Clippers and Pelicans Face Off in Matinee Action
The Los Angeles Clippers take on the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on Saturday afternoon.
The Clippers (29-13) check into Saturday's game in the midst of an impressive stretch of play despite the ongoing absence of Paul George (hamstring), as they're now 6-2 over their last eight games. Their most recent success came at the expense of the Orlando Magic, which they dominated by a 122-95 score Thursday night. Nikola Vucevic led the way with 22 points, complementing them with nine rebounds, four assists and one steal. Aaron Gordon posted 20 points and five assists. Terrence Ross provided 16 points, five boards, three assists, one steal and one block. Evan Fournier delivered 15 points, four rebounds and two assists. Markelle Fultz turned in 11 points, five assists, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
The Clippers will remain without George for Saturday's game. Maurice Harkless (back) will carry a questionable tag.
The Pelicans (16-26) have dealt with plenty of adversity during the first half of the season, but they'll enter Saturday's contest having prevailed in four of their last five contests. Their most recent victory was a memorable one, as they edged the Utah Jazz by a 138-132 score in overtime on Thursday night. Brandon Ingram led the way for the Pelicans with a career-high 49 points, complementing them with eight rebounds, six assists and one block. Derrick Favors generated a 21-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included three assists, two steals and three blocks. E'Twaun Moore poured in 16 points, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Frank Jackson posted 12 and 10 points, respectively.
The Pelicans will remain without Jrue Holiday (elbow), Kenrich Williams (back), Jahlil Okafor (back), Zion Williamson (knee) and Darius Miller (Achilles) for Saturday's game. JJ Redick (hamstring) will be listed as questionable.
Saturday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Pelicans having notched a 132-127 win Nov. 14 and the Clippers countering with a 134-109 victory Nov. 24.
The Clippers (29-13) check into Saturday's game in the midst of an impressive stretch of play despite the ongoing absence of Paul George (hamstring), as they're now 6-2 over their last eight games. Their most recent success came at the expense of the Orlando Magic, which they dominated by a 122-95 score Thursday night. Nikola Vucevic led the way with 22 points, complementing them with nine rebounds, four assists and one steal. Aaron Gordon posted 20 points and five assists. Terrence Ross provided 16 points, five boards, three assists, one steal and one block. Evan Fournier delivered 15 points, four rebounds and two assists. Markelle Fultz turned in 11 points, five assists, four rebounds, one steal and one block.
The Clippers will remain without George for Saturday's game. Maurice Harkless (back) will carry a questionable tag.
The Pelicans (16-26) have dealt with plenty of adversity during the first half of the season, but they'll enter Saturday's contest having prevailed in four of their last five contests. Their most recent victory was a memorable one, as they edged the Utah Jazz by a 138-132 score in overtime on Thursday night. Brandon Ingram led the way for the Pelicans with a career-high 49 points, complementing them with eight rebounds, six assists and one block. Derrick Favors generated a 21-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included three assists, two steals and three blocks. E'Twaun Moore poured in 16 points, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Frank Jackson posted 12 and 10 points, respectively.
The Pelicans will remain without Jrue Holiday (elbow), Kenrich Williams (back), Jahlil Okafor (back), Zion Williamson (knee) and Darius Miller (Achilles) for Saturday's game. JJ Redick (hamstring) will be listed as questionable.
Saturday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Pelicans having notched a 132-127 win Nov. 14 and the Clippers countering with a 134-109 victory Nov. 24.
Bucks and Nets Tangle in Big Apple
The Milwaukee Bucks take on the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on Saturday evening.
The Bucks (37-6) continue to run roughshod through most every opponent put in front of them, and accordingly, they'll come into Saturday's contest having won 10 of their last 11 games. Their most recent success came the expense of the Boston Celtics, which they defeated by a 128-123 margin Thursday night. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with a 32-point, 17-rebound double-double that also included seven assists and two blocks. Khris Middleton supplied 23 points, six boards, four assists and two steals. Donte DiVincenzo posted 19 points, three rebounds, one assist and two steals. Brook Lopez furnished 16 points, three rebounds, one assist and four blocks. George Hill poured in 13 points.
