Phoenix Coyotes vs Detroit Red Wings Live Streaming NHL Online on 7:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Phoenix Coyotes forward Shane Doan says Bryzgalov is not just big. Pucks seem to bounce off Howard more than most goalies, giving teams second and third chances to score, but his teammates are certain he’ll help them rebound from a relatively disappointing run that ended in the second round of the playoffs last year. Phoenix Coyotes vs Detroit Red Wings Live. Howard won 37 games this season with a 2.79 GAA and .908 save percentage, nothing stellar. And part of that was the play of Howard, who got a $4.5 million, two-year deal two months ago that keeps him off the free agent market.
Detroit Red Wings drafted Howard in the second round of the 2003 draft after he starred for three seasons at Maine, and gave him time to develop with the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins. The native of Ogdensburg, N.Y., was runner-up for rookie of the year last season after ranking in the top five in wins, goals-against average and save percentage. Phoenix Coyotes vs Detroit Red Wings Live Webcast. Detroit Red Wings and Coyotes open their first-round playoff series Wednesday night in Detroit, a rematch of a showdown that went seven games a year ago—an early test for Howard, then a rookie.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Pittsburgh Penguins Live Streaming NHL Online
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Pittsburgh Penguins Live Streaming NHL Online on 7:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Tampa Bay Lightning’s first playoff appearance since 2007, and it comes during the first season in the tenures of general manager Steve Yzerman and coach Guy Boucher. At the season’s midway point, Crosby was the runaway choice for NHL MVP. By the end, with Crosby out, goalie Marc-Andre Fleury was named the Penguins’ team MVP. Tampa Bay Lightning vs Pittsburgh Penguins Live. Due in part to Stamkos’ 45 goals and former scoring champion St. Louis’ 99 points, Tampa Bay ended the season third in the conference in goals and with the top power play in the East.
Pittsburgh Penguins has won 12 of 16 and eight of 10, including its final four after a loss to the Lightning. That was part of a Lightning stretch in which it won seven of its final eight. Pittsburgh instead turned to a league-best penalty kill, and focused on defense to the point where it had the No. 3 goals-against average in the East. Tampa Bay Lightning vs Pittsburgh Penguins Live Webcast. metamorphosis of the Penguins from a high-scoring team to one that relies on defense was forced by the loss of Crosby, clearly. His 32 goals in exactly half a season still lead the team by far. Winger Chris Kunitz’s 23 are Pittsburgh’s high among players who will participate in Game 1.
Tampa Bay Lightning’s first playoff appearance since 2007, and it comes during the first season in the tenures of general manager Steve Yzerman and coach Guy Boucher. At the season’s midway point, Crosby was the runaway choice for NHL MVP. By the end, with Crosby out, goalie Marc-Andre Fleury was named the Penguins’ team MVP. Tampa Bay Lightning vs Pittsburgh Penguins Live. Due in part to Stamkos’ 45 goals and former scoring champion St. Louis’ 99 points, Tampa Bay ended the season third in the conference in goals and with the top power play in the East.
Pittsburgh Penguins has won 12 of 16 and eight of 10, including its final four after a loss to the Lightning. That was part of a Lightning stretch in which it won seven of its final eight. Pittsburgh instead turned to a league-best penalty kill, and focused on defense to the point where it had the No. 3 goals-against average in the East. Tampa Bay Lightning vs Pittsburgh Penguins Live Webcast. metamorphosis of the Penguins from a high-scoring team to one that relies on defense was forced by the loss of Crosby, clearly. His 32 goals in exactly half a season still lead the team by far. Winger Chris Kunitz’s 23 are Pittsburgh’s high among players who will participate in Game 1.
New York Rangers vs Washington Capitals Live Streaming NHL Online
New York Rangers vs Washington Capitals Live Streaming NHL Online on 7:30 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
New York barely scraped into the playoffs—clinching the No. 8 spot only when the Carolina Hurricanes lost their final game of season—but the Rangers and Capitals are remarkably close in many statistical categories and now play similar close-to-the-vest schemes that should produce mostly tight, low-scoring games. New York Rangers vs Washington Capitals Live. When the Rangers arrive at the Verizon Center on Wednesday night for Game 1 of their Eastern Conference playoff series, they’ll face a Capitals team that is less elegant and more workmanlike than the one they routed during the Christmas shopping season.
Every Capitals playoff series has gone to seven games since Boudreau became coach in 2007. Washington has won only one, coming from 3-1 down to beat the Rangers two years ago. Regardless of how they play, their legacy won’t mean much if they don’t finally break through and put together a deep run into the playoffs. New York Rangers vs Washington Capitals Live Webcast. The whole new game the Capitals are playing took a bite out of the offensive numbers, although it must be noted that the goals spigot had already slowed to a trickle before the change was made.
New York barely scraped into the playoffs—clinching the No. 8 spot only when the Carolina Hurricanes lost their final game of season—but the Rangers and Capitals are remarkably close in many statistical categories and now play similar close-to-the-vest schemes that should produce mostly tight, low-scoring games. New York Rangers vs Washington Capitals Live. When the Rangers arrive at the Verizon Center on Wednesday night for Game 1 of their Eastern Conference playoff series, they’ll face a Capitals team that is less elegant and more workmanlike than the one they routed during the Christmas shopping season.
Every Capitals playoff series has gone to seven games since Boudreau became coach in 2007. Washington has won only one, coming from 3-1 down to beat the Rangers two years ago. Regardless of how they play, their legacy won’t mean much if they don’t finally break through and put together a deep run into the playoffs. New York Rangers vs Washington Capitals Live Webcast. The whole new game the Capitals are playing took a bite out of the offensive numbers, although it must be noted that the goals spigot had already slowed to a trickle before the change was made.
