Sports World: February 2010

Watch Finland vs United States Live Streaming

Friday, February 26, 2010

Watch Finland vs United States Live | Finland vs United States | Finland vs United States Streaming | Finland vs United States Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Finland vs United States Live Webcast

3:00 PM ET

The Americans have yet to lose in this tournament, but they refuse to get too far ahead of themselves. They know that they need to get better in several areas -- most notably on the power play and with their play in the neutral zone -- if they hope to get to the gold-medal game. Despite the fact that the Americans got the game-winner on thepower play in Wednesday's quarterfinal game against the Swiss, they have struggled with the man advantage. In four games, the Americans have earned 16 power-play opportunities and scored four goals. Finland, by contrast, has seven. How bad was the American power-play against the Swiss? "We were wondering if we could just decline the penalties and pick up the flag like they do in football," Backes joked.

The Finns haven't scored an even-strength goal against a manned net in its past two games. They won Wednesday's quarterfinal against the Czechs will a power-play goal by Niklas Hagman and an empty-net tally. Three days earlier, in the final group game against rival Sweden, the Finns were shut out. So scoring is an issue -- especially because Selanne and Koivu -- two-thirds of the Finns' top line and the co-leading scorers four years ago in Turin -- have yet to manage a goal. So clearly offense is an issue heading into the semifinal, but it is not paralyzing the Finns. "We won't score four, five goals against top countries, so we have to play defense well," Finnish coach Jukka Jalonen said. "We have to snuff them out, maybe let them score one goal, maximum two goals; and then we have a chance to win the game."Finland can play like that because Kiprusoff has been terrific. He already has two shutouts and leads the tournament in save percentage.

Watch Slovakia vs Canada Live Streaming

Watch Slovakia vs Canada Live | Slovakia vs Canada | Slovakia vs Canada Streaming | Slovakia vs Canada Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Slovakia vs Canada Live Webcast

9:30 PM ET

The Slovaks were so happy with their win over Sweden on Wednesday night that they decided to burn that celebration oil well into Thursday. Like the Canadians, they did not hold a practice. Unlike the Canadians, they were not ready to move on to the next game when morning dawned. Slovakia has a lot to celebrate, but the Slovaks now have a lot to deal with, too. The Canadians pose an even bigger threat than the Swedes because of their overall size, skill and speed. Sweden also never got untracked offensively in the tournament, which is another reason it bowed out early.

It will be interesting to see how Babcock plays this one. Canada will get the advantage of having the last change as a result of a better goal differential in the preliminary round (7-5), and Babcock is hot on matchups. He formed a five-man unit of Jonathan Toews, Mike Richards, Rick Nash, Shea Weber and Scott Niedermayer to shut down Russia's top line of Alex Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin and Alexander Semin. Slovakia smartly skates Hossa and Gaborik on separate lines, and both are right wings.

Watch Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers Live Streaming

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Watch Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers Live | Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers | Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers Streaming | Milwaukee vs Indiana NBA Live Stream | Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Thu Feb 25, 2010

Andrew Bogut hasn’t made the playoffs since his rookie season. Much improved since then, the 7-footer is leading the Milwaukee Bucks’ latest pursuit of a postseason spot. After getting another outstanding game from Bogut, the Bucks look to win five straight for the first time in more than two years as they visit the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night. Following a 115-95 win over New Orleans on Wednesday night, Milwaukee has a chance to win five in a row for the first time since November 2007. The Bucks, tied with Miami for seventh place in the Eastern Conference, are back at .500 for the first time since Dec. 12.

This is the first time Milwaukee has been .500 or better following the All-Star break since 2005-06, its last playoff season. Bogut was a rookie when the Bucks last made the playoffs. The first overall pick in the draft, he averaged 9.4 points and 7.0 rebounds that season. Though he has yet to be the dominant player the Bucks thought they were getting, Bogut’s development has been steady.

Watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics Live Streaming

Watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics Live | Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics | Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics Streaming | Cleveland vs Boston NBA Live Stream | Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics Live Webcast

8:00 pm EST Thu Feb 25, 2010

The Cleveland Cavaliers lost three straight games after acquiring Antawn Jamison, so no one was more relieved than the two-time All Star to help the NBA’s best team end its longest slide in more than two years. It’s been even longer since Jamison’s new club has won in Boston. The Cavaliers look to avoid losing their 10th straight visit to TD Garden on Thursday night, but the Celtics won’t have Paul Pierce as two of the Eastern Conference’s elite meet for thefirst time since opening night. Cleveland had won 13 straight games when it traded for Jamison on Feb. 17, but it lost its next three games - one before the former Wizard suited up, and two more while trying to work Jamison into coach Mike Brown’s rotation.

The Cavaliers got back on track Tuesday night against New Orleans - avoiding their longest slide since a six-game skid from Nov. 28-Dec. 8, 2007 - but still struggled on the defensive end. Hornets rookie Marcus Thornton scored 23 second-quarter points, yet Cleveland bounced back from a three-point halftime deficit to win 105-95. Shaquille O’Neal had 20 points and Jamison added 18, but the Cavaliers’ main problem since the All-Star break has been their defense.

Watch Denver Nuggets vs Golden State Warriors Live Streaming

Watch Denver Nuggets vs Golden State Warriors Live | Denver Nuggets vs Golden State Warriors | Denver Nuggets vs Golden State Warriors Streaming | Denver vs Golden State NBA Live Stream | Denver Nuggets vs Golden State Warriors Live Webcast

10:30 pm EST Thu Feb 25, 2010

The Denver Nuggets are getting a slight breather following a stretch against some of the league’s top teams. George Karl is certainly deserving of a respite of his own. Playing their first game without Karl since he was again diagnosed with cancer, the Nuggets look to sweep their four-game season series with the lowly Golden State Warriors on Thursday night. Denver has alternated wins and losses in a tough eight-game span which was highlighted by road wins over the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland. The only sub-.500 team the Nuggets played during that span was Washington, losing 107-97 on Friday.

Denver hasn’t played since a 114-105 home win over Boston on Sunday, and now faces one of the league’s doormats. The Nuggets have scored at least 123 points in winning each of their last five games against the Warriors. But the Nuggets will be without Karl, who is staying in Denver because of his ongoing treatment for neck and throat cancer. This is thefirst time Denver will play without Karl since he announced his diagnosis Feb. 16. Karl, who had been cancer-free since prostate surgery nearly five years ago, will miss some games down the stretch, but he is optimistic about making a full recovery in time for the postseason.

Watch Portland Trail Blazers vs Toronto Raptors Live Streaming

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Watch Portland Trail Blazers vs Toronto Raptors Live | Portland Trail Blazers vs Toronto Raptors | Portland Trail Blazers vs Toronto Raptors Streaming | Portland vs Toronto NBA Live Stream | Portland Trail Blazers vs Toronto Raptors Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

Until this past weekend, Chris Bosh’s health had not been a concern for the Toronto Raptors. The Portland Trail Blazers, meanwhile, had to suspect newly acquired Marcus Camby would eventually miss some time. Bosh is expected to be a game-time decision as the Raptors try to continue their success at home Wednesday night in a matchup with a Blazers team that may be without the oft-injured Camby. After appearing in the first 53 games this season, Bosh has missed two straight with a sore ankle, but Toronto has won both of those contests. The All-Star forward, averaging 24.5 points and 11.4 rebounds, may be close to returning.

Without Bosh, it would appear the Raptors are missing an intimidating post presence. Andrea Bargnani, though, had four blocks in Toronto’s 109-104 win over Washington on Saturday. The 7-footer, who moved from center to forward due to Bosh’s absence, is averaging 2.5 blocks - one more than his season average - over his last six games. Jack had 23 points and eight assists as Toronto won for the 15th time in its last 17 at Air Canada Centre.

Watch Memphis Grizzlies vs Washington Wizards Live Streaming

Watch Memphis Grizzlies vs Washington Wizards Live | Memphis Grizzlies vs Washington Wizards | Memphis Grizzlies vs Washington Wizards Streaming | Memphis vs Washington NBA Live Stream | Memphis Grizzlies vs Washington Wizards Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

Adding a number of new faces has seemed to help Washington Wizards play some of their best basketball of the season. One of those recent additions, however, will have to watch the rest of the season from the bench. In their first game without Josh Howard, the Wizards will try for their fourth win in five triesWednesday night against the visiting Memphis Grizzlies. Washington was one of the more active teams before the NBA’s trading deadline, dealing Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler among others. The higher-profile players the Wizards acquired in those trades were Howard, Al Thornton and Zydrunas Ilgauskas, who has yet to play for the team and is seeking a buyout.

Those new additions seemed to revive the struggling club as it’s topped 100 points in four straight games, including a 101-95 home victory over Chicago on Monday. Andray Blatche had 25 points and 11 rebounds, but Howard had to be helped off the floor after colliding with the Bulls’ Flip Murray in the first quarter. The next day, the team announced that Howard had torn his left anterior cruciate ligament and will miss the remainder of the season. The forward started three of his four games with Washington and averaged 14.5 points.

Watch Minnesota Timberwolves vs Atlanta Hawks Live Streaming

Watch Minnesota Timberwolves vs Atlanta Hawks Live | Minnesota Timberwolves vs Atlanta Hawks | Minnesota Timberwolves vs Atlanta Hawks Streaming | Minnesota vs Atlanta NBA Live Stream | Minnesota Timberwolves vs Atlanta Hawks Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

Atlanta Hawks coach Mike Woodson felt his team got the boost it needed with a win over one of the NBA’s hottest clubs in the finale of western road trip. The Hawks will try to add to that momentum by beating one of the league’s worst teams in their return to Philips Arena. In the opener of a three-game homestand, Atlanta will go for its eighth straight win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, who have lost six of seven overall. After blowing a 17-point fourth-quarter lead in a loss at Golden State on Sunday night, the Hawks had to play the next night in Utah, a place they hadn’t won in 17 years. Instead of wilting in the finale of its four-game trip, however, Atlanta beat Utah 105-100 behind Joe Johnson’s 28 points, handing the Jazz only their third loss in 20 games.

After finishing 2-2 on the trip, Atlanta has a good chance to remain among the Eastern Conference’s top four teams as it plays five of its next six at Philips Arena, where it’s 9-2 since Jan. 6. The Hawks lead fifth-place Toronto by four games. A visit from the struggling Timberwolves also bodes well, considering the Hawks have won six straight home games in the series. Minnesota, though, snapped a six-game slide Tuesday night with a 91-88 victory over Miami.