The Bucks will come into Saturday's game without any injuries of note.
The Nets (18-22) check into Saturday's game in the midst of one of their poorest stretches of play this season, as they've dropped nine of their last 11 games. Their most recent stumble came Thursday night, when they dropped a 117-106 decision to the Philadelphia 76ers. Spencer Dinwiddie led the Nets with 26 points, adding eight assists and two rebounds. Jarrett Allen generated a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included one assist. Taurean Prince delivered 15 points, seven boards and three steals. Kyrie Irving totaled 14 points, six boards, four assists, two steals and one block. Caris LeVert and Wilson Chandler posted 12 and 10 points, respectively.
The Nets will be without Joe Harris (back), Garrett Temple (knee) and DeAndre Jordan (finger) for Saturday's game.
Saturday's game marks the first of three meetings between the teams this season. The Bucks won the four-game 2018-19 season series by a 3-1 margin.
The Bucks (37-6) continue to run roughshod through most every opponent put in front of them, and accordingly, they'll come into Saturday's contest having won 10 of their last 11 games. Their most recent success came the expense of the Boston Celtics, which they defeated by a 128-123 margin Thursday night. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with a 32-point, 17-rebound double-double that also included seven assists and two blocks. Khris Middleton supplied 23 points, six boards, four assists and two steals. Donte DiVincenzo posted 19 points, three rebounds, one assist and two steals. Brook Lopez furnished 16 points, three rebounds, one assist and four blocks. George Hill poured in 13 points.
The Bucks will come into Saturday's game without any injuries of note.
The Nets (18-22) check into Saturday's game in the midst of one of their poorest stretches of play this season, as they've dropped nine of their last 11 games. Their most recent stumble came Thursday night, when they dropped a 117-106 decision to the Philadelphia 76ers. Spencer Dinwiddie led the Nets with 26 points, adding eight assists and two rebounds. Jarrett Allen generated a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included one assist. Taurean Prince delivered 15 points, seven boards and three steals. Kyrie Irving totaled 14 points, six boards, four assists, two steals and one block. Caris LeVert and Wilson Chandler posted 12 and 10 points, respectively.
The Nets will be without Joe Harris (back), Garrett Temple (knee) and DeAndre Jordan (finger) for Saturday's game.
Saturday's game marks the first of three meetings between the teams this season. The Bucks won the four-game 2018-19 season series by a 3-1 margin.
Celtics Look To End Two-Game Slide
By Dan Bruno
The Boston Celtics play host to the Phoenix Suns at TD Garden on Saturday evening.
The Celtics (27-13) are 5-5 in their last 10 games and have dropped two in a row. This marks their first game of a three-game home stand, as they look to bounce back from a loss in their last home contest and build on their 16-4 home record. The Celtics average 111.5 points per game and are holding their opponents to an average of 105.2 points per game. They average 8.1 steals per game and are limiting themselves to an average of 13.1 turnovers per game. Kemba Walker leads the Celtics with 22.1 points and 4.9 assists per game. Jayson Tatum is averaging 21.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.3 steals per game. Enes Kanter has been playing well and is averaging 11.0 points, 9.8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks, in 20 minutes per game. Jaylen Brown (thumb) missed the Celtics' last contest and remains questionable for action on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the Suns (17-24) have won six of their last 10 games and are coming off a decisive win in New York on Thursday evening. This marks their third and final game of a road trip, where they have gone 1-1, so far. They are 8-10 on the road and have dropped two of their last three road games. The Suns are averaging 113.3 points per game but they are allowing opponents an average of 113.9 points per game. The Suns make an average of 19.2 free throws per game, which is sixth most in the league. Devin Booker leads the Suns with an average of 26.2 points per game. Ricky Rubio came up huge with 25 points, 13 assists, eight rebounds, four steals and a block, in the Suns' most recent contest, and he is averaging 13.6 points, 9.4 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. Kelly Oubre Jr. (concussion) missed the last contest and remains questionable for action on Saturday.
