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ST Game 21: San Diego Padres at Athletics

TEMPE, ARIZONA - MARCH 10: Miguel Andujar #41 of the San Diego Padres walks into the dugout before a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium on March 10, 2026 in Tempe, Arizona.(Photo by Matt Thomas/San Diego Padres/Getty Images) | Getty Images

San Diego Padres at Athletics, March 13, 2026, 1:05 p.m. PST

Watch: Padres.TV/MLB Network

Location: Hohokam Stadium – Mesa, AZ

Listen: 97.3 The Fan

Please remember our Game Day thread guidelines.

  • Don’t troll in your comments; create conversation rather than destroying it
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GB community, this is your thread for today’s game. Enjoy!

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Game Preview: The Suns head north for the second night of a back-to-back

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MARCH 17: Collin Gillespie #12 of the Phoenix Suns controls the ball against A.J. Lawson #0 of the Toronto Raptors during the first half at PHX Arena on March 17, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Raptors 129-89. 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 Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Who: Phoenix Suns (39-27) vs. Toronto Raptors (36-29)

When: 4:30pm Arizona Time

Where: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Watch: Arizona’s Family 3TV, Arizona’s Family Sports

Listen: KMVP 98.7

The Toronto Raptors come into tonight losing six of their last eight, with their only wins in that stretch coming against the Mavericks and Wizards. On Wednesday, they lost 122-111 to the New Orleans Pelicans. 

The Dinos from across the border will be looking to bounce back, while the Phoenix Suns will be continuing an Eastern Conference road trip on the second night of a back-to-back after last night’s win against the Pacers.

This will be the first of two meetings between the Suns and Raptors in the next ten days, as the Raptors will come to Phoenix on March 22nd.

Probable Starters

Injury Report

Suns

  • Grayson Allen — QUESTIONABLE (Knee)
  • Haywood Highsmith — QUESTIONABLE (Knee)
  • Dillon Brooks — OUT (Hand)
  • Mark Williams — OUT (Foot)

Raptors

  • Collin Murray-Boyles — GAME-TIME DECISION (Thumb)
  • Scottie Barnes — QUESTIONABLE (Illness)
  • Chucky Hepburn — OUT (Knee)

What to Watch For

Scottie Barnes has struggled since missing a game on February 22nd for personal reasons. Averaging just 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists compared to his season averages of 18.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.3 assists.

Coming off two days of rest and playing against a Suns frontcourt missing size due to injury, be on the lookout for a big Scottie Barnes game.

Tonight has big storyline potential for both teams. Can the Suns continue to rebuild some momentum with a fifth straight win? Can the Raptors right the ship after a disappointing stretch?

UPDATE: Scottie Barnes is currently questionable with an illness. If he misses tonight’s game, that significantly reduces the size available to the Raptors.

Key to a Suns Win

Both teams are almost equal on the season when it comes to average rebounds per game. With the Suns continuing to miss some key frontcourt players, the whole team will need to lock in and box out tonight.

The Suns shoot, on average, eight more threes per game than the Raptors (41 to 33). If they hit their shots tonight, like they did in Milwaukee, the Suns could pull out a big win on little rest. Unfortunately, shooting tends to be one of those things that falls off on the second night of a back-to-back.

We will have to see how fresh their legs are after the flight from Indiana.

Prediction

Hopefully, it will be a hard-fought game. These teams score and give up almost identical points per game. Phoenix has the best player in the matchup, and Toronto has the rest of the advantage. Before last night’s game, I was predicting a Raptors win. With Scottie Barnes questionable with an illness and the high I am riding after the Pacers game, I have to go with the Suns:

Suns 114, Raptors 109

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What does Adolis Garcia need to do to recapture his former glory?

When Phillies fans entered the off-season, most knew long-time right fielder Nick Castellanos was on his way out. The free-swinging, undisciplined and inconsistent slugger never quite gave the Phillies the type of production his five-year, 100 million contract, or his production in previous stops, warranted, and his well-documented off-field friction with Phils coaches and manager Rob Thomson only hastened his exit.

Too often fans watched Castellanos flail at sliders as they dove out of the strike zone and gazed in amazement as he actively avoided taking bases on balls like they were covered with ricin. Clearly the Phillies needed a change, so how did they replace him?

By signing another player with almost the same exact offensive traits.

Adolis Garcia, the former Texas Rangers All-Star who has seen his production drop precipitously since an All Star campaign and magical postseason run made him a household name in 2023, is the new right fielder. He’s coming off his second straight subpar season in which he posted a .665 OPS with 19 homers in 135 games, and out of 120 players with at least 1000 plate appearances over the last two years, Garcia’s .675 OPS is tied for 4th-worst, 117th.

