Hornets, Cavaliers Clash On Opening Night
The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Charlotte Hornets at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on Wednesday evening.
The Hornets posted a 23-42 record in the shortened 2019-20 NBA season and were one of the teams that couldn't make it into the Orlando bubble, ending in 10th place of the Eastern Conference. Their backcourt duo of Terry Rozier and Davonte' Graham will be Charlotte's main weapon this season, but they also have to find minutes for their first-round pick LaMelo Ball, who has looked great in the preseason at times. Despite the fact winds of change might be felt in Charlotte, the reality is that the team is still far from being a playoff contender and a low-seed finish might be their best-case scenario given how the roster is currently assembled. They finished as the worst offense in the league, though, since they scored a meager 102.9 points per game while allowing 109.6 points per game, the 12th-best mark in The Association. They need to improve their execution on the offensive side of the ball in order to make a playoff push in 2020-21.
The Hornets are not announcing any notable injury absentees, although Grant Riller (knee) has been deemed as a game-time decision.
Just like the Hornets, the Cavaliers didn't make it to the Orlando bubble last season after finishing the 2019-20 shortened season with a 19-46 record that ranked as the worst in the Eastern Conference. The Cavaliers ranked as the fifth-worst defense in the league with 106.9 points scored per game, but they had even bigger issues on the other end of the court -- they allowed 114.8 points per contest, a figure that ranked as the eighth-worst in the league but as the third-worst in the East, only above the Washington Wizards and the Atlanta Hawks. The Cavaliers are in a rebuilding process and will once again trust young players such as Darius Garland and Collin Sexton, but their playoff expectations are slim to none.
The Cavaliers might be depleted for Opening Night based on their current injury list. Kevin Love (calf), Matthew Dellavedova (back), Dante Exum (hip) and Kevin Porter (personal) are all deemed as game-time decisions for this contest.
The Hornets posted a 23-42 record in the shortened 2019-20 NBA season and were one of the teams that couldn't make it into the Orlando bubble, ending in 10th place of the Eastern Conference. Their backcourt duo of Terry Rozier and Davonte' Graham will be Charlotte's main weapon this season, but they also have to find minutes for their first-round pick LaMelo Ball, who has looked great in the preseason at times. Despite the fact winds of change might be felt in Charlotte, the reality is that the team is still far from being a playoff contender and a low-seed finish might be their best-case scenario given how the roster is currently assembled. They finished as the worst offense in the league, though, since they scored a meager 102.9 points per game while allowing 109.6 points per game, the 12th-best mark in The Association. They need to improve their execution on the offensive side of the ball in order to make a playoff push in 2020-21.
The Hornets are not announcing any notable injury absentees, although Grant Riller (knee) has been deemed as a game-time decision.
Just like the Hornets, the Cavaliers didn't make it to the Orlando bubble last season after finishing the 2019-20 shortened season with a 19-46 record that ranked as the worst in the Eastern Conference. The Cavaliers ranked as the fifth-worst defense in the league with 106.9 points scored per game, but they had even bigger issues on the other end of the court -- they allowed 114.8 points per contest, a figure that ranked as the eighth-worst in the league but as the third-worst in the East, only above the Washington Wizards and the Atlanta Hawks. The Cavaliers are in a rebuilding process and will once again trust young players such as Darius Garland and Collin Sexton, but their playoff expectations are slim to none.
The Cavaliers might be depleted for Opening Night based on their current injury list. Kevin Love (calf), Matthew Dellavedova (back), Dante Exum (hip) and Kevin Porter (personal) are all deemed as game-time decisions for this contest.
Knicks, Pacers Will Tangle On Opening Night
The Indiana Pacers will host the New York Knicks at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Wednesday evening.
The Pacers reached the playoffs last season after ending the regular season with a 45-28 record, good for fourth in the Eastern Conference, but their postseason was short-lived since they were swept by the Miami Heat in the first round. The Pacers will return most of their core for the 2020-21 campaign, anchored by names such as T.J. Warren, Malcolm Brogdon and Myles Turner, but the biggest doubt lies on how much can Victor Oladipo contribute to the team. Oladipo missed most of last season due to injury but averaged 14.5 points per game in 19 contests. Having him at full health could be huge for an Indiana team that looks like a playoff contender once again.
Indiana is reporting four absences for the Opening Night contest against the Cavaliers, as Amida Brimah (not injury related), Goga Bitadze (ankle), Jeremy Lamb (knee) and Brian Bowen (groin) have all been ruled out for Wednesday's tilt.
The Knicks were a complete disappointment in 2019-20 and once again ended as one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference, as they ended with a 21-45 record -- the fourth-worst mark in the East. The prospects of a drastic rise in the standings for the 2020-21 campaign aren't very high, as the Knicks did little to improve the team in free agency and will rely on other areas to deliver better performances such as bounce-back years from names such as Julius Randle, Dennis Smith and Kevin Knox, among others. They also have high hopes for Obi Toppin, who showed flashes of brilliance during the preseason.
