Celtics Take On Knicks In New York On Second Night of Back-To-Back
By Dan Bruno
The New York Knicks play host to the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden on Sunday afternoon.
The Celtics (36-35) have dropped six of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a win in their most recent contest. They are coming off a convincing, 124-108, win in Minnesota on Saturday, where they got out to a strong start and held control down the stretch. Jayson Tatum led the way with 26 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Evan Fournier added 18 points and six assists. Tremont Waters also had a strong performance with 14 points and seven assists, while Luke Kornet chipped in 12 points, six rebounds, three assists, four blocks and a steal. The Celtics will look to close their season on a high note and add to their, 15-20, road record. The Celtics sit seventh place in the East, three games behind sixth place and three games ahead of eighth. Jaylen Brown (wrist) and Kemba Walker (neck) will remain sidelined.
Meanwhile, this also marks the second night of a back-to-back for the Knicks (40-31), as they are coming off a home win over the Hornets on Saturday. The Knicks got out to a great start in the win, with a nine-point lead at halftime. They lost control through the second half and the contest required overtime, but the Knicks took over in the extra frame and closed out their second straight win. Julius Randle led the way in the win with 33 points, 13 assists, 10 rebounds and a steal, in 46 minutes. Reggie Bullock followed up with 17 points and six rebounds, while Derrick Rose chipped in 15 points and three assists. The Knicks will look to keep rolling and add to their, 24-11, home record. They continue to do a great job on the defensive end, as they are holding opponents to a league-low average of 104.8 points per game.
The Celtics (36-35) have dropped six of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a win in their most recent contest. They are coming off a convincing, 124-108, win in Minnesota on Saturday, where they got out to a strong start and held control down the stretch. Jayson Tatum led the way with 26 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and a steal, while Evan Fournier added 18 points and six assists. Tremont Waters also had a strong performance with 14 points and seven assists, while Luke Kornet chipped in 12 points, six rebounds, three assists, four blocks and a steal. The Celtics will look to close their season on a high note and add to their, 15-20, road record. The Celtics sit seventh place in the East, three games behind sixth place and three games ahead of eighth. Jaylen Brown (wrist) and Kemba Walker (neck) will remain sidelined.
Meanwhile, this also marks the second night of a back-to-back for the Knicks (40-31), as they are coming off a home win over the Hornets on Saturday. The Knicks got out to a great start in the win, with a nine-point lead at halftime. They lost control through the second half and the contest required overtime, but the Knicks took over in the extra frame and closed out their second straight win. Julius Randle led the way in the win with 33 points, 13 assists, 10 rebounds and a steal, in 46 minutes. Reggie Bullock followed up with 17 points and six rebounds, while Derrick Rose chipped in 15 points and three assists. The Knicks will look to keep rolling and add to their, 24-11, home record. They continue to do a great job on the defensive end, as they are holding opponents to a league-low average of 104.8 points per game.
Hornets and Wizards Close Out Season in Nation's Capital
The Charlotte Hornets take on the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on Sunday afternoon.
The Hornets (33-38) will head into the playoffs with a serious lack of momentum, as they've dropped four straight games and five of their last six overall. Charlotte's most recent stumble came Saturday afternoon, when they dropped a 118-109 decision in overtime to the New York Knicks. Miles Bridges paced the Hornets with 30 points, complementing them with five rebounds, four assists and one steal. Devonte' Graham furnished 25 points, eight assists and three rebounds. Jalen McDaniels generated a 15-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included three assists, one steal and one block. Terry Rozier totaled 13 points, eight boards, four assists and two steals. Cody Zeller finished with 10 points, 11 rebounds and three assists.
The Hornets will remain without Cody Martin (ankle) and Gordon Hayward (foot) for Sunday's game.
The Wizards (33-38) have locked in a play-in spot, culminating a furious surge during the season's second half. The decisive victory occurred Friday, when they toppled the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 120-105 score Friday night. Russell Westbrook led the Wizards with a 21-point, 17-assist, 12-rebound triple-double that also included three steals. Davis Bertans poured in 17 points. Rui Hachimura and Robin Lopez posted matching 14-point tallies while pulling down three and five rebounds, respectively. Daniel Gafford and Anthony Gill contributed 12 points and five rebounds apiece.
The Wizards will list Bradley Beal and Raul Neto as questionable for Sunday's game due to hamstring injuries, while Garrison Mathews (wrist) will carry a probable tag.
Sunday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hornets own a 2-0 series lead, having notched 119-97 and 114-104 wins Feb. 7 and March 30.
The Hornets (33-38) will head into the playoffs with a serious lack of momentum, as they've dropped four straight games and five of their last six overall. Charlotte's most recent stumble came Saturday afternoon, when they dropped a 118-109 decision in overtime to the New York Knicks. Miles Bridges paced the Hornets with 30 points, complementing them with five rebounds, four assists and one steal. Devonte' Graham furnished 25 points, eight assists and three rebounds. Jalen McDaniels generated a 15-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included three assists, one steal and one block. Terry Rozier totaled 13 points, eight boards, four assists and two steals. Cody Zeller finished with 10 points, 11 rebounds and three assists.
The Hornets will remain without Cody Martin (ankle) and Gordon Hayward (foot) for Sunday's game.
The Wizards (33-38) have locked in a play-in spot, culminating a furious surge during the season's second half. The decisive victory occurred Friday, when they toppled the Cleveland Cavaliers by a 120-105 score Friday night. Russell Westbrook led the Wizards with a 21-point, 17-assist, 12-rebound triple-double that also included three steals. Davis Bertans poured in 17 points. Rui Hachimura and Robin Lopez posted matching 14-point tallies while pulling down three and five rebounds, respectively. Daniel Gafford and Anthony Gill contributed 12 points and five rebounds apiece.
