionable.
The Grizzlies (35-33) are also making plans for the postseason, as they current hold the No. 9 spot in the conference and still have a chance to vault over the Golden State Warriors for the No. 8 seed. Memphis has prevailed in three of its past four games, with its most recent success coming in the form of a 115-110 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday night. Dillon Brooks paced the Grizzlies with 23 points, supplementing them with four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Jonas Valanciunas generated a 20-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included two assists and five blocks. Kyle Anderson contributed 14 points, four rebounds, four assists and four blocks. Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson poured in 12 points each, with Jackson also recording seven rebounds and four blocks and Morant handing out 12 assists.
The Grizzlies are likely to continue without Grayson Allen (abdomen) for Tuesday's contest.
Tuesday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Mavericks hold a 2-0 series lead, having notched 102-92 and 114-113 wins on Feb. 22 and April 14, respectively.
The Mavericks (40-28) have already clinched a division title and currently hold the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference thanks in part to an 8-2 mark over their last 10 games. Dallas' most recent win, their fourth straight victory, came Sunday night, when they throttled the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 124-97 margin, a game in which Luka Doncic was ejected in the third quarter for a flagrant foul on Collin Sexton. Tim Hardaway, Jr. led the Mavericks with 25 points, adding three assists and two rebounds. Josh Richardson furnished 20 points, two rebounds, one assist and two steals. Doncic supplied 15 points, five boards, five assists and two steals. Jalen Brunson registered 13 points, seven assists, one rebound and two steals. Dwight Powell turned in 12 points, nine rebounds, four assists, four blocks and one steal.
The Mavericks will continue without Kristaps Porzingis (knee) for Tuesday's game. Maxi Kleber (Achilles) will be listed as questionable.
The Grizzlies (35-33) are also making plans for the postseason, as they current hold the No. 9 spot in the conference and still have a chance to vault over the Golden State Warriors for the No. 8 seed. Memphis has prevailed in three of its past four games, with its most recent success coming in the form of a 115-110 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday night. Dillon Brooks paced the Grizzlies with 23 points, supplementing them with four rebounds, two assists and two steals. Jonas Valanciunas generated a 20-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included two assists and five blocks. Kyle Anderson contributed 14 points, four rebounds, four assists and four blocks. Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson poured in 12 points each, with Jackson also recording seven rebounds and four blocks and Morant handing out 12 assists.
The Grizzlies are likely to continue without Grayson Allen (abdomen) for Tuesday's contest.
Tuesday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Mavericks hold a 2-0 series lead, having notched 102-92 and 114-113 wins on Feb. 22 and April 14, respectively.
Bucks Look To Bounce Back On Second Night Of Back-To-Back
By Dan Bruno
The Milwaukee Bucks play host to the Orlando Magic at Fiserv Forum on Tuesday evening.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Bucks (43-25), as they are coming off a rough loss in San Antonio on Monday night. They fell behind early in the contest, trailing , 45-36, after one quarter and by 23, at halftime. They picked up the pace in the third but could only manage to trim it to a 20-point game heading into the fourth. They kept pushing but it was not enough, as they fell in the road loss. Giannis Antetokounmpo continued his strong play with 28 points, four assists and three rebounds, while Khris Middleton followed up with 23 points, seven rebounds and five assists, and Jrue Holiday added 20 points, six assists and two rebounds, in the loss. The Bucks will look to bounce back and add to their, 24-10, home record, as they face their second last home game of the season.
Meanwhile, the Magic (21-47) have dropped seven of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to get back on track and add to their, 10-22, road record, as they face the first game of a four-game road trip. Cole Anthony continues to play well, averaging 12.3 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists, in 27 minutes per game. Dwayne Bacon is averaging 11.3 points and 3.0 rebounds, while Gary Harris is averaging 10.5 points and 2.4 assists per game. The Magic are averaging 104.1 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, while they are shooting a league-worst 43.0 percent from the field. On the other end, they are giving up an average of 112.9 points per game and allowing opponents to shoot an average of 47.2 percent from the field, which is ninth highest in the league. However, they limit themselves to an average of 12.1 turnovers per game, which is fourth fewest in the league.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Bucks (43-25), as they are coming off a rough loss in San Antonio on Monday night. They fell behind early in the contest, trailing , 45-36, after one quarter and by 23, at halftime. They picked up the pace in the third but could only manage to trim it to a 20-point game heading into the fourth. They kept pushing but it was not enough, as they fell in the road loss. Giannis Antetokounmpo continued his strong play with 28 points, four assists and three rebounds, while Khris Middleton followed up with 23 points, seven rebounds and five assists, and Jrue Holiday added 20 points, six assists and two rebounds, in the loss. The Bucks will look to bounce back and add to their, 24-10, home record, as they face their second last home game of the season.
