New Orleans’ win on Monday paired with a Spurs loss has them right back into contention for the ninth seed.
Conference standings
8. Grizzlies (32-36) – The Grizzlies are now 0-3 in the bubble and they play only playoff teams for the rest of the time in the bubble. It could get really ugly.
9. Trail Blazers 2.0 GB – Not in action on Monday.
10. Spurs 2.0 GB – A heart-breaking loss for the Spurs against the Sixers, who nearly started 3-0. Instead of moving a step closer to the Grizzlies, they’re right back into the thick of the race for the ninth.
11. Pelicans 2.5 GB – The Pelicans didn’t have a great start in the bubble but Monday’s win could start a run of wins for New Orleans.
12. Kings 3.0 GB – Not in action on Monday.
13. Suns 3.5 GB – Not in action on Monday.
Games to watch and rooting interests
Sacramento vs. Dallas, 2:30 p.m. – The Kings could have found themselves right in the playoff race if not for a terrible start of their own. A loss to Dallas wouldn’t be the final nail in the coffin but it would be something close. Pelicans fans should be rooting for the Mavericks.
Phoenix vs. LA Clippers, 4:00 p.m., NBA TV – Somehow, Phoenix is still in the running for the ninth seed. The Suns’ schedule is still daunting but that hasn’t slowed them down yet. The Clippers could deliver a pretty big blow to their playoff hopes, which the Pelicans should be rooting for.
Portland vs. Houston, 9:00 p.m., TNT – If Damian Lillard can continue playing as he did against Boston, then a match-up against Houston could be a lot of fun. But a Portland loss would drop them to just marginally ahead of the Pelicans by win percentage. Pelicans fan should root for small ball and the Rockets.