The Wizards will list Bradley Beal and Raul Neto as questionable for Sunday's game due to hamstring injuries, while Garrison Mathews (wrist) will carry a probable tag.
Sunday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hornets own a 2-0 series lead, having notched 119-97 and 114-104 wins Feb. 7 and March 30.
Pacers, Raptors Collide Looking To End Losing Streaks
The Toronto Raptors will host the Indiana Pacers at Amalie Arena on Sunday afternoon.
The Raptors (27-44) are coming off a 114-110 loss against the Dallas Mavericks the last time out, a result that pushed their losing streak to six contests. The losing streak can't be surprising, though, as the Raptors have decided to rest their key players knowing they have nothing to play for in the final days of the regular season. Jalen Harris paced the Raptors with 31 points in that loss, complementing them with four assists, two rebounds and one steal. Malachi Flynn supplied 26 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Stanley Johnson posted a 15-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included one assist and one steal. Khem Birch and Aron Baynes posted matching 13-point, six-rebound tallies. For what is worth, the Raptors are ending the season in woeful form and have gone 1-9 over their last 10 contests, while posting a below-average 16-19 record at home.
The Pacers (33-38) end the season playing the second half of a back-to-back, as they're coming off a loss against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday. Caris LeVert led the Pacers with 28 points and 12 assists, while also adding five rebounds and two steals. Doug McDermott notched 17 points with four rebounds, and Justin Holiday had 12 points. Goga Bitadze posted 10 points with seven rebounds, and JaKarr Sampson contributed 20 points off the bench. Kelan Martin had 15 points while coming off the bench. The Pacers are on a two-game losing streak and have won just four of their last 10 games, however, so it shouldn't be surprising to see them end the campaign on a woeful stretch of form. If there's one encouraging sign for the Pacers in their attempt of turning things around before the play-in tournament, however, that's because they've actually won most of their games when playing on the road -- they own a 20-15 mark away from Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
This will be the third and final game of the regular season between the two teams, with the record being 1-1 so far.
The Raptors (27-44) are coming off a 114-110 loss against the Dallas Mavericks the last time out, a result that pushed their losing streak to six contests. The losing streak can't be surprising, though, as the Raptors have decided to rest their key players knowing they have nothing to play for in the final days of the regular season. Jalen Harris paced the Raptors with 31 points in that loss, complementing them with four assists, two rebounds and one steal. Malachi Flynn supplied 26 points, six rebounds, five assists and two steals. Stanley Johnson posted a 15-point, 10-rebound double-double that also included one assist and one steal. Khem Birch and Aron Baynes posted matching 13-point, six-rebound tallies. For what is worth, the Raptors are ending the season in woeful form and have gone 1-9 over their last 10 contests, while posting a below-average 16-19 record at home.
The Pacers (33-38) end the season playing the second half of a back-to-back, as they're coming off a loss against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday. Caris LeVert led the Pacers with 28 points and 12 assists, while also adding five rebounds and two steals. Doug McDermott notched 17 points with four rebounds, and Justin Holiday had 12 points. Goga Bitadze posted 10 points with seven rebounds, and JaKarr Sampson contributed 20 points off the bench. Kelan Martin had 15 points while coming off the bench. The Pacers are on a two-game losing streak and have won just four of their last 10 games, however, so it shouldn't be surprising to see them end the campaign on a woeful stretch of form. If there's one encouraging sign for the Pacers in their attempt of turning things around before the play-in tournament, however, that's because they've actually won most of their games when playing on the road -- they own a 20-15 mark away from Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
This will be the third and final game of the regular season between the two teams, with the record being 1-1 so far.
Suns and Spurs Wrap Up Regular Season with Rematch
The Phoenix Suns take on the San Antonio Spurs at AT & T Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Suns (50-21) have capped off an outstanding regular season with a division title and at least a No. 2 seed, and they demonstrated they weren't taking the foot off the gas ahead of the postseason with a 140-103 walloping of the Spurs on Saturday afternoon for their eighth victory over the last 11 contests. Devin Booker led the Suns with 27 points, adding four assists and two rebounds. Mikal Bridges furnished 18 points, four boards and three steals. Chris Paul generated a 16-point, 10-assist double-double that also included five rebounds and one steal. Dario Saric supplied 13 points, six boards, one assist and two steals. Cameron Payne finished with 12 points, six assists and two rebounds, while Torrey Craig contributed 11 points, nine rebounds, one assist and two steals.
The Suns will likely list Deandre Ayton (knee) and Cameron Johnson (wrist) as no better than questionable for Sunday's contest after both missed Saturday's game.
The Spurs (33-38) have already secured the No. 10 and final seed in the play-in tournament, but they're backing into postseason play with a 2-8 mark over their last 10 games. In Saturday's lopsided defeat, their third straight, Gorgui Dieng and Keldon Johnson co-led the Spurs with matching 18-point tallies, with Dieng also pulling down seven rebounds. Drew Eubanks posted a 15-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included one assist and one steal. Devin Vassell registered 14 points, seven boards, four assists, one steal and one block. Quinndary Witherspoon managed 13 points, four rebounds and one steal.
The Spurs will likely list Dejounte Murray (knee), Rudy Gay (heel), DeMar DeRozan (rest), Jakob Poeltl (rest) and Trey Lyles (ankle) as no better than questionable for Sunday's contest after all sat out Saturday's game.
Sunday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Spurs having notched a 111-85 win April 17 before Saturday's afternoon's blowout loss.