The Celtics (27-13) are 5-5 in their last 10 games and have dropped two in a row. This marks their first game of a three-game home stand, as they look to bounce back from a loss in their last home contest and build on their 16-4 home record. The Celtics average 111.5 points per game and are holding their opponents to an average of 105.2 points per game. They average 8.1 steals per game and are limiting themselves to an average of 13.1 turnovers per game. Kemba Walker leads the Celtics with 22.1 points and 4.9 assists per game. Jayson Tatum is averaging 21.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.3 steals per game. Enes Kanter has been playing well and is averaging 11.0 points, 9.8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks, in 20 minutes per game. Jaylen Brown (thumb) missed the Celtics' last contest and remains questionable for action on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the Suns (17-24) have won six of their last 10 games and are coming off a decisive win in New York on Thursday evening. This marks their third and final game of a road trip, where they have gone 1-1, so far. They are 8-10 on the road and have dropped two of their last three road games. The Suns are averaging 113.3 points per game but they are allowing opponents an average of 113.9 points per game. The Suns make an average of 19.2 free throws per game, which is sixth most in the league. Devin Booker leads the Suns with an average of 26.2 points per game. Ricky Rubio came up huge with 25 points, 13 assists, eight rebounds, four steals and a block, in the Suns' most recent contest, and he is averaging 13.6 points, 9.4 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. Kelly Oubre Jr. (concussion) missed the last contest and remains questionable for action on Saturday.
Hawks Host Pistons on Saturday
The Atlanta Hawks play host to the Detroit Pistons at Philips Arena on Saturday.
The Pistons (15-27) picked up a road win against the Boston Celtics in their most recent game and that's probably their best performance of the season. They shot nearly 60 percent as a team in that victory and it was just one of those days where no one could have beat them. That certainly appears to be the outlier though, with Detroit losing 12 of their previous 15 games before that impressive showing. The drama surrounding this team is certainly playing a huge factor as well, with Andre Drummond seemingly wanting to be traded and Blake Griffin dealing with numerous injuries. Those are the two that were supposed to run the show for the Pistons and they simply won't compete with both of them disgruntled and possibly missing games.
The Hawks (10-32) own the second-worst record in the NBA, barely sitting above the Golden State Warriors. That's a truly embarrassing mark for this team, considering that Warriors team is missing about 20 All-Star appearances from last season. The thing that's really been killing them is their defense, ranked 29th in both points allowed and defensive efficiency. That's been a common trend for this franchise over recent years and it's a wonder why they're so bad on that end of the floor. Trae Young is doing all he can to carry the offense too, averaging 29.1 points and 8.5 assists per game. Those are MVP-caliber numbers if his team were better but he might not even make the All-Star team considering his team hasn't even reached double-digit wins yet. In any case, getting development from him, John Collins and Kevin Huerter would make it a successful season when looking at the long-term picture, no matter how bad the record may appear.
These teams have split their two meetings this season, with both outings being decided by 17 points or more.
The Pistons (15-27) picked up a road win against the Boston Celtics in their most recent game and that's probably their best performance of the season. They shot nearly 60 percent as a team in that victory and it was just one of those days where no one could have beat them. That certainly appears to be the outlier though, with Detroit losing 12 of their previous 15 games before that impressive showing. The drama surrounding this team is certainly playing a huge factor as well, with Andre Drummond seemingly wanting to be traded and Blake Griffin dealing with numerous injuries. Those are the two that were supposed to run the show for the Pistons and they simply won't compete with both of them disgruntled and possibly missing games.
The Hawks (10-32) own the second-worst record in the NBA, barely sitting above the Golden State Warriors. That's a truly embarrassing mark for this team, considering that Warriors team is missing about 20 All-Star appearances from last season. The thing that's really been killing them is their defense, ranked 29th in both points allowed and defensive efficiency. That's been a common trend for this franchise over recent years and it's a wonder why they're so bad on that end of the floor. Trae Young is doing all he can to carry the offense too, averaging 29.1 points and 8.5 assists per game. Those are MVP-caliber numbers if his team were better but he might not even make the All-Star team considering his team hasn't even reached double-digit wins yet. In any case, getting development from him, John Collins and Kevin Huerter would make it a successful season when looking at the long-term picture, no matter how bad the record may appear.
These teams have split their two meetings this season, with both outings being decided by 17 points or more.
