76ers host Pistons in Eastern Conference showdown
The Philadelphia 76ers wrap up the regular season on a three-game homestand, starting with the Detroit Pistons at Wells Fargo Center on Tuesday.
It has been yet another rebuilding season for the Pistons (13-65), though there is optimism for the young squad in December in spite of holding the worst record in the NBA. Cade Cunningham, the 2021 first-overall pick, has blossomed into a franchise point guard and is averaging career highs in points and assists while shooting 35.5 percent from three. Jalen Duren has emerged as a reliable cornerstone center for Detroit, and he ranks fifth in the NBA in rebounds per game (11.6) and eighth in double-doubles (42). The Pistons face postseason teams in each of their next three games, so perhaps they can play spoiler down the stretch and build some momentum heading into the offseason.
Cunningham (knee) is listed as questionable for Tuesday’s game. Evan Fournier (knee) is probable, while Simone Fontecchio will miss 12th consecutive game with a left toe contusion.
Meanwhile the 76ers (44-35) have been rejuvenated by the return of reigning MVP Joel Embiid, who came back April 2 from a 29-game absence due to a torn meniscus in his left knee. Philadelphia are on a four-game winning streak, which has helped propel the team up to seventh in the Eastern Conference standings. The 76ers are one game behind the Indiana Pacers, and getting to sixth place would get them out of the NBA Play-In Tournament. Including the Pistons on Wednesday, two of the final three games for the 76ers this season are against teams eliminated from playoff contention.
Embiid (knee), Kyle Lowry (knee), Tobias Harris (knee) De’Anthony Melton (back) and Tyrese Maxey (hip) are all listed as questionable for Tuesday’s contest.
Tuesday’s game is the fourth and final matchup between the Pistons and 76ers this season, with Philadelphia holding a 3-0 lead.
It has been yet another rebuilding season for the Pistons (13-65), though there is optimism for the young squad in December in spite of holding the worst record in the NBA. Cade Cunningham, the 2021 first-overall pick, has blossomed into a franchise point guard and is averaging career highs in points and assists while shooting 35.5 percent from three. Jalen Duren has emerged as a reliable cornerstone center for Detroit, and he ranks fifth in the NBA in rebounds per game (11.6) and eighth in double-doubles (42). The Pistons face postseason teams in each of their next three games, so perhaps they can play spoiler down the stretch and build some momentum heading into the offseason.
Cunningham (knee) is listed as questionable for Tuesday’s game. Evan Fournier (knee) is probable, while Simone Fontecchio will miss 12th consecutive game with a left toe contusion.
Meanwhile the 76ers (44-35) have been rejuvenated by the return of reigning MVP Joel Embiid, who came back April 2 from a 29-game absence due to a torn meniscus in his left knee. Philadelphia are on a four-game winning streak, which has helped propel the team up to seventh in the Eastern Conference standings. The 76ers are one game behind the Indiana Pacers, and getting to sixth place would get them out of the NBA Play-In Tournament. Including the Pistons on Wednesday, two of the final three games for the 76ers this season are against teams eliminated from playoff contention.
Embiid (knee), Kyle Lowry (knee), Tobias Harris (knee) De’Anthony Melton (back) and Tyrese Maxey (hip) are all listed as questionable for Tuesday’s contest.
Tuesday’s game is the fourth and final matchup between the Pistons and 76ers this season, with Philadelphia holding a 3-0 lead.
Pacers take on Raptors in Eastern Conference clash
The Toronto Raptors play their final home game of the 2023-24 regular season Tuesday when they host the Indiana Pacers at Scotiabank Arena.
The Pacers (45-34) have won four of their last five games and sit in sixth place in the Eastern Conference standings, one game ahead of the Philadelphia 76ers and half a game behind the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Pacers’ last two wins have come against quality opponents, including a 117-115 win over the Miami Heat on Sunday in a game that saw Myles Turner lead the way with 22 points and 13 rebounds, while T.J. McConnell chipped in 22 points and five assists off the bench. All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton has struggled as of late, and he finished Sunday’s game with 12 points, four rebounds and eight assists. Since coming back from a 10-game absence due to a hamstring strain, Haliburton is averaging 16.5 points on 44.5 percent shooting (including 32.5 percent from three on 7.1 3PA/G), 3.7 rebounds, 9.2 assists and 1.3 steals over 31.1 minutes per game.
Meanwhile the Raptors (24-53) are winners of two straight, and are on a bit of an end-of-season momentum shift after breaking their 15-game losing streak Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Raptors’ roster looks quite a bit different now than it did at the beginning of the season. The team is adjusting to its new look after trading away OG Anunoby to the Knicks and Pascal Siakam to the Pacers. Scottie Barnes, who was named to his first All-Star game this season, has been out since March 3 due to a fractured right hand. The team has plenty of talent in RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley and Kelly Olynyk, and the last few games of the regular season will continue to provide opportunities for its young players to get meaningful minutes.
Gradey Dick (groin) is questionable for Tuesday’s game with a groin injury. Quickley (rest) has been ruled out.
Tuesday’s contest is the fourth and final time the Pacers and Raptors will have each other this season, with Toronto holding a 2-1 lead.