The Knicks won't have Austin Rivers (groin) due to injury, but he's far from the team's lone absentee. Dennis Smith (undisclosed), Frank Ntilikina (Achilles), Elfrid Payton (undisclosed) and Alec Burks (personal) are all listed as game-time decisions for Wednesday's tilt.
The Pacers reached the playoffs last season after ending the regular season with a 45-28 record, good for fourth in the Eastern Conference, but their postseason was short-lived since they were swept by the Miami Heat in the first round. The Pacers will return most of their core for the 2020-21 campaign, anchored by names such as T.J. Warren, Malcolm Brogdon and Myles Turner, but the biggest doubt lies on how much can Victor Oladipo contribute to the team. Oladipo missed most of last season due to injury but averaged 14.5 points per game in 19 contests. Having him at full health could be huge for an Indiana team that looks like a playoff contender once again.
Indiana is reporting four absences for the Opening Night contest against the Cavaliers, as Amida Brimah (not injury related), Goga Bitadze (ankle), Jeremy Lamb (knee) and Brian Bowen (groin) have all been ruled out for Wednesday's tilt.
The Knicks were a complete disappointment in 2019-20 and once again ended as one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference, as they ended with a 21-45 record -- the fourth-worst mark in the East. The prospects of a drastic rise in the standings for the 2020-21 campaign aren't very high, as the Knicks did little to improve the team in free agency and will rely on other areas to deliver better performances such as bounce-back years from names such as Julius Randle, Dennis Smith and Kevin Knox, among others. They also have high hopes for Obi Toppin, who showed flashes of brilliance during the preseason.
The Knicks won't have Austin Rivers (groin) due to injury, but he's far from the team's lone absentee. Dennis Smith (undisclosed), Frank Ntilikina (Achilles), Elfrid Payton (undisclosed) and Alec Burks (personal) are all listed as game-time decisions for Wednesday's tilt.
Heat and Magic Face Off in Sunshine State Showdown
The Miami Heat takes on the Orlando Magic at Amway Center on Wednesday night in the 2020-21 season opener for both clubs.
The Heat (0-0) will begin the defense of their rather unexpected Eastern Conference title Wednesday, following a remarkable 2019-20 season that saw Miami take out the Pacers, Bucks and Celtics to get to the NBA Finals in the Orlando bubble before dropping a hard-fought series to the Lakers by a 4-2 margin. Miami returns all of the key pieces from its successful run, and both Goran Dragic and Bam Adebayo, who dealt with a plantar fascia tear and neck strain during the Finals, respectively, are at full health. Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson will also look to continue their ascension after impressive postseason runs, and the extent of their development figures to be key to the extent of the Heat's 2020-21 success.
The Heat will come into Wednesday's game without any injuries to report.
The Magic (0-0) snuck into the Eastern Conference playoffs last summer as the No. 8 seed, but they were subsequently jettisoned in the five games by the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite their status as a playoff team, Orlando finished with an unsightly 33-40 mark last season, and they didn't make any notable changes in the offseason with respect to free-agent acquisitions. The Magic did draft North Carolina's Cole Anthony with the 15th overall pick, and he'll open the campaign backing up the newly minted Markelle Fultz, who just inked a $50 million extension Monday after putting up career bests in points (12.1), assists (5.1), steals (1.3) and field-goal percentage (46.5). Veteran big man Nicola Vucevic should continue to be the focal point of Orlando's offense after averaging 19.6 points, 10.9 rebounds and 3.6 assists across 32.2 minutes over 62 games last season.
The Magic will be without James Ennis (hamstring) and Al-Farouq Aminu (knee) for Wednesday's contest.
The Heat won the 2019-20 four-game season series against the Magic by a 3-1 margin.
The Heat (0-0) will begin the defense of their rather unexpected Eastern Conference title Wednesday, following a remarkable 2019-20 season that saw Miami take out the Pacers, Bucks and Celtics to get to the NBA Finals in the Orlando bubble before dropping a hard-fought series to the Lakers by a 4-2 margin. Miami returns all of the key pieces from its successful run, and both Goran Dragic and Bam Adebayo, who dealt with a plantar fascia tear and neck strain during the Finals, respectively, are at full health. Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson will also look to continue their ascension after impressive postseason runs, and the extent of their development figures to be key to the extent of the Heat's 2020-21 success.
The Heat will come into Wednesday's game without any injuries to report.
The Magic (0-0) snuck into the Eastern Conference playoffs last summer as the No. 8 seed, but they were subsequently jettisoned in the five games by the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite their status as a playoff team, Orlando finished with an unsightly 33-40 mark last season, and they didn't make any notable changes in the offseason with respect to free-agent acquisitions. The Magic did draft North Carolina's Cole Anthony with the 15th overall pick, and he'll open the campaign backing up the newly minted Markelle Fultz, who just inked a $50 million extension Monday after putting up career bests in points (12.1), assists (5.1), steals (1.3) and field-goal percentage (46.5). Veteran big man Nicola Vucevic should continue to be the focal point of Orlando's offense after averaging 19.6 points, 10.9 rebounds and 3.6 assists across 32.2 minutes over 62 games last season.