Knicks Host Shorthanded Sixers
By Dan Bruno
The New York Knicks play host to the Philadelphia 76ers at Madison Square Garden on Saturday evening.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the 76ers (27-16), who are coming off a convincing home win over the Bulls on Friday. Despite missing Joel Embiid, the Sixers came up with the win behind a team-high 24 points from Furkan Korkmaz, who poured in a career-high six three-pointers and a career-high 24 points. Ben Simmons was huge in the win as well, with 20 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists and a steal, while Al Horford added 20 points, six assists, five rebounds and a block. Embiid (finger) has missed almost two weeks of action and will remain out through Saturday's action. Matisse Thybulle has been seeing some extra time with Embiid out and is averaging 4.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.8 blocks and 1.4 steals, over the last five games. This marks the first game of a three-game road trip for the 76ers, who have lost six in a row on the road and have a 7-14 road record.
Meanwhile, the Knicks (11-31) have dropped seven of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row. They have dropped two of their last three home games and come into Saturday's contest with a 6-14 home record. The Knicks are averaging 104.6 points per game, which is third fewest in the league, but they are giving up an average of 113.4 points against. They are shooting 43.4 percent from the field, which is fourth worst in the league, and they are shooting 33.9 percent from long range. Julius Randle leads the Knicks with averages of 19.0 points and 9.1 rebounds per game. Marcus Morris Sr. is averaging 19.0 points and 5.5 rebounds, while Mitchell Robinson is averaging 9.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.2 blocks and 1.2 steals, over the last 10 games. R.J. Barrett (ankle) is expected to miss about a week of action.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the 76ers (27-16), who are coming off a convincing home win over the Bulls on Friday. Despite missing Joel Embiid, the Sixers came up with the win behind a team-high 24 points from Furkan Korkmaz, who poured in a career-high six three-pointers and a career-high 24 points. Ben Simmons was huge in the win as well, with 20 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists and a steal, while Al Horford added 20 points, six assists, five rebounds and a block. Embiid (finger) has missed almost two weeks of action and will remain out through Saturday's action. Matisse Thybulle has been seeing some extra time with Embiid out and is averaging 4.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.8 blocks and 1.4 steals, over the last five games. This marks the first game of a three-game road trip for the 76ers, who have lost six in a row on the road and have a 7-14 road record.
Meanwhile, the Knicks (11-31) have dropped seven of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row. They have dropped two of their last three home games and come into Saturday's contest with a 6-14 home record. The Knicks are averaging 104.6 points per game, which is third fewest in the league, but they are giving up an average of 113.4 points against. They are shooting 43.4 percent from the field, which is fourth worst in the league, and they are shooting 33.9 percent from long range. Julius Randle leads the Knicks with averages of 19.0 points and 9.1 rebounds per game. Marcus Morris Sr. is averaging 19.0 points and 5.5 rebounds, while Mitchell Robinson is averaging 9.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.2 blocks and 1.2 steals, over the last 10 games. R.J. Barrett (ankle) is expected to miss about a week of action.
Bulls Host Cavaliers on Saturday
The Cleveland Cavaliers travel to Illinois to face the Chicago Bulls at United Center on Saturday.
The Cavaliers (12-30) have been playing much better than their record would indicate. While they come into this matchup losing eight of their last 10 games, they've been competing in pretty much every game. While some of the scorelines may look lopsided, that's not indicative of how hard this club plays on a nightly basis. That doesn't even take into consideration this nightmare schedule, playing the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets all on the road over the last three games. That would make anyone pick up a lengthy losing streak and a win over the Nuggets in that stretch may end up being their best victory of the season. The backcourt appears to be growing as well, with Darius Garland taking on the distribution duties and Collin Sexton taking on the scoring load.
The Bulls (15-28) have traded off wins and losses over their last five games, with the most recent one being a road loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. While Chicago hung around throughout that game, this roster is too shorthanded to compete with a frontcourt like that. The Bulls are now without Daniel Gafford, Wendell Carter Jr and Otto Porter Jr, making this frontcourt extremely thin. That's a major reason why the Bulls have just two wins over their last 10 games in total, making this yet another lost season. It's certainly no fault of Zach LaVine though, with the shooting guard averaging 24.6 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game. The next step is to get Lauri Markkanen back on track, as he's really been struggling throughout the year. He's really the only dangerous weapon left in that dismantled frontcourt and they simply won't compete unless he returns to his 20-10 potential.
