Pogacar holds off French teen to claim third straight Liège-Bastogne-Liège title

  • World champion pulls clear of Paul Seixas on final climb

  • ‘It means a lot to win again one of the biggest races’

The world champion, Tadej Pogacar, pulled ahead of the 19-year-old French debutant Paul Seixas in the final climb to secure his third straight Liège-Bastogne-Liège title on Sunday, his fourth overall victory in the race.

Pogacar finished the 259.5km race in five hours, 50 minutes and 28 seconds to win the 13th Monument title of his career and his third of the year after the Tour of Flanders and Milan-San Remo.

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Reports: Minnesota's Anthony Edwards out 'weeks' with bone bruise in left knee from hyperextension

The good news: Anthony Edwards suffered no ligament damage from the kind of injury that can easily lead to ACL or PCL tears.

The bad news: Ewards is going to be out "multiple weeks" due to the bone bruise from the left knee hyperextension he suffered on Saturday against Denver, reports Shams Charania of ESPN. For comparison, when the Nuggets' Nikola Jokic suffered this injury during the season, he was out for a month, and on that timeline not only is Edwards out for the remainder of this first-round series but likely the second should the Timberwolves advance.

The injury occurred when Edwards went up to challenge a shot by Denver's Cameron Johnson and just landed wrong, hyperextending his left knee. This is the opposite knee from the one with runner's knee, which had been bothering him for weeks, and he had played through in this series.

Edwards' knee injury occurred in the same game in which Minnesota's starting guard, Donte DiVincenzo, tore his Achilles and will be out for the remainder of the playoffs, as well as most or all of next season.

Even without two of their starters, the Timberolves rallied behind reserve guard Ayo Dosunmu and his 43 points — 27 in the second half, 15 in the fourth quarter — and pulled away to beat the Nuggets 112-96, giving Minnesota a commanding 3-1 lead in the series.

Edwards was averaging 23 points, eight rebounds and four assists a game through the first three games of these playoffs. He is the team's primary scorer and shot creator and their offense will not be the same without him.

Masterclass on Anzac Day encapsulates why unflappable Scott Pendlebury is so good

At times during the Pies’ big win at the MCG the 38-year-old appeared to be playing 10 simultaneous games of chess – and Essendon had no answer

The week in football was characterised in many ways by the absence of competence. There wasn’t much competence over at Kayo, which had more crashes than Leslie Nielsen. There wasn’t much competence in the umpiring on Friday night. There wasn’t much competence at the AFL tribunal, with its barking dogs and house inspections. There wasn’t much competence, or basic decency, at its appeals board.

“Competence porn” is a term we hear a lot these days, mainly in relation to television and film. In a world run by people who temperamentally and intellectually aren’t far from the sandpit, it’s the craving for content that showcases craft and care. It’s there in shows like The Pitt where doctors and nurses under incredible strain maintain both their excellence and (mostly) their sanity. The AFL should poach primary charge nurse Dana Evans from Pittsburgh to run their score review system, or their tribunal, or the whole competition. She’d ship it into shape in half a shift.

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Could Game 4 Be Kings Captain Anze Kopitar's Final NHL Appearance?

The Los Angeles Kings have their backs against the wall in their first-round series against the Colorado Avalanche. The Kings are down 3-0 and are struggling to find ways to outscore the Avs.

With that, their very next loss would mean they're eliminated from the Stanley Cup playoffs. That also means Anze Kopitar's NHL career would officially be over.

"I'm hoping it's not going to be (my last game)," Kopitar told NHL.com. Indeed, it would be a disappointing way to sign off on the magical career that Kopitar had.

Unfortunately for the 38-year-old, it doesn't look good for the Kings based on the first three games of this series against the Avalanche.

Defensively, Los Angeles has put up a fight against a Colorado roster that is littered with stars and elite talent. Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Brock Nelson, Martin Necas and Nazem Kadri have all been limited to one point each in these playoffs.

However, the real issue for the Kings has been their lack of scoring, and Kopitar isn't an exception to that problem.

Kings Shouldn't Think About Beating The Avalanche, Worry About Beating Wedgewood InsteadKings Shouldn't Think About Beating The Avalanche, Worry About Beating Wedgewood InsteadThe Los Angeles Kings have done some good things in their first-round series against the Colorado Avalanche. However, they're down 3-0 in the series because they haven't been able to solve Scott Wedgewood.