Chicago Blackhawks vs Vancouver Canucks Live Streaming NHL Online
Chicago Blackhawks vs Vancouver Canucks Live Streaming NHL Online on 10:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Chicago Blackhawks went on to win the Stanley Cup after eliminating Vancouver in six games in the second round for a second straight season. For all the bitter history, the focus going into the best-of-seven Western Conference first-round series was how much these two teams have changed since last season. Chicago Blackhawks vs Vancouver Canucks Live. With a history like that, you’d think it would be easy to get players talking about each other before their first-round series kicks off Wednesday in Vancouver. Think again.
Canucks say they learned from the losses, especially handing Chicago a run of power plays with undisciplined penalties in Games 3 and 4. They made changes to personnel, strengthening their defensive depth and adding grit up front. But the biggest adjustment was to their personality. Chicago Blackhawks vs Vancouver Canucks Live Webcast. Just as they refused to repeat last season’s talk about wanting to play Chicago and being eager for redemption, the players, led by former agitators Kesler and Alex Burrows, made a conscious effort to reduce trash talk to opponents and officials, something they learned from the Blackhawks.
Chicago Blackhawks went on to win the Stanley Cup after eliminating Vancouver in six games in the second round for a second straight season. For all the bitter history, the focus going into the best-of-seven Western Conference first-round series was how much these two teams have changed since last season. Chicago Blackhawks vs Vancouver Canucks Live. With a history like that, you’d think it would be easy to get players talking about each other before their first-round series kicks off Wednesday in Vancouver. Think again.
Canucks say they learned from the losses, especially handing Chicago a run of power plays with undisciplined penalties in Games 3 and 4. They made changes to personnel, strengthening their defensive depth and adding grit up front. But the biggest adjustment was to their personality. Chicago Blackhawks vs Vancouver Canucks Live Webcast. Just as they refused to repeat last season’s talk about wanting to play Chicago and being eager for redemption, the players, led by former agitators Kesler and Alex Burrows, made a conscious effort to reduce trash talk to opponents and officials, something they learned from the Blackhawks.
Nashville Predators vs Anaheim Ducks Live Streaming NHL Online
Nashville Predators vs Anaheim Ducks Live Streaming NHL Online on 10:30 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Nashville Predators increasingly dominant defense, which gave up 41 fewer goals than Anaheim, the Predators head into the playoffs with rapidly improving health after a lengthy injury parade. Nashville Predators vs Anaheim Ducks Live. With their strength contrasting so neatly, both teams realize they’ll be challenged to adjust their weaknesses. Nashville has just two 20-goal scorers and nobody with more than 50 points, while Anaheim’s 235 goals allowed were the most by any playoff team except Tampa Bay.
Anaheim Ducks don’t yet know whether the series will be the final playoff hurrah for Selanne, the 40-year-old superstar coming off an 80-point season. Selanne is contemplating retirement yet again after nearly quitting last summer when Anaheim missed the playoffs. Nashville Predators vs Anaheim Ducks Live Webcast. Anaheim Ducks’ defensive discipline and the Predators’ offensive ingenuity could end up deciding the series, Perry believes. Ducks are just as impressed with Suter and Weber, with coach Randy Carlyle calling them the NHL’s top defensive pairing. Their former goalie agrees.
Nashville Predators increasingly dominant defense, which gave up 41 fewer goals than Anaheim, the Predators head into the playoffs with rapidly improving health after a lengthy injury parade. Nashville Predators vs Anaheim Ducks Live. With their strength contrasting so neatly, both teams realize they’ll be challenged to adjust their weaknesses. Nashville has just two 20-goal scorers and nobody with more than 50 points, while Anaheim’s 235 goals allowed were the most by any playoff team except Tampa Bay.
Anaheim Ducks don’t yet know whether the series will be the final playoff hurrah for Selanne, the 40-year-old superstar coming off an 80-point season. Selanne is contemplating retirement yet again after nearly quitting last summer when Anaheim missed the playoffs. Nashville Predators vs Anaheim Ducks Live Webcast. Anaheim Ducks’ defensive discipline and the Predators’ offensive ingenuity could end up deciding the series, Perry believes. Ducks are just as impressed with Suter and Weber, with coach Randy Carlyle calling them the NHL’s top defensive pairing. Their former goalie agrees.
New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics NBA Live Streaming Online
New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
New York Knicks haven’t won in Boston since Nov. 24, 2006, losing eight straight there - seven since the Celtics acquired Garnett and Allen. While the Knicks can’t exactly send a message by beating Boston’s reserves, they wouldn’t mind avoiding a season-series sweep. The Celtics have won the first three meetings, although they were decided by an average of just 5.3 points. New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Live. Knicks still managed to extend their winning streak to seven before losing 103-90 at home to the Bulls on Tuesday. They led by three at halftime, but Chicago began the third quarter on a 26-2 run.
Boston Celtics seemed content to settle into third place even when they still had a chance to catch Miami. Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo all sat out Monday’s 95-94 overtime loss at Washington. Boston is locked into the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, while the Knicks are assured of finishing sixth, which means the clubs will square off in the postseason for the first time since 1990. New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Live Webcast. Both teams may rest starters when they finish the regular season Wednesday night at TD Garden, the same place where they’ll open the playoffs this weekend.