Cleveland won the first game over Chicago earlier this season, 117-111, on October 30.
The Cavaliers (12-30) have been playing much better than their record would indicate. While they come into this matchup losing eight of their last 10 games, they've been competing in pretty much every game. While some of the scorelines may look lopsided, that's not indicative of how hard this club plays on a nightly basis. That doesn't even take into consideration this nightmare schedule, playing the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets all on the road over the last three games. That would make anyone pick up a lengthy losing streak and a win over the Nuggets in that stretch may end up being their best victory of the season. The backcourt appears to be growing as well, with Darius Garland taking on the distribution duties and Collin Sexton taking on the scoring load.
The Bulls (15-28) have traded off wins and losses over their last five games, with the most recent one being a road loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. While Chicago hung around throughout that game, this roster is too shorthanded to compete with a frontcourt like that. The Bulls are now without Daniel Gafford, Wendell Carter Jr and Otto Porter Jr, making this frontcourt extremely thin. That's a major reason why the Bulls have just two wins over their last 10 games in total, making this yet another lost season. It's certainly no fault of Zach LaVine though, with the shooting guard averaging 24.6 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game. The next step is to get Lauri Markkanen back on track, as he's really been struggling throughout the year. He's really the only dangerous weapon left in that dismantled frontcourt and they simply won't compete unless he returns to his 20-10 potential.
Cleveland won the first game over Chicago earlier this season, 117-111, on October 30.
Raptors Tangle With Timberwolves
The Toronto Raptors take on the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on Saturday night.
The Raptors (27-14) have started to get healthier after a stretch of injuries to multiple front-line players, and they'll come into Saturday's game having won four out of their last six contests. Their most recent triumph came Friday night, when they throttled the Washington Wizards by a 140-111 score. Norman Powell turned in 28 points, five rebounds, two assists, three steals and one block. Terence Davis registered 23 points, seven boards and three assists. Marc Gasol delivered 20 points, six rebounds, five assists, two steals and one block. OG Anunoby contributed 18 points, six rebounds, two assists and four steals. Serge Ibaka managed 15 points and eight boards. Pascal Siakam went for 12 points, three assists, two rebounds and two steals, while Kyle Lowry tallied 11 points, eight assists, three rebounds and two steals.
The Raptors will likely list Fred VanVleet (hamstring) as questionable at best for Saturday's game. Dewan Hernandez (ankle) may carry the same designation.
The Timberwolves (15-26) are heading in the opposite direction of their opponent, as they'll check into Saturday's game having dropped five of their last six contests. Minnesota's latest stumble came versus the Indiana Pacers, which edged them by a 116-114 score Friday night. The returning Karl-Anthony Towns led the way for the T-Wolves with 27 points, complementing them with five rebounds and one assist. Andrew Wiggins supplied 22 points, four assists and two rebounds. Josh Okogie furnished 15 points and four boards. Shabazz Napier and Jarrett Culver generated matching 12-point tallies, with Napier dishing out nine assists and Culver pulling down four rebounds. Robert Covington mustered nine points but also pulled down 10 rebounds.
The Timberwolves will continue without Jake Layman (toe) for Saturday's contest. Allen Crabbe (recent trade acquisition) is expected to be available.
Saturday's game marks the first two meetings between the teams this season. The Raptors swept the two-game 2018-19 season series from the Timberwolves.
The Raptors (27-14) have started to get healthier after a stretch of injuries to multiple front-line players, and they'll come into Saturday's game having won four out of their last six contests. Their most recent triumph came Friday night, when they throttled the Washington Wizards by a 140-111 score. Norman Powell turned in 28 points, five rebounds, two assists, three steals and one block. Terence Davis registered 23 points, seven boards and three assists. Marc Gasol delivered 20 points, six rebounds, five assists, two steals and one block. OG Anunoby contributed 18 points, six rebounds, two assists and four steals. Serge Ibaka managed 15 points and eight boards. Pascal Siakam went for 12 points, three assists, two rebounds and two steals, while Kyle Lowry tallied 11 points, eight assists, three rebounds and two steals.