Watch New Orleans Hornets vs Milwaukee Bucks Live Streaming

Watch New Orleans Hornets vs Milwaukee Bucks Live | New Orleans Hornets vs Milwaukee Bucks | New Orleans Hornets vs Milwaukee Bucks Streaming | New Orleans vs Milwaukee NBA Live Stream | New Orleans Hornets vs Milwaukee Bucks Live Webcast

8:00 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

With Marcus Thornton and Darren Collison developing rapidly, the New Orleans Hornets have two more players who can give the Milwaukee Bucks problems. After getting an outstanding game from their rookie guards, the Hornets look for their ninth straight win over the Bucks onWednesday night . New Orleans is coming off its first loss in three games, 105-95 at Cleveland on Tuesday. Thornton and Collison, though, continue to give the Hornets reason for optimism, especially as superstar Chris Paul remains sidelined for at least another two weeks due to a knee injury.

Thornton and Collison combined for 59 points, including a franchise-record 23 from Thornton in the second quarter. Peja Stojakovic previously held the team mark, posting 22 points in the first quarter against Charlotte on Nov. 14, 2007. Thornton, a second-round pick from LSU, is averaging 16.3 points and shooting 41.5 percent from 3-point range over his last 15 games. Collison, starting at point guard in place of Paul, is averaging 22.9 points over his last eight contests. He had 22 and 10 assists versus the Cavaliers. Selected 21st overall in last year’s draft from UCLA, Collison had a strong performance in the Hornets’ 102-99 overtime win over Milwaukee on Nov. 25 with 18 points, eight assists and seven rebounds.

Watch Indiana Pacers vs Chicago Bulls Live Streaming

Watch Indiana Pacers vs Chicago Bulls Live | Indiana Pacers vs Chicago Bulls | Indiana Pacers vs Chicago Bulls Streaming | Indiana vs Chicago NBA Live Stream | Indiana Pacers vs Chicago BullsLive Webcast

8:00 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

Although Joakim Noah has expressed a strong desire to play more minutes, the Chicago Bulls are being cautious with him as he continues to deal with plantar fasciitis. A lack of production and minutes from Noah hasn’t hurt the Bulls against their next opponent. In the first of two meetings this week, the Bulls host the Indiana Pacers, who may be without their leading scorer, onWednesday night . Chicago was taking advantage of a favorable stretch in its schedule before suffering a 101-95 loss at Washington on Monday. The Bulls won their previous four games, all against teams with losing records.

Chicago led the Wizards by 10 at the half, but went more than 6 minutes in the third quarter without a point while being outscored 31-16. Derrick Rose scored nine points during a late run, but the Bulls were unable to get any closer than one in the final minute. Noah played 12 minutes and scored six points as the Bulls monitor his minutes because of foot pain. He missed eight games before playing seven minutes against Philadelphia on Saturday.

Watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs San Antonio Spurs Live Streaming

Watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs San Antonio Spurs Live | Oklahoma City Thunder vs San Antonio Spurs | Oklahoma City Thunder vs San Antonio Spurs Streaming | Oklahoma City vs San Antonio NBA Live Stream | Oklahoma City Thunder vs San Antonio Spurs Live Webcast

8:30 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

The San Antonio Spurs may feel unfamiliar in their own arena as they prepare for their first home game in more than three weeks. Bouncing back from a loss could seem even more foreign to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The struggling Spurs hope to get point guard Tony Parker back as they return from their rodeo road trip Wednesday night against the Thunder, who will try to regroup quickly after their nine-game winning streak was snapped. Oklahoma City surged past the Spurs in the standings during its impressive run, but the Thunder blew a 10-point lead in the final 3:30 of a 104-102 home loss to Phoenix on Tuesday.

It has still been an impressive renaissance for a franchise that went 43-121 over the previous two seasons. Durant’s emergence has been the biggest reason for the turnaround, and the former Texas star took over the NBA scoring lead after pouring in 36 against the Suns. It was his 29th straight game with at least 25 points - the longest such streak since Michael Jordan did it in 40 straight in 1986-87 - and Durant moved slightly ahead of Cleveland’s LeBron James with 29.9 points per game. Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook added 21 points and 10 assists against Phoenix, his fifth time in the last seven games with at least 20 points and 10 assists.

Watch Orlando Magic vs Houston Rockets Live Streaming

Watch Orlando Magic vs Houston Rockets Live | Orlando Magic vs Houston Rockets | Orlando Magic vs Houston Rockets Streaming | Orlando vs Houston NBA Live Stream | Orlando Magic vs Houston Rockets Live Webcast

8:30 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

Beating the team with the best record in the NBA should have served as a reminder that the Orlando Magic are the reigning Eastern Conference champions. Now, the Southeast Division leaders will try to avoid a letdown. The Magic look to sweep the season series from the struggling Houston Rockets for the first time in eight years Wednesday night. Orlando is second in the Eastern Conference, five games back of the league-leading Cavaliers, whom the Magic defeated in six games in last year’s conference finals. A playoff rematch is very possible, and Orlando got the better of visiting Cleveland on Sunday, beating them 101-95.

Dwight Howard will try to help the Magic build on Sunday’s win when they visit Houston, loser of four of five and on the outside of the top eight in the West standings. Howard had 22 points, 16 rebounds and four blocks Sunday, giving him averages of 28.0 points, 16.3 boards and 5.3 blocks the last three games. The All-Star center leads the NBA with 13.5 rebounds per game and 2.8 blocks. Howard pulled down 20 boards while adding 13 points and four blocks in a 102-87 home win over the Rockets on Dec. 23 after Orlando dropped 12 of the previous 14 meetings since sweeping the season series in 2001-02.

Watch Philadelphia 76ers vs Phoenix Suns Live Streaming

Watch Philadelphia 76ers vs Phoenix Suns Live | Philadelphia 76ers vs Phoenix Suns | Philadelphia 76ers vs Phoenix Suns Streaming | Philadelphia vs Phoenix NBA Live Stream | Philadelphia 76ers vs Phoenix Suns Live Webcast

9:00 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

Without Steve Nash, the Phoenix Suns pulled out a narrow road win over one of the NBA’s hottest teams. With the two-time league MVP expected to return, the Suns have to like their chances of continuing their home dominance of the Philadelphia 76ers. After missing a game for the first time this season to rest his sore lower back and abdomen, Nash will likely be back in the lineup Wednesday night to help the Suns attempt to beat the Sixers at home for the 20th time in 23 meetings. Nash is having a typically strong season with 17.6 points and 11.2 assists per game, but the 36-year-old point guard struggled coming out of the All-Star break. Though he has averaged 12.8 assists in four second-half games, he has been held to 7.5 points per game and 31.6 percent shooting while playing through pain.

Rather than risk losing him for an extended period, the Suns opted to rest Nash on Tuesday. Without him, they snapped Oklahoma City’s nine-game winning streak with a 104-102 victory. Phoenix fell behind by 10 with 5:03 left, but Jason Richardson capped the comeback with a floater with 0.7 left as the Suns won for the ninth time in 11 games and moved past the Thunder for fifth place in the Western Conference. Gentry gave much of the credit to Richardson, who finished with 20 points and a season-high 13 rebounds.

Watch Charlotte Bobcats vs Utah Jazz Live Streaming

Watch Charlotte Bobcats vs Utah Jazz Live | Charlotte Bobcats vs Utah Jazz | Charlotte Bobcats vs Utah Jazz Streaming | Charlotte vs Utah NBA Live Stream | Charlotte Bobcats vs Utah Jazz Live Webcast

9:00 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

Deron Williams and Andrei Kirilenko are big reasons why Utah is among the best teams in the Western Conference. The Jazz have a chance to get both players back Wednesday night as they look to rebound from a loss. Williams and Kirilenko could return from injuries as the Jazz host the struggling Charlotte Bobcats. The Jazz are third in the West, one game behind Denver for second place in the conference and the top spot in the Northwest Division. Williams has helped power that success, as he is third in the NBA with 9.9 assists per game and second on the team with 18.3 points.

Kirilenko has also played a key role, converting a career-high 51.5 percent of his shots and averaging 12.3 points and 4.6 rebounds. Injuries, though, have become a problem for both players. Williams is nursing a bruised right quad, while Kirilenko is hampered by back pain. Both players exited a 93-89 overtime win at Portland on Sunday, although Williams returned to finish with 18 points and 12 assists. Both players are uncertain for Wednesday, and Utah didn’t fare well without them in a 105-100 loss to Atlanta on Monday - just their third defeat in 20 games. Jazz forward Carlos Boozer is looking to bounce back from a 12-point, 10-rebound performance against the Hawks. He averaged 26.0 points and 19.5 boards in the previous two games.

Watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Live Streaming

Watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Live | Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks | Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Streaming | LA Lakers vs Dallas NBA Live Stream | Los Angeles Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Live Webcast

9:00 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

Though they’re certainly glad to have Kobe Bryant back, the Los Angeles Lakers fared well without him. They didn’t even need a big game from their star to win their last matchup with the Dallas Mavericks. Bryant, outstanding in his first game back from injury, looks to help the Lakers continue their success against the Mavericks as two of the Western Conference’s top teams meet Wednesday night in Texas. After missing five games with an ankle injury, Bryant hit a 3-pointer with 4.3 seconds left to lift Los Angeles to a 99-98 win over Memphis on Tuesday night.

Bryant, who also tied the game on a 3-pointer with 54 seconds remaining, finished with 32 points including the Lakers’ final nine. The stellar performance followed his longest absence in five years. Bryant hadn’t played since Feb. 5, but the Lakers managed to go 4-1 without him. The 12-time All-Star was held to 10 points against the Mavericks on Jan. 13, but the Lakers got 22 points and 11 rebounds from Andrew Bynum in a 100-95 road victory. The only time Bryant scored fewer points this season was when he had five in a 99-97 win over Charlotte on Feb. 3. Bryant is averaging 15.0 points - 13 below his season average - and shooting 40.5 percent in three games against the Mavericks this season.

Watch Detroit Pistons vs Los Angeles Clippers Live Streaming

Watch Detroit Pistons vs Los Angeles Clippers Live | Detroit Pistons vs Los Angeles Clippers | Detroit Pistons vs Los Angeles Clippers Streaming | Detroit vs LA Clippers NBA Live Stream | Detroit Pistons vs Los Angeles Clippers Live Webcast

10:30 pm EST Wed Feb 24, 2010

It’s been more than a month since either the Detroit Pistons or the Los Angeles Clippers recorded three straight victories, but one of those clubs will end its drought Wednesday night. The Pistons look to win their seventh straight road game against the Clippers, who snapped a 13-game losing streak in the series earlier this season. The Pistons haven’t won three straight since Jan. 12-16, but they put themselves in position to match that streak by cruising to a 101-89 win in Sacramento on Tuesday night, the opener of a four-game western trip.