In the first three games in this series, Los Angeles hasn't scored more than two goals. To go with that, the Kings' top line that includes Kopitar, as well as Artemi Panarin and Adrian Kempe on his flanks, have not scored a single point at even strength.

Kopitar himself is the only player in the team's top-six forward group to not record a point in these playoffs. Also, he's averaged 19:14 of ice time and has registered a team-low minus-four plus-minus rating.

If Kopitar wants his career to last a little bit longer, or at least go out on a more positive note and make contributions to his team before hanging up his skates.


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T-Wolves star Anthony Edwards expected to miss multiple weeks | Report

The Minnesota Timberwolves have dodged a serious blow to star guard Anthony Edwards, but his status for the rest of the NBA playoffs remains in question..

Medical imaging tests revealed that Edwards, the NBA’s third-leading scorer this season, suffered a bone bruise and hyperextension in his left knee on Saturday, April 25, in Game 4 of Minnesota’s first-round playoff series against the Nuggets.

The results were first reported by ESPN.

Although sources tell the network Edwards is expected to be sidelined multiple weeks, he did avoid a more serious ligament injury that would’ve ended his postseason.

The news comes as the No. 6-seeded Timberwolves have taken a commanding 3-1 series lead in the first round over the No. 3 Denver Nuggets. The Timberwolves are also dealing with depth concerns in the backcourt, after guard Donte DiVincenzo suffered a torn right Achilles tendon one quarter before Edwards sustained his injury.

The Timberwolves have ramped up their defense and are playing their best basketball of the season. After making consecutive trips to the Western Conference Finals, Minnesota is looking to break through this season with its first NBA Finals appearance in franchise history. Although the Western Conference is stacked with talented teams, the Timberwolves have been very impressive to open the 2026 playoffs. To pose a legitimate threat, however, they will need Edwards to be healthy, especially now that DiVincenzo will be out indefinitely.

Anthony Edwards' injury in Game 4

The injury ocurred with 2:45 left in the first half, when Edwards jumped vertically to defend a Cameron Johnson layup during a fastbreak drive. When Edwards landed, his left knee appeared to hyperextend as his weight came down, and he immediately grabbed at the area, writhing in apparent discomfort. Edwards slapped the court a few times in obvious frustration.

Athletic trainers rushed over as Edwards popped up to his feet. The trainers helped Edwards hobble off the floor, as he did not put any weight on the injured leg.

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) sets up a play against the Denver Nuggets in the second quarter at Target Center.

The trainers helped him toward the tunnel, though they didn’t immediately usher Edwards to the locker room, momentarily examining him in the tunnel.

After Minnesota’s 112-96 victory in Game 4, Timberwolves coach Chris Finch didn’t have any updates on the severity of Edwards’ injury, noting that he was being evaluated.

"I saw Ant (at halftime) and kind of dapped him up," Timberwolves forward Julius Randle said after Saturday’s game. "There’s not much to say in those moments. I’ll give him a call tonight, or a text and just check up on him."

In 61 games this season, Edwards averaged a career-high 28.8 points (which ranked third in the NBA behind only Luka Dončić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander), 5.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. His field goal percentage (48.9%) and 3-point percentage (39.9%) were also career bests.

In February, he was selected to his fourth consecutive All-Star team.

Contributing: Steve Gardner

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Anthony Edwards injury: T-Wolves star expected to miss multiple weeks

Former Warriors guard suffers devastating injury in the playoffs

Donte DiVincenzo #0 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts to an apparent injury in the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets in Game Four of the First Round of the 2026 NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Target Center on April 25, 2026 in Minneapolis.
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - APRIL 25: Donte DiVincenzo #0 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts to an apparent injury in the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets in Game Four of the First Round of the 2026 NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Target Center on April 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. DiVincenzo did not return to the game. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Minnesota Timberwolves took a commanding 3-1 lead over the Denver Nuggets in their first-round matchup of the Western Conference playoffs. However, the Wolves lost two key players to injuries during the game that will make it harder to close out the series. Former Golden State Warriors guard Donte DiVincenzo was removed from Game 4 less than a minute into regulation after taking a three-pointer and reaching for the back of his right calf. A non-contact injury, it had the telltale signs of a dreaded Achilles’ tear. By Saturday evening, it was confirmed that DiVincenzo had torn his right Achilles. He is now undeniably out for the postseason and given the timing, will likely miss all of the 2026-27 season as well. The Wolves now anxiously await the diagnosis of star Anthony Edwards’ injury, who left the game later with a knee issue of his own after a scary collision with Cam Johnson.