Meanwhile, the Magic (21-47) have dropped seven of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to get back on track and add to their, 10-22, road record, as they face the first game of a four-game road trip. Cole Anthony continues to play well, averaging 12.3 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists, in 27 minutes per game. Dwayne Bacon is averaging 11.3 points and 3.0 rebounds, while Gary Harris is averaging 10.5 points and 2.4 assists per game. The Magic are averaging 104.1 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, while they are shooting a league-worst 43.0 percent from the field. On the other end, they are giving up an average of 112.9 points per game and allowing opponents to shoot an average of 47.2 percent from the field, which is ninth highest in the league. However, they limit themselves to an average of 12.1 turnovers per game, which is fourth fewest in the league.
Warriors Host Suns on Tuesday
The Golden State Warriors play host to the Phoenix Suns at Chase Center on Tuesday.
The Suns (48-20) just suffered a really frustrating loss on Sunday, being beaten by a shorthanded Los Angeles Lakers team. Anthony Davis went off on them in that loss, and it dropped them two games back of the best record in the NBA. That means they are almost locked into the two-seed in the west, which is quite the accomplishment for a team that hasn't reached the postseason in a decade. It remains to be seen if they can do anything in the playoffs, but homecourt through the first two rounds is a good start. That Davis blow-up on them is a good indicator of what they need to work on, though, because big men can kill this team at times. That's going to be an even bigger problem with a guy like Nikola Jokic in the postseason, and it'll be interesting to see how they try to stop those sorts of players when it matters most.
The Warriors (36-33) come into this matchup, winning five of their last six games, securing a playoff berth. The only unfortunate thing is that they're locked in the play-in tournament, sitting four games back of sixth and four games up on 11th. That means the Warriors season will come down to one game, but that's scary for their opponents considering that they're the ones with Stephen Curry. The former MVP has been playing like the current MVP, averaging nearly 40 points per game over the last month. He can single-handedly carry a team at any given point, and it makes this a club no one wants to face come the tourney.
These teams have already played twice this season, with Phoenix winning both matchups by at least 20 points apiece. That gives the Suns five wins in their last seven meetings with the Warriors, which followed up an 18-game winning streak by Golden State in this series.
The Suns (48-20) just suffered a really frustrating loss on Sunday, being beaten by a shorthanded Los Angeles Lakers team. Anthony Davis went off on them in that loss, and it dropped them two games back of the best record in the NBA. That means they are almost locked into the two-seed in the west, which is quite the accomplishment for a team that hasn't reached the postseason in a decade. It remains to be seen if they can do anything in the playoffs, but homecourt through the first two rounds is a good start. That Davis blow-up on them is a good indicator of what they need to work on, though, because big men can kill this team at times. That's going to be an even bigger problem with a guy like Nikola Jokic in the postseason, and it'll be interesting to see how they try to stop those sorts of players when it matters most.
The Warriors (36-33) come into this matchup, winning five of their last six games, securing a playoff berth. The only unfortunate thing is that they're locked in the play-in tournament, sitting four games back of sixth and four games up on 11th. That means the Warriors season will come down to one game, but that's scary for their opponents considering that they're the ones with Stephen Curry. The former MVP has been playing like the current MVP, averaging nearly 40 points per game over the last month. He can single-handedly carry a team at any given point, and it makes this a club no one wants to face come the tourney.
These teams have already played twice this season, with Phoenix winning both matchups by at least 20 points apiece. That gives the Suns five wins in their last seven meetings with the Warriors, which followed up an 18-game winning streak by Golden State in this series.
Lakers Host Knicks on Tuesday
The Los Angeles Lakers play host to the New York Knicks at Staples Center on Tuesday.
The Knicks (38-30) are finishing up a really tough West Coast road trip, and the results have been pretty good. After a win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, New York has a 13-3 record over their last 16 games played. That has catapulted them up to the four-seed in the Eastern Conference, and they have nearly guaranteed themselves homecourt advantage in the first round of the playoffs. These Knicks fans haven't seen any playoff action for a long time now, and to get home games is even more amazing. The thing that's gotten them to this point is their stifling defense, surrendering the fewest points in the NBA. A lot of that can be attributed to Tom Thibideau, who looks like the frontrunner for Coach of the Year as well.