So, why did the Phillies sign him?

Aside from the value he brings with his speed on the bases and above-average defense in right field, Garcia possesses a good deal of power at the plate. When he makes contact, he hits the ball hard, with a 46.7% hard-hit rate a season ago that puts him in the 70th percentile, according to Baseball Savant’s metrics. His 92.1 mph exit velocity is still one of the best in the sport, in the 89th percentile of all big league hitters last season.

So, what’s the difference between his outstanding 2023 and his two worst seasons of 2024 and last year?

Plate discipline.

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When Garcia hit 39 homers, knocked in 107 runs and scored 108 times three years ago, all with an OPS of .836, he walked 65 times in 555 plate appearances. He swung at just 29.5% of pitches outside the strike zone that season, giving him the highest walk rate of his career, 10.3%.

It wasn’t an elite walk rate, but it put him in the 74th percentile of big league batters, which is well above average. More patience means better pitches to hit and more advantageous hitters’ counts in which to feast on fastballs. In 2023, Garcia found himself ahead in the count in 34.6% of his plate appearances. In ‘24 and last season, that number fell to 29.2% and 29.7%, respectively. He found himself behind in the count more frequently, 36.2% of the time last year, 33.1% in ‘24 and 31.4% in ‘23.

One ominous note is the bat speed, which has steadily declined from 73.7 mph in 2023 (72nd percentile of MLB batters) to 72.1 mph last year (49th percentile). In other words, Garcia’s bat speed went from being among the top 25% in the sport, to right around the mid-line. A player rarely gains bat speed as he progresses through his 30s, and with Garcia entering his age-33 season, history tells us he’s unlikely to return to the 75th percentile of hitters in that metric.

The drop in bat speed has resulted in an increasing inability to hit every MLB batter’s bread and butter — the fastball.

In 2023, Garcia feasted on four-seamers, blasting 26 homers with a .527 slugging percentage against them. In ‘24, however, his slugging percentage against four-seam fastballs dropped to .367 and, last year, it was .421. There appears to be a direct correlation between a drop in bat speed and increasing ineffectiveness against the fastest pitches a hitter will see.

If the bat speed is dipping, how can he compensate? Being more selective should help. So far this spring, Garcia has been very patient, drawing a walk in 15.4% of his plate appearances. Granted, he’s only had 26, so we’re talking about an extremely small sample size, some of them against pitchers who will spend most of the regular season in the minors. So no one should be too concerned about his .182/.308/.227 slash line or the fact he has just one extra-base hit this spring (a double).

Aside from a return to “elite” levels from Bryce Harper, the emergence of Garcia as a real power threat from the right side of the plate could be the biggest difference between a dangerous Phillies offense and the inconsistent one we’ve seen over the last few seasons.

Trend lines usually trend in one direction, barring an outside influence that changes the scales. Is Phils’ hitting instructor Kevin Long that outside force? Could moving from Texas’ Globe Life Field, which ranked as the 2nd-worst ballpark for hitters last year, to Citizens Bank Park, ranked 11th-best, do the trick? Garcia’s .675 home OPS was a tick better than his .655 road OPS, so it’s fair to harbor some skepticism about the move to a new park, although there’s no doubt frustration regarding his home park could affect the way he hits everywhere.

Phillies fans hope there’s an answer, because if Garcia’s 2026 season resembled his ‘25 and ‘24 campaigns, the Phils’ outfield will once again feature among the league’s least productive outfields and continue what has been an Achilles heel over the last two years.

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Just Get In: Realistic Outlooks At Where The Oilers Are At

The Edmonton Oilers' wins over the Vegas Golden Knights and the Colorado Avalanche felt good, and for a couple of nights this week, the Oilers looked like the team everyone thought they would be this season. Hold onto that feeling, because Thursday in Dallas with a 7-2 loss to the Stars was a reminder of where they actually stand.

Dallas is 41-14-10, one of the best teams in the league, and the Oilers went in there on the first night of a back-to-back and got run out of the building.

It's not a mark on their whole season, but it confirmed what's been clear for a while now: this Edmonton team is not going on another legendary run, and June hockey is not in the cards.

"We're on the brink of not making the playoffs," said Kris Knoblauch before the road trip started.

The Oilers are sitting third in the Pacific at 32-26-8, and  while the Oilers were getting owned by the Stars, the San Jose Sharks were topping the Seattle Kraken in the standings. They now sit 31-26-6 with three games in hand over the Oilers.