New York Knicks haven’t won in Boston since Nov. 24, 2006, losing eight straight there - seven since the Celtics acquired Garnett and Allen. While the Knicks can’t exactly send a message by beating Boston’s reserves, they wouldn’t mind avoiding a season-series sweep. The Celtics have won the first three meetings, although they were decided by an average of just 5.3 points. New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Live. Knicks still managed to extend their winning streak to seven before losing 103-90 at home to the Bulls on Tuesday. They led by three at halftime, but Chicago began the third quarter on a 26-2 run.
Boston Celtics seemed content to settle into third place even when they still had a chance to catch Miami. Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo all sat out Monday’s 95-94 overtime loss at Washington. Boston is locked into the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, while the Knicks are assured of finishing sixth, which means the clubs will square off in the postseason for the first time since 1990. New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Live Webcast. Both teams may rest starters when they finish the regular season Wednesday night at TD Garden, the same place where they’ll open the playoffs this weekend.
Miami Heat vs Toronto Raptors NBA Live Streaming Online
Miami Heat vs Toronto Raptors NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Miami Heat has won four straight and six of eight against Toronto, but the Raptors have taken six of the last eight meetings at Air Canada Centre. Heat have taken all three meetings rather easily, winning by an average of 11.4 points. Bosh scored 25 in his first return to Toronto since joining Miami as the Heat won 103-95 in the latest meeting Feb. 16. Miami Heat vs Toronto Raptors Live. Heat need a victory to finish with their highest win total since going 59-23 in 2004-05. They appear to have a very good chance to do so against the Raptors. Andrea Bargnani scored 38 points in that game and is averaging 29.3 against the Heat this season, but he’s missed four straight and seven of the last nine contests due to a sore ankle.
Toronto Raptors struggled in the fourth quarter against the Bucks, committing six of its 20 turnovers. Toronto Raptors used just eight players in a 93-86 loss to Milwaukee on Monday as Bargnani, Leandro Barbosa, Jose Calderon, Amir Johnson, Sonny Weems and Reggie Evans sat out. Miami Heat vs Toronto Raptors Live Webcast. Miami started 9-8 and endured a five-game losing streak against playoff teams from Feb. 27-March 8 that raised doubts about whether it could compete with the NBA’s best. Miami Heat defeated Atlanta 98-90 on Monday to assure themselves of the No. 2 seed, locking them into a first-round matchup with Philadelphia.
Miami Heat has won four straight and six of eight against Toronto, but the Raptors have taken six of the last eight meetings at Air Canada Centre. Heat have taken all three meetings rather easily, winning by an average of 11.4 points. Bosh scored 25 in his first return to Toronto since joining Miami as the Heat won 103-95 in the latest meeting Feb. 16. Miami Heat vs Toronto Raptors Live. Heat need a victory to finish with their highest win total since going 59-23 in 2004-05. They appear to have a very good chance to do so against the Raptors. Andrea Bargnani scored 38 points in that game and is averaging 29.3 against the Heat this season, but he’s missed four straight and seven of the last nine contests due to a sore ankle.
Toronto Raptors struggled in the fourth quarter against the Bucks, committing six of its 20 turnovers. Toronto Raptors used just eight players in a 93-86 loss to Milwaukee on Monday as Bargnani, Leandro Barbosa, Jose Calderon, Amir Johnson, Sonny Weems and Reggie Evans sat out. Miami Heat vs Toronto Raptors Live Webcast. Miami started 9-8 and endured a five-game losing streak against playoff teams from Feb. 27-March 8 that raised doubts about whether it could compete with the NBA’s best. Miami Heat defeated Atlanta 98-90 on Monday to assure themselves of the No. 2 seed, locking them into a first-round matchup with Philadelphia.
Denver Nuggets vs Utah Jazz NBA Live Streaming Online
Denver Nuggets vs Utah Jazz NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Denver Nuggets won Monday without Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari, Al Harrington and Timofey Mozgov. While they got Chris Andersen(notes) and Arron Afflalo back, Afflalo reaggravated his lingering hamstring injury and Nene left with a strained right groin. Denver Nuggets vs Utah Jazz Live. Nuggets could still wind up facing the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas or Oklahoma City in the first round. They took two of three from the Lakers and three of four from the Mavericks, but were 1-3 against the Thunder.
Utah Jazz have allowed an average of 93.0 points in their last four games - 15.0 fewer than they surrendered in their previous 14. Utah was struggling before trading Deron Williams and continued to crumble after the deal, but it’s picked up two impressive wins over the last week. Denver Nuggets vs Utah Jazz Live Webcast. Martin and Felton will rest, and Gallinari is a game-time decision. Chandler and Harrington are expected to play, and Karl believes he’ll have a full roster available for the playoffs with the possible exception of Mozgov.
Denver Nuggets won Monday without Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari, Al Harrington and Timofey Mozgov. While they got Chris Andersen(notes) and Arron Afflalo back, Afflalo reaggravated his lingering hamstring injury and Nene left with a strained right groin. Denver Nuggets vs Utah Jazz Live. Nuggets could still wind up facing the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas or Oklahoma City in the first round. They took two of three from the Lakers and three of four from the Mavericks, but were 1-3 against the Thunder.
Utah Jazz have allowed an average of 93.0 points in their last four games - 15.0 fewer than they surrendered in their previous 14. Utah was struggling before trading Deron Williams and continued to crumble after the deal, but it’s picked up two impressive wins over the last week. Denver Nuggets vs Utah Jazz Live Webcast. Martin and Felton will rest, and Gallinari is a game-time decision. Chandler and Harrington are expected to play, and Karl believes he’ll have a full roster available for the playoffs with the possible exception of Mozgov.
