Saturday's NBA games: Cavaliers-Heat, Thunder-Grizzlies, Nuggets-Clippers and Rockets-Warriors
Saturday's NBA playoffs feature a crucial set of games with major implications for the advancing teams. Oklahoma City Thunder aim for a series sweep against Memphis, bolstered by a historic comeback in Game 3, while Cleveland Cavaliers seek a commanding 3-0 lead over Miami. The Los Angeles Clippers are looking to extend their series lead against Denver, capitalizing on strong defensive performances and efficient play from key players. The final game of the day pits the Houston Rockets against the Golden State Warriors, with both teams tied and facing injury concerns. Each matchup has unique challenges, from overcoming injuries to exploiting home-court advantages and addressing defensive strategies.
Oklahoma City Thunder can secure a spot in the second round and complete a sweep against Memphis, fueled by a remarkable comeback from a 29-point deficit in Game 3, despite injury concerns for Memphis' Ja Morant.
Cleveland Cavaliers are poised to take a 3-0 lead over Miami, with Donovan Mitchell's decisive playmaking and a barrage of 3-pointers proving crucial in overcoming Miami's strong performance in Game 2.
The Los Angeles Clippers lead their series 2-1 against the Denver Nuggets, thanks in part to a stifling defense that limited Denver's scoring in Game 3, and strategic rest for star player Kawhi Leonard.
Golden State Warriors face the Houston Rockets with the series tied, amid concerns over Jimmy Butler's injury status, as the Warriors return to their strong home-court advantage at Chase Center.
Houston has managed to keep the Warriors' scoring below 100 points in recent encounters, highlighting their defensive effectiveness, which will be critical in their push to gain control of the series.
The playoff games feature significant betting spreads, with Oklahoma City favored by the largest margin for a road team in over a decade, reflecting their dominant playoff performance thus far.
Miami Heat view Game 3 as a must-win situation, needing to counter Cleveland's road strength and regain momentum in a series where conventional strong performances have not guaranteed victory.