If San Jose keeps winning, Edmonton is looking at a Wild Card spot. Wild Card 2, potentially, which in the Western Conference right now would probably mean drawing Colorado in the first round. Good luck with that.

Pre-game Stats: Oilers At BluesPre-game Stats: Oilers At Blues32-26-8 | 72 PTS

Tonight they play the St. Louis Blues in St. Louis, and the Blues are also playing on the back end of a back-to-back. They beat Carolina 3-1 last night, which, whatever you want to say about where St. Louis sits in the standings, is an impressive result. Carolina is one of the best teams in the East. The Blues aren't going to roll over.

Edmonton needs a win tonight, and they need to play the kind of hockey that got them through Vegas and Colorado earlier this week. More structure, fewer odd-man rushes against, keeping the first shot on goal out of the net. 

The realistic version of this Oilers season ends in the first round of the playoffs, maybe a spirited series, a game or two that reminds you why you watch, but a first-round exit.

McDavid And Oilers Stand Up Physically, But Lose Stinker to StarsMcDavid And Oilers Stand Up Physically, But Lose Stinker to StarsConnor McDavid shed his scoring touch for physicality after a disastrous Oilers start against the Stars. Frustration boiled over in a feisty loss.

After all the defensive meltdown through February and into March, the 56 goals surrendered in 12 games, the anxiety, just making it in would count as something.

What comes this summer matters because some real decisions have to be made. Whether that means a new GM, trades, a different approach to the cap,  something has to change.

Knoblauch is probably more complicated of a question than people are making it. There's an argument that this team's problems run deeper than coaching, that the personnel decisions and the structure around him matter more than whether he's behind the bench. But someone is going to be accountable for how this season fell apart, and head coaches tend to pay that price first.

Oilers Goalies Hit Hard With Low Rankings On Recent Tandem PollOilers Goalies Hit Hard With Low Rankings On Recent Tandem PollOilers' goaltending plunges to 31st in recent rankings, revealing a grim tandem performance and challenging playoff hopes amid defensive struggles.

But that's tomorrow's problem. The only thing that matters is the Blues tonight, then Nashville, then the Sharks, then Florida. Game by game, point by point, just get across the playoff line and give the fanbase something to show up for in April. A first-round series, even a short one, is better than watching the standings one more time and realizing you're done too soon.

The Oilers have enough talent and experience to win the games they need down the stretch. Get in, compete, and then spend the summer figuring out why a team this talented keeps finding new ways to make things harder than they need to be.

Bookmark The Hockey News Edmonton Oilers team site to never miss the latest news, game-day coverage, and more. Add us to your Google News favourites, and never miss a story.

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The Sharks sign forward Ty Dellandrea to a 2-year contract extension

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — The San Jose Sharks signed forward Ty Dellandrea to a two-year, $3.25 million extension on Friday.

The 25-year-old Dellandrea was in the final year of his contract but now is locked up in San Jose through the 2027-28 season.

Dellandrea has two goals and nine assists in 42 games this season but has been sidelined since suffering a lower-body injury on Jan. 6. At the time of his injury, Dellandrea led Sharks forwards by winning 52.3% of his faceoffs, while ranking second with 117 hits and 36 blocked shots. He also had the second most short-handed time on ice among San Jose forwards before his injury.

Dellandrea joined San Jose before last season after spending his first four seasons in the NHL in Dallas. He has 17 goals and 44 assists in 261 career games.

The Sharks also called up goalie Laurent Brossoit from the AHL with Yaroslav Askarov out with what has been described as a minor lower-body injury. Brossoit has made 118 career starts but hasn't played in the NHL since the 2023-24 season. He was acquired in a deal from Chicago in January.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

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Young backs Saints to 'come together' against Rangers

St Mirren striker Jake Young is confident the players can shake off the shock departure of Stephen Robinson and deliver a strong performance against Rangers on Sunday.

Robinson and assistant Brian Kerr departed Paisley on Wednesday morning and took over at Aberdeen on Thursday.

The appointment came 10 weeks after the departure of Jimmy Thelin and well after speculation over a move north for Robinson had gone quiet.

Young said: "It was a bit of a shock regardless of that speculation and it did seem to come about quickly.

"Obviously we got through to the [Scottish] cup semi and the manager was speaking about that and moving forward and using it as a platform, so all of that still stands, but I think that shows how quickly it did come about.

"Obviously it's big news, but we have just got to remain professional and it's business as usual.