The Suns (50-21) have capped off an outstanding regular season with a division title and at least a No. 2 seed, and they demonstrated they weren't taking the foot off the gas ahead of the postseason with a 140-103 walloping of the Spurs on Saturday afternoon for their eighth victory over the last 11 contests. Devin Booker led the Suns with 27 points, adding four assists and two rebounds. Mikal Bridges furnished 18 points, four boards and three steals. Chris Paul generated a 16-point, 10-assist double-double that also included five rebounds and one steal. Dario Saric supplied 13 points, six boards, one assist and two steals. Cameron Payne finished with 12 points, six assists and two rebounds, while Torrey Craig contributed 11 points, nine rebounds, one assist and two steals.
The Suns will likely list Deandre Ayton (knee) and Cameron Johnson (wrist) as no better than questionable for Sunday's contest after both missed Saturday's game.
The Spurs (33-38) have already secured the No. 10 and final seed in the play-in tournament, but they're backing into postseason play with a 2-8 mark over their last 10 games. In Saturday's lopsided defeat, their third straight, Gorgui Dieng and Keldon Johnson co-led the Spurs with matching 18-point tallies, with Dieng also pulling down seven rebounds. Drew Eubanks posted a 15-point, 11-rebound double-double that also included one assist and one steal. Devin Vassell registered 14 points, seven boards, four assists, one steal and one block. Quinndary Witherspoon managed 13 points, four rebounds and one steal.
The Spurs will likely list Dejounte Murray (knee), Rudy Gay (heel), DeMar DeRozan (rest), Jakob Poeltl (rest) and Trey Lyles (ankle) as no better than questionable for Sunday's contest after all sat out Saturday's game.
Sunday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The series is tied 1-1, with the Spurs having notched a 111-85 win April 17 before Saturday's afternoon's blowout loss.
Warriors, Grizzlies Aiming To End Regular Season With Win
The Golden State Warriors will host the Memphis Grizzlies at Chase Center on Sunday afternoon.
The Warriors (38-33) know the outcome of this game will determine whether they end the season in eighth or ninth place of the Western Conference, but they should be confident for this game since they're coming off a 125-122 win over the New Orleans Pelicans the last time out. Jordan Poole paced the Warriors with 38 points, supplementing them with six assists, four rebounds and one block. Mychal Mulder compiled 28 points, two rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Kent Bazemore finished with 14 points, four rebounds, one assist and two steals. Eric Paschall delivered 12 points and four rebounds. The Warriors are riding a five-game winning streak and have posted a 7-3 mark over their last 10 games, so they're arriving at the regular-season finale filled with confidence. As if that wasn't enough, they've also posted a strong 24-11 mark at Chase Center to date.
The Grizzlies (38-33) are aiming to end the season on a strong note and arrive into this matchup on a five-game winning streak following their 107-106 win over the Sacramento Kings on Friday. Justise Winslow paced the Grizzlies with a 25-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included four assists. Xavier Tillman posted a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double and also contributed one assist, one steal and one block. Killian Tillie supplied 16 points, six boards and one assist. John Konchar managed 15 points, five rebounds and one assist. De'Anthony Melton registered 10 points, four rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. The Grizzlies rested several key figures for that game against the Kings since they've already clinched a playoff berth and that's not likely to change here. Memphis has also posted an excellent 20-15 record when playing away from home.
This will be the third and final game of the regular season between the two teams, with the record being 1-1 so far.
The Warriors (38-33) know the outcome of this game will determine whether they end the season in eighth or ninth place of the Western Conference, but they should be confident for this game since they're coming off a 125-122 win over the New Orleans Pelicans the last time out. Jordan Poole paced the Warriors with 38 points, supplementing them with six assists, four rebounds and one block. Mychal Mulder compiled 28 points, two rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. Kent Bazemore finished with 14 points, four rebounds, one assist and two steals. Eric Paschall delivered 12 points and four rebounds. The Warriors are riding a five-game winning streak and have posted a 7-3 mark over their last 10 games, so they're arriving at the regular-season finale filled with confidence. As if that wasn't enough, they've also posted a strong 24-11 mark at Chase Center to date.
The Grizzlies (38-33) are aiming to end the season on a strong note and arrive into this matchup on a five-game winning streak following their 107-106 win over the Sacramento Kings on Friday. Justise Winslow paced the Grizzlies with a 25-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included four assists. Xavier Tillman posted a 16-point, 10-rebound double-double and also contributed one assist, one steal and one block. Killian Tillie supplied 16 points, six boards and one assist. John Konchar managed 15 points, five rebounds and one assist. De'Anthony Melton registered 10 points, four rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. The Grizzlies rested several key figures for that game against the Kings since they've already clinched a playoff berth and that's not likely to change here. Memphis has also posted an excellent 20-15 record when playing away from home.
This will be the third and final game of the regular season between the two teams, with the record being 1-1 so far.
Rockets and Hawks Set for Season-Ending Interleague Clash
The Houston Rockets take on the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on Sunday evening.
The Rockets (17-54) are closing out one of the most difficult seasons in franchise history, although they did snap a seven-game losing streak with a 122-115 win over a short-handed Los Angeles Clippers squad on Friday night. Kelly Olynyk and Jae'Sean Tate co-led the Rockets with 20 points each, with Olynyk also recording 11 assists and pulling down nine rebounds. Khyri Thomas and Anthony Lamb posted 17 points apiece while notching five assists and five rebounds, respectively. Armoni Brooks totaled 15 points, while Kenyon Martin, Jr. and D.J. Augustin provided matching 13-point tallies. Martin also hauled in nine rebounds while Augustin handed out five assists.
The Rockets will be without Kevin Porter (ankle), Thomas (lower leg), Sterling Brown (head), Avery Bradley (personal), Danuel House (ankle), Christian Wood (ankle), Eric Gordon (groin) and David Nwaba (wrist) for Sunday's game.