The Lakers (38-30) just picked up a huge win on Sunday, upsetting the Phoenix Suns, 123-110. They actually won that game in wire-to-wire fashion, getting a career performance from Anthony Davis. The superstar big man tallied 42 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, three steals, and three blocks in that majestic performance, stepping up for LeBron James. It also got them within one game of the six-seed in the west, and that's a critical spot in order to fade the play-in game. The most important thing is to get Davis and James healthy for their playoff run, and it's certainly a team no one wants to play, no matter what seed they finish with. James is expected to return here and this is where things get fun for the Lakers.
These teams played back on April 12, with New York prevailing, 111-96. That followed up a season sweep by the Lakers last year, followed up a sweep by the Knicks in the year prior.
The Knicks (38-30) are finishing up a really tough West Coast road trip, and the results have been pretty good. After a win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, New York has a 13-3 record over their last 16 games played. That has catapulted them up to the four-seed in the Eastern Conference, and they have nearly guaranteed themselves homecourt advantage in the first round of the playoffs. These Knicks fans haven't seen any playoff action for a long time now, and to get home games is even more amazing. The thing that's gotten them to this point is their stifling defense, surrendering the fewest points in the NBA. A lot of that can be attributed to Tom Thibideau, who looks like the frontrunner for Coach of the Year as well.
The Lakers (38-30) just picked up a huge win on Sunday, upsetting the Phoenix Suns, 123-110. They actually won that game in wire-to-wire fashion, getting a career performance from Anthony Davis. The superstar big man tallied 42 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, three steals, and three blocks in that majestic performance, stepping up for LeBron James. It also got them within one game of the six-seed in the west, and that's a critical spot in order to fade the play-in game. The most important thing is to get Davis and James healthy for their playoff run, and it's certainly a team no one wants to play, no matter what seed they finish with. James is expected to return here and this is where things get fun for the Lakers.
These teams played back on April 12, with New York prevailing, 111-96. That followed up a season sweep by the Lakers last year, followed up a sweep by the Knicks in the year prior.
Kings Host Thunder on Tuesday
The Sacramento Kings play host to the Oklahoma City Thunder at Golden 1 Center on Tuesday.
The Thunder (21-48) come into this matchup losing seven straight and 21 of their last 22 games in total. That freefall down the standings has dropped them to 14th in the west which is about as far as they can fall. While it might sound strange, that was the ultimate goal for this team. They decided to rest Al Horford and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the final two months, and it's the beginning of a long rebuild. The good news is that it will earn OKC one of the top picks in the draft, and they have a ton of those over the next five years. That has many people believing this club could be a threat in years to come, but it remains to be seen if they'll try to rebuild through the draft or trade some of the picks away for known assets.
The Kings (30-38) are trying to make one final push at a playoff appearance, but it's looking like too little, too late. They come into this matchup, winning five of their last six games, and now sit 2.5 games back of the San Antonio Spurs in 11th. That means they need some help to achieve that goal with only four games remaining, and it's never a good feeling to not have your fate in your own hands. The Kings haven't earned the right to do that, though, owning the worst defense in the NBA. That's what's held them back from being a true contender, and it's sad to see all this young talent go to waste yet again. The good news is that De'Aaron Fox, Richaun Holmes, and Buddy Hield have another offseason to work together and Sacramento fans are just hoping they can start competing instead of rebuilding year after year.
These teams just played on Sunday, with Sacramento dominating, 126-98. That gives the Kings two wins over the Thunder this year, holding them below 100 points in each.
The Thunder (21-48) come into this matchup losing seven straight and 21 of their last 22 games in total. That freefall down the standings has dropped them to 14th in the west which is about as far as they can fall. While it might sound strange, that was the ultimate goal for this team. They decided to rest Al Horford and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the final two months, and it's the beginning of a long rebuild. The good news is that it will earn OKC one of the top picks in the draft, and they have a ton of those over the next five years. That has many people believing this club could be a threat in years to come, but it remains to be seen if they'll try to rebuild through the draft or trade some of the picks away for known assets.
The Kings (30-38) are trying to make one final push at a playoff appearance, but it's looking like too little, too late. They come into this matchup, winning five of their last six games, and now sit 2.5 games back of the San Antonio Spurs in 11th. That means they need some help to achieve that goal with only four games remaining, and it's never a good feeling to not have your fate in your own hands. The Kings haven't earned the right to do that, though, owning the worst defense in the NBA. That's what's held them back from being a true contender, and it's sad to see all this young talent go to waste yet again. The good news is that De'Aaron Fox, Richaun Holmes, and Buddy Hield have another offseason to work together and Sacramento fans are just hoping they can start competing instead of rebuilding year after year.
These teams just played on Sunday, with Sacramento dominating, 126-98. That gives the Kings two wins over the Thunder this year, holding them below 100 points in each.