The Magic will be without James Ennis (hamstring) and Al-Farouq Aminu (knee) for Wednesday's contest.
The Heat won the 2019-20 four-game season series against the Magic by a 3-1 margin.
New-Look Wizards, 76ers Face Off
By Dan Bruno
The Philadelphia 76ers play host to the Washington Wizards at Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday evening.
Both the 76ers and the Wizards will kick off their 2020-21 season with new-look rosters, as both teams made a couple of significant moves in the offseason, however, none was more notable than Russell Westbrook becoming a member of the Wizards in exchange for their long-time point guard, John Wall.
The Wizards were stunted by injury trouble last season, as Thomas Bryant missed most of the season with a foot injury, however, with Bryant healthy and the additions of Westbrook and Robin Lopez, the Wizards may have what it takes to take a step forward after a couple of disappointing seasons. One bright spot from last season was the play of then rookie Rui Hachimunra, who now enters his second season with the opportunity to solidify himself as an impactful starter in the league. The Wizards also have sharpshooter, Davis Bertans, who has shown that he can be one of the best three-point shooters in the league.
Meanwhile, the 76ers saw the departure of Al Horford, as the experiment with him, Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris did not work. out very well. The Sixers did a good job in the offseason to target outside shooting and ball handling, as they picked up Seth Curry and Danny Green. They also signed 2020 NBA Champion, Dwight Howard, to provide relief at the center position and bring veteran leadership. The 76ers will also be looking for their now second-year player Matisse Thybulle to step up and build on flashes of great potential that he showed last season.
Both the 76ers and the Wizards will kick off their 2020-21 season with new-look rosters, as both teams made a couple of significant moves in the offseason, however, none was more notable than Russell Westbrook becoming a member of the Wizards in exchange for their long-time point guard, John Wall.
The Wizards were stunted by injury trouble last season, as Thomas Bryant missed most of the season with a foot injury, however, with Bryant healthy and the additions of Westbrook and Robin Lopez, the Wizards may have what it takes to take a step forward after a couple of disappointing seasons. One bright spot from last season was the play of then rookie Rui Hachimunra, who now enters his second season with the opportunity to solidify himself as an impactful starter in the league. The Wizards also have sharpshooter, Davis Bertans, who has shown that he can be one of the best three-point shooters in the league.
Meanwhile, the 76ers saw the departure of Al Horford, as the experiment with him, Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris did not work. out very well. The Sixers did a good job in the offseason to target outside shooting and ball handling, as they picked up Seth Curry and Danny Green. They also signed 2020 NBA Champion, Dwight Howard, to provide relief at the center position and bring veteran leadership. The 76ers will also be looking for their now second-year player Matisse Thybulle to step up and build on flashes of great potential that he showed last season.
Bucks and Celtics Tangle to Open Season
The Milwaukee Bucks take on the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on Wednesday night in the 2020-21 season opener for both clubs.
The Bucks (0-0) were the odds-on favorite to come out of the Eastern Conference as the postseason kicked off in Orlando last summer following a stellar regular season, but they were surprisingly ousted by the Heat in the semifinal round in five games. Milwaukee then made a change at point guard this offseason, acquiring Jrue Holiday from the Pelicans as part of a deal that sent Eric Bledsoe to New Orleans. The Bucks could well get better all-around production from their new arrival and take their quest for a championship to the next level in the process. However, reigning MVP and Defensive Player of the Year winner Giannis Antetokounmpo will naturally continue to be the focal point of the team, fresh off signing a five-year, $228.2 million supermax extension on Dec. 15.
The Bucks will list D.J. Augustin (calf) as doubtful for Wednesday's game.
The Celtics (0-0) had their fair share of playoff heartbreak at the hands of the Heat as well just three short months ago, as Miami followed up its upset of the Bucks by booting Boston in the conference finals. Coach Brad Stevens' squad thus begins the new season with a chip on its collective shoulder as well, but they'll begin their quest notably short-handed. Kemba Walker, who experienced lingering left knee soreness last season and postseason, reportedly won't be ready to play until sometime in January at the earliest. The Celtics did ink valuable veteran Jeff Teague this offseason, a signing that should prove particularly valuable early while Walker is out for the first few weeks at minimum. On the brighter side, the young nucleus of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart are all coming off career-best campaigns and could be poised for even more fruitful performances during the coming season.
In addition to Walker, the Celtics will also be without Romeo Langford (wrist) for Wednesday's game. Tacko Fall (eye) will likely be listed as no better than questionable.
The Bucks won the three-game 2019-20 season series against the Celtics by a 2-1 margin.