Milwaukee Bucks vs Oklahoma City Thunder NBA Live Streaming Online
Milwaukee Bucks vs Oklahoma City Thunder NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Milwaukee Bucks concluded the home portion of the schedule Monday with a 93-86 win over Toronto. John Salmons had 24 points, while Brandon Jennings scored 21. Milwaukee has won three of four since having its playoff hopes dashed, highlighted by a 90-85 victory in Miami last Wednesday. Milwaukee Bucks vs Oklahoma City Thunder Live. Jennings, who is averaging 22.0 points in his last three games - 5.8 better than his season average - led the Bucks with 25 points against the Thunder in November. Finishing fourth would mean the Thunder would open the playoffs against division rival Denver, whom they defeated twice in the last week.
Oklahoma City is certainly playing at a championship level, having won 16 of 19. The Thunder are 10-1 at home since the start of March, and are playing with a newfound toughness on defense with Kendrick Perkins manning the middle. Thunder entered the playoffs as the eighth seed and were eliminated by the Lakers in the first round. They believe they are legitimate championship contenders this season. Milwaukee Bucks vs Oklahoma City Thunder Live Webcast. Thunder are averaging 111.4 points during their five-game winning streak, led by Durant’s 30.4 per game. Oklahoma City first needs to get past the Bucks.
Milwaukee Bucks concluded the home portion of the schedule Monday with a 93-86 win over Toronto. John Salmons had 24 points, while Brandon Jennings scored 21. Milwaukee has won three of four since having its playoff hopes dashed, highlighted by a 90-85 victory in Miami last Wednesday. Milwaukee Bucks vs Oklahoma City Thunder Live. Jennings, who is averaging 22.0 points in his last three games - 5.8 better than his season average - led the Bucks with 25 points against the Thunder in November. Finishing fourth would mean the Thunder would open the playoffs against division rival Denver, whom they defeated twice in the last week.
Oklahoma City is certainly playing at a championship level, having won 16 of 19. The Thunder are 10-1 at home since the start of March, and are playing with a newfound toughness on defense with Kendrick Perkins manning the middle. Thunder entered the playoffs as the eighth seed and were eliminated by the Lakers in the first round. They believe they are legitimate championship contenders this season. Milwaukee Bucks vs Oklahoma City Thunder Live Webcast. Thunder are averaging 111.4 points during their five-game winning streak, led by Durant’s 30.4 per game. Oklahoma City first needs to get past the Bucks.
Detroit Pistons vs Philadelphia 76ers NBA Live Streaming Online
Detroit Pistons vs Philadelphia 76ers NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Detroit will try to finish with its fifth win in seven games against Philadelphia. Pistons missed a chance to enter this game with a season-high four straight wins as they fell 110-101 at home to the East’s worst team, Cleveland, on Monday. With new owner Tom Gores expected to take over soon, the coach and some of his players’ futures remain uncertain. Detroit Pistons vs Philadelphia 76ers Live. Detroit has dealt with more than physical pain while topping 50 losses for the second straight season, the first time that’s happened since 1994-95 and 1995-96.
Philadelphia will finish with at least 40 wins for the third time in four seasons but has topped 41 only once in the previous seven. Collins isn’t sure if he’ll play Iguodala against the Pistons, and Williams is expected to miss his fifth straight game because of a strained right hamstring. The 76ers, though, haven’t played like a playoff team as they’ve scored 88.8 points per game - 10.2 fewer than their season average - while dropping four of five. Detroit Pistons vs Philadelphia 76ers Live Webcast. Philadelphia is heading to the postseason for the third time in four years, and the Eastern Conference’s seventh-place team will take on Miami in the first round.
Detroit will try to finish with its fifth win in seven games against Philadelphia. Pistons missed a chance to enter this game with a season-high four straight wins as they fell 110-101 at home to the East’s worst team, Cleveland, on Monday. With new owner Tom Gores expected to take over soon, the coach and some of his players’ futures remain uncertain. Detroit Pistons vs Philadelphia 76ers Live. Detroit has dealt with more than physical pain while topping 50 losses for the second straight season, the first time that’s happened since 1994-95 and 1995-96.
Philadelphia will finish with at least 40 wins for the third time in four seasons but has topped 41 only once in the previous seven. Collins isn’t sure if he’ll play Iguodala against the Pistons, and Williams is expected to miss his fifth straight game because of a strained right hamstring. The 76ers, though, haven’t played like a playoff team as they’ve scored 88.8 points per game - 10.2 fewer than their season average - while dropping four of five. Detroit Pistons vs Philadelphia 76ers Live Webcast. Philadelphia is heading to the postseason for the third time in four years, and the Eastern Conference’s seventh-place team will take on Miami in the first round.
Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic NBA Live Streaming Online
Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Indiana Pacers lose to Orlando, they’ll have the lowest win total for a playoff team since Atlanta qualified with 37 in 2007-08. Indiana is making its first postseason appearance since 2005-06. Pacers, headed toward a playoff matchup with top-seeded Chicago, had won four of five going into Sunday’s game against New York. Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic Live.Indiana, though, fell 110-109 after allowing the Knicks to score the final nine points, culminating with Carmelo Anthony’s jumper with 4.9 seconds remaining.
Orlando Magic has won four straight overall in the series and seven of eight home meetings, including five in a row. Orlando Magic have won both meetings with the Pacers this season, taking the most recent one 111-96 on Jan. 26 behind Howard’s 19 points, 16 rebounds and three blocked shots. Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic Live Webcast. Arenas and Redick appear doubtful for Wednesday, while Richardson will return after sitting out two games for shoving Charlotte’s Gerald Henderson last week. Magic, who will be the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs and will face Atlanta in the first round, finished with 59 wins in each of the last two seasons.