Richard Hamilton scored 30 points and Tayshaun Prince added 22, helping Detroit take a 30-point lead in the third quarter and hold on for the win. To do so, the Pistons will have to beat a Clippers team that’s searching for its first three-game win streak since a run of four consecutive victories from Dec. 31-Jan. 10. Los Angeles picked up its latest victory Monday night, beating Charlotte 98-94 behind 20 points from Rasual Butler, who has averaged 17.3 points and shot 47.7 percent from 3-point range over his last six games. Chris Kaman had 18 points and 13 rebounds against the Bobcats, and Drew Gooden and Travis Outlaw added 10 points apiece in their debuts with the Clippers.

Watch New Orleans Hornets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live Streaming

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Watch New Orleans Hornets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live | New Orleans Hornets vs Cleveland Cavaliers |New Orleans Hornets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Streaming | New Orleans vs Cleveland NBA Live Stream | New Orleans Hornets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Tue Feb 23, 2010

Antawn Jamison bounced back from an ugly debut with the Cleveland Cavaliers with a much better performance in his last game. However, he is still looking for his first win with his new teammates. Jamison could be in the Cavaliers’ starting lineup for the first time as they look to avoid their first four-game losing streak in more than two years Tuesday night when they host the New Orleans Hornets.Cleveland acquired Jamison last week from Washington to give itself another scoring threat alongside LeBron James. Jamison, who averaged 20.5 points with the Wizards, was on the bench after failing to be cleared in time for an overtime loss to Denver on Thursday and then went 0 for 12 from the field in a 110-93 defeat to Charlotte on Friday.

He was much more effective Sunday in a 101-95 loss at Orlando, scoring 19 points on 9 of 14 shooting with eight rebounds. Coach Mike Brown is leaning toward giving Jamison his first start Tuesday. The two-time All-Star played well Sunday with starters Mo Williams, Shaquille O’Neal, Anthony Parker and James. The three straight losses follow a 13-game winning streak for the Cavaliers, who haven’t dropped four in a row since a six-game skid Nov. 28-Dec. 8, 2007. While the losing streak coincides with Jamison’s addition, he hasn’t been the only one struggling.

Watch New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Live Streaming

Watch New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Live | New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics | New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Streaming | New York vs Boston NBA Live Stream | New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Live Webcast

7:30 pm EST Tue Feb 23, 2010

With Paul Pierce and Tracy McGrady both battling injuries, Tuesday’s matchup between the Boston Celtics and visiting New York Knicks may be without two of its biggest names. Nate Robinson probably won’t object to having more of the spotlight. The diminutive new Celtic is expected to make his debut with Boston against the team that traded him away last week and the coach that benched him for an extended stretch earlier this season. Robinson averaged 17.2 points for New York last season, and the 5-foot-9 guard has won many fans by capturing three slam dunk championships.

Knicks coach Mike D’Antoni, though, left him on the bench for 14 straight games in December, and the team finally dealt him to Boston along with Marcus Landry before Thursday’s trade deadline, getting Eddie House, J.R. Giddens and Bill Walker —along with salary cap space this summer—in return. An illness has delayed his debut, but Robinson may have preferred to make it a more dramatic one. D’Antoni explained the benching Jan. 1 by saying that the Knicks—currently losers of seven straight—were “trying to get focused on winning.” Victories are certainly what the Celtics have in mind, and they’ll be tougher to get if Pierce is out.

Watch Portland Trail Blazers vs New Jersey Nets Live Streaming

Watch Portland Trail Blazers vs New Jersey Nets Live | Portland Trail Blazers vs New Jersey Nets | Portland Trail Blazers vs New Jersey Nets Streaming | Portland vs New Jersey NBA Live Stream | Portland Trail Blazers vs New Jersey Nets Live Webcast

7:30 pm EST Tue Feb 23, 2010

The Portland Trail Blazers built what appeared to be an insurmountable lead in their last game, only to see it evaporate. That seems unlikely to happen against the NBA-worst New Jersey Nets. The Trail Blazers have a chance to open a five-game road trip in strong fashionTuesday night when they face the Nets, who are on the cusp of a franchise record for home futility. Portland took a 25-point lead in the third quarter against Utah on Sunday, but wasted it and fell 93-89 in overtime. The disheartening defeat came two nights after the Trail Blazers shot a season-low 33.8 percent in a 96-76 loss to Boston.

Portland should be in ideal position to end its funk as it faces the Nets, losers of 11 of 12 overall and seven in a row in New Jersey. The home skid matches the club record set from Jan. 6-Feb. 3, 1978, for the second time this season. The Blazers, in eighth place in the Western Conference, have won three consecutive games at the Izod Center. They defeated the Nets 93-83 at the Rose Garden on Nov. 25.

Watch Minnesota Timberwolves vs Miami Heat Live Streaming

Watch Minnesota Timberwolves vs Miami Heat Live | Minnesota Timberwolves vs Miami Heat | Minnesota Timberwolves vs Miami Heat Streaming | Minnesota vs Miami NBA Live Stream | Minnesota Timberwolves vs Miami Heat Live Webcast

7:30 pm EST Tue Feb 23, 2010

The Miami Heat received some good news regarding Dwyane Wade’s injury over the weekend. Unfortunately for them, he is still likely to miss at least another game. Wade is expected to sit out a third straight contest when the Heat host the Minnesota Timberwolves onTuesday night . Miami had its five-game winning streak snapped in a 97-91 loss to Dallas on Saturday that closed five-game road trip. The Heat played for the second straight time without Wade, who has been sidelined with a strained left calf. Miami won the first, defeating Memphis 100-87 in double overtime Friday.

Wade wore a protective boot as he watched the defeat to the Mavericks, but further tests Sunday revealed the injury was less severe than first thought and he was cleared to remove the boot. Miami said Wade will continue to undergo treatment and is considered day-to-day. He was not listed in the starting lineup for Tuesday posted on the Heat’s official Web site. Wade is averaging 26.1 points and 6.4 assists, and the Heat are trying to maintain a slim lead for the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference without their leading scorer.

Watch Phoenix Suns vs Oklahoma City Thunder Live Streaming

Watch Phoenix Suns vs Oklahoma City Thunder Live | Phoenix Suns vs Oklahoma City Thunder | Phoenix Suns vs Oklahoma City Thunder Streaming | Phoenix vs Oklahoma NBA Live Stream | Phoenix Suns vs Oklahoma City Thunder Live Webcast

8:00 pm EST Tue Feb 23, 2010

When his team fell to Oklahoma City two months ago, Phoenix Suns coach Alvin Gentry said not to underestimate the Thunder. It’s unlikely any team will do that anymore. The Thunder will go for the franchise’s first 10-game winning streak in 13 seasonsTuesday night when they host the Suns. Led by 38 points from Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City snapped a nine-game losing streak to the Suns with a 117-113 victory in Phoenix on Dec. 23. Durant, 21, has developed into one of the league’s top scorers, averaging 29.8 points - second to LeBron James’ 30.0 per game. Durant scored 10 of his 32 in the final 2:20 of Sunday’s 109-107 victory in Minnesota for his 28th straight game with 25 or more points. It is the longest such streak since Michael Jordan’s 40-game run in 1986-87.

Another victory would give the Thunder franchise its first 10-game winning streak since the Seattle SuperSonics won 11 straight from Nov. 7-24, 1996. Oklahoma City has averaged 104.9 points during this win streak, but is facing a Suns team that’s playing better defense of late. Phoenix, which has won eight of 10 following a 2-7 stretch, is giving up 106.4 points per game this season - third-most in the league - but has held its last two opponents below 90.

Watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies Live Streaming

Watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies Live | Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies | Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies Streaming | LA Lakers vs Memphis NBA Live Stream | Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies Live Webcast

8:00 pm EST Tue Feb 23, 2010

Kobe Bryant couldn’t take the last-second shot in the defending champions’ last game, but he might have the ball in his hands if there’s a similar situation Tuesday. With Bryant possibly set to return after missing the last five games with a sprained left ankle, the well-rested Los Angeles Lakers visit the Memphis Grizzlies. Bryant, who hasn’t played since Feb. 5, was receiving treatment in the Lakers’ training room Thursday when Derek Fisher missed a 21-footer as time expired in an 87-86 loss to visiting Boston.

Pau Gasol, who had 22 points, refused to use Bryant’s absence as an excuse. The Lakers have not played the last four days and the time off could be enough to get Bryant back in the lineup for the Western Conference-leading Lakers, who are 4-1 without the 12-time All-Star. Bryant, 34 points shy of passing Reggie Miller for 13th all-time in scoring, is averaging 38.0 in his last five games in Memphis. After scoring 41 in a 114-98 home win over the Grizzlies on Nov. 6, Bryant matched a season high with 44 and passed Jerry West as the Lakers’ all-time leading scorer in a 95-93 loss at FedEx Forum on Feb. 1. Swarmed by Grizzlies defenders in the final seconds, Bryant passed to Ron Artest, who missed a 3-pointer as the Lakers had their four-game winning streak in Memphis snapped.

Watch Detroit Pistons vs Sacramento Kings Live Streaming

Watch Detroit Pistons vs Sacramento Kings Live | Detroit Pistons vs Sacramento Kings | Detroit Pistons vs Sacramento Kings Streaming | Detroit vs Sacramento NBA Live Stream | Detroit Pistons vs Sacramento Kings Live Webcast

10:00 pm EST Tue Feb 23, 2010

Ben Gordon’s last game against the Sacramento Kings is probably one he’d like to forget. His most recent performance, however, is one he’s hoping to repeat. Gordon and the Pistons begin a four-game road trip against teams from the Western Conference when they take on the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night. The oft-injured Gordon had one of his better games of the last two months Sunday, scoring 21 points while shooting 57.1 percent in Detroit’s 109-101 overtime win over San Antonio. The victory was the Pistons’ second in the last five games.

Gordon, who has missed 19 games this season because of ankle and groin issues, had been held to single digits in scoring the four previous games, during which he shot 24.2 percent. Included in that stretch was an 0-for-8 performance in a 103-97 home loss to Sacramento on Feb. 10. Gordon scored 10 points between the fourth quarter and overtime Sunday, hitting four free throws in the final 20 seconds.Gordon, who averaged 24.3 points in four previous games against Sacramento, will try to put up back-to-back games of 10 points or more for the first time since early January when he and the Pistons begin their trip Tuesday.