The Bucks (0-0) were the odds-on favorite to come out of the Eastern Conference as the postseason kicked off in Orlando last summer following a stellar regular season, but they were surprisingly ousted by the Heat in the semifinal round in five games. Milwaukee then made a change at point guard this offseason, acquiring Jrue Holiday from the Pelicans as part of a deal that sent Eric Bledsoe to New Orleans. The Bucks could well get better all-around production from their new arrival and take their quest for a championship to the next level in the process. However, reigning MVP and Defensive Player of the Year winner Giannis Antetokounmpo will naturally continue to be the focal point of the team, fresh off signing a five-year, $228.2 million supermax extension on Dec. 15.
The Bucks will list D.J. Augustin (calf) as doubtful for Wednesday's game.
The Celtics (0-0) had their fair share of playoff heartbreak at the hands of the Heat as well just three short months ago, as Miami followed up its upset of the Bucks by booting Boston in the conference finals. Coach Brad Stevens' squad thus begins the new season with a chip on its collective shoulder as well, but they'll begin their quest notably short-handed. Kemba Walker, who experienced lingering left knee soreness last season and postseason, reportedly won't be ready to play until sometime in January at the earliest. The Celtics did ink valuable veteran Jeff Teague this offseason, a signing that should prove particularly valuable early while Walker is out for the first few weeks at minimum. On the brighter side, the young nucleus of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart are all coming off career-best campaigns and could be poised for even more fruitful performances during the coming season.
In addition to Walker, the Celtics will also be without Romeo Langford (wrist) for Wednesday's game. Tacko Fall (eye) will likely be listed as no better than questionable.
The Bucks won the three-game 2019-20 season series against the Celtics by a 2-1 margin.
Raptors, Pelicans Face Off In Opener For Second Consecutive Season
By Dan Bruno
The Toronto Raptors play host to the New Orleans Pelicans at Amalie Arena on Wednesday night.
For the second season in a row the Raptors and Pelicans will face off in their season openers, however, this season there will be a one slight difference, as the Raptors are playing out of Tampa Bay rather than Toronto. The Raptors new location is only a result of current travel restrictions and is not meant to be a permanent change for the franchise.
The Raptors come into the 2020-21 season after a somewhat disappointing end to their 2019-20 playoff run, as they fell short against the Celtics in the second round. The Raptors saw the departure of two big men, Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka, in the offseason, which is a tough blow because of the signifiant roles each of them played over the last couple of seasons. However, the Raptors did a good job to fill the void by signing Aron Baynes and Alex Len, to join Chris Boucher and Pascal Siakam in the Raptors' front court. The Raptors also added some depth to their wing by picking up DeAndre' Bembry.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans will be looking to make an impact this season, as Zion Williamson enters his second season and the rest of the young core has had time to mature. They also added some good veteran presences with Steven Adams and Eric Bledsoe. Adams gives Williamson a tough and reliable front-court mate and also provides a good target for playmaker, Lonzo Ball. Brandon Ingram is coming off a fantastic season, where he showed his potential as a go-to scorer for the Pelicans and his level of play could be the difference maker on many nights.
For the second season in a row the Raptors and Pelicans will face off in their season openers, however, this season there will be a one slight difference, as the Raptors are playing out of Tampa Bay rather than Toronto. The Raptors new location is only a result of current travel restrictions and is not meant to be a permanent change for the franchise.
The Raptors come into the 2020-21 season after a somewhat disappointing end to their 2019-20 playoff run, as they fell short against the Celtics in the second round. The Raptors saw the departure of two big men, Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka, in the offseason, which is a tough blow because of the signifiant roles each of them played over the last couple of seasons. However, the Raptors did a good job to fill the void by signing Aron Baynes and Alex Len, to join Chris Boucher and Pascal Siakam in the Raptors' front court. The Raptors also added some depth to their wing by picking up DeAndre' Bembry.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans will be looking to make an impact this season, as Zion Williamson enters his second season and the rest of the young core has had time to mature. They also added some good veteran presences with Steven Adams and Eric Bledsoe. Adams gives Williamson a tough and reliable front-court mate and also provides a good target for playmaker, Lonzo Ball. Brandon Ingram is coming off a fantastic season, where he showed his potential as a go-to scorer for the Pelicans and his level of play could be the difference maker on many nights.
Hawks Visit Bulls For Season Opener
The Chicago Bulls will host the Atlanta Hawks at United Center on Wednesday night.
The Bulls were one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference last season and finished the shortened 2019-20 season with a 22-43 record, the fifth-worst mark in the East and a record that prevented them from travelling to the Orlando bubble. The Bulls will hope to maintain the improvements they evidenced last season, and the appointment of head coach Billy Donovan would seem to suggest they are confident they can reach the playoffs in 2020-21. Key contributors Zach LaVine and Lauri Markkanen remain around, while second-year guard Coby White will work as the starting point guard. If that trio, alongside Otto Porter, can produce, then Chicago might make a run at the playoffs. They need to improve their performances at home, however, where they went 14-20 last season.
The Bulls won't have Devon Dotson (undisclosed) for this game, while a trio of players has been listed as questionable -- these are Tomas Satoransky (undisclosed), Garrett Temple (illness) and Thaddeus Young (lower leg).
