SAS @ OKC: All the Thunder metaphors apply. Winners of 10 straight, they are rolling, booming, storming through the league. Tonight will be a great test, though the Spurs might be without Manu Ginobili, who has a deep quad bruise after running into an opponent’s knee.
Kevin Durant is always impossible to stop, so even if the PG battle between Russell Westbrook and Tony Parker is a draw, OKC deserves the call. Tim Duncan is a must-start, but only Gregg Popovich knows who will play beside him, the creative Boris Diaw or the much larger Tiago Splitter. Despite all the Linsanity hoopla in NYC, this is the game of the night. Don’t miss it.
CHI @ MEM: Like defense? Rebounding? This matchup features both, with Joakim Noah vs. Marc Gasol underneath. Zach Randolph could have one of his big nights against Carlos Boozer, and Mike Conley will be the best PG on the floor. Kirk Hinrich (knee) might not be 100% if he does play, and neither Nate Robinson nor rookie Marquis Teague is the answer. Though he’s been on fire for six straight games, averaging 19 points, Marco Belinelli will be closely guarded by Tony Allen this evening. If I was making those kinds of wagers, I’d take the Grizzlies and the under.
SAC @ PHO: The Suns were in complete disarray with seven straight losses (including a 40-point humiliation in Detroit) before miraculously turning it around against Memphis last Wednesday, then beating the Jazz two nights later. Rested, on a mini-roll and facing a tired, disorganized, undermanned Kings team, they should have no trouble making it three wins in a row. Jared Dudley is their hottest player, Goran Dragic is consistent, and when Marcin Gortat is in the mood, he’s a beast. Now coming off the bench, Michael Beasley is in a 5-for-22 shooting slump, but he could explode tonight if garbage time comes as early as I expect.
The Spin is here by 9:00 EST, every day. Follow us on Twitter — @SheridanFantasy — for updates and roster advice. My DraftStreet Diary features daily league tips; it is usually published before noon.