DiVincenzo has been a key rotation player in Minnesota since he was acquired alongside Julius Randle in the Karl-Anthony Towns trade back in 2024. After serving as the team’s sixth man last season, DiVincenzo started all of the Timberwolves 82 games this year, averaging 12.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.3 steals in 30.4 minutes per game on 40.6%/37.9%/74.3% shooting. So far this postseason, DiVincenzo had been off to a scorching hot start, shooting 47.8% from three-point range.

DiVincenzo’s injury could very likely bring his tenure in Minnesota to a close. The Wolves acquired guard Ayo Dosunmo at the trade deadline, and he has fit in admirably. Slated to be an unrestricted free agent this offseason, though, Dosunmo is in position to ask for a significant payday. With the Wolves hoping to remain contenders next season, DiVincenzo’s $12.535 million salary next year becomes an obvious tradeable expiring contract. Minnesota could potentially attach draft capital with DiVincenzo to clear salary, giving them more flexibility to pay Dosunmo, or could use DiVincenzo as matching salary for a longer-term contract with a player ready to play by the start of next season.

Jackson LaCombe: The Continuing Rise of an Understated Superstar

After an arduous rookie season in 2023-24, Anaheim Ducks defenseman Jackson LaCombe took a sizable step in his progression in 2024-25, jumping from 17 points (2-15=17) in 71 games while averaging 19:23 TOI/G to 43 points (14-29=43) in 75 games and leading the Ducks in TOI/G with 22:18.

When LaCombe was discussed among breakout players in 2024-25 among national media outlets, it was met with a chorus of “WHO?”

Takeaways from the Ducks 7-4 Win over the Oilers in Game 3, Ducks Lead Series 2-1

Joel Quenneville's Cheeky Lineup Adjustment Pays Off

Just prior to the 2025-26 season, on Oct. 2, 2025, Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek signed LaCombe to an eight-year contract extension that carries an AAV of $9 million, and will not kick in until the start of the 2026-27 season.

Upon the extension announcement and when it reached a national audience, it was again met with a chorus of “WHO?”

On Jan. 21, 2026, it was announced that USA Hockey selected LaCombe to replace Florida Panthers defenseman Seth Jones on USA’s 2026 Winter Olympic men’s hockey team that would play in Milano Cortina in February.

Guess what the reaction was. That’s correct, a chorus of “WHO?”

He didn’t see any ice during USA’s run to a gold medal, but returned to Orange County with one around his neck, regardless, and gained valuable experience skating on the same ice with the world’s best hockey players day in and day out.

LaCombe continued to elevate his game and finished the 2025-26 season with 58 points (10-48=58) in 82 games, again leading the Ducks in TOI/G with 24:15, 17th in the entire NHL. He is the blueline’s centerpiece, a true NHL #1 defenseman, on a Ducks team that made a 12-point jump in the standings (a year removed from a 21-point jump in the standings) and qualified for the playoffs for the first time since the 2017-18 season.

Through three playoff games, one would be hard-pressed to find someone who didn’t know the name “Jackson LaCombe,” as he’s been one of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs’ top performers, and the argument could easily be made that he’s been the single best. However, due to the late starts in the series between the Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks, there are still those relatively unfamiliar.

As of Saturday morning, when three games were played across all eight playoff series, LaCombe co-led the NHL in scoring (with Leon Draisaitl) with six points (1-5=6) and led all defensemen in scoring by two points. However impressive the production has been, what he’s accomplishing over the entire 200-foot ice surface, on the defensive side of the puck, and against Planet Earth’s single best hockey player (maybe in history) has been transcendent.