The Hawks ended last season with the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference at 20-47, but they have big hopes for this year and will aim to return to the playoffs after making several big-name upgrades in free agency -- they retained their core key players in John Collins and Trae Young, while adding names such as Rajon Rondo, Danilo Gallinari, Tony Snell, Kris Dunn and Solomon Hill. This team will go as far as Young can carry it, but there's no question there is better personnel around the star point guard than one year ago. Atlanta struggled badly on the road during the 2019-20 shortened season, however, as they won just six of 33 games away from home last season. Improving that figure with a win here would be a strong way to kick off the 2020-21 campaign.
The Hawks won't have Kris Dunn (knee) and Onyeka Okongwu (toe) for this game, while Rajon Rondo (personal) and Tony Snell (foot) have both been listed as game-time decisions.
The Bulls were one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference last season and finished the shortened 2019-20 season with a 22-43 record, the fifth-worst mark in the East and a record that prevented them from travelling to the Orlando bubble. The Bulls will hope to maintain the improvements they evidenced last season, and the appointment of head coach Billy Donovan would seem to suggest they are confident they can reach the playoffs in 2020-21. Key contributors Zach LaVine and Lauri Markkanen remain around, while second-year guard Coby White will work as the starting point guard. If that trio, alongside Otto Porter, can produce, then Chicago might make a run at the playoffs. They need to improve their performances at home, however, where they went 14-20 last season.
The Bulls won't have Devon Dotson (undisclosed) for this game, while a trio of players has been listed as questionable -- these are Tomas Satoransky (undisclosed), Garrett Temple (illness) and Thaddeus Young (lower leg).
The Hawks ended last season with the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference at 20-47, but they have big hopes for this year and will aim to return to the playoffs after making several big-name upgrades in free agency -- they retained their core key players in John Collins and Trae Young, while adding names such as Rajon Rondo, Danilo Gallinari, Tony Snell, Kris Dunn and Solomon Hill. This team will go as far as Young can carry it, but there's no question there is better personnel around the star point guard than one year ago. Atlanta struggled badly on the road during the 2019-20 shortened season, however, as they won just six of 33 games away from home last season. Improving that figure with a win here would be a strong way to kick off the 2020-21 campaign.
The Hawks won't have Kris Dunn (knee) and Onyeka Okongwu (toe) for this game, while Rajon Rondo (personal) and Tony Snell (foot) have both been listed as game-time decisions.
Thunder and Rockets Open Season out West
The Oklahoma City Thunder takes on the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on Wednesday night in the 2020-21 season opener for both clubs.
The Thunder (0-0) are officially in rebuilding mode after having let multiple veteran pieces go this offseason. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who posted a career-best 19.0 points and 5.9 rebounds across 70 games last season, is now the principal building block for Oklahoma City, which finished last season with a 44-28 record and engaged in a memorable quarterfinal-round series with the Rockets that Houston emerged victorious from in seven games. Al Horford was a rather curious offseason acquisition considering his age, but he'll help offer some veteran stability down low as long as he's kept around. However, outside of Gilgeous-Alexander and Horford, OKC appears set to open the new season with the talented but inexperienced duo of Hamidou Diallo and Luguentz Dortz at the wing spots and 2019 first-round pick Darius Bazley at power forward.
The Thunder will be without Theo Maledon (personal), Trevor Ariza (personal), Darius Miller (Achilles) and Ty Jerome (ankle) for Wednesday's game.
The Rockets (0-0) are a story onto themselves, largely because of their star-studded backcourt. At point guard, John Wall, whose last regular-season game came nearly two years ago, is finally recovered from his Achilles injury and set to step in for Russell Westbrook, who was moved to Washington in exchange for him. Over at the two, James Harden's future is currently the hottest topic in the league. The eight-time All-Star is reportedly the subject of trade discussions with multiple teams as the season opens, but for the time being, he'll continue to toil on a Houston squad that also added emerging big man Christian Wood, whose career-best 2019-20 season in Detroit earned him a three-year, $41 million deal from the Rockets. Wood projects to split time at center with intriguing offseason signing DeMarcus Cousins, who's looking to return to prominence after injuries derailed much of his last two seasons.
The Rockets will be without Ben McLemore (personal) for Wednesday's contest.
The Thunder beat the Rockets in the 2019-20 regular-season series by a 2-1 margin, but Houston came back to notch the aforementioned quarterfinal-round win in the postseason.
The Thunder (0-0) are officially in rebuilding mode after having let multiple veteran pieces go this offseason. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who posted a career-best 19.0 points and 5.9 rebounds across 70 games last season, is now the principal building block for Oklahoma City, which finished last season with a 44-28 record and engaged in a memorable quarterfinal-round series with the Rockets that Houston emerged victorious from in seven games. Al Horford was a rather curious offseason acquisition considering his age, but he'll help offer some veteran stability down low as long as he's kept around. However, outside of Gilgeous-Alexander and Horford, OKC appears set to open the new season with the talented but inexperienced duo of Hamidou Diallo and Luguentz Dortz at the wing spots and 2019 first-round pick Darius Bazley at power forward.