Watch Philadelphia 76ers vs Golden State Warriors Live Streaming

Watch Philadelphia 76ers vs Golden State Warriors Live | Philadelphia 76ers vs Golden State Warriors | Philadelphia 76ers vs Golden State Warriors Streaming | Philadelphia vs Golden State NBA Live Stream | Philadelphia 76ers vs Golden State Warriors Live Webcast

10:30 pm EST Tue Feb 23, 2010

A December matchup with the Golden State Warriors allowed the Philadelphia 76ers to stop their longest losing streak since 2006-07. The 76ers, who will be without Allen Iverson, hope their second meeting with the Warriors will help them rebound from their most lopsided defeat since that same season. Philadelphia tries to snap a four-game slide in Oakland on Tuesday night as the Warriors go for their fourth win in five home games. The 76ers ended their first 12-game skid since Nov. 25-Dec. 20, 2006, with a 117-101 victory over Golden State on Dec. 14. Thaddeus Young had 26 points and 14 rebounds while Allen Iverson added 20 points.

Philadelphia, loser of three of four since a season-high five-game winning streak, will now be trying to get back on track after opening its four-game trip with a 122-90 loss to Chicago on Saturday. The Sixers, who did not convert a field goal during an 8:14 stretch that bridged the second and third quarters, suffered their worst loss since a 124-74 defeat to Houston on March 18, 2007.

Watch Chicago Bulls vs Washington Wizards Live Streaming

Monday, February 22, 2010

Watch Chicago Bulls vs Washington Wizards Live | Chicago Bulls vs Washington Wizards | Chicago Bulls vs Washington Wizards Streaming | Chicago vs Washington NBA Live Stream | Chicago Bulls vs Washington Wizards Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Mon Feb 22, 2010

The Chicago Bulls are making the most of a favorable stretch of games following the All-Star break. A visit to Washington could help extend their recent run of success. The Bulls look to match a season high with their fifth straight victory while trying for a third consecutive win over the new-look Wizards on Monday night. Despite trading veteran John Salmons and former first-round pick Tyrus Thomas to free up salary cap space in the hopes of pursuing some of the game’s top free agents next season, Chicago appears focused on succeeding in the present. Rookie Taj Gibson tied a career high with 20 points and had 13 rebounds, while Derrick Rose and Kirk Hinrich each scored 17 as the Bulls won 122-90 at home over Philadelphia on Saturday to remain undefeated since the All-Star break.

Hakim Warrick, acquired from Milwaukee in the Salmons’ trade, added 15 with nine boards for Chicago, which has won six of seven and is sixth in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls’ schedule out of the break has helped contribute to their success. In the midst of playing seven of eight against teams with losing records, the Bulls are averaging 113.8 points and shooting 49.3 percent in two victories over New York, and wins against Minnesota and Philadelphia in their last four games.

Watch Milwaukee Bucks vs New York Knicks Live Streaming

Watch Milwaukee Bucks vs New York Knicks Live | Milwaukee Bucks vs New York Knicks | Milwaukee Bucks vs New York Knicks Streaming | Milwaukee vs New York NBA Live Stream | Milwaukee Bucks vs New York Knicks Live Webcast

7:30 pm EST Mon Feb 22, 2010

The New York Knicks have their sights set on getting at least one bona fide superstar this summer. They already may have landed one. Tracy McGrady, following an impressive Knicks debut, tries to help his new team snap a six-game losing streak Monday night against the Milwaukee Bucks at Madison Square Garden. New York made three salary-shedding deals prior to Thursday’s trade deadline, creating about $32 million in salary cap space to prepare for a free-agent spending spree in July with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh expected to headline the list.

The Knicks acquired McGrady in a three-team, nine-player deal Thursday, as his $22.5 million contract expires after this season. However, the seven-time All-Star has claimed he’d take a big pay cut to stay in New York. He’ll have to prove he can come back from microfracture knee surgery that kept him sidelined for all but six games for Houston this season. McGrady, a two-time scoring champion, made a strong case that he’s well on his way to a full recovery, scoring 26 points on 10-for-17 shooting in a 121-118 overtime loss to Oklahoma City.

Watch Indiana Pacers vs Dallas Mavericks Live Streaming

Watch Indiana Pacers vs Dallas Mavericks Live | Indiana Pacers vs Dallas Mavericks | Indiana Pacers vs Dallas Mavericks Streaming | Indiana vs Dallas NBA Live Stream | Indiana Pacers vs Dallas Mavericks Live Webcast

8:30 pm EST Mon Feb 22, 2010

With some new additions in the mix, the Dallas Mavericks are playing like a team with a renewed sense of purpose. The Mavericks look to continue their solid play with a fourth straight victory Monday night while trying for a sixth consecutive home win over the Indiana Pacers. Dallas lost five of seven heading into the All-Star break, then dropped its first game back by 13 points at Oklahoma City. The Southwest Division-leading Mavericks have bounced back with wins against playoff contenders Phoenix, Orlando and Miami.

The Mavericks are fourth in the Western Conference, but poised to improve that position. Nowitzki scored 28 points and newcomer Caron Butler added 20 against a Miami team playing without injured superstar Dwyane Wade. Though they’ve only been with the team for a week, Butler and center Brendan Haywood appear to be paying dividends for the Mavericks after being acquired, along with DeShawn Stevenson, from Washington for underachieving veterans Josh Howard, Drew Gooden and two others. Butler is averaging 16.0 points in a more limited offensive role in four games with his new team, while Haywood has put up 10.8 points and 8.7 rebounds in his first four contests with the Mavericks. The pair also seems to be helping the team improve on the defensive end.

Watch Atlanta Hawks vs Utah Jazz Live Streaming

Watch Atlanta Hawks vs Utah Jazz Live | Atlanta Hawks vs Utah Jazz | Atlanta Hawks vs Utah Jazz Streaming | Atlanta vs Utah NBA Live Stream | Atlanta Hawks vs Utah Jazz Live Webcast

9:00 pm EST Mon Feb 22, 2010

After finishing a perfect four-game road trip with an impressive comeback, the Utah Jazz may be returning home as the NBA’s hottest team. In Salt Lake City, the Atlanta Hawks have been ice cold for more than 17 years. The Hawks will have a tough task Monday night if they hope to end their 15-game losing streak at Utah, which can grab a share of the Northwest Division lead with a fifth consecutive win. Even a 25-point second-half deficit couldn’t derail the short-handed Jazz, who beat Portland 93-89 in overtime Sunday for their 17th win in 19 games, putting an exclamation mark on a trip that included victories at Houston and New Orleans.

Boozer tied the game at the end of regulation with a putback and finished with 22 points and a career-high 23 rebounds, giving himself six double-doubles in seven games since returning from a calf injury. Even though Utah shot below 40 percent from the field Sunday for the first time since a 91-89 loss at Memphis on Jan. 8, the Jazz have still hit 50.9 percent of their shots during the 17-2 stretch since that defeat, vaulting up the standings to third place in the Western Conference. They trail first-place Denver by one-half game in the division. Atlanta was on the opposite side of a big comeback Sunday, blowing a 17-point fourth-quarter advantage in a 108-104 loss at Golden State, and the Hawks hope they’re not headed in the wrong direction after dropping three of four.

Watch Charlotte Bobcats vs Los Angeles Clippers Live Streaming

Watch Charlotte Bobcats vs Los Angeles Clippers Live | Charlotte Bobcats vs Los Angeles Clippers | Charlotte Bobcats vs Los Angeles Clippers Streaming | Charlotte vs LA Clippers NBA Live Stream |Charlotte Bobcats vs Los Angeles Clippers Live Webcast

10:30 pm EST Mon Feb 22, 2010

If the Charlotte Bobcats are going to reach the playoffs for the first time, some improved play on the road could certainly help. Facing the Los Angeles Clippers might be just what they need to get started. After opening a four-game trip with a loss, the Bobcats look to beat the Clippers for a fifth consecutive time Monday night. Charlotte holds the eighth and final playoff position in the Eastern Conference, thanks in part to a 20-7 home record. The Bobcats would be in much better shape to earn the first postseason appearance in their six-year history if not for a 7-20 road record. Only five teams have fewer road wins and they’re all at least 15 games under .500. Charlotte fell on the road again Saturday, trailing by as many as 20 in the third quarter before losing 93-88 at Milwaukee.

After facing Los Angeles, Charlotte visits Utah on Wednesday before concluding the road swing at Memphis on Friday. The Bobcats have won four in a row against the Clippers, including two matchups at Staples Center. Los Angeles has lost 10 of 12 overall and owns the fourth-worst record in the West. Charlotte leading scorer Stephen Jackson has averaged 32.7 points over the last three road games, but Gerald Wallace has totaled just 16 in those contests - he missed one with an injury. The Clippers, 15-12 at home, are looking to build on Saturday’s 99-89 win over Sacramento.

Watch Norway vs Switzerland Live Streaming

Saturday, February 20, 2010

Watch Norway vs Switzerland Live | Norway vs Switzerland | Norway vs Switzerland Streaming | Norway vs Switzerland Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Norway vs Switzerland Live Webcast

3:00 PM ET

The Norwegians have found bright spots in both of their Group A games so far, holding the powerful Canadians without a goal for the first 22 minutes of their game on Tuesday. Thursday, it was merely a 3-1 deficit against the Americans with 6 minutes remaining in the game, before a late three-goal outburst made the scoreline seem more unseemly than it was. But the time for moral victories is gone. This is a game the Norwegians can entertain thoughts of winning. It will require their best game of the tournament by far, and it will be interesting to see if the Norwegians have any gas left in the tank. Mats Zuccarello Aasen was their most dangerous offensive player Thursday and Tollefsen added some sandpaper on D in his first appearance of these Olympics.

The Swiss have done everything but win in their first two games, pushing the Canadians to a shootout and scaring the Americans, as well, before falling 3-1. Switzerland feels confident it can take this game against Norway, but they know they will be forced to play differently against the defense-first Norwegians. "Norway will present different challenges for us," Swiss coach Ralph Krueger said. "We will be playing with the puck a lot more in this game." Hiller has been amazing for the Swiss, allowing just five goals on 70 shots against the Americans and Canadians. Streit, meanwhile, has been a workhorse on the blue, averaging almost 24 minutes a game.

