April 29, 2009

Josh Howard and the Dallas Mavericks eliminated the San Antonio Spurs last night on Howard's 29th birthday. The Mavs took the series in five games during the first round of the National Basketball Association playoffs.

Howard was a key contributor to for the Mavs throughout the series. Last night, Howard recorded 17 points and eight rebounds at San Antonio in the 106-93 win.

In the Mavs' 99-90 win on Saturday, Howard totaled 28 points and four rebounds in Dallas.

Howard put up 17 points and eight rebounds, to go with two steals and two blocks, in the 88-67 victory over the Spurs last Thursday.

Tim Duncan's 30 points last night were not enough to lift the Spurs past the Mavs. Duncan was 14-of-21 from the floor, and grabbed eight rebounds in the loss.

Duncan had 25 points in another losing effort in Dallas on Saturday. He shot 7-of-13, and finished with 10 rebounds, seven assists, two steals and one block.

On Thursday, Duncan only had four points, two rebounds and an assist in 16 minutes.

Chris Paul and the New Orleans Hornets look to bring the series to within one with a victory tonight. Denver currently leads the series over New Orleans, 3-1. Tipoff is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. (ET) and will be broadcast on TNT.

On Monday against Denver, the Hornets were blown out 121-63 in New Orleans. Paul was held to four points with six assists and two steals.

Paul played a total of 46 minutes and led the Hornets to a 95-93 win against Denver in New Orleans on Saturday. He had 32 points, shooting 11-of-20 from the floor, with 12 assists and five rebounds.

Last Wednesday, Paul had a double-double with 14 points and 13 assists in the loss at Denver, 108-93.

Check back for further updates on Howard's and Paul's postseason play next Wednesday morning.