Indiana Pacers lose to Orlando, they’ll have the lowest win total for a playoff team since Atlanta qualified with 37 in 2007-08. Indiana is making its first postseason appearance since 2005-06. Pacers, headed toward a playoff matchup with top-seeded Chicago, had won four of five going into Sunday’s game against New York. Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic Live.Indiana, though, fell 110-109 after allowing the Knicks to score the final nine points, culminating with Carmelo Anthony’s jumper with 4.9 seconds remaining.
Orlando Magic has won four straight overall in the series and seven of eight home meetings, including five in a row. Orlando Magic have won both meetings with the Pacers this season, taking the most recent one 111-96 on Jan. 26 behind Howard’s 19 points, 16 rebounds and three blocked shots. Indiana Pacers vs Orlando Magic Live Webcast. Arenas and Redick appear doubtful for Wednesday, while Richardson will return after sitting out two games for shoving Charlotte’s Gerald Henderson last week. Magic, who will be the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs and will face Atlanta in the first round, finished with 59 wins in each of the last two seasons.
Houston Rockets vs Minnesota Timberwolves NBA Live Streaming Online
Houston Rockets vs Minnesota Timberwolves NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Houston is seeking its seventh consecutive victory at the Target Center. Despite being eliminated, Rockets coach Rick Adelman said his team isn’t conceding anything to the Timberwolves. Rockets are out of the playoffs despite recording their fifth consecutive winning season. They didn’t have starters Kyle Lowry and Luis Scola in the lineup for the second straight game in a 98-91 overtime loss to Dallas on Monday. Houston Rockets vs Minnesota Timberwolves Live. Michael Beasley, who had a team-best 26 points, had a chance to complete a go-ahead, three-point play with eight seconds left in regulation but couldn’t convert the free throw.
Minnesota snapped a 13-game skid to Houston with a 112-108 victory Feb. 8, but might not have its leading scorer and rebounder from that game. A groin injury has kept Kevin Love, who had 20 points and 14 boards in the win, out for five straight and eight of the last 10 contests. Minnesota fell one game behind Cleveland for the NBA’s worst mark. The Cavaliers wrap up the season Wednesday with a visit from Washington, which is a league-worst 3-37 away from home. Houston Rockets vs Minnesota Timberwolves Live Webcast. Minnesota Timberwolves will need some help to avoid that fate this season, even if they snap a 14-game skid in Wednesday night’s finale against the visiting Houston Rockets.
Houston is seeking its seventh consecutive victory at the Target Center. Despite being eliminated, Rockets coach Rick Adelman said his team isn’t conceding anything to the Timberwolves. Rockets are out of the playoffs despite recording their fifth consecutive winning season. They didn’t have starters Kyle Lowry and Luis Scola in the lineup for the second straight game in a 98-91 overtime loss to Dallas on Monday. Houston Rockets vs Minnesota Timberwolves Live. Michael Beasley, who had a team-best 26 points, had a chance to complete a go-ahead, three-point play with eight seconds left in regulation but couldn’t convert the free throw.
Minnesota snapped a 13-game skid to Houston with a 112-108 victory Feb. 8, but might not have its leading scorer and rebounder from that game. A groin injury has kept Kevin Love, who had 20 points and 14 boards in the win, out for five straight and eight of the last 10 contests. Minnesota fell one game behind Cleveland for the NBA’s worst mark. The Cavaliers wrap up the season Wednesday with a visit from Washington, which is a league-worst 3-37 away from home. Houston Rockets vs Minnesota Timberwolves Live Webcast. Minnesota Timberwolves will need some help to avoid that fate this season, even if they snap a 14-game skid in Wednesday night’s finale against the visiting Houston Rockets.
New Orleans Hornets vs Dallas Mavericks NBA Live Streaming Online
New Orleans Hornets vs Dallas Mavericks NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
New Orleans Hornets should be worried about letting Shawn Marion get comfortable Wednesday. The four-time All-Star, who’s averaged just 6.7 points in the season series, has averaged 18.8 points and 8.0 rebounds in April. New Orleans Hornets vs Dallas Mavericks Live. All three of the Hornets’ games against Dallas have been decided by three points or fewer, with the most recent meeting ending in particularly exciting fashion. The visiting Mavericks led 92-85 with a minute to play March 9, but New Orleans scored the final eight points - the last three coming after Jarrett Jack was fouled shooting a 3 - to seal a wild 93-92 victory.
Dallas guard Jason Terry is looking forward to delivering some payback. Dallas could also fall to fourth - below the Lakers and Oklahoma City - with a loss and Thunder win Wednesday, meaning it would face a Denver team it lost to three times in four meetings. Dallas seemed to have no shot at catching the Los Angeles Lakers for the West’s No. 2 seed after four straight losses from March 31-April 6, but it’s suddenly back in the mix. New Orleans Hornets vs Dallas Mavericks Live Webcast. Dallas has lost nine consecutive games against fellow Western playoff teams since beating the Lakers on Jan. 19.
New Orleans Hornets should be worried about letting Shawn Marion get comfortable Wednesday. The four-time All-Star, who’s averaged just 6.7 points in the season series, has averaged 18.8 points and 8.0 rebounds in April. New Orleans Hornets vs Dallas Mavericks Live. All three of the Hornets’ games against Dallas have been decided by three points or fewer, with the most recent meeting ending in particularly exciting fashion. The visiting Mavericks led 92-85 with a minute to play March 9, but New Orleans scored the final eight points - the last three coming after Jarrett Jack was fouled shooting a 3 - to seal a wild 93-92 victory.