The Pacers (45-34) have won four of their last five games and sit in sixth place in the Eastern Conference standings, one game ahead of the Philadelphia 76ers and half a game behind the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Pacers’ last two wins have come against quality opponents, including a 117-115 win over the Miami Heat on Sunday in a game that saw Myles Turner lead the way with 22 points and 13 rebounds, while T.J. McConnell chipped in 22 points and five assists off the bench. All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton has struggled as of late, and he finished Sunday’s game with 12 points, four rebounds and eight assists. Since coming back from a 10-game absence due to a hamstring strain, Haliburton is averaging 16.5 points on 44.5 percent shooting (including 32.5 percent from three on 7.1 3PA/G), 3.7 rebounds, 9.2 assists and 1.3 steals over 31.1 minutes per game.
Meanwhile the Raptors (24-53) are winners of two straight, and are on a bit of an end-of-season momentum shift after breaking their 15-game losing streak Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Raptors’ roster looks quite a bit different now than it did at the beginning of the season. The team is adjusting to its new look after trading away OG Anunoby to the Knicks and Pascal Siakam to the Pacers. Scottie Barnes, who was named to his first All-Star game this season, has been out since March 3 due to a fractured right hand. The team has plenty of talent in RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley and Kelly Olynyk, and the last few games of the regular season will continue to provide opportunities for its young players to get meaningful minutes.
Gradey Dick (groin) is questionable for Tuesday’s game with a groin injury. Quickley (rest) has been ruled out.
Tuesday’s contest is the fourth and final time the Pacers and Raptors will have each other this season, with Toronto holding a 2-1 lead.
Mavericks Visit Hornets At Spectrum Center
The Charlotte Hornets will host the Dallas Mavericks at Spectrum Center on Tuesday.
The Hornets (19-59) were one of the first teams that were eliminated from playoff contention in the Eastern Conference, and their struggles are not surprising. After all, the franchise is in the midst of a slow rebuilding process, and the Hornets also had terrible luck with injuries all season long. Charlotte is looking to close out the season on a solid note, but the results have not been there for them, and the 121-118 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday was its fourth over its last five contests. The Hornets have also endured more than a fair share of woes at home, going 11-29 in front of their fans this season. The play of names such as Vasilije Micic, Miles Bridges and rookie Brandon Miller has been positive, but the Hornets simply want the season to end as soon as possible to start focusing on the 2024 NBA Draft.
The Hornets are listing Amari Bailey (illness) as questionable, while LaMelo Ball (ankle), Seth Curry (ankle), Mark Williams (back) and Cody Martin (ankle) are out.
The Mavericks (48-30) have already clinched a spot in the Western Conference playoff, but their seeding has yet to be determined. Dallas has done everything in its power to avoid the Play-In Tournament, though, and the team has been trending in the right direction of late. Their 147-136 win over the Houston Rockets on Sunday not only eliminated Houston from playoff contention, but it was also the Mavericks’ third consecutive win and fourth over their last five contests. This team will go as far as Luka Doncic can carry it come playoff time, but the contributions of other key players have been massive of late. The best example has been the play of Kyrie Irving, who has adjusted well to being Dallas’ second-best offensive option. The veteran floor general is coming off a 48-point performance in the win over Houston, stepping his game up when the team needed him the most.
The Mavericks are listing Maxi Kleber (back) and Josh Green (ankle) as game-time calls for Tuesday. Greg Brown (personal) and Dereck Lively (knee) are out.
The Hornets (19-59) were one of the first teams that were eliminated from playoff contention in the Eastern Conference, and their struggles are not surprising. After all, the franchise is in the midst of a slow rebuilding process, and the Hornets also had terrible luck with injuries all season long. Charlotte is looking to close out the season on a solid note, but the results have not been there for them, and the 121-118 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday was its fourth over its last five contests. The Hornets have also endured more than a fair share of woes at home, going 11-29 in front of their fans this season. The play of names such as Vasilije Micic, Miles Bridges and rookie Brandon Miller has been positive, but the Hornets simply want the season to end as soon as possible to start focusing on the 2024 NBA Draft.
The Hornets are listing Amari Bailey (illness) as questionable, while LaMelo Ball (ankle), Seth Curry (ankle), Mark Williams (back) and Cody Martin (ankle) are out.
The Mavericks (48-30) have already clinched a spot in the Western Conference playoff, but their seeding has yet to be determined. Dallas has done everything in its power to avoid the Play-In Tournament, though, and the team has been trending in the right direction of late. Their 147-136 win over the Houston Rockets on Sunday not only eliminated Houston from playoff contention, but it was also the Mavericks’ third consecutive win and fourth over their last five contests. This team will go as far as Luka Doncic can carry it come playoff time, but the contributions of other key players have been massive of late. The best example has been the play of Kyrie Irving, who has adjusted well to being Dallas’ second-best offensive option. The veteran floor general is coming off a 48-point performance in the win over Houston, stepping his game up when the team needed him the most.
The Mavericks are listing Maxi Kleber (back) and Josh Green (ankle) as game-time calls for Tuesday. Greg Brown (personal) and Dereck Lively (knee) are out.
Heat, Hawks Collide In Game With Playoff Implications
The Atlanta Hawks will host the Miami Heat at State Farm Arena on Tuesday.