The Hawks (40-31) have parlayed a significant second-half resurgence following the firing of coach Lloyd Pierce all the way to the postseason, and they'll head into the playoffs with at least six victories in their final eight games. Atlanta comes into the season finale with three straight victories, their most recent a 116-93 win over the Orlando Magic on Thursday night. Bogdan Bogdanovic led the Hawks with 27 points, supplementing them with five assists, three rebounds and two steals. Trae Young supplied 18 points and seven assists. Clint Capela generated a 14-point, 14-rebound double-double that also included two steals. Kevin Huerter matched Capela's scoring and added six rebounds, two assists and one steal. John Collins registered 12 points, six boards and one block.
The Hawks will list Tony Snell (Achilles) and Huerter (ankle) as probable for Sunday's game. Onyeka Okongwu (shoulder) will carry a questionable tag.
Sunday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks own a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 119-107 win March 16.
The Rockets (17-54) are closing out one of the most difficult seasons in franchise history, although they did snap a seven-game losing streak with a 122-115 win over a short-handed Los Angeles Clippers squad on Friday night. Kelly Olynyk and Jae'Sean Tate co-led the Rockets with 20 points each, with Olynyk also recording 11 assists and pulling down nine rebounds. Khyri Thomas and Anthony Lamb posted 17 points apiece while notching five assists and five rebounds, respectively. Armoni Brooks totaled 15 points, while Kenyon Martin, Jr. and D.J. Augustin provided matching 13-point tallies. Martin also hauled in nine rebounds while Augustin handed out five assists.
The Rockets will be without Kevin Porter (ankle), Thomas (lower leg), Sterling Brown (head), Avery Bradley (personal), Danuel House (ankle), Christian Wood (ankle), Eric Gordon (groin) and David Nwaba (wrist) for Sunday's game.
The Hawks (40-31) have parlayed a significant second-half resurgence following the firing of coach Lloyd Pierce all the way to the postseason, and they'll head into the playoffs with at least six victories in their final eight games. Atlanta comes into the season finale with three straight victories, their most recent a 116-93 win over the Orlando Magic on Thursday night. Bogdan Bogdanovic led the Hawks with 27 points, supplementing them with five assists, three rebounds and two steals. Trae Young supplied 18 points and seven assists. Clint Capela generated a 14-point, 14-rebound double-double that also included two steals. Kevin Huerter matched Capela's scoring and added six rebounds, two assists and one steal. John Collins registered 12 points, six boards and one block.
The Hawks will list Tony Snell (Achilles) and Huerter (ankle) as probable for Sunday's game. Onyeka Okongwu (shoulder) will carry a questionable tag.
Sunday's game marks the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Hawks own a 1-0 series lead, having notched a 119-107 win March 16.
Streaking Nets Host Cavs
By Dan Bruno
The Brooklyn Nets play host to the Cleveland Cavaliers at Barclays Center on Sunday evening.
The Cavs (22-49) have dropped nine of their last 10 games, including their most recent contest. They will look to bounce back and close their season with a win. They have lost seven straight road games and are, 9-26, on the road. Collin Sexton leads the team, averaging 24.5 points, 4.4 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 1.0 steals per game. Darius Garland continues to play well, averaging 17.4 points, 6.1 assists, 2.4 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. Jarrett Allen is averaging 13.3 points, 9.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. The Cavaliers are averaging a league-worst 103.8 points per game and they are shooting an average of 45.0 percent from the field, including an average of 33.7 percent from long range, which is second worst in the league. Larry Nance (thumb) and Kevin Love (rest) will be sidelined.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Nets (47-24), as they are coming off a home win over the Bulls on Saturday. The contest got out to a competitive start as the Nets trailed, 29-28, after one quarter. They picked up the pace in the second and outscored the visitors by 11 points in the quarter, to grab a 10-point lead by halftime. The contest tightened up in the third, but the Nets maintained an eight-point lead, heading into the final frame. They stayed strong through the fourth and held on for their fourth straight win. Kyrie Irving led the way with 22 points on 9-of-16 shooting. Bruce Brown totaled 16 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, two steals and a block, while Jeff Green chipped in 19 points, off the bench. The Nets will look to keep rolling and add to their, 27-8, home record. They have won six of their last 10 games and sit just 1.0 games out of first place in the East. Joe Harris (hip) will be sidelined.
The Cavs (22-49) have dropped nine of their last 10 games, including their most recent contest. They will look to bounce back and close their season with a win. They have lost seven straight road games and are, 9-26, on the road. Collin Sexton leads the team, averaging 24.5 points, 4.4 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 1.0 steals per game. Darius Garland continues to play well, averaging 17.4 points, 6.1 assists, 2.4 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. Jarrett Allen is averaging 13.3 points, 9.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. The Cavaliers are averaging a league-worst 103.8 points per game and they are shooting an average of 45.0 percent from the field, including an average of 33.7 percent from long range, which is second worst in the league. Larry Nance (thumb) and Kevin Love (rest) will be sidelined.
Meanwhile, this marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Nets (47-24), as they are coming off a home win over the Bulls on Saturday. The contest got out to a competitive start as the Nets trailed, 29-28, after one quarter. They picked up the pace in the second and outscored the visitors by 11 points in the quarter, to grab a 10-point lead by halftime. The contest tightened up in the third, but the Nets maintained an eight-point lead, heading into the final frame. They stayed strong through the fourth and held on for their fourth straight win. Kyrie Irving led the way with 22 points on 9-of-16 shooting. Bruce Brown totaled 16 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, two steals and a block, while Jeff Green chipped in 19 points, off the bench. The Nets will look to keep rolling and add to their, 27-8, home record. They have won six of their last 10 games and sit just 1.0 games out of first place in the East. Joe Harris (hip) will be sidelined.