“It’s insane. I think he’s probably our best player,” Ducks forward Mason McTavish said. “He just does everything. Even in practice, when he’s defending a two-on-one, it’s so hard to pass through him every time. Just his skating, he’s so smart in the o-zone, he’s a single-man breakout. He literally does it all, so it’s been really fun to watch him step into this role.”

Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Through three games, LaCombe has led the Ducks with 67:55 TOI at 5v5. In those minutes, the Ducks have registered 62.30% of the shots on goal, 55.94% of the shot attempts, 62.24% of the expected goals, and have outscored the Oilers 6-4.

Though Ducks head coach Joel Quenneville didn’t have the benefit of last change in the first two games of the series, he deployed LaCombe, along with partner Jacob Trouba, as much as he could against Connor McDavid and the Oilers’ top line. All but three defensive zone starts featured LaCombe and Trouba.

When the series shifted back to Anaheim for Game 3, McDavid was on the ice against LaCombe for 13:55 TOI and Trouba for 13:39 at 5v5, a far cry from the Ducks’ second pair of John Carlson (4:58) and Pavel Mintyukov (4:55).

“Oh my god, was he good tonight,” Ducks head coach Joel Quenneville said after Friday’s 7-4 Game 3 win over Edmonton. “He was special tonight. The plays, the poise, and the patience he had on the goal at the empty net kind of sums up the night. He did have the puck a lot, and I thought his speed going through the middle and into the zone was high-end, and he was definitely a factor.”

In total, in this series, LaCombe has gone head-to-head against McDavid for 33:10 TOI at 5v5. In those minutes, the Ducks have won the shots on goal battle 20-10 (66.67%), the shot attempts battle 45-32 (58.44%), the expected goals battle 1.44-0.88 (61.95%), and the Ducks have outscored the Oilers 4-1.

Game 3 was LaCombe’s standout performance to this point in the playoffs, as he took his game to heights unseen and capped off his efforts with a spinning backhand disruption against a 2v1 featuring McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and a play where he (at the end of a long shift) drove McDavid into the corner, won a puck, ignited a breakout, and joined a rush that the Ducks eventually scored on to extend their lead to 6-4, effectively icing the game.

In today’s NHL, which features electric, dynamic talents like Cale Makar, Quinn Hughes, and Lane Hutson, who will bring fans out of their seats by dancing at the offensive blueline, the fashion in which LaCombe impacts a game is far more subtle and understated while remaining equally as impactful.

Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images
Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images

Watching him on a shift-by-shift basis will reveal how immensely involved he is in every play, in every zone, while remaining efficient in his efforts, never wasting a stride and poised throughout. He’s so effective on his edges that with just a few strides, LaCombe will often retrieve a puck, evade an F1, conduct a one-man breakout, dish at the offensive blueline, drive the center lane toward the crease, track back, and seal an opposing counter to win the puck back again.

While hesitant to invoke such a name, there’s been only one defenseman in Anaheim Ducks/Mighty Ducks of Anaheim history who could skate so well, defend so intelligently, play so poised, and effortlessly dice through opposing defensive structures while maintaining possession: Scott Niedermayer.

LaCombe still has a long journey ahead of him if he’s to achieve such lofty standards, however, and he remains far from a finished product. He can still often toe the line between poised and casual. Though instances of him holding on to and losing pucks against a heavy pursuit have diminished as the season progressed.

He’s also been somewhat of a liability in front of his own crease at times through the regular season and these playoffs. He’s made quality judgments on when to front on perimeter shots and get key blocks, but when he’s forced to box out, clear a sightline for his goaltender, or find a rebound in front, he’s come up short on occasion.

“I think there’s always things you have to learn and grow,” LaCombe said on Saturday. “You see other players around the league, and you see what they can do, and even on your own team, too. There’s always details you can pick up, and there are so many things in my game I want to improve and work on. So, I don’t think there’s ever a point where you’re a finished product.”

Given his vast progression through the first three years of his NHL career, one would likely be foolish to bet against LaCombe rounding out his game and continuing his evolution into one of the NHL’s truly elite defensemen.

