NBA games of the week: West finally takes shape
By Chazz Scogna
Monday, Apr. 9: Oklahoma City at Miami, 7:30 p.m. ET
Sacramento at San Antonio, 8:30 p.m. ET
New Orleans at LA Clippers, 10:30 p.m. ET
Playoff races are defined by “controlling destiny.” For a team in the hunt, the best place to be is in charge of your postseason fortune.
The Thunder, Spurs and Pelicans can all take etch their postseason hopes in stone with a win. The Thunder have the toughest challenge considering Miami will be the only playoff team in the East. Though, if you believe in playing spoiler then the Clippers will be the hardest matchup of the night. If you’re a Gregg Popovich-coached team, is there any doubt the Spurs will make sure they beat the Kings?
Oklahoma City beat the Rockets on Saturday thanks to their big three. Carmelo Anthony, Paul George and Russell Westbrook combined for 60 points, though it took them 59 shots and 21 free-throw attempts to get there. Still, the Thunder continue to play their best basketball against the best teams in the league. They swept Toronto, won the season series against Houston and split four games with the Golden State Warriors. Yet, do you feel confident in them in the playoffs?
As for the Pelicans, who would’ve ever thunk they’d be here. Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday have carried their merry band of misfits to the playoffs. If the Pellies can snag a win against the Clippers then they’ll have done nothing short of amazing. Their team, especially Davis, deserves a ton of credit.