The Hawks (36-42) took advantage of the Brooklyn Nets’ struggles in order to clinch a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. However, they’re locked into the Play-In Tournament, and they’ll have to win two games -- potentially both on the road -- to enter the first round of the postseason. Atlanta’s recent results haven’t been very good of late, and the team enters Tuesday’s action on a two-game losing streak following a 142-110 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Saturday. The Hawks might get a massive boost with the potential return of Trae Young, though. The star point guard has been cleared to practice Monday, and while he’s out for Tuesday, he could be ready to make his return at some point before the end of the regular season. Young hasn’t played since Feb. 23. The Hawks have gone 21-18 at home.
The Hawks are listing Trae Young (finger), Seth Lundy (ankle), AJ Griffin (ankle), Onyeka Okongwu (toe) and Saddiq Bey (knee) as out for Tuesday.
The Heat (43-35) are in eighth place in the Eastern Conference. They seem bound for the Play-In Tournament, but they still have a shot at sneaking into the Top 6 of the standings. For that to happen, though, they need to win here and wait for a few results to go their way as well. Miami is coming off a loss in a pivotal game, though, as the Heat dropped Sunday’s game to the Indiana Pacers by a tight 117-115 score. That was Miami’s second loss over its last three games, and the team needs to find a way to turn things around in the final week of the regular season. The Heat have gone 23-17 on the road this season, however, including winning two of their last three on enemy soil.
Miami is listing Bam Adebayo (hand), Duncan Robinson (back), Nikola Jovic (ankle), Orlando Robinson (back), Kevin Love (ankle) and Terry Rozier (neck) as game-time decisions for Tuesday. Josh Richardson (shoulder) is out.
The Hawks (36-42) took advantage of the Brooklyn Nets’ struggles in order to clinch a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. However, they’re locked into the Play-In Tournament, and they’ll have to win two games -- potentially both on the road -- to enter the first round of the postseason. Atlanta’s recent results haven’t been very good of late, and the team enters Tuesday’s action on a two-game losing streak following a 142-110 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Saturday. The Hawks might get a massive boost with the potential return of Trae Young, though. The star point guard has been cleared to practice Monday, and while he’s out for Tuesday, he could be ready to make his return at some point before the end of the regular season. Young hasn’t played since Feb. 23. The Hawks have gone 21-18 at home.
The Hawks are listing Trae Young (finger), Seth Lundy (ankle), AJ Griffin (ankle), Onyeka Okongwu (toe) and Saddiq Bey (knee) as out for Tuesday.
The Heat (43-35) are in eighth place in the Eastern Conference. They seem bound for the Play-In Tournament, but they still have a shot at sneaking into the Top 6 of the standings. For that to happen, though, they need to win here and wait for a few results to go their way as well. Miami is coming off a loss in a pivotal game, though, as the Heat dropped Sunday’s game to the Indiana Pacers by a tight 117-115 score. That was Miami’s second loss over its last three games, and the team needs to find a way to turn things around in the final week of the regular season. The Heat have gone 23-17 on the road this season, however, including winning two of their last three on enemy soil.
Miami is listing Bam Adebayo (hand), Duncan Robinson (back), Nikola Jovic (ankle), Orlando Robinson (back), Kevin Love (ankle) and Terry Rozier (neck) as game-time decisions for Tuesday. Josh Richardson (shoulder) is out.
Bucks Host Celtics In Marquee Matchup
The Milwaukee Bucks will host the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum.
The Bucks (47-31) are trending in the wrong direction, which is not a positive sign for them with the playoffs just around the corner. Currently holding the second seed in the Eastern Conference, Milwaukee needs to find a way to turn things around before losing home-field advantage in the first round of the playoffs. The Bucks have a one-game lead over the Orlando Magic and the New York Knicks, and they edge the Cleveland Cavaliers by 1.5 games, as well as the Indiana Pacers by just 2.5 games. It’s complicated, and it requires a lot of things to go south for the Bucks to end in fifth or sixth place in the standings, but it’s a real possibility due to their current form. The Bucks enter this game fresh off a 122-109 loss to the New York Knicks, extending their losing skid to four contests. Milwaukee has been one of the best teams in the league at home, though, going 29-11 in front of their fans. It remains to be seen if that will be enough to snap their losing run here.
The Bucks are listing Patrick Beverley (ankle), Khris Middleton (quadriceps) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (hamstring) as game-time calls for Tuesday. MarJon Beauchamp (ankle) and Jaylin Galloway (ankle) are out.
The Celtics (62-16) not only sit in first place in the Eastern Conference, but they also locked up the first seed in the Conference and the best record in The Association. In other words, the road to lift the Larry O’Brien Trophy will go through TD Garden. Luckily for Boston, the Celtics have been outstanding at home, where they’ve lost three games all season long. They’ve also been proficient on the road, thanks to a 27-13 mark. Despite holding the best record in the league, the Celtics are not showing any signs of slowing down. They enter this game on a five-game winning streak following their 124-107 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday. They’ve also gone 16-4 since the beginning of March, though their four losses in that stretch have come on the road.
The Celtics are listing Al Horford (toe) and Kristaps Porzingis (hamstring) as game-time calls for Tuesday. Don’t expect Boston to risk any of its regulars for this game.