Takeaways from the Ducks 6-4 win over the Oilers in Game 2, Series Tied 1-1

Three Adjustments the Ducks can Make in Game 2 vs the Oilers

Takeaways from the Ducks 4-3 Game 1 Loss to the Oilers, Oilers Lead Series 1-0

Lightning vs Canadiens Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight's NHL Playoffs Game 4

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The Montreal Canadiens look to take a commanding 3-1 lead at Bell Centre tonight, while the visiting Tampa Bay Lightning aim to even up the series.

Nick Suzuki was Montreal’s best playmaker in the regular season, and that trend has continued into the playoffs. My Lightning vs Canadiens predictions and NHL picks break down why the Habs captain will pick up another assist in Game 4. 

Lightning vs Canadiens Game 4 prediction

Lightning vs Canadiens best bet: Nick Suzuki Over 0.5 assists (-160)

After finishing the regular season with 72 assists — good for fifth in the NHL — Nick Suzuki has picked up right where he left off with three helpers through the first three games of the postseason.

The Montreal Canadiens captain logged at least one assist in Games 1 and 2, but was held off the score sheet in Game 3 despite playing more than 21 minutes.

Montreal’s power play was uncharacteristically bad in Game 3, with no goals on four opportunities. That should change in Game 4, and Suzuki will collect another assist.

Lightning vs Canadiens Game 4 same-game parlay

I’m picking Suzuki and the Canadiens to win, but it’s hard to deny how good Brandon Hagel has been for the Lightning.

Hagel’s four goals are tied for the league lead so far this postseason, while the Lightning forward has collected at least one point in all three games so far, averaging nearly 25 minutes on ice per contest.

Lightning vs Canadiens SGP

  • Nick Suzuki Over 0.5 assists
  • Brandon Hagel Over 0.5 points
  • Canadiens moneyline

Lightning vs Canadiens odds for Game 4

  • Moneyline: Lightning -115 | Canadiens -105
  • Puck Line: Lightning -1.5 (+215) | Canadiens +1.5 (-270)
  • Over/Under: Over 5.5 (-130) | Under 5.5 (+110)

Lightning vs Canadiens trend

The Lightning have cashed the Under in nine of their last 13 games for +4.6 units and a 32% ROI. Find more NHL betting trends for Lightning vs. Canadiens.

How to watch Lightning vs Canadiens Game 4

LocationBell Centre, Montreal, QC
DateSunday, April 26 2026
Puck drop7:00 p.m. ET
TVESPN, CBC

Lightning vs Canadiens latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

NHL Player Props & Best Bets for Today, April 26: Don't Drai This at Home

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The NHL Playoffs are a week in, and games are getting more intense as teams begin to face elimination.

I've found my three favorite NHL player props for this slate, featuring Leon Draisaitl, Cole Caufield, and David Pastrnak.

Here are my free NHL picks for April 26.

Best NHL player prop bets today

PlayerBet99
Mammoth Draisaitl Over 1.5 points+105
Mammoth Caufield Over 3.5 shots+120
Mammoth David Pastrnak anytime goal scorer+130

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(not available in Ontario)

Our best NHL player props for Sunday, April 26

Take a look at our best bets and expert analysis below.

Prop #1: Leon Draisaitl Over 1.5 points

+105 at BET99

While Connor McDavid has finally awakened from his playoff scoring slumber, Leon Draisaitl has taken care of business, potting two points in all three games against the Ducks this series.

It’s business as usual against Anaheim: Draisaitl now has 16 multi-point games in his last 21 against the Ducks, a trend that should continue in a crucial one for Edmonton tonight.

His linemates, Vasily Podkolzin and Kasperi Kapanen, are also buzzing, combining for eight points in this series. It looks as if Anaheim won't slow down this line anytime soon.

  • Time: 9:30 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: CBC, ESPN

Prop #2: Cole Caufield Over 3.5 shots

+120 at BET99

It’s been an extremely quiet playoff for the NHL’s second-leading goal scorer, as Cole Caufield has just three assists and zero goals against the Lightning.

With Montreal in position to push Tampa to the brink, I think the 25-year-old starts throwing everything at the net.  

Caufield was Top 15 in shots on goal this year, averaging 3.2 per game, yet he hasn’t even touched three shots in a game this series. That changes in Game 4.

  • Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: CBC, ESPN

Prop #3: David Pastrnak anytime goal scorer

+ODDS at BET99

It’s a critical situation for the Boston Bruins, who can’t afford to lose Game 4, giving Buffalo a chance to wrap things up at home in Game 5.

David Pastrnak was shut out of scoring for the first time this series, but Boston’s leading scorer will need to be prominent to bring this series back to even.

He’s scored four goals in the last six head-to-head meetings with the Sabres and will likely need another one to give his Bruins a chance.

  • Time: 2:00 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: Sportsnet, TNT

These props are available now at BET99, one of our best betting sites.

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Where to watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Toronto Raptors Game 4 NBA playoffs: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Sunday, April 26

The Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Toronto Raptors in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series. The Cavs won the series’ first two games before the Raptors took Game 3 on Thursday. Cleveland is favored by 3.5 points in Game 4. Raptors guard Immanuel Quickley is out for the entire first-round series due to a hamstring injury.

  • Spread: Toronto Raptors +3.5

  • Moneyline: Toronto Raptors +145 (39.1%) / Cleveland Cavaliers -175 (60.9%)

  • Over/Under: 220.5

Game 1:Cavaliers 126, Raptors 113
Game 2:Cavaliers 115, Raptors 105
Game 3:Raptors 126, Cavaliers 104
Game 4: Sun., April 26 at Toronto (1 p.m., ESPN)
Game 5: Wed., April 29 at Cleveland (TBD)
*Game 6: Fri., May 1 at Toronto (TBD)
*Game 7: Sun., May 3 at Cleveland (TBD)

*if necessary

Penguins' Bold Move For Game 4 Paid Off Big Time

The Pittsburgh Penguins picked up a 4-2 win over the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 4. With this, the Penguins have kept their season alive but still trail the series 3-1. 

The Penguins made a bold lineup change for Game 4, as they started goaltender Arturs Silovs after going with Stuart Skinner for the first three games of the series. There is a risk in having a goalie come in cold deep into a series, but this bold move undoubtedly paid off for the Penguins in Game 4. 

Silovs stepped up in a big way for the Penguins in this contest, as he stopped 28 out of the 30 Flyers shots he faced. With this, ended the game with a .933 save percentage, which is quite impressive. 

Given how well Silovs played in Game 4 for the Penguins, it would be shocking if he is not the club's starter for Game 5. He did a great job keeping the Penguins' season alive, and it will now be interesting to see if he can keep this kind of play up for Pittsburgh from here. 

In 39 regular-season games this season with the Penguins, Silovs had a 19-12-8 record, an .888 save percentage, a 3.07 goals-against average, and two shutouts. 

Best NBA Player Props Today for April 26: Edgecombe Does Dirty Work

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Sunday’s four-game slate is certainly not lacking in excitement. The Los Angeles Lakers can complete the sweep of the Houston Rockets on the road and head to the Western Conference semifinals with a victory. 

The other three matchups all feature home teams down 2-1, looking to even up their respective series. Today’s best NBA player props and NBA picks focus on those games, keying in on young players enjoying breakout postseason success.

Best NBA player props today

PlayerPickbet365
RaptorsRJ BarrettOver 20.5 points-120
BlazersScoot HendersonOver 14.5 points-130
76ersVJ EdgecombeOver 6.5 rebounds+115

Prop #1: RJ Barrett Over 20.5 points

-120 at bet365

The Toronto Raptors wouldn’t have won Game 3 without RJ Barrett... plain and simple. He scored 16 points in the decisive fourth quarter, going off for 13 points in a blistering three-minute stretch to put Cleveland out of striking distance once and for all.

Over his last 14 games, dating back to the regular season, Barrett has averaged 22 points, reaching 21+ nine times. He’s hit that mark in four of his last seven at home and scored exactly 20 one more time.

Immanuel Quickley is out again, and Barrett’s scoring average increased from 19 points per game to 20.6 in eight games with Quickley on the sideline. Barrett scored 21+ in four of eight regular-season games without IQ this season.

Barrett has averaged a healthy 26.3 points per game while shooting 64.4% from the floor in this series. His efficiency is bound to drop off, but I don’t expect it to crater, and I’m counting on another strong offensive showing.

  • Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: ESPN

Prop #2: Scoot Henderson Over 14.5 points

-130 at bet365

Scoot Henderson missed most of the regular season due to a left hamstring injury, but he averaged a career-high 14.2 points across 30 games to close out his third NBA campaign.

Dating back to the regular season, he's started 11 straight games, and he’s averaged 17.4 points in that span. Henderson recorded at least 15 points in eight of his last 11, going for exactly 14 once more.

Scoot has been phenomenal in his first-ever playoff series. He ranks third on the team in field goal attempts and minutes per game, and he leads Portland in points (23.3) and triples (4.0).

The 22-year-old microwave scorer is making the most of his opportunities, and his season-high 31 points propelled the Portland Trail Blazers to victory in Game 2.

They'll need all the scoring they can get against a stout San Antonio Spurs defense, and Henderson’s outside shooting will be key to spacing the floor and countering the daunting interior presence of Victor Wembanyama.

  • Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: ESPN

Prop #3: VJ Edgecombe Over 6.5 rebounds

+115 at bet365

Like Barrett and Henderson, VJ Edgecombe is another hungry, young player having a productive playoff run. With Joel Embiid expected to sit out Game 4, Edgecombe should continue to see increased rebounding opportunities.

Edgecombe recorded 10 rebounds in Games 2 and 3, and he’s finished with 7+ boards in three of seven total matchups with the Boston Celtics this season. In those seven games, the rookie averaged 6.1 boards.

Edgecombe averaged 5.6 rebounds per game on the season, but he’s taken his rebounding to a new level over his last eight appearances. In that span, Edgecombe has averaged eight boards and corralled at least seven in six of them. 

Playing at home and in desperate need of a win, I expect Edgecombe to continue his stellar inaugural playoff run and cash this plus-money player prop.

  • Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: NBC/Peacock

These props are available now at bet365, one of our best betting sites.

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Coventry celebrate title win in style after denting Wrexham playoff chances

Coventry celebrated their Championship title with a 3-1 victory that leaves Wrexham’s playoff ambitions in the balance.

The Sky Blues were in party mood after Frank Lampard’s side had wrapped up the title on Tuesday and before the trophy presentation after the final whistle. Brandon Thomas-Asante volleyed the hosts ahead after 19 minutes at the CBS Arena, but Ollie Rathbone replied quickly for sixth-placed Wrexham.

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Cavaliers vs Raptors Computer Picks: Our Best Player Prop Projections for Game 4

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Our NBA player prop projections have been providing winners all season long, and now they have six NBA picks for today's Game 4 matchup between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors.

We've also got you covered with in-depth analysis in our complete Cavaliers vs. Raptors predictions for April 26.

Cavaliers vs Raptors computer picks for Game 4

Cavaliers CavaliersRaptors Raptors
Mitchell u26.5 points
-112
Walter o7.5 points
-125
Mobley o0.5 threes 
-135
 Barrett o19.5 points
-120
Harden o19.5 points 
-112
Ingram u19.5 points
-110

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Cavaliers Game 4 computer picks

Donovan Mitchell Under 26.5 points (-112)

Projection: 24.38 points

After two strong games at home to start the series, Donovan Mitchell put up just 15 points in this 6ix. The Toronto Raptors did a much better job of keeping him at bay, and our model expects them to have similar success.

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Evan Mobley Over 0.5 threes (-135)

Projection: 0.92 threes

Evan Mobley is by no means a sharpshooter, but he has a reliable stroke from deep when the Cleveland Cavaliers need him to. Mobley hit threes in two of the first three games, and his volume will be high enough that he'll knock at least one long ball down.

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James Harden Over 19.5 points (-112)

Projection: 21.49 points

Similar to Mitchell, James Harden had a quieter Game 3 in Toronto. Still, 20 points is a lot more obtainable than 27, and our model believes "The Beard" will have enough volume to go Over this number.

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Raptors Game 4 computer picks

Ja'Kobe Walter Over 7.5 points (-125)

Projection: 10.07 points

This is the top model play according to our projections. Ja'Kobe Walter delivered a stinker in Game 3, but he finished with 14 points in Game 2 and seven in Game 1.

He won't go 0-fer again, and he'll be able to knock down enough shots to hit this number.