The Raptors will likely list Fred VanVleet (hamstring) as questionable at best for Saturday's game. Dewan Hernandez (ankle) may carry the same designation.
The Timberwolves (15-26) are heading in the opposite direction of their opponent, as they'll check into Saturday's game having dropped five of their last six contests. Minnesota's latest stumble came versus the Indiana Pacers, which edged them by a 116-114 score Friday night. The returning Karl-Anthony Towns led the way for the T-Wolves with 27 points, complementing them with five rebounds and one assist. Andrew Wiggins supplied 22 points, four assists and two rebounds. Josh Okogie furnished 15 points and four boards. Shabazz Napier and Jarrett Culver generated matching 12-point tallies, with Napier dishing out nine assists and Culver pulling down four rebounds. Robert Covington mustered nine points but also pulled down 10 rebounds.
The Timberwolves will continue without Jake Layman (toe) for Saturday's contest. Allen Crabbe (recent trade acquisition) is expected to be available.
Saturday's game marks the first two meetings between the teams this season. The Raptors swept the two-game 2018-19 season series from the Timberwolves.
Warriors Look To End 10-Game Slide
By Dan Bruno
The Golden State Warriors play host to the Orlando Magic at Chase Center on Saturday evening.
The Warriors (9-34) have dropped 10 in a row and own the worst record in the league. This marks their third and final game of a home stand, as they look to improve on their 6-15 home record. The Warriors average 105.1 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league, and they are giving up an average of 113.7 points against. D'Angelo Russell has played in three games since returning from injury and is averaging 22.0 points, 7.0 assists and 4.3 rebounds, since then. Draymond Green is averaging 8.4 points and team highs with 6.3 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 1.5 steals per game. Alec Burkes continues to provide for the Warriors, averaging 17.1 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.1 assists, over the last 10 games, while Eric Paschall is averaging 10.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists, over the last 10 games.
Meanwhile, this marks the fifth game of a six-game road trip for the Magic (20-22), where they have gone 2-2, as they look to build on their 7-14 road record. The Magic average 103.9 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, and they are shooting 43.2 percent from the field, which is also second worst in the league. However, they are holding their opponents to a league-low 104.3 points per game. The Magic limit themselves to a league-low 12.2 turnovers per game. Markelle Fultz has been playing well lately and is averaging 12.5 points, 5.7 assists, 5.2 rebounds and 1.8 steals over the last 10 games. Nikola Vucevic is averaging 18.9 points and a team-high 11.1 rebounds per game. Evan Fournier finished with 15 points in the Magic's most recent contest, after missing the game prior with a leg injury. He is averaging 18.0 points, 3.1 assists, 2.4 rebounds and 1.2 steals, over the last 10 games.
The Warriors (9-34) have dropped 10 in a row and own the worst record in the league. This marks their third and final game of a home stand, as they look to improve on their 6-15 home record. The Warriors average 105.1 points per game, which is fifth fewest in the league, and they are giving up an average of 113.7 points against. D'Angelo Russell has played in three games since returning from injury and is averaging 22.0 points, 7.0 assists and 4.3 rebounds, since then. Draymond Green is averaging 8.4 points and team highs with 6.3 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 1.5 steals per game. Alec Burkes continues to provide for the Warriors, averaging 17.1 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.1 assists, over the last 10 games, while Eric Paschall is averaging 10.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists, over the last 10 games.
Meanwhile, this marks the fifth game of a six-game road trip for the Magic (20-22), where they have gone 2-2, as they look to build on their 7-14 road record. The Magic average 103.9 points per game, which is second fewest in the league, and they are shooting 43.2 percent from the field, which is also second worst in the league. However, they are holding their opponents to a league-low 104.3 points per game. The Magic limit themselves to a league-low 12.2 turnovers per game. Markelle Fultz has been playing well lately and is averaging 12.5 points, 5.7 assists, 5.2 rebounds and 1.8 steals over the last 10 games. Nikola Vucevic is averaging 18.9 points and a team-high 11.1 rebounds per game. Evan Fournier finished with 15 points in the Magic's most recent contest, after missing the game prior with a leg injury. He is averaging 18.0 points, 3.1 assists, 2.4 rebounds and 1.2 steals, over the last 10 games.