The Bucks (47-31) are trending in the wrong direction, which is not a positive sign for them with the playoffs just around the corner. Currently holding the second seed in the Eastern Conference, Milwaukee needs to find a way to turn things around before losing home-field advantage in the first round of the playoffs. The Bucks have a one-game lead over the Orlando Magic and the New York Knicks, and they edge the Cleveland Cavaliers by 1.5 games, as well as the Indiana Pacers by just 2.5 games. It’s complicated, and it requires a lot of things to go south for the Bucks to end in fifth or sixth place in the standings, but it’s a real possibility due to their current form. The Bucks enter this game fresh off a 122-109 loss to the New York Knicks, extending their losing skid to four contests. Milwaukee has been one of the best teams in the league at home, though, going 29-11 in front of their fans. It remains to be seen if that will be enough to snap their losing run here.
The Bucks are listing Patrick Beverley (ankle), Khris Middleton (quadriceps) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (hamstring) as game-time calls for Tuesday. MarJon Beauchamp (ankle) and Jaylin Galloway (ankle) are out.
The Celtics (62-16) not only sit in first place in the Eastern Conference, but they also locked up the first seed in the Conference and the best record in The Association. In other words, the road to lift the Larry O’Brien Trophy will go through TD Garden. Luckily for Boston, the Celtics have been outstanding at home, where they’ve lost three games all season long. They’ve also been proficient on the road, thanks to a 27-13 mark. Despite holding the best record in the league, the Celtics are not showing any signs of slowing down. They enter this game on a five-game winning streak following their 124-107 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday. They’ve also gone 16-4 since the beginning of March, though their four losses in that stretch have come on the road.
The Celtics are listing Al Horford (toe) and Kristaps Porzingis (hamstring) as game-time calls for Tuesday. Don’t expect Boston to risk any of its regulars for this game.
Knicks and Bulls Set for Windy City Battle
The New York Knicks take on the Chicago Bulls at United Center on Tuesday night.
The Knicks (46-32) are currently slotted into the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference, but they still could tumble out of the top 6 with a couple of losses over the final days of the season. Their most recent time on the floor did result in a victory, as they toppled the Milwaukee Bucks by a 122-109 score on Sunday night. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 43 points, complementing them with eight assists and six rebounds. Donte DiVincenzo furnished 26 points, four boards, three assists, one steal and one block. Isaiah Hartenstein generated an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double that included one assist and one steal. Bojan Bogdanovic netted 15 points.
The Knicks will list Bogdanovic (wrist) as probable for Tuesday's contest.
The Bulls (37-41) have secured a play-in spot, but they're currently trending in the wrong direction with six losses in the last nine contests. Chicago's most recent stumble came Sunday evening, when they fell to the Orlando Magic by a 113-98 score. DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 30 points, complementing them with five assists and three rebounds. Javonte Green supplied 15 points, eight boards, one assist, three blocks and one steal. Andre Drummond generated a 14-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two steals. Ayo Dosunmu matched Drummond's scoring and added five rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. Coby White delivered 11 points, six assists and two rebounds.
The Bulls will list White (ankle) as probable and both Dosunmu (quadriceps) and Alex Caruso (ankle) as questionable for Tuesday's game.
Tuesday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
The Knicks (46-32) are currently slotted into the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference, but they still could tumble out of the top 6 with a couple of losses over the final days of the season. Their most recent time on the floor did result in a victory, as they toppled the Milwaukee Bucks by a 122-109 score on Sunday night. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 43 points, complementing them with eight assists and six rebounds. Donte DiVincenzo furnished 26 points, four boards, three assists, one steal and one block. Isaiah Hartenstein generated an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double that included one assist and one steal. Bojan Bogdanovic netted 15 points.
The Knicks will list Bogdanovic (wrist) as probable for Tuesday's contest.
The Bulls (37-41) have secured a play-in spot, but they're currently trending in the wrong direction with six losses in the last nine contests. Chicago's most recent stumble came Sunday evening, when they fell to the Orlando Magic by a 113-98 score. DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 30 points, complementing them with five assists and three rebounds. Javonte Green supplied 15 points, eight boards, one assist, three blocks and one steal. Andre Drummond generated a 14-point, 10-rebound double-double that included two steals. Ayo Dosunmu matched Drummond's scoring and added five rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. Coby White delivered 11 points, six assists and two rebounds.
The Bulls will list White (ankle) as probable and both Dosunmu (quadriceps) and Alex Caruso (ankle) as questionable for Tuesday's game.
Tuesday's game marks the third of four meetings between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1.
Magic and Rockets Set for Interconference Battle
The Orlando Magic takes on the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on Tuesday night.
The Magic (46-32) are up to the No. 3 spot in the Eastern Conference entering Tuesday, and they're running hot going into the postseason with four wins in the last five games. Their most recent success came Sunday evening, when they topped the Chicago Bulls by a 113-98 score. Paolo Banchero paced the Magic with 24 points, supplementing them with six rebounds and five assists. Jalen Suggs registered 19 points, five assists, three rebounds, two steals and one block. Markelle Fultz posted 17 points, six rebounds, two assists and one block. Franz Wagner finished with 16 points, four rebounds, three assists and one steal. Wendell Carter turned in 11 points, eight boards, three assists, two steals and one block.
The Magic will list Wagner (ankle) and Jonathan Isaac (back) as questionable for Tuesday's game.