Watch Latvia vs Slovakia Live Streaming

Watch Latvia vs Slovakia Live | Latvia vs Slovakia | Latvia vs Slovakia Streaming | Latvia vs Slovakia Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Latvia vs Slovakia Live Webcast

7:30 PM ET

Some grit, plenty of skill and a whole lot of Jaroslav Halak have the Slovakians right in the thick of the Group B competition. They nearly upset their closest rivals, the Czechs, in their opening game. And they pulled off the stunner of the tournament so far by beating the Russians in a shootout Thursday night. Halak sparkled in both games, turning aside 36 of 37 shots from the frighteningly talented Russians and then six of seven in the shootout – including two of three by Alex Ovechkin. Marian Gaborik and Marian Hossa both returned earlier than expected from injuries suffered last week in the NHL. And each has scored a goal. But neither could yet be described as flying.

It has gone just about as expected so far for the Latvians. Two powerful foes. Two predictable losses. Two games in which, though overmatched, they played with gusto and occasional flair. Competitive through two periods against Russia in their Olympic opener, the Latvians were overwhelmed in the third period, when Russia strafed them for four goals. The Czech game unfolded the opposite way. Blitzed early for three goals in the first 5:07, the Latvians battled back from a 4-0 deficit to within 4-2 before ultimately succumbing. Goaltender Edgars Malaskis has faced 84 shots in two games. Yet, every time he appears to be mentally broken, he rallies to keep his team in the game a little longer.

Watch Germany vs Belarus Live Streaming

Watch Germany vs Belarus Live | Germany vs Belarus | Germany vs Belarus Streaming | Germany vs Belarus Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Germany vs Belarus Live Webcast

11:55 PM ET

The Germans have leaned heavily on their NHL contingent. Nobody has carried the load more than San Jose backup goalie Thomas Greiss, who was brilliant against the Swedes in the tournament's first game. He was replaced by former NHLer Dmitri Patzold in the game against the Finns, though. NHL veterans Christian Ehrhoff, from the hometown Vancouver Canucks, and Dennis Seidenberg of Florida form the team's No. 1 pairing and are on the ice in all important situations. The Germans will not blow anybody away with their offensive prowess, but they have developed into a nice two-way team, as the Swedes can attest to.

The Belarusians did not win Friday against Sweden, but they did walk away with a newfound confidence in their game. Forward Konstantin Zakharov says they will show their class in the game against Germany: "I think the game we played today, we have a lot of confidence and when we go and play Germany we're going to prove it." Perhaps the most interesting decision will be who the Belarusians start in goal. Andrei Mezin was very good Friday night, but is supposed to be the backup. Do they go back with Vitali Koval, who was good in a 5-1 loss to Finland.

Watch Washington Wizards vs Toronto Raptors Live Streaming

Watch Washington Wizards vs Toronto Raptors Live | Washington Wizards vs Toronto Raptors | Washington Wizards vs Toronto Raptors Streaming | Washington vs Toronto NBA Live Stream | Washington Wizards vs Toronto Raptors Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Sat Feb 20, 2010

The Toronto Raptors are opening a three-game homestand with Chris Bosh’s status uncertain. With or without the All-Star forward, they might want to try a different game plan against the Washington Wizards. After overcoming Bosh’s absence to continue their torrid scoring run, the Raptors look to end a three-game home losing streak to the lowly Wizards on Saturday night. Toronto won 106-89 at New Jersey on Friday night, extending its franchise record for consecutive 100-point games to 19. The Raptors shot 59.7 percent, even withBosh missing the game due to an ankle injury.

Bosh, who was hurt in a 109-102 overtime loss to Memphis on Wednesday night, wasn’t in New Jersey and is listed as day to day. He leads the Raptors with 24.5 points and 11.4 rebounds per game, both career highs.Bosh has played in Toronto’s last two home games against Washington after missing the previous matchup due to a knee injury. The Raptors came up short in each contest, though the Wizards have been one of the league’s worst teams during that span.Bosh was one of three players to score at least 20 points for Toronto in a 106-102 home loss to Washington on Dec. 1. Since then, the Raptors have won 15 of 18 at the Air Canada Centre.

Watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs New York Knicks Live Streaming

Watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs New York Knicks Live | Oklahoma City Thunder vs New York Knicks | Oklahoma City Thunder vs New York Knicks Streaming | Oklahoma City vs New York NBA Live Stream | Oklahoma City Thunder vs New York Knicks Live Webcast

7:30 pm EST Sat Feb 20, 2010

A series of salary-shedding trades have the New York Knicks in position to court two star players this summer, while auditioning another for the next two months. The Oklahoma City Thunder sure are glad one New York can’t get is Kevin Durant. The new-look Knicks will likely get their first look at Tracy McGrady on Saturday night when they face Durant and the red-hot Thunder at Madison Square Garden. New York has long been reported to be preparing for a free-agent spending spree this summer with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and ChrisBosh expected to headline the list.

The Knicks made it abundantly clear that’s the plan heading into Thursday’s trade deadline, making three deals that would leave them with about $32 million in salary cap space in July. Players such as James, Wade andBosh would each make a little more than $16.5 million in the first season of a new contract. Proving how much they’re gearing toward a big splash in free agency, the Knicks got McGrady solely because his bloated contract expires at the end of the season. McGrady, meanwhile, will attempt to prove he’s still capable of being a star after joining New York in a three-team, nine-player deadline trade with Houston and Sacramento. New York also sent fan-favorite Nate Robinson to Boston in a five-player deal, a day after trading Darko Milicic and cash to Minnesota for Brian Cardinal, who is expected to be released.

Watch Philadelphia 76ers vs Chicago Bulls Live Streaming

Watch Philadelphia 76ers vs Chicago Bulls Live | Philadelphia 76ers vs Chicago Bulls | Philadelphia 76ers vs Chicago Bulls Streaming | Philadelphia vs Chicago NBA Live Stream | Philadelphia 76ers vs Chicago Bulls Live webcast

8:00 pm EST Sat Feb 20, 2010

While the moves the Chicago Bulls made at the trade deadline were done with an eye toward building a championship contender next year, their current play is helping keep them in playoff position this season. The Bulls look for a fourth consecutive victory when they host the Philadelphia 76ers onSaturday night. By trading swingman John Salmons and underachieving former fourth-overall pick Tyrus Thomas on Thursday, Chicago could have almost $20 million in salary cap space to go after a group of marquee free agents that include LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and ChrisBosh.

In the meantime, the Bulls remain focused on reaching the playoffs for a second consecutive season. Chicago is tied for sixth in the Eastern Conference after winning 100-94 at Minnesota on Friday for its third straight victory since the All-Star break and fifth in six games. The Bulls are in the midst of a favorable stretch with seven of their eight games out of the break against teams with losing records. Philadelphia is one of those clubs. Though the 76ers beat the Bulls 106-103 in overtime at home Feb. 3, they’ve dropped their last two trips to the United Center, including a 94-88 decision on Nov. 14.

Watch Charlotte Bobcats vs Milwaukee Bucks Live Streaming

Watch Charlotte Bobcats vs Milwaukee Bucks Live | Charlotte Bobcats vs Milwaukee Bucks | Charlotte Bobcats vs Milwaukee Bucks Streaming | Charlotte vs Milwaukee NBA Live Stream | Charlotte Bobcats vs Milwaukee Bucks Live Webcast

8:30 pm EST Sat Feb 20, 2010

The Charlotte Bobcats’ two-game homestand included an ugly loss to the NBA’s worst team and an impressive victory over the league’s best club. It’s anyone’s guess how they’ll do against an opponent that’s right in the middle. The Bobcats look to continue their improved road play on a four-game trip that startsSaturday night in Milwaukee, where the Bucks hope to claim a key victory over one of the teams they’re chasing in the Eastern Conference. After coming out of the All-Star break with a 103-94 home loss to the New Jersey Nets - their second defeat to a team that has just five total wins - the Bobcats responded with their third victory over NBA-leading Cleveland, a 110-93 win on Friday night.

While Stephen Jackson led Charlotte with 29 points, the club also got a major boost from newcomer Tyrus Thomas, who had 12 rebounds and six blocked shots in his Bobcats debut after getting him from Chicago before Thursday’s trade deadline. Veteran Theo Ratliff, acquired from San Antonio on Thursday, also helped to hold Cavaliers newcomer Antawn Jamison to 0-of-12 shooting. “With me and Theo now,and Gerald can go back to their aggressive nature on defense and not worry about letting a guy get behind him, because they know they have me and Theo back there,” Thomas added.

Watch Miami Heat vs Dallas Mavericks Live Streaming

Watch Miami Heat vs Dallas Mavericks Live | Miami Heat vs Dallas Mavericks | Miami Heat vs Dallas Mavericks Streaming | Miami vs Dallas NBA Live Stream | Miami Heat vs Dallas Mavericks Live Webcast

8:30 pm EST Sat Feb 20, 2010

Having beaten the Dallas Mavericks in the 2006 NBA finals, the Miami Heat aren’t about to complain about their extensive regular-season failures against Dirk Nowitzki and company. Even as well as Miami is currently playing, Dwyane Wade’s absence may mean those struggles are doomed to continue. The Heat have won five straight games overall - including their latest without Wade - but they’ll again be without their superstarSaturday night as they try to compete a 5-0 road swing and avoid a 12th consecutive regular-season loss to the Mavericks.

Dallas had won four straight games against Miami heading into the 2006 finals, so it was no surprise when the Mavericks jumped out to a 2-0 series lead. However, Wade wouldn’t let his team lose, averaging 39.3 points as the Heat won four straight games to claim their first championship. That eight-day stretch now looks like an aberration. The Heat have lost 11 straight regular-season meetings to Dallas by an average of 13.8 points, including a 106-93 home defeat Dec. 11.Wade has missed three of those losses due to injury, and he’ll be sidelined again on Saturday after straining his left calf Wednesday during a victory over New Jersey, Miami’s fourth straight overall.

Watch Indiana Pacers vs Houston Rockets Live Streaming

Watch Indiana Pacers vs Houston Rockets Live | Indiana Pacers vs Houston Rockets | Indiana Pacers vs Houston Rockets Streaming | Indiana vs Houston NBA Live Stream | Indiana Pacers vs Houston Rockets Live Webcast

8:30 pm EST Sat Feb 20, 2010

The Houston Rockets return home fresh off their best offensive performance of the season. It’s what the Rockets have done off the court, however, that’s generating more buzz ahead ofSaturday night ’s visit from the Indiana Pacers. Four players, acquired in a three-team deal Thursday, are expected to make their Houston debut against Indiana. Headlining that group is shooting guard Kevin Martin, who will reunite with former coach Rick Adelman. The Rockets also got Hilton Armstrong from Sacramento, where Martin was averaging 19.8 points during an injury-shortened campaign. To complete the nine-player trade, Houston sent former All-Star swingman Tracy McGrady to New York for Jared Jeffries and Jordan Hill, and shipped second-leading scorer Carl Landry and Joey Dorsey to the Kings.

