SoCal NBA Preview

Indiana (8-9) at LA Clippers (6-8), 12:30 pm
LOS ANGELES (Ticker) - Mike Dunleavy looks to become the winningest coach in the history of the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday as his team faces the Indiana Pacers. Los Angeles, which owns a dismal .368 winning percentage (1110-1906) since it began play in 1970-71, has been unable to keep the same coach employed for more than four consecutive seasons throughout its existence. This, in large part, explains why Jack Ramsey (1972-1976) still holds the franchise record for most wins (158), a mark the Dunleavy can break with a win over the Pacers. A victory by the Clippers, who are in the midst of a four-game losing streak, will likely depend on how effective the team is in guarding the coach's son, Mike Dunleavy Jr., who is averaging 22.1 points in Indiana's victories, compared to 11.3 in its losses. If Los Angeles wins, it would sweep this two-game season series for the second time in four years after failing to do so in 11 straight seasons before that.

Orlando (14-4) at LA Lakers (9-7), 6:30 pm, FSN
LOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- Both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Orlando Magic are looking to rebound from recent setbacks when they meet Sunday. Despite Dwight Howard's 30-point, 20-rebound performance, the Magic saw their four-game winning streak come to an end with Friday's 110-106 decision against the Phoenix Suns. The 21-year-old Howard is having an MVP-type season, averaging 23.8 points and 15.0 rebounds. The former No. 1 overall selection also ranks among the league leaders with 15 double-doubles. Howard could receive a challenge with the recent development of Lakers third-year center Andrew Bynum, who has grabbed at least 10 rebounds 11 times this season. Los Angeles stumbled once again on the road, dropping a 120-96 decision to the shorthanded Utah Jazz on Friday. Superstar Kobe Bryant led the way with 28 points on 10-of-19 shooting. "One of my coaches said we were as soft as Dairy Queen ice cream," Los Angeles coach Phil Jackson said. On November 20, Orlando acquired forward Brain Cook and guard Maurice Evans in exchange for swingman Trevor Ariza, who has yet to find time in Jackson's triangle offense. The Lakers have dominated this series, winning the past five matchups - including a slim 109-106 decision at the Staples Center last season.