The Rockets (38-40) ended up having a much better season than had been anticipated, but their hopes of capping that off with a postseason berth of some sort were dashed by a 147-136 overtime loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday afternoon. Dillon Brooks led the Rockets with 29 points, adding two rebounds, two assists and three steals. Fred VanVleet generated a 24-point, 12-assist double-double that included one rebound and one steal. Jalen Green delivered 21 points, eight assists, six rebounds, two steals and one block. Jock Landale totaled 13 points, two assists, one rebound and one steal. Jabari Smith Jr. finished with 12 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Cam Whitmore and Reggie Bullock produced matching 11-point efforts while recording four and three rebounds, respectively.
The Rockets will list Jae'Sean Tate (ankle) as out for Tuesday's contest.
Tuesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Magic holds a 1-0 series lead.
The Magic (46-32) are up to the No. 3 spot in the Eastern Conference entering Tuesday, and they're running hot going into the postseason with four wins in the last five games. Their most recent success came Sunday evening, when they topped the Chicago Bulls by a 113-98 score. Paolo Banchero paced the Magic with 24 points, supplementing them with six rebounds and five assists. Jalen Suggs registered 19 points, five assists, three rebounds, two steals and one block. Markelle Fultz posted 17 points, six rebounds, two assists and one block. Franz Wagner finished with 16 points, four rebounds, three assists and one steal. Wendell Carter turned in 11 points, eight boards, three assists, two steals and one block.
The Magic will list Wagner (ankle) and Jonathan Isaac (back) as questionable for Tuesday's game.
The Rockets (38-40) ended up having a much better season than had been anticipated, but their hopes of capping that off with a postseason berth of some sort were dashed by a 147-136 overtime loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday afternoon. Dillon Brooks led the Rockets with 29 points, adding two rebounds, two assists and three steals. Fred VanVleet generated a 24-point, 12-assist double-double that included one rebound and one steal. Jalen Green delivered 21 points, eight assists, six rebounds, two steals and one block. Jock Landale totaled 13 points, two assists, one rebound and one steal. Jabari Smith Jr. finished with 12 points, nine rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Cam Whitmore and Reggie Bullock produced matching 11-point efforts while recording four and three rebounds, respectively.
The Rockets will list Jae'Sean Tate (ankle) as out for Tuesday's contest.
Tuesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Magic holds a 1-0 series lead.
Wizards and Timberwolves To Meet at Target
The Washington Wizards take on the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on Tuesday night.
The Wizards (15-64) are closing out the book on another forgettable season, and they'll enter Tuesday's contest with three consecutive losses. Their most recent stumble came Sunday evening, when they took a 130-122 loss to the Toronto Raptors. Deni Avdija led the Wizards with 32 points, complementing them with 10 rebounds, five assists, three blocks and two steals. Jordan Poole generated a 29-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and two steals. Corey Kispert recorded 21 points, three rebounds and three assists. Patrick Baldwin Jr. posted a 16-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and two blocks. Tristan Vukcevic finished with 11 points, nine rebounds, four assists and three blocks.
The Wizards will list Kyle Kuzma (ankle, Johnny Davis (hip), Richaun Holmes (toe), Anthony Gill (knee) and Vukcevic (knee) as questionable for Tuesday's game. Tyus Jones (back), Marvin Bagley (knee) and Landry Shamet (calf) will remain out.
The Timberwolves (54-24) enter Tuesday tied atop the Western Conference with the defending champion Denver Nuggets, and they're keeping themselves in the driver's seat for the No. 1 seed by winning three of the last four games. Their most recent success came Sunday night, when they bested the red-hot Los Angeles Lakers by a 127-117 score. Naz Reid led the Timberwolves with a 31-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and one block. Anthony Edwards posted 26 points, eight assists, one rebound and one steal. Rudy Gobert generated an 18-point, 16-rebound double-double that included three assists, two steals and one block. Nickeil Alexander-Walker furnished 15 points, four assists and two rebounds. Jaden McDaniels supplied 11 points, three boards and two assists.
The Timberwolves will remain without Karl-Anthony Towns (knee) for Tuesday's game.
Tuesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Timberwolves hold a 1-0 series lead.
The Wizards (15-64) are closing out the book on another forgettable season, and they'll enter Tuesday's contest with three consecutive losses. Their most recent stumble came Sunday evening, when they took a 130-122 loss to the Toronto Raptors. Deni Avdija led the Wizards with 32 points, complementing them with 10 rebounds, five assists, three blocks and two steals. Jordan Poole generated a 29-point, 12-assist double-double that included four rebounds and two steals. Corey Kispert recorded 21 points, three rebounds and three assists. Patrick Baldwin Jr. posted a 16-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and two blocks. Tristan Vukcevic finished with 11 points, nine rebounds, four assists and three blocks.
The Wizards will list Kyle Kuzma (ankle, Johnny Davis (hip), Richaun Holmes (toe), Anthony Gill (knee) and Vukcevic (knee) as questionable for Tuesday's game. Tyus Jones (back), Marvin Bagley (knee) and Landry Shamet (calf) will remain out.
The Timberwolves (54-24) enter Tuesday tied atop the Western Conference with the defending champion Denver Nuggets, and they're keeping themselves in the driver's seat for the No. 1 seed by winning three of the last four games. Their most recent success came Sunday night, when they bested the red-hot Los Angeles Lakers by a 127-117 score. Naz Reid led the Timberwolves with a 31-point, 11-rebound double-double that included one assist, two steals and one block. Anthony Edwards posted 26 points, eight assists, one rebound and one steal. Rudy Gobert generated an 18-point, 16-rebound double-double that included three assists, two steals and one block. Nickeil Alexander-Walker furnished 15 points, four assists and two rebounds. Jaden McDaniels supplied 11 points, three boards and two assists.
