more photosA rundown of games and events to watch for locally and nationally from the world of sports:
Wednesday
NBA, Denver Nuggets at Portland Trail Blazers, 7:30 p.m. (ESPN) — The Blazers have been a tailspin — losing seven straight before a win Sunday night — and are in danger of falling out of the playoff race in the Western Conference. They will try to work their way back into contention for the eighth spot in the late half of an ESPN doubleheader against division-rival Denver, which is currently fifth in the West.
Thursday
Men’s basketball, Oregon State Beavers at Oregon Ducks, 8 p.m. (ESPNU) — Things have changed a lot since the first meeting between the rivals in the Pac-12 opener on Jan. 6 — a 79-66 win for the Ducks. Oregon has been ranked for much of the Pac-12 schedule — the Ducks are at No. 23 before today’s Associated Press poll. Meanwhile, the Beavers have won just three conference games. Oregon is looking to solidify its case for the NCAA tournament down the stretch.
Friday
Class 5A boys basketball, first round state playoffs — Mountain View and Redmond earned automatic entries into the Class 5A state postseason by virtue of their top-eight rankings at the end of the regular season. Both teams host games on Friday against opponents who win play-in contests Tuesday.
Sunday
NHL, Chicago Blackhawks at Detroit Red Wings, 9:30 a.m. (NBC) — Chicago is on a historic run to start the season: The Blackhawks have earned at least a point in the standings in every game so far this season. They are 15-0-3 and still haven’t suffered a loss in regulation.