NBA Roundup: Knicks vs. Kings, Nuggets vs. Clippers, and Playoff Race Updates

Check here for NBA Roundup after April 3, 2024 to see how the teams fared, updates on Knicks vs. Kings, Nuggets vs. Clippers, and the playoff Race.

Knicks vs. Kings (7:30 ET, TNT):

• The New York Knicks aim to halt their three-game losing streak as they face off against the Sacramento Kings, who seek their third consecutive victory. Both teams are vying for crucial postseason positioning.

Nuggets vs. Clippers (10 ET, TNT):

• The Denver Nuggets have an opportunity to reclaim the top spot in the Western Conference as they take on the Los Angeles Clippers. Meanwhile, the Clippers aim to solidify their position in the top four.

1. Celtics Clinch Best Record in NBA, Wolves Back Atop West

• The Boston Celtics secured the best record in the NBA for the first time since 2007-08 with a dominant 135-100 victory over the shorthanded Oklahoma City Thunder. This win marked their first 60+ win season since 2008-09. Notably, Kristaps Porzingis became the first Celtics player ever to achieve 100+ blocks and 100+ 3-pointers in a single season.
• In a remarkable turnaround, the Minnesota Timberwolves reclaimed the top spot in the Western Conference with a resounding 48-point victory over the Toronto Raptors, fueled by strong performances from Anthony Edwards and Naz Reid.

2. Suns Climb to 6th, Pelicans & Pacers Drop into Play-In

• The Phoenix Suns surged to sixth place in the Western Conference standings after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 122-101, led by stellar outings from Devin Booker and Kevin Durant. However, the New Orleans Pelicans and the Indiana Pacers both fell into the Play-In tournament despite their respective efforts.
• The Brooklyn Nets secured a 115-111 victory over the Indiana Pacers, fueled by standout performances from Cam Thomas and Noah Clowney. Despite the win, Brooklyn was eliminated from postseason contention due to Atlanta’s victory.
• The Orlando Magic clinched their third consecutive win by defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 117-108, courtesy of strong contributions from Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

3. Lakers Stay Hot, Hawks Clinch Play-In Berth

• The Los Angeles Lakers continued their winning streak by defeating the Washington Wizards 125-120, with Anthony Davis delivering a standout performance of 35 points, 18 rebounds, and three blocks. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks secured a Play-In berth with a victory over the Detroit Pistons, highlighted by Jalen Johnson’s first career triple-double.
• Malachi Flynn showcased a stellar performance for the Pistons, scoring 50 points off the bench, becoming only the third player since 1970-71 to achieve this feat.

4. Playoff Picture: East Teams Set

• The playoff picture in the Eastern Conference has been solidified, with the Boston Celtics clinching the best record in the NBA. While seeding remains fluid, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, Miami Heat, Indiana Pacers, and Atlanta Hawks have all secured their postseason berths.

5. Crunchtime for Rockets, Sixers

• The Houston Rockets face a critical matchup against the Golden State Warriors, needing a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Despite an impressive 11-game win streak, the Rockets must overcome their 12-game losing streak against the Warriors to stay in contention.
• The Philadelphia 76ers look to improve their playoff positioning as they face the Miami Heat. With only six games left in the regular season, every game is crucial for the Sixers, who are currently 1.5 games behind both the Heat and the Indiana Pacers.
• The availability of Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey remains uncertain for the Sixers, adding intrigue to their matchup against the Heat. Embiid showcased his prowess in their recent win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, but his status for the upcoming game is questionable.