The Timberwolves will remain without Karl-Anthony Towns (knee) for Tuesday's game.
Tuesday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Timberwolves hold a 1-0 series lead.
Thunder Look To Finish Strong At Home
By Dan Bruno
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Sacramento Kings at Paycom Centre on Tuesday evening.
The Thunder (53-25) ended a three-game slide with a win in their last game and hope to take the momentum back home as they kick off a four-game home stand to close out the season with a chance to build on their, 29-8, home record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander missed the last four games with a quadriceps injury but is listed in the starting lineup for Tuesday's action. He will bring a huge boost to the lineup with his averages of 30.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 2.1 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Jalen Williams (ankle) has also missed the last four games and is listed as questionable for action, while Gordon Hayward (leg) missed the last game and will be sidelined on Tuesday. Chet Holmgren came up with 20 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, two steals and three blocks in the last game but is averaging 13.5 points and 7.3 rebounds over the last 10 outings. Josh Giddey is playing well, averaging 15.4 points, 9.2 rebounds and 8.4 assists over the last five games.
Meanwhile, the Kings (45-33) face the fourth and final game of a road trip looking to improve on their, 22-18, road record. De'Aaron Fox continues to lead the squad, averaging 26.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 2.0 steals per game, Domantas Sabonis also continues to stuff the stat sheet, averaging 18.0 points, 15.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks over the last five outings. Keegan Murray is averaging 18.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.6 blocks over the same span. The Kings average 116.7 points per game, and they give up an average of 115.1 points per game. Malik Monk (knee) has missed the last five games and will remain sidelined.
The Thunder (53-25) ended a three-game slide with a win in their last game and hope to take the momentum back home as they kick off a four-game home stand to close out the season with a chance to build on their, 29-8, home record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander missed the last four games with a quadriceps injury but is listed in the starting lineup for Tuesday's action. He will bring a huge boost to the lineup with his averages of 30.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 2.1 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Jalen Williams (ankle) has also missed the last four games and is listed as questionable for action, while Gordon Hayward (leg) missed the last game and will be sidelined on Tuesday. Chet Holmgren came up with 20 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, two steals and three blocks in the last game but is averaging 13.5 points and 7.3 rebounds over the last 10 outings. Josh Giddey is playing well, averaging 15.4 points, 9.2 rebounds and 8.4 assists over the last five games.
Meanwhile, the Kings (45-33) face the fourth and final game of a road trip looking to improve on their, 22-18, road record. De'Aaron Fox continues to lead the squad, averaging 26.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 2.0 steals per game, Domantas Sabonis also continues to stuff the stat sheet, averaging 18.0 points, 15.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks over the last five outings. Keegan Murray is averaging 18.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.6 blocks over the same span. The Kings average 116.7 points per game, and they give up an average of 115.1 points per game. Malik Monk (knee) has missed the last five games and will remain sidelined.
Grizzlies Host Slumping Spurs
By Dan Bruno
The Memphis Grizzlies play host to the San Antonio Spurs at FedEx Forum on Tuesday evening.
The Memphis Grizzlies (27-51) saw a three-game win streak come to an end in their last outing but hope to get back on track as they face the third and final game of a home stand with the chance to improve on their, 9-29, home record. They continue to deal with a load of injury trouble, as Jake LaRavia (ankle), Lamar Stevens (groin) are listed as doubtful for action, while John Konchar (heel), Santi Aldama (foot), Vince Williams (knee), Jaren Jackson (quadriceps), Marcus Smart (finger), Desmond Bane (back and Luke Kennard (knee) will be sidelined. On a positive note, they have had a few players step up, including Scotty Pippen, who is averaging 11.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 2.0 steals over the last five games. GG Jackson is averaging 13.8 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists over the same span. Trey Jemison has looked solid, averaging 9.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.7 blocks across three games since returning from a three-game absence.
Meanwhile, the Spurs (19-59) have dropped three of their last four games and look to bounce back as they kick off a two-game trip with the opportunity to add to their, 9-30, road record. Victor Wembanyama continues to lead the way, averaging 21.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.3 steals and 3.6 blocks per game. Malaki Branham is playing well, averaging 18.0 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists over four consecutive starts. Trey Jones is also playing well, averaging 13.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 1.2 steals across the last five outings. Keldon Johnson (foot) played in the last game but missed the three prior and is listed as questionable for action on Tuesday
The Memphis Grizzlies (27-51) saw a three-game win streak come to an end in their last outing but hope to get back on track as they face the third and final game of a home stand with the chance to improve on their, 9-29, home record. They continue to deal with a load of injury trouble, as Jake LaRavia (ankle), Lamar Stevens (groin) are listed as doubtful for action, while John Konchar (heel), Santi Aldama (foot), Vince Williams (knee), Jaren Jackson (quadriceps), Marcus Smart (finger), Desmond Bane (back and Luke Kennard (knee) will be sidelined. On a positive note, they have had a few players step up, including Scotty Pippen, who is averaging 11.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 2.0 steals over the last five games. GG Jackson is averaging 13.8 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists over the same span. Trey Jemison has looked solid, averaging 9.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.7 blocks across three games since returning from a three-game absence.
