Can the Celtics make it three wins in a row?
The Boston Celtics have won their last two games with the most recent one being a decisive 30-point victory over the Miami Heat, a strong contender in the East. Though the Heat were shorthanded, it was a well-balanced effort from the Celtics as six players scored in double-figures. Boston has won four of its last five outings and currently sits at ninth place with a 27-25 record.
The Celtics hope to continue their winning ways against the Charlotte Hornets who are slightly above the standings with 28-23. The always entertaining and very explosive Hornets met a roadblock in their last game versus the Los Angeles Clippers, scoring a season-low 90 points on 32.7 percent shooting. They need to churn up their offense if they want to get the win in Boston.
The last time the Celtics and Hornets tangoed on Jan. 20, LaMelo Ball starred with a triple-double line of 15-10-10, while backcourt buddy Terry Rozier fired 28 points and dished out 10 assists as they secured the 111-102 victory. In an earlier meeting in late October last year, extra time was needed as the Celtics powered through a 140-129 decision, leaning on 41 points from Jayson Tatum and 30 points from Jaylen Brown.
Round 3 between the Hornets and Celtics offers no shortage of action.
Who will end their slump: Lakers or Trail Blazers?
Out West, it’s a toss up between two teams trying to gain momentum in a trying season.
The Los Angeles Lakers have faltered three in a row, losing to the Philadelphia 76ers, Charlotte Hornets, and Atlanta Hawks. Health has been one of the more prevailing issues of the Lakers and the injuries continue to pile up. Malik Monk is listed as probable because of a left groin soreness while LeBron James is doubtful due to a knee issue. Anthony Davis, despite returning to action in the Lakers’ recent road trip, isn’t sure to suit up against the Trail Blazers because of a wrist injury.
The Trail Blazers, of course, are no strangers to the injury bug. Damian Lillard continues to recover following his abdominal surgery and will have to be evaluated later this month. Nassir Little, unfortunately, has been ruled out for the rest of the season because of a shoulder injury. Big men Cody Zeller and Larry Nance Jr., meanwhile, are dealing with knee problems. The Trail Blazers just came from Oklahoma City where they struggled offensively, losing 98-81 to the Thunder. The loss particularly stings for Portland because Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, OKC’s best player, didn’t play.
The Lakers are ninth in the West with a 24-27 record while the Trail Blazers are close behind with 21-30.