Magic and 76ers Wrap Up Regular Season in Rematch
The Orlando Magic takes on the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on Sunday evening.
The Magic (21-50) are limping to the finish line for another lost season, as they'll enter Sunday's contest with six straight losses. Their most recent stumble came Friday night against the 76ers, which toppled them by a 122-97 score Friday night. Ignas Brazdeikis led the Magic with 21 points, adding six rebounds, one assist and two blocks. R.J. Hampton and Chasson Randle posted matching 12-point contributions, with Hampton adding 11 rebounds and nine assists. Cole Anthony and Mo Bamba generated matching 11-point, five-rebound tallies, with Anthony adding three assists.
The Magic are expected to continue without Terrence Ross (back, Michael Carter-Williams (ankle), James Ennis (calf) and Otto Porter (foot) for Sunday's game. Hampton (ankle) and Carter (eye) are likely to be listed as questionable.
The 76ers' (48-23) win over the Magic on Friday night finally cinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference for Philadelphia, which had dropped consecutive games going into the contest. Against Orlando, Seth Curry paced the 76ers with 20 points, supplementing them with three rebounds, two assists and one steal. Shake Milton registered 15 points, three rebounds and three assists. Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons posted 13 points apiece, with Embiid also pulling down 11 rebounds and Simmons dishing out nine assists. Isaiah Joe poured in 11 points, while Furkan Korkmaz totaled 10 points, six rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The 76ers are likely to list Simmons (back), Curry (hip), Embiid (illness), Korkmaz (ankle), Danny Green (hip), Shake Milton (knee) and Matisse Thybulle hand) as no better than questionable for Sunday's game, with the possibility several sit out.
Sunday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The 76ers hold a 2-0 series lead, having notched a 116-92 win Dec. 31 in addition to Friday night's victory.
The Magic (21-50) are limping to the finish line for another lost season, as they'll enter Sunday's contest with six straight losses. Their most recent stumble came Friday night against the 76ers, which toppled them by a 122-97 score Friday night. Ignas Brazdeikis led the Magic with 21 points, adding six rebounds, one assist and two blocks. R.J. Hampton and Chasson Randle posted matching 12-point contributions, with Hampton adding 11 rebounds and nine assists. Cole Anthony and Mo Bamba generated matching 11-point, five-rebound tallies, with Anthony adding three assists.
The Magic are expected to continue without Terrence Ross (back, Michael Carter-Williams (ankle), James Ennis (calf) and Otto Porter (foot) for Sunday's game. Hampton (ankle) and Carter (eye) are likely to be listed as questionable.
The 76ers' (48-23) win over the Magic on Friday night finally cinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference for Philadelphia, which had dropped consecutive games going into the contest. Against Orlando, Seth Curry paced the 76ers with 20 points, supplementing them with three rebounds, two assists and one steal. Shake Milton registered 15 points, three rebounds and three assists. Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons posted 13 points apiece, with Embiid also pulling down 11 rebounds and Simmons dishing out nine assists. Isaiah Joe poured in 11 points, while Furkan Korkmaz totaled 10 points, six rebounds, two assists and one steal.
The 76ers are likely to list Simmons (back), Curry (hip), Embiid (illness), Korkmaz (ankle), Danny Green (hip), Shake Milton (knee) and Matisse Thybulle hand) as no better than questionable for Sunday's game, with the possibility several sit out.
Sunday's game marks the third and final meeting between the teams this season. The 76ers hold a 2-0 series lead, having notched a 116-92 win Dec. 31 in addition to Friday night's victory.
Pistons Host Heat on Sunday
The Detroit Pistons play host to the Miami Heat at Little Ceasar's Arena on Sunday.
The Heat (39-32) come into this matchup winning seven of their last nine games. That has them in the six-seed in the Eastern Conference, sitting one game back of the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks in fourth and fifth. That means there's a ton to be decided on the final day of the season, and it'll be interesting to see what they do after a win on Saturday. Jimmy Butler actually sat that game out because of some nagging ailments, and one has to wonder if they want to ride him here or get him as healthy as possible going into the postseason. In any case, this is a team no one wants to face come the playoffs next week.
The Pistons (20-51) need this season to come to an end. It's been over for a month now, and they continue to rest players regularly. Guys like Jerami Grant, Mason Plumlee, and Cory Joseph are sitting out almost every game at this point, and it's hard to understand why. This is a club that's going nowhere, and it's weird that these blossoming players have been relegated to bench duties. It's clearly to give guys like Isaiah Stewart and Killian Hayes more playing time but it's still ugly for the fans nonetheless. The only silver lining is the fact that they sit dead-last in the east and look in line to land the second spot in next year's draft.
These teams played one another in January, splitting those two meetings. That gives Miami three wins in their last four matchups with Detroit dating back two years.
The Heat (39-32) come into this matchup winning seven of their last nine games. That has them in the six-seed in the Eastern Conference, sitting one game back of the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks in fourth and fifth. That means there's a ton to be decided on the final day of the season, and it'll be interesting to see what they do after a win on Saturday. Jimmy Butler actually sat that game out because of some nagging ailments, and one has to wonder if they want to ride him here or get him as healthy as possible going into the postseason. In any case, this is a team no one wants to face come the playoffs next week.