Dallas guard Jason Terry is looking forward to delivering some payback. Dallas could also fall to fourth - below the Lakers and Oklahoma City - with a loss and Thunder win Wednesday, meaning it would face a Denver team it lost to three times in four meetings. Dallas seemed to have no shot at catching the Los Angeles Lakers for the West’s No. 2 seed after four straight losses from March 31-April 6, but it’s suddenly back in the mix. New Orleans Hornets vs Dallas Mavericks Live Webcast. Dallas has lost nine consecutive games against fellow Western playoff teams since beating the Lakers on Jan. 19.
Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers NBA Live Streaming Online
Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Washington has played pretty well in some largely meaningless games down the stretch even with Rashard Lewis, Nick Young and Josh Howard sidelined by injuries. Monday’s 95-94 overtime win against a Boston team resting its four All-Stars was the Wizards’ sixth in nine games. Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live. Wizards will finish with either the NBA’s fourth- or fifth-worst record, where they’ll hope for luck just like what came their way at the 2010 lottery, when they jumped from fifth to earn the right to pick John Wall at No. 1.
Cleveland Cavaliers center Ryan Hollins, ejected for a skirmish with Detroit’s Charlie Villanueva on Monday, could be facing a suspension. Unless the Cavaliers lose to Washington and Minnesota beats Houston, Cleveland’s late surge would reduce its chances of obtaining the No. 1 overall selection with its own pick from 25 percent to 19.9. Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live Webcast. Cleveland Cavaliers no longer own the NBA’s worst record. A 110-101 win at Detroit on Monday - their third in five games - combined with the Timberwolves’ overtime loss at Phoenix gave Minnesota the dubious distinction of being the league’s worst team.
Washington has played pretty well in some largely meaningless games down the stretch even with Rashard Lewis, Nick Young and Josh Howard sidelined by injuries. Monday’s 95-94 overtime win against a Boston team resting its four All-Stars was the Wizards’ sixth in nine games. Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live. Wizards will finish with either the NBA’s fourth- or fifth-worst record, where they’ll hope for luck just like what came their way at the 2010 lottery, when they jumped from fifth to earn the right to pick John Wall at No. 1.
Cleveland Cavaliers center Ryan Hollins, ejected for a skirmish with Detroit’s Charlie Villanueva on Monday, could be facing a suspension. Unless the Cavaliers lose to Washington and Minnesota beats Houston, Cleveland’s late surge would reduce its chances of obtaining the No. 1 overall selection with its own pick from 25 percent to 19.9. Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live Webcast. Cleveland Cavaliers no longer own the NBA’s worst record. A 110-101 win at Detroit on Monday - their third in five games - combined with the Timberwolves’ overtime loss at Phoenix gave Minnesota the dubious distinction of being the league’s worst team.
New Jersey Nets vs Chicago Bulls NBA Live Streaming Online
New Jersey Nets vs Chicago Bulls NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
New Jersey has been outscored by 13.6 points per game during its last seven trips to Chicago, losing six. Nets, who are allowing an average of 108.1 points on 51.8 percent shooting during a 1-10 stretch, have been outscored by an average of 10.7 points during a six-game road losing streak. New Jersey Nets suffered their fourth straight loss and 14th in 16 games with a 105-103 defeat to Charlotte on Monday. New Jersey Nets vs Chicago Bulls Live. The 7-footer, though, is averaging just 13.0 points on 27.3 percent shooting in his last two games in Chicago.
Chicago Bulls have limited teams to 89.2 points during a 20-2 stretch. New Jersey is 3-30 when scoring 90 points or less. Chicago, which hasn’t won nine straight since March 19-April 2, 2005, came under some scrutiny after coach Tom Thibodeau decided to stick with his regular rotation despite locking up the East’s top spot Friday. Chicago recorded its season high-tying eighth consecutive win by defeating the Knicks 103-90 on Tuesday in New York. New Jersey Nets vs Chicago Bulls Live Webcast. That decision may come back to haunt Thibodeau, as reserve swingman Ronnie Brewer left Tuesday with a sprained left thumb. His status is unknown.
New Jersey has been outscored by 13.6 points per game during its last seven trips to Chicago, losing six. Nets, who are allowing an average of 108.1 points on 51.8 percent shooting during a 1-10 stretch, have been outscored by an average of 10.7 points during a six-game road losing streak. New Jersey Nets suffered their fourth straight loss and 14th in 16 games with a 105-103 defeat to Charlotte on Monday. New Jersey Nets vs Chicago Bulls Live. The 7-footer, though, is averaging just 13.0 points on 27.3 percent shooting in his last two games in Chicago.
Chicago Bulls have limited teams to 89.2 points during a 20-2 stretch. New Jersey is 3-30 when scoring 90 points or less. Chicago, which hasn’t won nine straight since March 19-April 2, 2005, came under some scrutiny after coach Tom Thibodeau decided to stick with his regular rotation despite locking up the East’s top spot Friday. Chicago recorded its season high-tying eighth consecutive win by defeating the Knicks 103-90 on Tuesday in New York. New Jersey Nets vs Chicago Bulls Live Webcast. That decision may come back to haunt Thibodeau, as reserve swingman Ronnie Brewer left Tuesday with a sprained left thumb. His status is unknown.
Atlanta Hawks vs Charlotte Bobcats NBA Live Streaming Online
Atlanta Hawks vs Charlotte Bobcats NBA Live Streaming Online on 8:00 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Atlanta, which hasn’t lost six consecutive games since Feb. 8-20, 2008, also received an encouraging performance from Josh Smith, who had a team-high 17 points on 8-of-13 shooting after sitting out the previous three games with right knee swelling. The Hawks will open the playoffs as the Eastern Conference’s fifth seed in a first-round series against Orlando.Atlanta Hawks vs Charlotte Bobcats Live. While the Hawks, 2-1 against Charlotte this season, are preparing for a fourth straight playoff appearance, the Bobcats will miss the postseason for the sixth time in their seven-year history.