Part of Martin’s appeal is his familiarity with Adelman’s offense. Adelman coached Martin for two seasons in Sacramento, helping the previously unheralded player break out as a No. 1 scoring option. As rumors of an imminent deal swirled the night before the trade deadline, Houston avoided a season-high fourth straight loss by blowing out Milwaukee 127-99. The Rockets matched their best shooting performance over the last four seasons by shooting 58.3 percent, and they made 16 3-pointers to fall one shy of tying the franchise record. Trevor Ariza hit a career-best six shots from behind the arc and finished with 22 points, and Shane Battier had 20 points and 10 rebounds while going 6 for 6 from 3-point range.

Watch Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Clippers Live Streaming

Watch Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Clippers Live | Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Clippers | Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Clippers Streaming | Sacramento vs LA Clippers NBA Live Stream | Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Clippers Live Webcast

10:30 pm EST Sat Feb 20, 2010

To clear cap space for this summer, the Sacramento Kings traded one of the faces of their franchise. With Kevin Martin gone, Tyreke Evans and newcomer Carl Landry hope to start showing prospective free agents that the Kings still have a bright future as they visit the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday. Sacramento was busy before Thursday’s trade deadline, sending Martin and Hilton Armstrong to Houston and Sergio Rodriguez to New York. In return, the Kings received Larry Hughes from the Knicks, as well as Landry and Joey Dorsey from Houston.

Martin was a first-round draft pick by Sacramento in 2004 and led the team in scoring three straight years going into this season. Evans, though, got his rookie season off to an impressive start while Martin missed more than two months with a wrist injury, and the team struggled to find a way to use both when Martin returned in mid-January. Evans is averaging a team-leading 20.2 points. While Petrie said clearing salary to make a run at a coveted free agent this summer was a big factor in the move, he also was excited about the addition of Landry, who is averaging a career-best 16.1 points off the bench.

Watch Belarus vs Sweden Live Streaming

Friday, February 19, 2010

Watch Belarus vs Sweden Live | Belarus vs Sweden | Belarus vs Sweden Streaming | Belarus vs Sweden Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Belarus vs Sweden Live Webcast

Time : 3:00 PM ET

For a team that has only two NHLers on its roster, Montreal's Sergei Kostitsyn and Ruslan Salei, who has played in two games for Colorado this season, Belarus hung tough against the Finns and at least made it a game going into the third period. It's no secret that Belarus is going to need absolutely unbelievable goaltending to pull out an upset in this tournament. Vitali Koval was good against the Finns with 40 saves.Koval will have to be great again against Sweden and the Belarusians are going to have to find someone other than Kostitsyn to put the puck in the net. Still, expect Belarus to play a very conservative game as they try to limit the uber-talented Swedes and hope to cash in on some mistakes or power plays.

One game down and it was a shutout, but still the Swedes have lots of questions to answer going forward. Will Forsberg develop chemistry with Henrik Zetterberg and Patric Hornqvist? Will Franzen stay on the fourth line? Will Mattias Weinhandl stick with the Sedin twins? Why did Mattias Ohlund and not Nicklas Lidstrom lead the Swedes in ice time against Germany? Can they stay out of the penalty box? Like we said, lots of questions. But, they can all be answered Friday against Belarus -- a game that's really just another tuneup for Rivalry Sunday when the Swedes face their border rivals, the Finns.

Watch Czech Republic vs Latvia Live Streaming

Watch Czech Republic vs Latvia Live | Czech Republic vs Latvia | Czech Republic vs Latvia Streaming | Czech Republic vs Latvia Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Czech Republic vs Latvia Live Webcast

Time : 7:30 PM ET

Thanks to Jagr, who isn't even on their top line here, the Czechs survived an often discombobulated first-game performance in their 3-1 victory over Slovakia. While defenseman Tomas Kaberle of the Toronto Maple Leafs uncorked several bombs from the left point, the Czechs' power play was largely ineffectual on its first five tries. On its sixth, Jagr nudged a puck into the slot for Tomas Plekanec to poke home just two seconds before the second-period horn. Moving Jagr onto the No. 1 power-play unit for that sixth try seemed to change the dynamic. Presumably, coach Vladimir Ruzicka will stick with that tactic against Latvia. Unlike in Torino four years ago, when he unexpectedly was pressed into service when Dominik Hasek went down with an injury, Tomas Vokoun has had a long time to think about being the CzechRepublic's No. 1 goalie for this tournament. He had no trouble handling the responsibility, turning aside 34 of 35 shots Wednesday night.

The Latvians have no medal hopes here. But they do have four chances to be giant-killers. Chance No. 1 didn't last very long - the lethal Russian attack struck early to take command of the Group B opener Tuesday night. Chance No. 2 comes against the Czechs. At least the Latvians still figure to be focused on the tournament. After stunningly tying the United States in their Olympic opener at Torino four years ago, the Latvians were outscored 26-8 over their next four games - seemingly as hung over by the initial result as their delirious, cowbell-clanging fans.

Watch Finland vs Germany Live Streaming

Watch Finland vs Germany Live | Finland vs Germany | Finland vs Germany Streaming | Finland vs Germany Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Finland vs Germany Live Webcast

Time : 11:55 PM ET

All eyes will be on Teemu Selanne, who is one point from breaking the Olympics points record. He tied the mark Wednesday afternoon with a secondary assist on Olli Jokinen's power-play goal to open the game. But, it was not Finland's top line -- featuring Selanne, Saku Koivu and Jere Lehtinen -- that did the damage in the first game. It was younger players Niklas Hagman and Mikko Koivu that provided the spark. While that will need to continue, Finland would like to see its top line find its groove before Sunday's winner-take-all game Group C match against rival Sweden.

After a very impressive effort in the 2-0 loss to defending gold-medal holder Sweden, German coach Uwe Krupp talked about wanting his team to be tough to play against. The Germans were certainly that in their first game, and the Finns can expect a healthy dose of the same on Friday. The Germans will still display an all-hands-on-deck philosophy in their own end and count on the goaltending of Greiss to keep them in the contest.

Watch Denver Nuggets vs Washington Wizards Live Streaming

Watch Denver Nuggets vs Washington Wizards Live | Denver Nuggets vs Washington Wizards | Denver Nuggets vs Washington Wizards Streaming | Denver vs Washington NBA Live Stream | Denver Nuggets vs Washington Wizards Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

With George Karl joining them on the bench, the Denver Nuggets gave an inspired effort against the Eastern Conference’s top team. The Nuggets coach is expected to lead the team again Friday night in a bid for a sixth straight win over one of the East’s worst clubs, the host Washington Wizards. In his Karl’s first game since disclosing he has neck and throat cancer, the Nuggets snapped Cleveland’s 13-game win streak with Thursday night’s 118-116 overtime victory. Carmelo Anthony outdueled Cavaliers’ star LeBron James and capped a 40-point night by nailing the go-ahead basket with 1.9 seconds left.

During the win, Karl was battling nausea and headaches stemming from undergoing chemotherapy Tuesday, The Nuggets coach, who recently signed a contract extension, will have to sit out some games and practices during a rigorous six-week treatment regimen. He’s expected to miss Denver’s game at Golden State on Feb. 25 and in Minnesota on March 10, but he’s hoping to complete his recovery in time for the playoffs. Karl said being on the sidelines will help in his second battle with cancer.

Watch San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers Live Streaming

Watch San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers Live | San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers | San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers Streaming | San Antonio vs Philadelphia NBA Live Stream | San Antonio Spurs vs Philadelphia 76ers Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

Off to a strong start to the second half of the season, the San Antonio Spurs are looking to continue their push up the Western Conference standings. A matchup with the struggling Philadelphia 76ers should give them a good chance to do so. San Antonio tries for its third win in Philadelphia since 1999 on Friday night when it takes on the 76ers, who are trying to get back on track following a season-high winning streak. After closing the first half with a 111-92 victory over Northwest Division-leading Denver on Feb. 11, the Spurs continued their eight-game road stretch with a 90-87 win over Indiana on Wednesday.

Tony Parker, who missed the Denver game with a strained left hip flexor, scored 28 points in 39 minutes to keep San Antonio within a game of Southwest Division-leading Dallas. The Spurs have won three of four. Parker and the Spurs have not fared well in Philadelphia lately. San Antonio has lost seven of nine road matchups with the 76ers since the 1999-2000 season. In the teams’ last meeting in Philadelphia, Thaddeus Young scored 27 points and Andre Iguodala added 21 with eight assists and five rebounds in the 76ers’ 109-87 rout last Jan. 16. In 10th place in the Eastern Conference, Philadelphia could use another strong effort against San Antonio after losing two straight following a season-best five-game winning streak.

Watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Bobcats Live Streaming

Watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Bobcats Live | Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Bobcats | Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Bobcats Streaming | Cleveland vs Charlotte NBA Live Stream | Cleveland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Bobcats Live Webcast

7:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

The longest winning streak in the league this season is over, but the Cleveland Cavaliers will have a different look as they try to bounce back from their first loss in 14 games. They’d also prefer a different result against the Charlotte Bobcats. Cleveland has dropped two of three to the up-and-coming Bobcats, but will have newly acquired Antawn Jamison in the fold for the first timeFriday night at Time Warner Cable Arena in a potential first-round playoff preview. The Cavaliers didn’t have a game after the All-Star break until Thursday, but they were still busy leading up to that day’s trading deadline.

Looking for another scoring option alongside LeBron James, Mo Williams and Shaquille O’Neal, Cleveland sent Zydrunas Ilgauskas and a first-round draft pick to Washington for Jamison, who never averaged fewer than 19.6 points per game in six seasons with the currently hapless Wizards. Jamison wasn’t cleared to play in time for Denver’s visit Thursday, and Cleveland could have used him. Looking for a franchise-record 14th straight victory, the Cavaliers lost 118-116 in overtime despite James’ 43 points, 15 assists and 13 rebounds. No player had recorded at least 40 points, 15 assists and 13 rebounds in a game since Oscar Robertson had 42 points, 18 assists and 15 rebounds on Feb. 13, 1962.