The Thunder will be without Theo Maledon (personal), Trevor Ariza (personal), Darius Miller (Achilles) and Ty Jerome (ankle) for Wednesday's game.
The Rockets (0-0) are a story onto themselves, largely because of their star-studded backcourt. At point guard, John Wall, whose last regular-season game came nearly two years ago, is finally recovered from his Achilles injury and set to step in for Russell Westbrook, who was moved to Washington in exchange for him. Over at the two, James Harden's future is currently the hottest topic in the league. The eight-time All-Star is reportedly the subject of trade discussions with multiple teams as the season opens, but for the time being, he'll continue to toil on a Houston squad that also added emerging big man Christian Wood, whose career-best 2019-20 season in Detroit earned him a three-year, $41 million deal from the Rockets. Wood projects to split time at center with intriguing offseason signing DeMarcus Cousins, who's looking to return to prominence after injuries derailed much of his last two seasons.
The Rockets will be without Ben McLemore (personal) for Wednesday's contest.
The Thunder beat the Rockets in the 2019-20 regular-season series by a 2-1 margin, but Houston came back to notch the aforementioned quarterfinal-round win in the postseason.
Timberwolves Begin Season At Home Against Pistons
By Dan Bruno
The Minnesota Timberwolves play host to the Detroit Pistons at Target Center on Wednesday evening.
The Timberwolves and Pistons come into the 2020-21 season in similar circumstances, in that they are both on the outside, looking in. They have had good opportunities in the last couple of seasons but have not been able to get over the hump and this marks the beginning of a fresh start. Both teams made some changes in the offseason as the Pistons picked up point guard, Delon Wright, and forwards Jerami Grant and Mason Plumlee, while the Timberwolves will see the return of their once-beloved point guard, Ricky Rubio.
Along with other additions that the Timberwolves made late last season, with D'Angelo Russell and Malik Beasley, Rubio will provide star big-man Karl-Anthony Towns more room to operate by helping spread the floor and set up good scoring opportunities both in the transition and half court. They will also look to nurture the development of their sophomore, Jarrett Culver, who showed some flashes last season.
Meanwhile, the Pistons' additions, Plumlee and Grant, give them great toughness and depth at the forward positions. This will help offset the loss of Andre Drummond, who will no longer be cleaning up the paint. Delon Wright give them another reliable point-guard option, along with Derrick Rose, who is coming off a strong season. Blake Griffin struggled with his health for much of last season, but he is expected to be ready to go for Wednesday. Griffin's status throughout the season will be a big factor in the success of the Pistons.
The Timberwolves and Pistons come into the 2020-21 season in similar circumstances, in that they are both on the outside, looking in. They have had good opportunities in the last couple of seasons but have not been able to get over the hump and this marks the beginning of a fresh start. Both teams made some changes in the offseason as the Pistons picked up point guard, Delon Wright, and forwards Jerami Grant and Mason Plumlee, while the Timberwolves will see the return of their once-beloved point guard, Ricky Rubio.
Along with other additions that the Timberwolves made late last season, with D'Angelo Russell and Malik Beasley, Rubio will provide star big-man Karl-Anthony Towns more room to operate by helping spread the floor and set up good scoring opportunities both in the transition and half court. They will also look to nurture the development of their sophomore, Jarrett Culver, who showed some flashes last season.
Meanwhile, the Pistons' additions, Plumlee and Grant, give them great toughness and depth at the forward positions. This will help offset the loss of Andre Drummond, who will no longer be cleaning up the paint. Delon Wright give them another reliable point-guard option, along with Derrick Rose, who is coming off a strong season. Blake Griffin struggled with his health for much of last season, but he is expected to be ready to go for Wednesday. Griffin's status throughout the season will be a big factor in the success of the Pistons.
Grizzlies Host Spurs in Opener
The Memphis Grizzlies play host to the San Antonio Spurs at FedEx Forum on Wednesday.
The Spurs missed the postseason last year for the first time in two decades and they certainly have an uphill battle to get back there this year. While they do have plenty of talent, they simply don't have enough to match up with all of the other dominant teams in the west. In fact, they're currently projected to finish 11th in the conference, with many experts having them in the bottom three. That's a bad sign with veterans like DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge aging rapidly, and both of those guys could be on the move soon if they miss the postseason yet again. The future of this team is their backcourt though and a new contract for Derrick White on Tuesday was certainly a vote of confidence. Unfortunately, he'll be out for a few weeks and it makes things even tougher on this club. He does pair wonderfully with Dejounte Murray though and fans are hopeful that these four guys can help the Spurs compete all year long.
The Grizzlies were one of the surprises of the league last season and if it weren't for a late-season collapse, they would have made the postseason. What's really encouraging about this club is the young core they've put together. Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr are two of the most exciting youngsters in the NBA while Dillon Brooks, Brandon Clarke and Jonas Valanciunas are nice pieces around them. That youth and hustle led to this team finishing top-5 in both rebounds and assists last season which is a rare feat from such a young squad. That's why Memphis didn't do a whole lot in the offseason but that's a worrisome thought with seemingly every other team in the west improving. In any case, this is a team to watch for years to come.