Rockets Look To End Two-Game Slide
By Dan Bruno
The Houston Rockets play host to the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center on Saturday evening.
The Rockets (26-14) are 5-5 in their last 10 games and have lost their last two in a row. This marks their second game of a four-game home stand, as they look to build on their 14-5 home record. The Rockets are averaging 118.7 points per game, which is second most in the league. They make an average of 15.5 threes per game, which is the most in the league, and they are averaging 47.4 rebounds per game, which is fifth most in the league. James Harden is averaging a league-best 37.2 points per game. Russell Westbrook is averaging 24.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game. Clint Capela has been playing well lately, averaging 18.0 points an 16.2 rebounds, over the last five games.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (33-8) have won nine of their last 10 games, as they fell one game short of a 10-game winning streak by falling short in their most recent contest. This marks their first game of a five-game road trip, as they look to build on their impressive, 17-3 road record. The Lakers are averaging 114.0 points per game, which is sixth most in the league, while they are holding opponents to an average of 105.4 points per game, which is third fewest in the league. They are shooting a league-best 48.6 percent from the field, and they are averaging 26.1 assists per game, which is fifth most in the league. LeBron James continues to dominate, averaging 25.4 points, 10.9 assists, 7.7 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. Anthony Davis (back) has missed the last four games and remains questionable for action on Saturday.
The Rockets (26-14) are 5-5 in their last 10 games and have lost their last two in a row. This marks their second game of a four-game home stand, as they look to build on their 14-5 home record. The Rockets are averaging 118.7 points per game, which is second most in the league. They make an average of 15.5 threes per game, which is the most in the league, and they are averaging 47.4 rebounds per game, which is fifth most in the league. James Harden is averaging a league-best 37.2 points per game. Russell Westbrook is averaging 24.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game. Clint Capela has been playing well lately, averaging 18.0 points an 16.2 rebounds, over the last five games.
Meanwhile, the Lakers (33-8) have won nine of their last 10 games, as they fell one game short of a 10-game winning streak by falling short in their most recent contest. This marks their first game of a five-game road trip, as they look to build on their impressive, 17-3 road record. The Lakers are averaging 114.0 points per game, which is sixth most in the league, while they are holding opponents to an average of 105.4 points per game, which is third fewest in the league. They are shooting a league-best 48.6 percent from the field, and they are averaging 26.1 assists per game, which is fifth most in the league. LeBron James continues to dominate, averaging 25.4 points, 10.9 assists, 7.7 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. Anthony Davis (back) has missed the last four games and remains questionable for action on Saturday.
Thunder Host Trail Blazers on Saturday
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Portland Trail Blazers at Chesapeake Energy Arena on Saturday.
The Trail Blazers (18-25) just suffered a road loss against the Dallas Mavericks on Friday but they lost more than just the game. In fact, C.J. McCollum left that loss with what appeared to be an ankle sprain and that would make it nearly impossible for him to suit up here. Damian Lillard did all he could in that game and they'll have to continue to ride him as long as McCollum remains out. What killed them in that loss on Friday was their defense and that's been an issue with this club all season long. sitting bottom-10 in defensive efficiency and points allowed. What's also bizarre is that this club ranks dead-last in assists which is truly strange for a team that's run through its two guards. If those trends continue, this team may have a hard time reaching the postseason despite finishing third in the west each of the last two seasons.
The Thunder (23-19) come into this matchup losing three of their last four games. That poor run ended a stretch in which they won 11 of their previous 13 games. That run turned them from a lottery team into a playoff contender though and one has to believe they'll be in the mix for the remainder of the season. What's disappointing is that Steven Adams missed the last game because of a knee bruise. He's been a catalyst on both ends of the floor in that hot run and a loss on Friday without him shows just how valuable he is to this club. That means they need Nerlens Noel to step up in his absence, with the former Philly player getting a rare start in that loss.