Meanwhile, the Spurs (19-59) have dropped three of their last four games and look to bounce back as they kick off a two-game trip with the opportunity to add to their, 9-30, road record. Victor Wembanyama continues to lead the way, averaging 21.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.3 steals and 3.6 blocks per game. Malaki Branham is playing well, averaging 18.0 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists over four consecutive starts. Trey Jones is also playing well, averaging 13.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 1.2 steals across the last five outings. Keldon Johnson (foot) played in the last game but missed the three prior and is listed as questionable for action on Tuesday
Struggling Jazz Host Nuggets
By Dan Bruno
The Utah Jazz play host to the Denver Nuggets at Delta Center on Tuesday evening.
The Jazz (29-49) have dropped 12 in a row and hope to end the slide on the first game of a two-game home stand with the opportunity to add to their, 20-19, home record. They remain significantly shorthanded as Jordan Clarkson (back), John Collins (back), Kris Dunn (foot), Walker Kessler (nose) and Lauri Markkanen (shoulder) will be sidelined. As a result, Collin Sexton continues to have the opportunity to lead the way, and he is doing just that, averaging 20.8 points, 3.0 rebounds and 6.0 assists over the last 10 games. Keyonte George is averaging 12.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 4.3 assists over the same span. Brice Sensabaugh is playing well, averaging 11.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.2 assists across five consecutive starts. Taylor Hendricks and Omer Yurtseven are also in line to step up in the frontcourt.
Meanwhile, the Nuggets (54-24) have won three of their last four games and look to stay on track as they head out for a one-game trip with the chance to build on their, 22-16, road record. Nikola Jokic continues to dominate the competition, averaging 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, 9.0 assists, 1.3 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Jamal Murray averages 20.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, 6.7 assists and 0.9 steals, while Michael Porter is averaging 16.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. The Nuggets average 114.7 points per game, and they hold opponents to an average of 109.7 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league. Aaron Gordon (foot) missed the last game and remains questionable for action.
The Jazz (29-49) have dropped 12 in a row and hope to end the slide on the first game of a two-game home stand with the opportunity to add to their, 20-19, home record. They remain significantly shorthanded as Jordan Clarkson (back), John Collins (back), Kris Dunn (foot), Walker Kessler (nose) and Lauri Markkanen (shoulder) will be sidelined. As a result, Collin Sexton continues to have the opportunity to lead the way, and he is doing just that, averaging 20.8 points, 3.0 rebounds and 6.0 assists over the last 10 games. Keyonte George is averaging 12.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 4.3 assists over the same span. Brice Sensabaugh is playing well, averaging 11.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.2 assists across five consecutive starts. Taylor Hendricks and Omer Yurtseven are also in line to step up in the frontcourt.
Meanwhile, the Nuggets (54-24) have won three of their last four games and look to stay on track as they head out for a one-game trip with the chance to build on their, 22-16, road record. Nikola Jokic continues to dominate the competition, averaging 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, 9.0 assists, 1.3 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Jamal Murray averages 20.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, 6.7 assists and 0.9 steals, while Michael Porter is averaging 16.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. The Nuggets average 114.7 points per game, and they hold opponents to an average of 109.7 points per game, which is sixth fewest in the league. Aaron Gordon (foot) missed the last game and remains questionable for action.
Lakers Host Warriors on Tuesday
The Los Angeles Lakers play host to the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday.
The Warriors (43-35) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, entering this matchup winning seven of their last eight games. That nice run has secured a Play-In Tournament spot for the Warriors, knocking out the Houston Rockets a couple of days ago. It doesn't look like Golden State will move up either, so they'll have to win two games to advance to the real postseason. That's even more problematic when looking at the competition because Golden State will have to beat teams like the Lakers, Kings or Pelicans to get there. As long as Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green are healthy, nobody can count out this team.
The Lakers (45-34) have been one of the best teams since the All-Star break, posting a 9-2 record across their last 11 games. The most recent loss shows the true flaws of this team, though, because LeBron James had to sit while Anthony Davis got injured in the first quarter. These superstars have done a wonderful job of staying on the floor this year, but this team can't compete without them. The good news is that James was out due to an illness while Davis was dealing with an eye poke. Those don't sound like serious injuries, and that's what fans are praying for since there's only a week left in the season. It does look like LA is locked into a Play-In spot, sitting ninth in the West, but they are just 1,5 games behind the Phoenix Suns in sixth.
This is the fourth matchup between these teams, with Golden State winning two of three.
The Warriors (43-35) are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, entering this matchup winning seven of their last eight games. That nice run has secured a Play-In Tournament spot for the Warriors, knocking out the Houston Rockets a couple of days ago. It doesn't look like Golden State will move up either, so they'll have to win two games to advance to the real postseason. That's even more problematic when looking at the competition because Golden State will have to beat teams like the Lakers, Kings or Pelicans to get there. As long as Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green are healthy, nobody can count out this team.
