ESPN has a solid opener to its doubleheader as the Boston Celtics host the Dallas Mavericks. But the nightcap should be an alley-oop fest and Wednesday’s best game as the Miami Heat, fresh off their loss to Golden State Warriors in which LeBron James disappeared in the fourth quarter (sound familiar?) visit the Los Angeles Clippers.
The game features no less than six players from Team USA’s preliminary roster as LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Blake Griffin, Chris Paul and Chauncey Billups all should take the floor.
Unfortunately, it will be the only time the teams meet during the regular season. The lockout-shortened campaign did not schedule the Clippers a visit to America Airlines Arena.
Both clubs arrive in downtown L.A. somewhat deflated as each suffered losses Tuesday night that ended three-game winning streaks.
L.A. fell to 4-3 with a 105-97 loss at Portland. Miami got back Dwyane Wade but squandered a 17-point lead in a 111-106 overtime loss at Golden State, dropping to 8-2.
Believe it or not, the Clippers have won three straight against the Heat at Staples Center. LeBron James has averaged 23.1 points in his career vs. the Clippers, his lowest mark against any team.
Wade has averaged 29 points in his last 11 games vs. LA. He played 37 minutes Tuesday after
missing three games with foot injury, and is listed as a game-time decision.
James (59 pct., 29.7 ppg) and Blake Griffin (55.8 pct., 23.7 ppg) are the only players in the NBA shooting over 55 percent and scoring over 23 points.