November 11 Games
ORL @ BRK: After such a horrible performance on their own court on Friday, it’s hard to imagine the Magic coming up big in Brooklyn. The Nets blew them out by 39 points, and no Orlando player even got to the free-throw line. Assuming they have some pride, today’s rematch might be closer, but it could also be garbage time very early, with reserves like Andray Blatche getting extra run.
ATL @ LAC: You don’t hear much about DeAndre Jordan. Overshadowed by the superb Chris Paul and high-flying Blake Griffin, Jordan is shooting 75% on the season and keeps putting up monster lines like his 20-point, 11-rebound, 4-block effort vs. the Spurs. Also playing great for the Clippers is Jamal Crawford, averaging 21.8 PPG on an astounding (for him) 52.5% shooting. The Hawks did beat OKC and played well in Miami, so they are no pushover, but will need their very best today.
MIA @ MEM: Dwyane Wade was feeling better yesterday, so the Heat will be at full strength. Memphis can pound it inside to Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph, exposing Miami’s lack of a true center. However, someone has to guard LeBron James, and while Chris Bosh can’t bang with Gasol, his range is an asset. If the Grizzlies can slow down the pace, this should be a terrific game.
CLE @ OKC: Heartbreaking losses are becoming commonplace for the Cavs. They’re probably going to be 1-5 after this one, yet Kyrie Irving and Anderson Varejao are having great seasons, and Dion Waiters is a very promising rookie, so there is some hope. For the Thunder, Russell Westbrook (shoulder) is playing hurt, but Kevin Durant is great and Serge Ibaka has taken a larger role in the offense since the Harden trade. He’s coming off a career-high 25 vs. the Pistons and had 21 the night before in Chicago. If he continues to get 35 minutes a night, his owners will be thrilled.
SAC @ LAL: It hardly matters who coaches the Lakers tonight. My pick would be Steve Nash, but it will probably be Bernie Bickerstaff again. The Kings’ best player is DeMarcus Cousins, who will likely be neutralized (or worse) by Dwight Howard. Meanwhile, Pau Gasol should have a field day against Jason Thompson, and Kobe Bryant is so much better than Tyreke Evans that I’m at a loss for words. Sacramento rookie Thomas Robinson will be unavailable, sitting out the second of his 2-game suspension.