These teams have traded off wins and losses in nine-straight games, with San Antonio winning the most recent meeting.
The Spurs missed the postseason last year for the first time in two decades and they certainly have an uphill battle to get back there this year. While they do have plenty of talent, they simply don't have enough to match up with all of the other dominant teams in the west. In fact, they're currently projected to finish 11th in the conference, with many experts having them in the bottom three. That's a bad sign with veterans like DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge aging rapidly, and both of those guys could be on the move soon if they miss the postseason yet again. The future of this team is their backcourt though and a new contract for Derrick White on Tuesday was certainly a vote of confidence. Unfortunately, he'll be out for a few weeks and it makes things even tougher on this club. He does pair wonderfully with Dejounte Murray though and fans are hopeful that these four guys can help the Spurs compete all year long.
The Grizzlies were one of the surprises of the league last season and if it weren't for a late-season collapse, they would have made the postseason. What's really encouraging about this club is the young core they've put together. Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr are two of the most exciting youngsters in the NBA while Dillon Brooks, Brandon Clarke and Jonas Valanciunas are nice pieces around them. That youth and hustle led to this team finishing top-5 in both rebounds and assists last season which is a rare feat from such a young squad. That's why Memphis didn't do a whole lot in the offseason but that's a worrisome thought with seemingly every other team in the west improving. In any case, this is a team to watch for years to come.
These teams have traded off wins and losses in nine-straight games, with San Antonio winning the most recent meeting.
Nuggets Host Kings in Season Opener
The Denver Nuggets welcome the Sacramento Kings to Colorado at Ball Arena on Wednesday.
The Kings haven't been in the postseason since the 2005-06 season but things appear to be changing. While they might not get there this year, Sacramento is finally doing a good job of building a young core to achieve that goal. Draft picks like De'Aaron Fox and Marvin Bagley have serious upside while the additions of Hassan Whiteside, Buddy Hield and Richaun Holmes over recent years fill out that core. That does bring up an interesting dilemma though and that's how they're going to divvy up the minutes between Holmes and Whiteside. Both of these guys can be dominant presences in the frontcourt and one has to believe that they'll play more than just 24 minutes a game. If they can figure that out and sure up their frontcourt while getting 20-plus points from Fox and Hield, this is a team to look out for.
The Nuggets always fly under the radar but they're always playing big games at the end of the season. That was certainly the case last year, when they beat the Los Angeles Clippers in the Western Conference Semifinals, marking one of the most surprising upsets over the last decade. What people don't realize about that upset is the fact that Denver has finished top-3 in the west in back-to-back seasons. That's even better when you consider the fact that Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr are the three-best players on this team and all three are just coming into their own. All of those guys are very young and it's scary to think that they'll only get better from here on out. What does worry fans is the fact that they didn't do much in the offseason and that's never good with so many other teams improving around them.
Denver won two of the three meetings with Sacramento last season and are victorious in 10 of their last 12 games against the Kings.
The Kings haven't been in the postseason since the 2005-06 season but things appear to be changing. While they might not get there this year, Sacramento is finally doing a good job of building a young core to achieve that goal. Draft picks like De'Aaron Fox and Marvin Bagley have serious upside while the additions of Hassan Whiteside, Buddy Hield and Richaun Holmes over recent years fill out that core. That does bring up an interesting dilemma though and that's how they're going to divvy up the minutes between Holmes and Whiteside. Both of these guys can be dominant presences in the frontcourt and one has to believe that they'll play more than just 24 minutes a game. If they can figure that out and sure up their frontcourt while getting 20-plus points from Fox and Hield, this is a team to look out for.
The Nuggets always fly under the radar but they're always playing big games at the end of the season. That was certainly the case last year, when they beat the Los Angeles Clippers in the Western Conference Semifinals, marking one of the most surprising upsets over the last decade. What people don't realize about that upset is the fact that Denver has finished top-3 in the west in back-to-back seasons. That's even better when you consider the fact that Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr are the three-best players on this team and all three are just coming into their own. All of those guys are very young and it's scary to think that they'll only get better from here on out. What does worry fans is the fact that they didn't do much in the offseason and that's never good with so many other teams improving around them.
Denver won two of the three meetings with Sacramento last season and are victorious in 10 of their last 12 games against the Kings.
Trail Blazers Host Jazz in the Opener
The Portland Trail Blazers play host to the Utah Jazz at Moda Center on Wednesday.
The Jazz had an epic series with the Denver Nuggets in last season's playoffs but a missed three by Mike Conley sent them home in Game 7. Donovan Mitchell did have a breakout series though, dropping 50 points twice while averaging well over 30 points per game. Fans are just hopeful that he can continue that form coming into this year while also getting Bojan Bogdanovic back from his hand injury. He's one of the most valuable players on this team with his sharpshooting and it was nice to see Conley play much better in the second half too. The key is Rudy Gobert and his rim-protecting ways though and that's why the Jazz inked him to a long-term deal on Monday. That makes up the starting five for this scary team and it's certainly a club to watch in what's one of the deepest Western Conferences we've ever seen.
