MEM @ GSW: We got another one right, as all five Memphis starters scored in double figures and their D held the Warriors to 87 points. Stephen Curry (24 PTS, 4 REB, 4 AST, 2 STL) and Klay Thompson (20 PTS, 7 REB, 7 AST) had nice fantasy lines, but David Lee (14 PTS, 10 REB) couldn’t match Zach Randolph (19 PRS, 12 REB, 2 STL) and Marc Gasol (12 PTS, 9 REB, 5 AST) up front. Amid trade rumors, Rudy Gay (18 PTS, 6 AST, 5 REB) had a strong second half.
January 10 Games
DAL @ SAC: It’s a bit of a paradox. I’d be more confident about the Mavs turning around their slide if they hadn’t played so well last night. The Kings might be distracted by reports of the team being sold and relocated to Seattle, but concentration is never their long suit. Expect a sloppy, high-scoring affair, with DeMarcus Cousins bouncing back — he was stifled by Memphis last game — and Tyreke Evans making more of a contribution in his second game back from a knee injury.
NYK @ IND: Without Carmelo Anthony (1-game suspension) this is a difficult assignment for the Knicks. Paul George has blossomed into a star, and the Pacers have won eight of their last ten while playing fabulous defense. They held mighty Miami to 77 points on Tuesday and will be focused on slowing down J.R. Smith tonight.
MIA @ POR: The Blazers have won eight straight at home. Their starting five is red hot, with Wesley Matthews nailing 14 of his last 22 from 3-point range, and J.J. Hickson averaging a double-double for the season. Nicolas Batum, who can defend all five positions, will try to slow down LeBron James, who is battling an assortment of aches and pains. Rebounding is Miami’s Achilles heel, and if LaMarcus Aldridge (wrist) can play, he will help at both ends of the floor. The Heat could wake up tomorrow with a sub-.500 road record.
The Spin is here by 9:00 EST, seven days a week. My DraftStreet Diary appears later each morning. This week there are two great daily fantasy contests exclusively for Sheridan Hoops readers. The Friday Freeroll has no entry fee and $300 in prizes, for the top 15 finishers among 600 or more entries. The winner gets $100 cash. On Saturday, there’s a challenge event, limited to just 40 players ($11 entry fee) with at least $400 in prize money — everyone who beats me will win an extra five bucks. Entries will open for that one tomorrow, and it will fill up fast. Follow us on Twitter — @SheridanFantasy — for updates.