Watch Toronto Raptors vs New Jersey Nets Live Streaming

Watch Toronto Raptors vs New Jersey Nets Live | Toronto Raptors vs New Jersey Nets | Toronto Raptors vs New Jersey Nets Streaming | Toronto vs New Jersey NBA Live Stream | Toronto Raptors vs New Jersey Nets Live Webcast

8:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

The Toronto Raptors felt that rust contributed to a loss in their first game after the All-Star break. They won’t be able to use that excuse this weekend when they face a pair of last-place teams. The Raptors hope to end a recent run of poor play in back-to-back games and hand the lowly New Jersey Nets a sixth straight home lossFriday night . Toronto went into the break as one of the league’s hottest teams, winning eight of nine to pull within four games of first-place Boston in the Atlantic Division. That momentum was halted in a 109-102 overtime loss to Memphis on Wednesday.

All-Star Chris Bosh had 32 points and 10 rebounds, but the other Raptors starters combined for 27 points. The Raptors fell behind by 12 after one quarter, with the starters putting them in a hole. Hedo Turkoglu scored one point in 29 minutes and missed all five of his shots. Jose Calderon led a strong bench effort with 12 points and nine assists, and reserves Amir Johnson and Sonny Weems each scored 10 points for the Raptors, who topped 100 for the franchise-record 18th straight game. Winning on the road at New Jersey shouldn’t be too difficult a task, although Toronto lost the first game of back-to-back sets five times in their last six tries. The Raptors return home to face Washington on Saturday.

Watch Dallas Mavericks vs Orlando Magic Live Streaming

Watch Dallas Mavericks vs Orlando Magic Live | Dallas Mavericks vs Orlando Magic | Dallas Mavericks vs Orlando Magic Streaming | Dallas vs Orlando NBA Live stream | Dallas Mavericks vs Orlando Magic Live webcast

8:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

Caron Butler isn’t off to a great start with the Dallas Mavericks, but he could be in line for a big game his next time out. Butler looks to turn in another huge effort against the Orlando Magic in a matchup of division leaders at Amway Arena onFriday night . Dallas got Dirk Nowitzki some help over the All-Star break, acquiring Butler, center Brendan Haywood and guard DeShawn Stevenson from Washington. The Southwest Division-leading Mavericks have split two games with their new players, with Butler shooting 31.3 percent and averaging 14.0 points.

The veteran swingman, though, has excelled this season against Orlando, averaging 27.0 points in two wins for Washington. He scored 31 points and hit a 19-foot jumper with 0.5 seconds left to cap a rally from 21 down in a 92-91 win Feb. 10 in his last visit to Orlando. The Southeast Division-leading Magic remember that shot well. Haywood could be the bigger factor Friday as he’ll try to contain Magic All-Star center Dwight Howard, who averaged 21.5 points and 15.0 rebounds going up against the former Wizards big man this season. Haywood, though, was also fairly productive with averages of 11.5 points and 12.5 rebounds in those games.

Watch Milwaukee Bucks vs Detroit Pistons Live Streaming

Watch Milwaukee Bucks vs Detroit Pistons Live | Milwaukee Bucks vs Detroit Pistons | Milwaukee Bucks vs Detroit Pistons Streaming | Milwaukee vs Detroit NBA Live Stream | Milwaukee Bucks vs Detroit Pistons Live Webcast

8:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

In ninth place in the Eastern Conference, the Milwaukee Bucks are still hoping to make the playoffs. The addition of another scoring threat should help. After dealing for John Salmons prior to the trade deadline, the Bucks try for their fourth win in six games when they visit the Detroit Pistons on Friday. Milwaukee hasn’t made the postseason since 2006, and it sits two games behind Charlotte for the eighth and final spot in the East. Staying in contention hasn’t been easy given the Bucks lost Michael Redd to a season-ending knee injury in January.

Although Milwaukee has won six of nine, it’s averaging only 94.3 points over that stretch, reaching 100 once. The Bucks are led in scoring by rookie Brandon Jennings, but he’s averaging 10.9 points this month. Milwaukee picked up another scoring threat when it acquired Salmons from Chicago on Thursday for Hakim Warrick and Joe Alexander. Salmons has played in 51 games this season, averaging just over 12 points. He is scheduled to make $5.8 million next season if he doesn’t opt out of his contract.

Watch Miami Heat vs Memphis Grizzlies Live Streaming

Watch Miami Heat vs Memphis Grizzlies Live | Miami Heat vs Memphis Grizzlies | Miami Heat vs Memphis Grizzlies Streaming | Miami vs Memphis NBA Live Stream | Miami Heat vs Memphis Grizzlies Live Webcast

8:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

As the Memphis Grizzlies and many others made additions to their rosters at the trading deadline, the Miami Heat stood pat. Right now, they’re mostly concerned about a temporary subtraction. Dwyane Wade is unlikely to suit up Friday night in Memphis after straining his left calf in Miami’s latest game, giving the Heat a steep hill to climb as they look for a fifth straight victory. The Heat were reportedly interested in names such as Amare Stoudemire and Carlos Boozer leading up to Thursday’s trade deadline, but ending the day without making a big splash didn’t bother team president Pat Riley.

The problem for Riley and coach Erik Spoelstra is that, right now, they aren’t. Wade suffered a strained calf midway through the first quarter of Miami’s game at New Jersey on Wednesday, ending his streak of 148 straight games scoring in double figures. Miami went on to win 87-84 behind 23 points from Michael Beasley, but the concern quickly shifted to Wade. He’s listed as day to day, but it appears doubtful that’ll he’ll suit up against the Grizzlies or Saturday at Dallas, the Heat’s fourth game in five nights.

Watch Indiana Pacers vs New Orleans Hornets Live Streaming

Watch Indiana Pacers vs New Orleans Hornets Live | Indiana Pacers vs New Orleans Hornets | Indiana Pacers vs New Orleans Hornets Streaming | Indiana vs New Orleans NBA Live Stream | Indiana Pacers vs New Orleans Hornets Live webcast

8:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

In 10th place in the Western Conference, the New Orleans Hornets are trying to make the postseason for the third straight year. Improving their play at home would certainly help their chances. The Hornets continue their four-game homestand Friday night against an Indiana Pacers team that has lost 19 of 23 on the road. New Orleans fell three games behind Portland for the eighth and final playoff spot in the West with a 98-90 loss to Utah on Wednesday. The Jazz outrebounded the Hornets 42-37 while shooting 54.3 percent from the field. Indiana coach Jim O’Brien can relate. The Pacers have been outrebounded by an average of 8.7 while dropping six of eight.

Indiana is looking to snap an overall three-game skid and four-game slide to the Hornets, but the Pacers have one of the league’s worst road records at 6-20. They play 10 of their next 13 away from Indianapolis. Facing such a poor road team could benefit the Hornets, who have dropped six of eight at home after winning 13 of 14 at New Orleans Arena. The loss of Chris Paul hasn’t helped. New Orleans has lost five of eight and four of five at home since the three-time All-Star was sidelined with a torn meniscus in his left knee. With Paul expected to be out at least another three weeks, Bower will continue to lean heavily on Darren Collison. The rookie from UCLA has been solid in Paul’s eight-game absence, averaging 19.9 points and 9.5 rebounds.

Watch Chicago Bulls vs Minnesota Timberwolves Live Streaming

Watch Chicago Bulls vs Minnesota Timberwolves Live | Chicago Bulls vs Minnesota Timberwolves | Chicago Bulls vs Minnesota Timberwolves Streaming | Chicago vs Minnesota NBA Live Stream | Chicago Bulls vs Minnesota Timberwolves Live Webcast

8:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

The Chicago Bulls worked toward their future by pulling off a pair of deadline deals Thursday. For the present, the Bulls are trying to remain in playoff contention and a trip to face the struggling Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night could help. Chicago sent former No. 4 overall pick Tyrus Thomas to Charlotte for a future first-round selection and the expiring contracts of Flip Murray and Acie Law. Earlier in the day, the Bulls shipped guard John Salmons and two second-round picks to Milwaukee for two more players with expiring contracts, Hakim Warrick and Joe Alexander.

Those moves put the team about $18 to $20 million under the salary cap in advance of a free-agent class that could include LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Joe Johnson and Carlos Boozer. The future is unknown for the four newcomers, but they’ll try to help the Bulls to their second straight playoff appearance and fifth in six seasons. Winners of four of five, Chicago is currently tied for sixth in the Eastern Conference with Miami. The Bulls helped themselves with a home-and-home sweep of the New York Knicks earlier this week, which included Wednesday night’s 115-109 road victory. Derrick Rose scored 27 points in his team’s seventh win in nine road games. He’s averaged 28.0 points since his first All-Star Game appearance and registered at least 21 in each of Chicago’s past four wins.

Watch Atlanta Hawks vs Phoenix Suns Live Streaming

Watch Atlanta Hawks vs Phoenix Suns Live | Atlanta Hawks vs Phoenix Suns | Atlanta Hawks vs Phoenix Suns Streaming | Atlanta vs Phoenix NBA Live Stream | Atlanta Hawks vs Phoenix Suns Live Webcast

9:00 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

For weeks, Amare Stoudemire was rumored to be headed out of Phoenix. The Atlanta Hawks won’t get any such breaks. The Suns, who have taken a gamble by sticking with their star forward who could leave the team after this season, look to continue their home dominance of the Hawks on Friday night. Phoenix decided Stoudemire was too integral to its plans to succeed this postseason, letting Thursday’s trade deadline pass without dealing the veteran big man. Stoudemire was at the center of trade speculation, mostly because he can opt out of the final year of his contract worth $17.7 million next season.

Now the Suns will end up with nothing but extra money to spend in free agency if he decides to leave. General manager Steve Kerr decided that standing pat was the best option for Phoenix, which has a three-game lead for a Western Conference playoff spot with 27 games left. Stoudemire, averaging 21.4 points and 8.7 rebounds, did his best to handle the rumors. Though he has been facing constant questions about his status, the eight-year veteran has averaged 26.6 points and 11.7 rebounds over his last seven games.Stoudemire had 30 points and 14 rebounds in Phoenix’s 107-97 loss at Dallas on Wednesday night. The Suns have lost two of three after winning their previous five.