The Lakers (45-34) have been one of the best teams since the All-Star break, posting a 9-2 record across their last 11 games. The most recent loss shows the true flaws of this team, though, because LeBron James had to sit while Anthony Davis got injured in the first quarter. These superstars have done a wonderful job of staying on the floor this year, but this team can't compete without them. The good news is that James was out due to an illness while Davis was dealing with an eye poke. Those don't sound like serious injuries, and that's what fans are praying for since there's only a week left in the season. It does look like LA is locked into a Play-In spot, sitting ninth in the West, but they are just 1,5 games behind the Phoenix Suns in sixth.
This is the fourth matchup between these teams, with Golden State winning two of three.
Suns Host Clippers on Tuesday
The Phoenix Suns play host to the Los Angeles Clippers at Footprint Center on Tuesday.
The Clippers (50-28) have won six of their last seven games. The victory on Sunday was one of the most exciting of the season, overcoming a 20-point deficit to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers. Paul George went nuclear in that game, finishing with 39 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists. They're going to need him to keep posting lines like that going forward, though, because nobody knows when Kawhi Leonard will be ready to return from his knee issue. It's being called soreness right now but Kawhi has dealt with knee problems all throughout his career. If this team has to go into the playoffs without him, it'll be an uphill battle because George can only carry them so far.
The Suns (46-32) come into this matchup winning seven of their last 10 games. With that said, they did lose at home against the New Orleans Pelicans in their most recent outing. That loss has put a damper on this team's hopes to avoid the Play-In Tournament because they are now tied with New Orleans for the six-seed in the Western Conference. That has to be considered a disappointment for this stacked roster because many fans expected them to battle for the top seed in the West at the beginning of the season. The good news is that they've made it through the season healthy, and we'll see what these three playmakers can do in the playoffs that begin next week.
Los Angeles has won both of their games over Phoenix this year, winning four straight over them in total.
The Clippers (50-28) have won six of their last seven games. The victory on Sunday was one of the most exciting of the season, overcoming a 20-point deficit to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers. Paul George went nuclear in that game, finishing with 39 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists. They're going to need him to keep posting lines like that going forward, though, because nobody knows when Kawhi Leonard will be ready to return from his knee issue. It's being called soreness right now but Kawhi has dealt with knee problems all throughout his career. If this team has to go into the playoffs without him, it'll be an uphill battle because George can only carry them so far.
The Suns (46-32) come into this matchup winning seven of their last 10 games. With that said, they did lose at home against the New Orleans Pelicans in their most recent outing. That loss has put a damper on this team's hopes to avoid the Play-In Tournament because they are now tied with New Orleans for the six-seed in the Western Conference. That has to be considered a disappointment for this stacked roster because many fans expected them to battle for the top seed in the West at the beginning of the season. The good news is that they've made it through the season healthy, and we'll see what these three playmakers can do in the playoffs that begin next week.
Los Angeles has won both of their games over Phoenix this year, winning four straight over them in total.
Blazers Host Pelicans on Tuesday
The Portland Trail Blazers play host to the New Orleans Pelicans at Moda Center on Tuesday.
The Pelicans (46-32) snapped a four-game losing streak in their most recent outing, grabbing a road win against the Phoenix Suns. That win couldn't have been more critical because they're battling Phoenix to avoid the Play-In Tournament. That has both of these teams tied for the six-seed in the Western Conference, with the Sacramento Kings and Los Angeles Lakers within two games as well. It'll be up to those four teams to decide that final spot, but it'll be an uphill battle for the Pelicans. They lost Brandon Ingram to a knee injury right before that losing streak, and it's unclear when the All-Star will be able to return. This club won't get far without him.
The Trail Blazers (21-57) come into this matchup losing 11 of their last 13 outings. Stretches like that have been common for this team all year, and it's hard to see where they go from here. Trading away Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum started this inevitable rebuild and fans knew it would take some time for this club to be competitive. What's frustrating is that this roster can't seem to stay healthy. Shaedon Sharpe, Malcolm Brogdon, Anfernee Simons and Jerami Grant have all missed most of the season, but it's not like they were competitive with those guys. If there's one silver lining, it's the play of Deandre Ayton. The big man is averaging 20.8 points and 12.2 rebounds over his last 24 games.
New Orleans has won both of their games over Portland this season. They have won eight of their last nine games over the Blazers in total.
The Pelicans (46-32) snapped a four-game losing streak in their most recent outing, grabbing a road win against the Phoenix Suns. That win couldn't have been more critical because they're battling Phoenix to avoid the Play-In Tournament. That has both of these teams tied for the six-seed in the Western Conference, with the Sacramento Kings and Los Angeles Lakers within two games as well. It'll be up to those four teams to decide that final spot, but it'll be an uphill battle for the Pelicans. They lost Brandon Ingram to a knee injury right before that losing streak, and it's unclear when the All-Star will be able to return. This club won't get far without him.
The Trail Blazers (21-57) come into this matchup losing 11 of their last 13 outings. Stretches like that have been common for this team all year, and it's hard to see where they go from here. Trading away Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum started this inevitable rebuild and fans knew it would take some time for this club to be competitive. What's frustrating is that this roster can't seem to stay healthy. Shaedon Sharpe, Malcolm Brogdon, Anfernee Simons and Jerami Grant have all missed most of the season, but it's not like they were competitive with those guys. If there's one silver lining, it's the play of Deandre Ayton. The big man is averaging 20.8 points and 12.2 rebounds over his last 24 games.
New Orleans has won both of their games over Portland this season. They have won eight of their last nine games over the Blazers in total.