Charlotte suffered two more losses before Monday’s 105-103 win over New Jersey, its first in April. The game looked like it was going to overtime until D.J. Augustin hit a fadeaway jumper with 1.1 seconds remaining. Charlotte was one-half game out of eighth place in the East on Feb. 26 but has lost 16 of 23 since. The Bobcats were eliminated from playoff contention with an overtime loss to Orlando last Wednesday, their fourth straight defeat. Atlanta Hawks vs Charlotte Bobcats Live Webcast. Bobcats will miss the postseason for the sixth time in their seven-year history.
Atlanta, which hasn’t lost six consecutive games since Feb. 8-20, 2008, also received an encouraging performance from Josh Smith, who had a team-high 17 points on 8-of-13 shooting after sitting out the previous three games with right knee swelling. The Hawks will open the playoffs as the Eastern Conference’s fifth seed in a first-round series against Orlando.Atlanta Hawks vs Charlotte Bobcats Live. While the Hawks, 2-1 against Charlotte this season, are preparing for a fourth straight playoff appearance, the Bobcats will miss the postseason for the sixth time in their seven-year history.
Charlotte suffered two more losses before Monday’s 105-103 win over New Jersey, its first in April. The game looked like it was going to overtime until D.J. Augustin hit a fadeaway jumper with 1.1 seconds remaining. Charlotte was one-half game out of eighth place in the East on Feb. 26 but has lost 16 of 23 since. The Bobcats were eliminated from playoff contention with an overtime loss to Orlando last Wednesday, their fourth straight defeat. Atlanta Hawks vs Charlotte Bobcats Live Webcast. Bobcats will miss the postseason for the sixth time in their seven-year history.
Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Clippers NBA Live Streaming Online
Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Clippers NBA Live Streaming Online on 10:30 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Memphis Grizzlies is holding teams to an average of 90.3 points on 43.9 percent shooting during a 9-3 run. Los Angeles is 7-21 when shooing under 44.0 percent. Memphis fell 102-89 at Portland on Tuesday to drop into a seventh-place tie with New Orleans and lost any chance it had of earning the sixth seed in the Western Conference. Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Clippers Live. With Randolph unlikely to be available again, the visiting Grizzlies try for a fourth win in five meetings with the Los Angeles Clippers as the teams conclude their regular seasons Wednesday night.
Los Angeles, though, went on to lose the remaining three games - including a 99-78 defeat to Houston on Saturday in which it matched its lowest scoring output of the season. Clippers had lost three straight and four of five to Memphis prior to beating the Grizzlies last week on the first stop of their recent four-game trip. Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Clippers Live Webcast. Rookie of the year favorite Blake Griffin scored 13 points on 6 of 18 shooting but also had 10 rebounds for his 62nd double-double - third most in the league.
Memphis Grizzlies is holding teams to an average of 90.3 points on 43.9 percent shooting during a 9-3 run. Los Angeles is 7-21 when shooing under 44.0 percent. Memphis fell 102-89 at Portland on Tuesday to drop into a seventh-place tie with New Orleans and lost any chance it had of earning the sixth seed in the Western Conference. Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Clippers Live. With Randolph unlikely to be available again, the visiting Grizzlies try for a fourth win in five meetings with the Los Angeles Clippers as the teams conclude their regular seasons Wednesday night.
Los Angeles, though, went on to lose the remaining three games - including a 99-78 defeat to Houston on Saturday in which it matched its lowest scoring output of the season. Clippers had lost three straight and four of five to Memphis prior to beating the Grizzlies last week on the first stop of their recent four-game trip. Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Clippers Live Webcast. Rookie of the year favorite Blake Griffin scored 13 points on 6 of 18 shooting but also had 10 rebounds for his 62nd double-double - third most in the league.
Portland Trail Blazers vs Golden State Warriors NBA Live Streaming Online
Portland Trail Blazers vs Golden State Warriors NBA Live Streaming Online on 10:30 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Portland has dropped five its last seven on the road, and is 18-22 away from home this season. While the Blazers prepare for the postseason, the Warriors conclude their fourth straight season without a playoff berth. Blazers could also face the Northwest Division champion Thunder if Oklahoma City wins and Dallas loses. Portland Trail Blazers vs Golden State Warriors Live. Trail Blazers won for the fifth time in six games and know they’ll meet the third seed when the postseason starts.
Golden State is trying to win the season series from Portland for the fourth time in six years. Ellis, who leads the league in minutes per game and is averaging 24.1 points, 5.6 assists and 3.5 rebounds, suffered a concussion in Sunday’s 104-103 loss to Sacramento. Without the sixth-year guard, Golden State closed out its road schedule Monday with a 134-111 loss to Denver. Portland Trail Blazers vs Golden State Warriors Live Webcast. Despite having its season high-tying eight-game home winning streak snapped with a 108-87 loss to Golden State on April 5, Portland (48-33) clinched its third consecutive playoff berth earlier that night with Houston’s loss to Sacramento.
Portland has dropped five its last seven on the road, and is 18-22 away from home this season. While the Blazers prepare for the postseason, the Warriors conclude their fourth straight season without a playoff berth. Blazers could also face the Northwest Division champion Thunder if Oklahoma City wins and Dallas loses. Portland Trail Blazers vs Golden State Warriors Live. Trail Blazers won for the fifth time in six games and know they’ll meet the third seed when the postseason starts.
