Nuggets G Afflalo to return for Game 3 (AP)
Nuggets G Afflalo to return for Game 3 (AP)
The Nuggets are fastening their hopes to a fickle hamstring. Arron Afflalo to the rescue. Pronouncing his left hamstring fit after practice Friday, the Denver guard will take the court for the first time in two weeks when Denver hosts the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday night in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series.
Bulls on verge of sweeping plucky Pacers (AP)
The Chicago Bulls are on the verge of sweeping the Indiana Pacers, even though they haven’t looked all that dominant. The Bulls have won the first three hard-fought games by a combined 15 points, wrapping things up in the final moments each time. The Bulls could end the series Saturday at Conseco Fieldhouse and rest up for the second round.
Rivers: Shaq ‘closer’ to returning (AP)
Shaquille O’Neal is “closer” to returning, although Boston coach Doc Rivers isn’t sure when that will be. O’Neal traveled with the Celtics to New York for Game 3, but doesn’t intend to play Friday. He could be available for Game 4 on Sunday. “Listen, he’s just feeling better and he’s closer.