Watch Boston Celtics vs Portland Trail Blazers Live Streaming

Watch Boston Celtics vs Portland Trail Blazers Live | Boston Celtics vs Portland Trail Blazers | Boston Celtics vs Portland Trail Blazers Streaming | Boston vs Portland NBA Live Stream | Boston Celtics vs Portland Trail Blazers Live Webcast

10:30 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

At 5-foot-9, Nate Robinson needs every bit of the jumping ability he brings to the Boston Celtics. In Marcus Camby’s case, the Portland Trail Blazers were clearly looking for a player with a little more size. With Robinson perhaps set to make his debut, the Celtics come off a win over the Western Conference’s top team to face the Trail Blazers and their newest acquisition Friday night at the Rose Garden. Boston got away with another subpar offensive game, beating the Los Angeles Lakers 87-86 on Thursday night. Ray Allen scored 12 of his 24 points in the third quarter against a Lakers team that was without injured star Kobe Bryant.

The Celtics, who were held under 90 points for the third time in four games, are hoping their new guard can provide a boost. Boston received Robinson and Marcus Landry in a trade with New York on Wednesday, giving up Eddie House, J.R. Giddens, Bill Walker and a future conditional second-round pick. Robinson is a three-time slam dunk champion and was a fan favorite in New York, but he fell out of favor with Knicks coach Mike D’Antoni earlier this season, being benched for 14 straight games in December. He gives the Celtics a spark off the bench, capable of performances such as his 41-point effort against Atlanta on Jan. 1. Robinson is averaging 13.2 points after posting a career-high 17.2 in 2008-09, when he scored at least 30 nine times.

Watch Utah Jazz vs Golden State Warriors Live Streaming

Watch Utah Jazz vs Golden State Warriors Live | Utah Jazz vs Golden State Warriors | Utah Jazz vs Golden State Warriors Streaming | Utah vs Golden State NBA Live Stream | Utah Jazz vs Golden State Warriors Live Webcast

10:30 pm EST Fri Feb 19, 2010

The Utah Jazz already have one of the NBA’s best home records, and their recent play on the road may make them even more dangerous in the Western Conference. The Jazz look to win six straight road games for the first time in eight years when they meet the Golden State Warriors for the first time this season Friday. Although it has the best home record in the NBA over the last four seasons, Utah hasn’t been nearly as successful on the road during that stretch, playing 19 games below .500. Recently, however, the Jazz have been outstanding outside of EnergySolutions Arena. They opened a four-game trip with a 104-95 win over Houston on Tuesday and beat New Orleans 98-90 on Wednesday.

Utah has improved to 12-12 on the road and is averaging 106.4 points and shooting 52.4 percent in its last seven games away from home after averaging 94.5 points and shooting 45.2 percent in the first 17. The Jazz, who have won 15 of 17 overall, haven’t won six straight on the road since Feb. 12-20, 2002. Paul Millsap led the Jazz on Wednesday, scoring 24 points on 11-of-13 shooting while adding eight rebounds, three steals and three blocked shots. Utah committed an uncharacteristic 22 turnovers and scored 17 points in the first quarter, but it ended the game on a 13-5 run.

Watch Denver Nuggets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live Streaming

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Watch Denver Nuggets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live | Denver Nuggets vs Cleveland Cavaliers | Denver Nuggets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Streaming | Denver vs Cleveland NBA Live Stream | Denver Nuggets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Live Webcast

8:00 pm EST Thu Feb 18, 2010

The Denver Nuggets are fighting for one of the top spots in the Western Conference, but this week, their attention turned to a different kind of battle. Two days after coach George Karl announced he is suffering from throat and neck cancer, the Nuggets visit the Cleveland Cavaliers, who could have new acquisition Antawn Jamison in the lineup for the first time as they try to win their franchise-record 14th straight Thursday night. Denver comes out of the All-Star break trying to fend off Utah in the Northwest Division as it looks to win a second consecutive division title. However, the Nuggets recently learned they may have to do so without their coach for periods of time.

Karl announced Tuesday that he will undergo a rigorous six-week treatment of radiation and chemotherapy to treat the cancer. He said he will miss at least a couple of Denver’s upcoming games and that assistant Adrian Dantley would lead the team in his absence. This is the second time Karl has been diagnosed with cancer. He underwent treatment for prostate cancer in 2005.

Watch Boston Celtics vs Los Angeles Lakers Live Streaming

Watch Boston Celtics vs Los Angeles Lakers Live | Boston Celtics vs Los Angeles Lakers | Boston Celtics vs Los Angeles Lakers Streaming | Boston vs LA Lakers NBA Live stream | Boston Celtics vs Los Angeles Lakers Live Webcast

10:30 pm EST Thu Feb 18, 2010

Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson is unsure when Kobe Bryant will return from an ankle injury, but a matchup between the last two NBA champions might be enough motivation for the superstar guard to get back on the court. With Bryant’s status in question for Thursday’s home game against Boston, the Western Conference-leading Lakers will try to win their fourth in a row over the Celtics since losing Game 6 of the NBA finals in 2008. Bryant, the NBA’s fourth-leading scorer with 28.0 points per game, has missed the last four games—in addition to Sunday’s All-Star game—with a sprained left ankle.

If Bryant does play in his first game since Feb. 5, he will become the youngest player in NBA history to appear in 1,000 games, breaking the record held by Boston’s Kevin Garnett. Bryant’s absence has not slowed down the defending champion Lakers, who are undefeated without the 12-time All-Star. Starting for Bryant on Tuesday, Shannon Brown had career highs with 27 points and 10 rebounds. Ron Artest, Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom led Los Angeles in scoring the previous three games.

Watch United States vs Norway Live Streaming

Watch United States vs Norway Live | United States vs Norway | United States vs Norway Streaming | United States vs Norway Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | United States vs Norway Live Webcast

Time : 3:00 PM ET

The Norwegians threw a scare into the Canadians for a period on Tuesday by playing a passive forecheck that closed down the neutral zone and blunted Canada's speed. Clearly, they will try to do the same against the Americans. But, such a defense-first style only works if you have a credible ability to counter-attack. The Norwegians have not shown that yet in this tournament, although Mats Zuccarello Aasen and Mads Hansen appear to be their most dangerous forwards after the Canada game.

The American fourth line was the team's most dangerous in Tuesday's game. Anaheim's Bobby Ryan scored the game-opening goal in the final minute of the first period to settle down the Americans. Dave Backes of the St. Louis Blues scored on a beautiful end-to-end rush. Ryan Malone, meanwhile, scored on a power-play put back. That means the Americans have no goals yet from their top-six forwards. But, the top trio of Zach Parise, Peter Statsny and Pat Kane did manage a full-third of Team USA's 24 shots.

Watch Switzerland vs Canada Live Streaming

Watch Switzerland vs Canada Live | Switzerland vs Canada | Switzerland vs Canada Streaming | Switzerland vs Canada Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Switzerland vs Canada Live Webcast | Switzerland vs Canada Live Webcast

Time : 7:30 PM ET

The Swiss should have some confidence after the way they played against Team USA in a 3-1 loss on Tuesday. They were able to create plenty of odd-man rushes in the third period against a relatively tired American team. They showed no fear despite having only two NHL players in Mark Streit and Jonas Hiller. Mistakes were costly for the Swiss, though. And, in the second period they struggled to counterattack against the Americans and were outshot, 14-4. The Canadians pose an even bigger threat with their overall size, speed, depth and experience. The proof came in the third period of Canada's 8-0 win over Norway when it scored five goals.

The blowout win over Norway was exactly what Canada needed to get going in this tournament on its home ice. As Babcock expected, the Canadians did not get off to the flying start that everyone predicted they would as the first period finished scoreless, but they got rolling in the second period and wound up winning 8-0. Babcock actually found it beneficial that his team had to battle through some early adversity against Norway. He preferred that they didn't just come out and blow the doors off the Norwegians because that wouldn't test any of their mettle.

Watch Slovakia vs Russia Live Streaming

Watch Slovakia vs Russia Live | Slovakia vs Russia | Slovakia vs Russia Streaming | Slovakia vs Russia Olympic Ice Hockey Live Stream | Slovakia vs Russia Live webcast | Olympic Ice Hockey Live Streaming

Time : 11:55 PM ET

Given the delicate task the Russians face in developing instant chemistry among so many highly-skilled, high-profile forwards, the Olympic schedule couldn't have been set up better if GM Vladislav Tretiak had planned it himself. After a just-competitive-enough opener against Latvia, a former Soviet Socialist Republic that brings passion if not comparable ability, the Russians gradually climb the resistance scale. Slovakia will force the Russian forwards to at least consider back-checking and present the first real test for the club's supposed weakness -- its defense corps. Russia will look to fine-tune its top two lines after a productive but spotty performance against Latvia. Russia also will turn their net over to Ilya Bryzgalov after Evgeni Nabokov's OK outing in the opener.

Playing Russia under the best of circumstances is a daunting task. These are anything but the best of circumstances for the Slovakia. Their top two forwards are banged up. Marian Hossa of the Detroit Red Wings, who suffered a concussion against Columbus last Saturday, and Marian Gaborik, the goal-scoring machine from the New York Rangers, both managed to play against the Czech Republic on Tuesday night. Gaborik scored his country's lone goal in a 3-1 loss, just one week after suffering a deep gash to his thigh during a Rangers practice. Slovakia at least can make it hurt for the Russians to score their goals.

Watch Chicago Bulls vs New York Knicks Live Streaming

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Watch Chicago Bulls vs New York Knicks Live | Chicago Bulls vs New York Knicks | Chicago Bulls vs New York Knicks Streaming | Chicago vs New York NBA Live Stream | Chicago Bulls vs New York Knicks Live Webcast

7:30 pm EST Wed Feb 17, 2010

Derrick Rose didn’t let a bruised hip keep him from helping the Chicago Bulls dominate the New York Knicks in the teams’ first game after the All-Star break.The Bulls hope for more of the same from their All-Star guard as they try to complete a home-and-home sweep of the struggling Knicks onWednesday night at Madison Square Garden. Still sore from a hard foul by Orlando’s Dwight Howard last Wednesday and coming off 15 minutes of play in his first All-Star game Sunday, Rose scored 29 points in Chicago’s 118-85 home rout of New York on Tuesday.

The reigning NBA rookie of the year says he’ll likely have to deal with lingering effects of the injury for a bit longer, but is confident it won’t hinder his play during a stretch of four games in five days. Rose showed little signs of being injured, making 14 of 18 shots, including his first nine. The Bulls shot a season-high 60.5 percent while winning for the third time in four games. Rose scored 26 in the Bulls’ 88-81 loss at New York on Dec. 22. Joakim Noah had 10 with 21 rebounds in that contest, but could miss his sixth straight game with plantar fasciitis in his left foot as the Bulls begin a two-game road trip that concludes Friday at Minnesota.

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)

Back to TOP