1. Big challenge for Anthony: After getting off to a quick start in his first game with Portland, Carmelo Anthony came down to Earth in a 115-104 loss to New Orleans on Tuesday. It might not get any easier for Anthony as he and the Blazers visit the Bucks tonight (8 ET, TNT) … which means a likely matchup with reigning Kia MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. The last Anthony vs. Antetokounmpo matchup came on Dec. 29, 2017 when ‘Melo was with the Thunder. In that game, Antetokounmpo had 23 points and 12 rebounds to Anthony’s 12 points and six rebounds (and Milwaukee won, 97-95).
2. Suns try to slow struggles: Losing four of six games after a feel-good 5-2 start will do a lot to temper feelings about a team. That’s the spot Phoenix may find itself in now as New Orleans comes to town (10:30 p.m. ET, TNT) fresh off spoiling the Anthony debut game. The Pelicans’ Lonzo Ball and Jahlil Okafor are both questionable for this game.
3. For the love of Luka!: With just two games on the schedule tonight, there’s a lot of time to catch up on things around the NBA or, maybe, bask in a great storyline or two. If you’re up for the latter, may we suggest the dazzling performance Luka Doncic put on last night against Golden State. He set an NBA record in becoming the first player to record a 35-point triple-double in 25 minutes or less played.