The Pistons (20-51) need this season to come to an end. It's been over for a month now, and they continue to rest players regularly. Guys like Jerami Grant, Mason Plumlee, and Cory Joseph are sitting out almost every game at this point, and it's hard to understand why. This is a club that's going nowhere, and it's weird that these blossoming players have been relegated to bench duties. It's clearly to give guys like Isaiah Stewart and Killian Hayes more playing time but it's still ugly for the fans nonetheless. The only silver lining is the fact that they sit dead-last in the east and look in line to land the second spot in next year's draft.
These teams played one another in January, splitting those two meetings. That gives Miami three wins in their last four matchups with Detroit dating back two years.
Lakers Looking To End Season In Positive Vibe, Visit Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans will host the Los Angeles Lakers at Smoothie King Center on Sunday night.
The Pelicans (31-40) enter this game on a three-game losing streak following their 125-122 loss against the Golden State Warriors the last time out. Nickeil Alexander-Walker led the Pelicans with 30 points, complementing them with five rebounds, four assists, three steals and one block. Naji Marshall posted a 20-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included three assists. Jaxson Hayes supplied 19 points and eight boards. Wenyen Gabriel registered 14 points, six rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Eric Bledsoe managed 11 points, four assists, one rebound and one block. Willy Hernangomez contributed 10 points, nine rebounds and one assist. The Pelicans have already been eliminated from playoff contention and will be resting their star players, so they should play a very weakened lineup in a game where they have absolutely nothing to play for. It's worth noting New Orleans has gone 4-6 in their last 10 games and 18-17 at home this season.
The Lakers (41-30) are gearing up to end the season on a strong note, but the most important aspect for them is to finish the season healthy -- that means having both LeBron James and Anthony Davis available and as injury-free as possible. The star duo dazzled for the Lakers in their win over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday -- James finished with 24 points, eight assists and seven rebounds, while Davis chipped in with a team-high 28 points to go along with 10 rebounds, five assists and two steals. Andre Drummond contributed 11 points and 15 rebounds, while Dennis Schroder contributed 14 points. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope chipped in with 13 points and two steals, while Talen Horton-Tucker had 11 points off the bench. The Lakers have gone 20-15 away from home and will try to end the regular season on a strong note, though they're riding a four-game winning streak.
This will be the third and final game of the regular season between the two teams, with the record being 1-1 so far.
The Pelicans (31-40) enter this game on a three-game losing streak following their 125-122 loss against the Golden State Warriors the last time out. Nickeil Alexander-Walker led the Pelicans with 30 points, complementing them with five rebounds, four assists, three steals and one block. Naji Marshall posted a 20-point, 13-rebound double-double that also included three assists. Jaxson Hayes supplied 19 points and eight boards. Wenyen Gabriel registered 14 points, six rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block. Eric Bledsoe managed 11 points, four assists, one rebound and one block. Willy Hernangomez contributed 10 points, nine rebounds and one assist. The Pelicans have already been eliminated from playoff contention and will be resting their star players, so they should play a very weakened lineup in a game where they have absolutely nothing to play for. It's worth noting New Orleans has gone 4-6 in their last 10 games and 18-17 at home this season.
The Lakers (41-30) are gearing up to end the season on a strong note, but the most important aspect for them is to finish the season healthy -- that means having both LeBron James and Anthony Davis available and as injury-free as possible. The star duo dazzled for the Lakers in their win over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday -- James finished with 24 points, eight assists and seven rebounds, while Davis chipped in with a team-high 28 points to go along with 10 rebounds, five assists and two steals. Andre Drummond contributed 11 points and 15 rebounds, while Dennis Schroder contributed 14 points. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope chipped in with 13 points and two steals, while Talen Horton-Tucker had 11 points off the bench. The Lakers have gone 20-15 away from home and will try to end the regular season on a strong note, though they're riding a four-game winning streak.
This will be the third and final game of the regular season between the two teams, with the record being 1-1 so far.
Bulls Host Bucks on Sunday
The Chicago Bulls play host to the Milwaukee Bucks at United Center on Sunday.
The Bucks (46-25) have locked up the three-seed in the Eastern Conference. This club always sits near the top of the standings at the end of the season, but it's just a matter of what they do when it comes playoff time. They've exited out of the postseason way too early in each of the last two years, and a matchup with the Miami Heat in the first round is a scary proposition. That's the team that knocked them out last year, and it'll be interesting to see how they perform with Miami playing so well. The good news is that they're at full health, with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday all looking hungry for this postseason run.
The Bulls (30-41) have been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA this season. Many people expected them to compete at the beginning of the year, and then they failed to do just that. They then traded for Nikola Vucevic and Daniel Theis at the trade deadline, but didn't get much better since then either. That has to make fans wonder where this franchise is headed because there's way too much talent to have a record this poor. In any case, they look like one of the most dangerous teams in the Eastern Conference going into next season, and it'll be interesting to see what they do in what will be an inevitably long offseason.
This is the third and final meeting between these teams, with Milwaukee looking for the season sweep. That gives the Bucks 12-straight wins in this series in total.
The Bucks (46-25) have locked up the three-seed in the Eastern Conference. This club always sits near the top of the standings at the end of the season, but it's just a matter of what they do when it comes playoff time. They've exited out of the postseason way too early in each of the last two years, and a matchup with the Miami Heat in the first round is a scary proposition. That's the team that knocked them out last year, and it'll be interesting to see how they perform with Miami playing so well. The good news is that they're at full health, with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday all looking hungry for this postseason run.
The Bulls (30-41) have been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA this season. Many people expected them to compete at the beginning of the year, and then they failed to do just that. They then traded for Nikola Vucevic and Daniel Theis at the trade deadline, but didn't get much better since then either. That has to make fans wonder where this franchise is headed because there's way too much talent to have a record this poor. In any case, they look like one of the most dangerous teams in the Eastern Conference going into next season, and it'll be interesting to see what they do in what will be an inevitably long offseason.