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RJ Barrett Over 19.5 points (-120)

Projection: 21.90 points

RJ Barrett has played like a man possessed vs. the Cavs, going 3-for-3 on his points line. With Brandon Ingram struggling, Barrett has stepped up in a big way and will do so again in Game 3.

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Brandon Ingram Under 20.5 points (-110)

Projection: 19.12 points

As mentioned, BI has been brutal through the first three games. The slick wing has 19 points combined in his last two outings, and our model expects those shooting woes to continue this afternoon.

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How to watch Cavaliers vs Raptors Game 4

LocationScotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON
DateSunday, April 26, 2026
Tip-off1:00 p.m. ET
TVTSN, ESPN

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Cavaliers vs Raptors NBA Playoffs Game 4 Predictions: Odds, recent stats, trends and best bets for April 26

Toronto took Game 3, 126-104, to avoid being down a 0-3 hole. Now, down 2-1, the Raptors look to defend home court again and tie the series versus the Cavaliers.

Cleveland and Toronto both made 14 three-pointers, but the difference was the Cavaliers took 45 attempts to the Raptors 23. The Raptors had an all-around impressive shooting performance and assisted on 29 of 50 makes. Toronto used a 43-23 fourth quarter to pull away against Cleveland. Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett each led the game in scoring with 33 points apiece.

The Cavaliers have a chance to go back to Cleveland with a 3-1 lead and the chance to close out the series. Cleveland didn't have a single scorer reach 20 points in Game 3 after Donovan Mitchell and James Harden both did so in Game 1 and 2's wins and Evan Mobley once. The team that has led at the end of the first quarter has won all three games, so getting off to a quick start is important in this series.

Let’s take a closer look at tonight’s matchup and take into consideration lineups, injuries, and other factors affecting the line and total.

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on how to catch tipoff, odds courtesy of DraftKings recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

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Game Details and How to Watch Live: Raptors vs. Cavaliers

  • Date: Sunday, April 26, 2026
  • Time: 1:10 PM EST
  • Site: Scotiabank Arena
  • City: Toronto, ON
  • Network/Streaming: ESPN

Rotoworld has you covered with all the latest NBA Player News for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

Game Odds: Cavaliers vs. Raptors

The latest odds as of Sunday courtesy of DraftKings:

  • Moneyline: Cleveland Cavaliers (-170), Toronto Raptors (+142)
  • Spread: Cavaliers -3.5
  • Total: 220.5 points

This game sits right where it opened with Cleveland favored by 2.5 and the Game Total set at 220.5.

Be sure to check out DraftKings for all the latest game odds & player props for every matchup this week on the NBA schedule!

Expected Starting Lineups: Cavaliers vs. Raptors

Toronto Raptors

  • PG Ja'Kobe Walter
  • SG Brandon Ingram
  • SF RJ Barrett
  • PF Scottie Barnes
  • SF Jakob Poeltl

Cleveland Cavaliers

  • PG James Harden
  • SG Donovan Mitchell
  • SF Dean Wade
  • PF Evan Mobley
  • Jarrett Allen

Injury Report: Raptors vs. Cavaliers

Toronto Raptors

  • Immanuel Quickley (hamstring) has been declared OUT of for the remainder of the first round series

Cleveland Cavaliers

  • None

Important stats, trends and insights: Raptors vs. Cavaliers

  • Cleveland is an NBA worst 35-50 ATS
  • Cleveland is 43-42 to the Under
  • Cleveland is 17-25 ATS on the road
  • Toronto is 51-34 to the Under, ranking tied for third-best
  • Toronto is 43-42 ATS
  • Toronto is 22-20 ATS as the home team
  • Toronto is 23-19 to the Under as the home team

Rotoworld Best Bet

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Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the NBA calendar based on data points like recent performance, head-to-head player matchups, trends information and projected game totals.

Once the model is finished running, we put its projections next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Sunday’s Raptors and Cavaliers’ game:

  • Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is leaning toward a play on the Cavaliers Moneyline
  • Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Cavaliers -3.5 ATS
  • Total: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Game Total UNDER 220.5

Want even more NBA best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert NBA Predictions page from NBC Sports for money line, spread and over/under picks for every game on today’s calendar!

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NBA Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

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