In the Eastern Conference, the Pacers are in the lead with 11 wins and 1 loss. They played a great game against the Knicks, beating them in overtime 103-96. The Knicks almost had the game, but in overtime Paul George scored nine points, getting Indiana their win. George Hill also played well, scoring 23 points and getting eight rebounds. They lost to the Bulls after defeating them on Nov. 6, with Rose and Deng scoring 43 points, and Kirk Hinrich, a bench player, scoring 13 points. The Pacers are having a great season so far, and will surely be a team to watch. Like previously, they are going to be a problem for the Heat. The Heat are close behind with a record of 9-3. They had a close game with the Nets, losing 101-100. With Brooklyn ahead by 3 points, and 4.7 seconds left on the clock, Bosh took two free throws. He attempted to miss the second in order to get a 3 pointer, but it went in, and the Nets won. The Heat played a great game at the beginning of the season against the Bulls for a 107-95 win. Although at times it seemed as if the Bulls could make a comeback, James and Bosh kept the Heat’s lead, ruining Rose’s return from injury. The Heat are a favorite, as usual, to go to the championships. Their bench players are doing well this year, in addition to the rest of the team.
In the Western Conference, the Spurs are at the top, with a 11-1 record. Their only loss was to the Trail Blazers. The game was close until the end, where Portland made a push and won, with Batum getting a triple double. The Spurs had a great win against the Warriors, in an anticipated game due to the animosity from previous years. The Warriors’ best shooter, Curry, was out, so they were at a disadvantage. Without him, their offense was weak, and they turned the ball over 19 times. The Spurs defense was very tough in this game. They are predicted to do well, especially with wild card Kawhi Leonard. Behind the Spurs, are the Trail Blazers who have 11 wins and 2 losses. Their win against the Bulls was impressive, although Rose left in the third quarter with another knee injury. They shot 51 percent in the second half, destroying the Bulls 21 point lead, and winning 98-95. The Blazers also lost to the Rockets in a tough game. Although Portland played well, the Rockets kept their lead with Harden scoring 33 points and Howard scoring 29. The Trail Blazers surprising wins indicate that they may make it to the conference finals, but it is very possible that their success may wane.