This is the third and final meeting between these teams, with Milwaukee looking for the season sweep. That gives the Bucks 12-straight wins in this series in total.
Timberwolves To Close Season On Second Night Of Back-To-Back
By Dan Bruno
The Minnesota Timberwolves play host to the Dallas Mavericks at Target Center on Sunday evening.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Timberwolves (22-49), as they are coming off a rough home loss against the Celtics on Saturday. They got out to a rough start in the contest and trailed by 11 points after one quarter. They did not have any answers in the second and fell behind by 19 points, by halftime. They came out stronger in the third and trimmed it to a 15-point game heading into the final frame, but they could not complete the comeback, as they fell for a second straight loss. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with 24 points, 14 rebounds and two assists. Anthony Edwards followed up with 23 points, six assists, four rebounds and three steals, while Naz Reid totaled 12 points, five rebounds, two assists, three blocks and a steal. The Timberwolves will look to bounce back and close out their season with a win, as they can add to their, 12-23, home record.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks (42-29), have won eight of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row. They will look to keep rolling and add to their, 21-14, road record, as they close out their season on the road. Luka Doncic leads the Mavericks, averaging 27.9 points, 8.6 assists, 8.0 rebounds and 1.0 steals, in 35 minutes per game. Kristaps Porzingis is averaging 20.2 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks, while Tim Hardaway Jr. is averaging 16.6 points on 45 percent shooting per game. The Mavs limit themselves to 11.4 turnovers per game, which is third fewest in the league. They also do a good job on the defensive end, as they are holding opponents to an average of 109.8 points per game, which is eight fewest in the league. The Mavs sit fifth place in the West, with a one-game lead over seventh place.
This marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Timberwolves (22-49), as they are coming off a rough home loss against the Celtics on Saturday. They got out to a rough start in the contest and trailed by 11 points after one quarter. They did not have any answers in the second and fell behind by 19 points, by halftime. They came out stronger in the third and trimmed it to a 15-point game heading into the final frame, but they could not complete the comeback, as they fell for a second straight loss. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with 24 points, 14 rebounds and two assists. Anthony Edwards followed up with 23 points, six assists, four rebounds and three steals, while Naz Reid totaled 12 points, five rebounds, two assists, three blocks and a steal. The Timberwolves will look to bounce back and close out their season with a win, as they can add to their, 12-23, home record.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks (42-29), have won eight of their last 10 games, including their last two in a row. They will look to keep rolling and add to their, 21-14, road record, as they close out their season on the road. Luka Doncic leads the Mavericks, averaging 27.9 points, 8.6 assists, 8.0 rebounds and 1.0 steals, in 35 minutes per game. Kristaps Porzingis is averaging 20.2 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks, while Tim Hardaway Jr. is averaging 16.6 points on 45 percent shooting per game. The Mavs limit themselves to 11.4 turnovers per game, which is third fewest in the league. They also do a good job on the defensive end, as they are holding opponents to an average of 109.8 points per game, which is eight fewest in the league. The Mavs sit fifth place in the West, with a one-game lead over seventh place.
Nuggets Look To Build On Three-Game Streak
By Dan Bruno
The Portland Trail Blazers play host to the Denver Nuggets at Moda Center on Sunday evening.
The Nuggets (47-24) have won seven of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to keep the momentum going and add to their, 22-13, road record, as they get set to close out their season. Nikola Jokic continues to lead the Nuggets in almost every category, as he averages 26.4 points, 10.9 rebounds, 8.4 assists and 1.3 steals, in 35 minutes per game. Michael Porter Jr. is also playing great, averaging 19.2 points on 54 percent shooting and 7.4 rebounds per game, while Aaron Gordon is averaging 10.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. The Nuggets are averaging 115.0 points per game, which is seventh most in the league, and they are shooting an average of 48.5 percent from the field, which is fourth best in the league. On the other end, they are holding opponents to an average of 109.8 points per game, which is eighth fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers (41-30) have won eight of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a loss in their most recent contest. They will look to get back on track and close out their season with a win, as they sit sixth place in the West, 1.0 games behind fifth place. They have been strong at home and have one last chance to improve on their, 19-16, home record. Damian Lillard leads the team, averaging 28.9 points, 7.5 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game. C.J. McCollum is averaging 23.1 points, 4.7 assists and 4.0 rebounds per game, while Norman Powell is averaging 17.0 points on 44 percent shooting. The Trail Blazers are averaging 115.9 points per game, which is fifth most in the league, and they are shooting an average of 38.5 percent from long range, which is sixth best in the league. They also do a great job taking care of the ball, as they limit themselves to a league-low 10.7 turnovers per game.
The Nuggets (47-24) have won seven of their last 10 games, including their last three in a row. They will look to keep the momentum going and add to their, 22-13, road record, as they get set to close out their season. Nikola Jokic continues to lead the Nuggets in almost every category, as he averages 26.4 points, 10.9 rebounds, 8.4 assists and 1.3 steals, in 35 minutes per game. Michael Porter Jr. is also playing great, averaging 19.2 points on 54 percent shooting and 7.4 rebounds per game, while Aaron Gordon is averaging 10.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. The Nuggets are averaging 115.0 points per game, which is seventh most in the league, and they are shooting an average of 48.5 percent from the field, which is fourth best in the league. On the other end, they are holding opponents to an average of 109.8 points per game, which is eighth fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers (41-30) have won eight of their last 10 games, but they are coming off a loss in their most recent contest. They will look to get back on track and close out their season with a win, as they sit sixth place in the West, 1.0 games behind fifth place. They have been strong at home and have one last chance to improve on their, 19-16, home record. Damian Lillard leads the team, averaging 28.9 points, 7.5 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game. C.J. McCollum is averaging 23.1 points, 4.7 assists and 4.0 rebounds per game, while Norman Powell is averaging 17.0 points on 44 percent shooting. The Trail Blazers are averaging 115.9 points per game, which is fifth most in the league, and they are shooting an average of 38.5 percent from long range, which is sixth best in the league. They also do a great job taking care of the ball, as they limit themselves to a league-low 10.7 turnovers per game.