These teams have already played three times this season, with Portland winning two of three. Prior to that, Oklahoma City swept their four-game season series over the Blazers last season.
The Trail Blazers (18-25) just suffered a road loss against the Dallas Mavericks on Friday but they lost more than just the game. In fact, C.J. McCollum left that loss with what appeared to be an ankle sprain and that would make it nearly impossible for him to suit up here. Damian Lillard did all he could in that game and they'll have to continue to ride him as long as McCollum remains out. What killed them in that loss on Friday was their defense and that's been an issue with this club all season long. sitting bottom-10 in defensive efficiency and points allowed. What's also bizarre is that this club ranks dead-last in assists which is truly strange for a team that's run through its two guards. If those trends continue, this team may have a hard time reaching the postseason despite finishing third in the west each of the last two seasons.
The Thunder (23-19) come into this matchup losing three of their last four games. That poor run ended a stretch in which they won 11 of their previous 13 games. That run turned them from a lottery team into a playoff contender though and one has to believe they'll be in the mix for the remainder of the season. What's disappointing is that Steven Adams missed the last game because of a knee bruise. He's been a catalyst on both ends of the floor in that hot run and a loss on Friday without him shows just how valuable he is to this club. That means they need Nerlens Noel to step up in his absence, with the former Philly player getting a rare start in that loss.
These teams have already played three times this season, with Portland winning two of three. Prior to that, Oklahoma City swept their four-game season series over the Blazers last season.
Jazz Host Kings on Saturday
The Sacramento Kings travel to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena on Saturday.
The Kings (15-26) come into this matchup in the midst of a three-game losing streak and that emphasizes just how this season has been going for Sacramento fans. They actually won three of four before that but the most recent losing streak is more indicative of how this team has been playing. What's really frustrating is the fact that this appeared to be a young, growing team coming into the year but have taken a major step back this year. They showed flashes of brilliance last season with their sixth-ranked offense but they've regressed all the way to 23rd in that statistic this season. That's even more frustrating when you see all the young talent like De'Aaron Fox, Marvin Bagley III, and Bogdan Bogdanovic returning but it just hasn't clicked for whatever reason.
The Jazz (28-13) finally suffered a loss in their last game. While losing to the New Orleans Pelicans is somewhat bizarre, it's certainly a blip on the radar when looking at the rest of Utah's schedule. In fact, they won 15 of their previous 16 games before that, climbing up to the two-seed in the west. What makes them even scarier is the fact that they did almost all of that damage with Mike Conley sidelined. The star point guard has been dealing with a hamstring issue for quite a while now, but he's actually expected to make his return here. That makes one of the hottest teams in the league even more dangerous and it's scary to think how dominant they could be with Conley playing up to his potential.
These teams have split their two meetings this season, with the home team prevailing in each outing. With that said, the Jazz have won nine of their last 11 games over the Kings in total.
The Kings (15-26) come into this matchup in the midst of a three-game losing streak and that emphasizes just how this season has been going for Sacramento fans. They actually won three of four before that but the most recent losing streak is more indicative of how this team has been playing. What's really frustrating is the fact that this appeared to be a young, growing team coming into the year but have taken a major step back this year. They showed flashes of brilliance last season with their sixth-ranked offense but they've regressed all the way to 23rd in that statistic this season. That's even more frustrating when you see all the young talent like De'Aaron Fox, Marvin Bagley III, and Bogdan Bogdanovic returning but it just hasn't clicked for whatever reason.
The Jazz (28-13) finally suffered a loss in their last game. While losing to the New Orleans Pelicans is somewhat bizarre, it's certainly a blip on the radar when looking at the rest of Utah's schedule. In fact, they won 15 of their previous 16 games before that, climbing up to the two-seed in the west. What makes them even scarier is the fact that they did almost all of that damage with Mike Conley sidelined. The star point guard has been dealing with a hamstring issue for quite a while now, but he's actually expected to make his return here. That makes one of the hottest teams in the league even more dangerous and it's scary to think how dominant they could be with Conley playing up to his potential.
These teams have split their two meetings this season, with the home team prevailing in each outing. With that said, the Jazz have won nine of their last 11 games over the Kings in total.