Golden State is trying to win the season series from Portland for the fourth time in six years. Ellis, who leads the league in minutes per game and is averaging 24.1 points, 5.6 assists and 3.5 rebounds, suffered a concussion in Sunday’s 104-103 loss to Sacramento. Without the sixth-year guard, Golden State closed out its road schedule Monday with a 134-111 loss to Denver. Portland Trail Blazers vs Golden State Warriors Live Webcast. Despite having its season high-tying eight-game home winning streak snapped with a 108-87 loss to Golden State on April 5, Portland (48-33) clinched its third consecutive playoff berth earlier that night with Houston’s loss to Sacramento.
San Antonio Spurs vs Phoenix Suns NBA Live Streaming Online
San Antonio Spurs vs Phoenix Suns NBA Live Streaming Online on 10:30 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
San Antonio Spurs, which hasn’t swept four regular-season meetings from Phoenix since 2003-04, has shot 50.2 percent against the Suns in 2010-11. San Antonio Spurs have won all three meetings with the Suns this season, limiting Phoenix to 33.3 percent shooting on 3-pointers. Jefferson has led the way with 19.0 points per game in the season series while Duncan has added averages of 17.7 points and 12.0 rebounds. San Antonio Spurs vs Phoenix Suns Live. Spurs are headed to the postseason as the Western Conference’s top seed while the Suns are closing out a poor campaign Wednesday night at home.
Phoenix survived a poor defensive effort in Monday’s 135-127 overtime win over Minnesota, which shot 54.7 percent and outrebounded the Suns 45-35. Phoenix was a step away from reaching the finals last season after eliminating San Antonio in the conference semifinals. The Suns lost to the Lakers in six games, though, and after trading Amare Stoudemire to New York in the offseason will finish with their first losing record in seven years. San Antonio Spurs vs Phoenix Suns Live Webcast. Coach Gregg Popovich, though, indicated that those players will all likely return against the Suns in order to avoid any rust before the playoffs begin.
San Antonio Spurs, which hasn’t swept four regular-season meetings from Phoenix since 2003-04, has shot 50.2 percent against the Suns in 2010-11. San Antonio Spurs have won all three meetings with the Suns this season, limiting Phoenix to 33.3 percent shooting on 3-pointers. Jefferson has led the way with 19.0 points per game in the season series while Duncan has added averages of 17.7 points and 12.0 rebounds. San Antonio Spurs vs Phoenix Suns Live. Spurs are headed to the postseason as the Western Conference’s top seed while the Suns are closing out a poor campaign Wednesday night at home.
Phoenix survived a poor defensive effort in Monday’s 135-127 overtime win over Minnesota, which shot 54.7 percent and outrebounded the Suns 45-35. Phoenix was a step away from reaching the finals last season after eliminating San Antonio in the conference semifinals. The Suns lost to the Lakers in six games, though, and after trading Amare Stoudemire to New York in the offseason will finish with their first losing record in seven years. San Antonio Spurs vs Phoenix Suns Live Webcast. Coach Gregg Popovich, though, indicated that those players will all likely return against the Suns in order to avoid any rust before the playoffs begin.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Sacramento Kings NBA Live Streaming Online
Los Angeles Lakers vs Sacramento Kings NBA Live Streaming Online on 10:30 pm EDT Wed April 13, 2011
Los Angeles Lakers have won eight of their last nine against the Kings, and four straight in Sacramento. The Kings could be without high-scoring guard Tyreke Evans, who sat out Monday’s 120-112 loss to Oklahoma City with a sprained left ankle. Lakers need a victory or a loss by Dallas to New Orleans on Wednesday to gain the No. 2 seed. Los Angeles has been the top seed in winning the NBA title the past two seasons. Los Angeles Lakers vs Sacramento Kings Live. Jackson has won eight of his 11 titles as the conference’s top seed. One of the seasons he didn’t need a No. 1 seed to win it all brings back painful memories to Sacramento fans - 2001-02.
Sacramento Kings wants to give its fans a memorable send-off. Sacramento Kings The Kings’ owners, the Maloof brothers, have until Monday to officially file for permission to relocate, and a vote would likely come within weeks of that request. Approval by a simple majority of the owners is virtually guaranteed. Los Angeles Lakers vs Sacramento Kings Live Webcast. Sacramento hasn’t been back to the postseason since, and likely won’t be hosting NBA basketball again after 26 seasons in California’s capital. Kings were the No. 1 seed that season and lost a dramatic West finals to the Lakers in seven games.
Los Angeles Lakers have won eight of their last nine against the Kings, and four straight in Sacramento. The Kings could be without high-scoring guard Tyreke Evans, who sat out Monday’s 120-112 loss to Oklahoma City with a sprained left ankle. Lakers need a victory or a loss by Dallas to New Orleans on Wednesday to gain the No. 2 seed. Los Angeles has been the top seed in winning the NBA title the past two seasons. Los Angeles Lakers vs Sacramento Kings Live. Jackson has won eight of his 11 titles as the conference’s top seed. One of the seasons he didn’t need a No. 1 seed to win it all brings back painful memories to Sacramento fans - 2001-02.
Sacramento Kings wants to give its fans a memorable send-off. Sacramento Kings The Kings’ owners, the Maloof brothers, have until Monday to officially file for permission to relocate, and a vote would likely come within weeks of that request. Approval by a simple majority of the owners is virtually guaranteed. Los Angeles Lakers vs Sacramento Kings Live Webcast. Sacramento hasn’t been back to the postseason since, and likely won’t be hosting NBA basketball again after 26 seasons in California’s capital. Kings were the No. 1 seed that season and lost a dramatic West finals to the Lakers in seven games.
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