Kings Host Jazz on Sunday
The Sacramento Kings play host to the Utah Jazz at Golden 1 Center on Sunday.
The Jazz (51-20) come into this matchup winning six of their last eight games. That streak has earned them the top seed in the Western Conference and the best record in the NBA. That's a heck of an achievement for this club, and it's scary to think they'll have homecourt throughout the entirety of the postseason. This is a team that posted a 31-5 record at Vivint Smart Home Arena this year, the best mark in the NBA. That means a team is likely going to have to beat the Jazz a couple of times there to win in a series, and that's definitely a tough task. What they really need is some health, with Mike Conley and Donovan Mitchell both nicked up. Neither is expected to be out long, but they certainly won't get very far if both remain out past the opening round.
The Kings (31-40) have had yet another rough season. Injuries and poor decisions have killed this club, and it's hard to understand where they're headed. The one silver lining is the fact that these youngsters are getting better. Players like De'Aaron Fox, Tyrese Haliburton, and Richaun Holmes have made huge jumps this season, and it's a nice core to build around despite the massive struggles in the record book. Luke Walton's era has been far from impressive as their head coach, too, and it would be hard to imagine him sticking around another season after all the poor decisions he made this year. In any case, this offseason is huge for this franchise to figure some things out and build in the right direction.
This is the third and final meeting between these teams, with Utah looking for the season sweep. They've actually won five of their last six games over them in total in this series.
The Jazz (51-20) come into this matchup winning six of their last eight games. That streak has earned them the top seed in the Western Conference and the best record in the NBA. That's a heck of an achievement for this club, and it's scary to think they'll have homecourt throughout the entirety of the postseason. This is a team that posted a 31-5 record at Vivint Smart Home Arena this year, the best mark in the NBA. That means a team is likely going to have to beat the Jazz a couple of times there to win in a series, and that's definitely a tough task. What they really need is some health, with Mike Conley and Donovan Mitchell both nicked up. Neither is expected to be out long, but they certainly won't get very far if both remain out past the opening round.
The Kings (31-40) have had yet another rough season. Injuries and poor decisions have killed this club, and it's hard to understand where they're headed. The one silver lining is the fact that these youngsters are getting better. Players like De'Aaron Fox, Tyrese Haliburton, and Richaun Holmes have made huge jumps this season, and it's a nice core to build around despite the massive struggles in the record book. Luke Walton's era has been far from impressive as their head coach, too, and it would be hard to imagine him sticking around another season after all the poor decisions he made this year. In any case, this offseason is huge for this franchise to figure some things out and build in the right direction.
This is the third and final meeting between these teams, with Utah looking for the season sweep. They've actually won five of their last six games over them in total in this series.
Thunder Host Clippers on Sunday
The Oklahoma City Thunder play host to the Los Angeles Clippers at Chesapeake Energy Arena on Sunday.
The Clippers (47-24) have lost two of their last four games, and it has swapped them to fourth, with the Denver Nuggets moving to third. It's unclear exactly where they want to land, but they've assured themselves homecourt in the first round of the playoffs. This is a club no one wants to play when the postseason comes around, too, boasting a starting lineup that features a healthy Kawhi Leonard and a surging Paul George. That's one of the scariest duos in basketball, and this organization has built a nice core around them as well. Guys like Marcus Morris and Reggie Jackson have come up huge, and what these guys do in the playoffs will be just as important as what the superstars do.
The Thunder (21-50) are tanking harder than any team right now, entering this matchup losing their last nine games. The losing ways have lasted much longer than that, though, posting the worst record in the NBA since the beginning of April. It's really no surprise when you see that they've rested Al Horford and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the whole of the second half while giving numerous players rest days throughout this ugly stretch. What it has done is land them with the third-worst record in the NBA, and that's a really promising start to a long rebuild. This club has numerous draft picks over the next five years, and they're in a much better spot than this record would indicate.
This is the third and final meeting between these teams, with Los Angeles looking for the season sweep. The Clippers have actually won six of their last seven games in this series.
The Clippers (47-24) have lost two of their last four games, and it has swapped them to fourth, with the Denver Nuggets moving to third. It's unclear exactly where they want to land, but they've assured themselves homecourt in the first round of the playoffs. This is a club no one wants to play when the postseason comes around, too, boasting a starting lineup that features a healthy Kawhi Leonard and a surging Paul George. That's one of the scariest duos in basketball, and this organization has built a nice core around them as well. Guys like Marcus Morris and Reggie Jackson have come up huge, and what these guys do in the playoffs will be just as important as what the superstars do.
The Thunder (21-50) are tanking harder than any team right now, entering this matchup losing their last nine games. The losing ways have lasted much longer than that, though, posting the worst record in the NBA since the beginning of April. It's really no surprise when you see that they've rested Al Horford and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the whole of the second half while giving numerous players rest days throughout this ugly stretch. What it has done is land them with the third-worst record in the NBA, and that's a really promising start to a long rebuild. This club has numerous draft picks over the next five years, and they're in a much better spot than this record would indicate.
This is the third and final meeting between these teams, with Los Angeles looking for the season sweep. The Clippers have actually won six of their last seven games in this series.