The Trail Blazers made an amazing run in the bubble to sneak into the postseason but were quickly exposed by the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round. Where they really struggled last season was on the defensive end of the floor and they definitely plugged those holes in the offseason. In fact, they added Derrick Jones Jr and Robert Covington, giving this team a much-needed presence on the defensive end. It also fills their wing slots which have been a weakness for this club in recent years. That takes a little bit of the honus off of C.J. McCollum and Damian Lillard, adding to their value on the offensive end which is where they're two of the most dangerous threats in the world.
In their three meetings last season, Utah won two of three with the home team prevailing all three matchups. Prior to that, these clubs split their season series in each of the last three years.
The Jazz had an epic series with the Denver Nuggets in last season's playoffs but a missed three by Mike Conley sent them home in Game 7. Donovan Mitchell did have a breakout series though, dropping 50 points twice while averaging well over 30 points per game. Fans are just hopeful that he can continue that form coming into this year while also getting Bojan Bogdanovic back from his hand injury. He's one of the most valuable players on this team with his sharpshooting and it was nice to see Conley play much better in the second half too. The key is Rudy Gobert and his rim-protecting ways though and that's why the Jazz inked him to a long-term deal on Monday. That makes up the starting five for this scary team and it's certainly a club to watch in what's one of the deepest Western Conferences we've ever seen.
The Trail Blazers made an amazing run in the bubble to sneak into the postseason but were quickly exposed by the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round. Where they really struggled last season was on the defensive end of the floor and they definitely plugged those holes in the offseason. In fact, they added Derrick Jones Jr and Robert Covington, giving this team a much-needed presence on the defensive end. It also fills their wing slots which have been a weakness for this club in recent years. That takes a little bit of the honus off of C.J. McCollum and Damian Lillard, adding to their value on the offensive end which is where they're two of the most dangerous threats in the world.
In their three meetings last season, Utah won two of three with the home team prevailing all three matchups. Prior to that, these clubs split their season series in each of the last three years.
Suns Host Mavericks in Opener
The Dallas Mavericks travel to Arizona to face the Phoenix Suns at Phoenix Suns Arena on Wednesday.
The Mavericks were one of the biggest surprises of the 2019 season, with Luka Doncic blossoming into an absolute superstar. He actually finished last year with 28.8 points, 9.4 rebounds and 8.8 assists per game. That has him entering this season as the MVP favorite and no one would be surprised if the 21-year-old ends up finishing the year with triple-double averages. That's a scary thought that he's so young and he makes a great pairing with Kristaps Porzingis. Unfortunately, Porzingis will miss the first month of the season and it'll put even more of the load on Doncic's shoulders. An understated move in the offseason was adding Josh Richardson though, who's one of the most underrated wings in the league. He'll add to what's already the best offense in the NBA while giving them a stopper on the other end of the floor as well.
The Suns were lucky to be in the bubble according to most people but they represented themselves better than any other team. That was evident by their perfect 8-0 record but that couldn't even get them into the postseason. What it did do is open up some eyes though and made them a premier destination for free agents and trade targets. That's one of the big reasons why Chris Paul and Jae Crowder ended up there, making this club an automatic contender. That means Devin Booker and DeAndre Ayton finally have a leader and a defensive stud which are two things this team has been needing since the Steven Nash-Amare Stoudemire era.
These teams played four times last season, with Phoenix winning three-straight coming into this matchup. In fact, they've won 10 of their last 13 games against Dallas in total.
The Mavericks were one of the biggest surprises of the 2019 season, with Luka Doncic blossoming into an absolute superstar. He actually finished last year with 28.8 points, 9.4 rebounds and 8.8 assists per game. That has him entering this season as the MVP favorite and no one would be surprised if the 21-year-old ends up finishing the year with triple-double averages. That's a scary thought that he's so young and he makes a great pairing with Kristaps Porzingis. Unfortunately, Porzingis will miss the first month of the season and it'll put even more of the load on Doncic's shoulders. An understated move in the offseason was adding Josh Richardson though, who's one of the most underrated wings in the league. He'll add to what's already the best offense in the NBA while giving them a stopper on the other end of the floor as well.
The Suns were lucky to be in the bubble according to most people but they represented themselves better than any other team. That was evident by their perfect 8-0 record but that couldn't even get them into the postseason. What it did do is open up some eyes though and made them a premier destination for free agents and trade targets. That's one of the big reasons why Chris Paul and Jae Crowder ended up there, making this club an automatic contender. That means Devin Booker and DeAndre Ayton finally have a leader and a defensive stud which are two things this team has been needing since the Steven Nash-Amare Stoudemire era.
These teams played four times last season, with Phoenix winning three-straight coming into this matchup. In fact, they've won 10 of their last 13 games against Dallas in total.