Overview

• The Western Conference playoff race tightens with the Warriors, Timberwolves, Clippers, and Grizzlies separated by just half a game for seeds 5 through 8.
• Golden State has won three straight games, with Stephen Curry scoring 52 points in a key victory over Memphis, improving to 19-5 since acquiring Jimmy Butler.
• The Timberwolves have climbed into the No. 6 seed after winning 12 of their last 15 games, led by strong performances from Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle.
• The Memphis Grizzlies continue to slide, losing 16 of their last 25 games and falling to the No. 8 seed after a coaching change last week.
• In the East, the Miami Heat extended their winning streak to six games, while the Hawks and Bulls face critical games to secure play-in spots.