"We've got a game to prepare for Sunday, we know the situation we're in, we know we've still got a lot to play for.

"It was a bit of a shock, but we had a couple of meetings and just got back to work.

"It's just a time for all of us to come together and stick with it really, and still show what we're here to do."

Young only arrived at St Mirren in January and, after a controversial red card hindered his initial impact, the 24-year-old has scored in his past two games.

He felt he was already improving under Robinson but has plenty of optimism for the coming months, starting with Sunday's visit of Rangers, for which Craig McLeish and Jamie Langfield will act as the caretaker coaching team.

"Obviously it's not ideal," the former Stevenage player said. "Any player that gets brought in by a manager, they want to work with that manager and the short time I've had with him has been great with me, and I already feel like I'm coming on as a player.

"So yes, I'm disappointed on that front, but it's not the only reason I came to the club.

"There's obviously much more attraction than just one thing that brought me here, again starting with the game Sunday against Rangers, you're on TV, we've got a semi-final, there's a lot of other things that I'm here for."

An image detailing how to follow your Premier League team on BBC Sport: "On the app? Tap the bell icon to get news about your club sent to you. Signed in on a browser? Hit 'Follow' to stay up to date.
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Canucks Conduct Prospect Swap With The Edmonton Oilers

The 2026 NHL Trade Deadline may have concluded, but that doesn’t mean teams are done swapping players. The Vancouver Canucks announced today that they have swapped prospects with the Edmonton Oilers, exchanging forward Josh Bloom for forward Jayden Grubbe. 

Grubbe, 23, was drafted 65th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft by the New York Rangers. He found himself with the Oilers via trade after the Rangers flipped him for a fifth-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. Grubbe wore the ‘C’ for the Red Deer Rebels from 2019 to 2023 and has since played with both the Bakersfield Condors of the AHL and the Fort Wayne Komets in the ECHL. This season, he has scored seven goals and 12 assists in 28 games with Fort Wayne. 

Bloom, also a third-round pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, is coming off an impressive stretch of play in the ECHL with the Kalamazoo Wings. The 22-year-old forward has scored 15 goals and 13 assists in 19 games played with Kalamazoo and has also spent 19 games in the AHL with the Abbotsford Canucks. Vancouver first acquired Bloom in exchange for defenceman Riley Stillman back in February 2023. 

NHL teams are allowed to conduct trades after the deadline, though the players involved in these deals will not be permitted to play in any regular season or playoff NHL games for the rest of the season. 

Vancouver will resume their current home stand with a game against the Seattle Kraken on Saturday at 7:00 pm PT. Abbotsford will play the Henderson Silver Knights on the same day at home at 7:00 pm PT as well. 

Sep 21, 2025; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers center Jayden Grubbe (47) skates during the second period against the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
Sep 21, 2025; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers center Jayden Grubbe (47) skates during the second period against the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Make sure you bookmark THN's Vancouver Canucks site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. Also, don't forget to leave a comment at the bottom of the page and engage with other passionate fans through our forum. This article originally appeared on The Hockey News.

Latest From THN’s Vancouver Canucks Site: 

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NBA mock draft 7.0: Projecting the first round before Selection Sunday

For college basketball fans and scouts, one of the most exciting days of the year is Selection Sunday. That is when everyone gets to discover the road to winning the men's NCAA Tournament.

This is when everyone discovers the path all prospects will take before potentially ending their collegiate tenure and beginning the pre-draft process.

Of course, many players will use the momentum from March Madness to capitalize on their draft stock while it is at an all-time high and begin their professional careers. Others, however, might benefit from increased NIL packages in the NCAA and come back to school or enter the transfer portal.

Some highly-ranked players not included who could potentially return to college include Chris Cenac Jr. (Houston), Tounde Yessoufou (Baylor), Alijah Arenas (USC), Meleek Thomas (Arkansas) and Ebuka Okorie (Stanford). However, if these players decide to declare and stay in the draft, they could potentially warrant first-round consideration as well.

Our draft order is based on ESPN’s projected records and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.

1. Indiana Pacers: AJ Dybantsa

BYU Cougars forward AJ Dybantsa (3) sets the play in front of West Virginia Mountaineers forward Brenen Lorient (0) during the second half at T-Mobile Center.

  • TEAM: BYU
  • POSITION: Wing
  • BORN: Massachusetts
  • HEIGHT: 6-9
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

The race for the No. 1 pick is a tight one, but if the Pacers get the pick, the most likely candidate is AJ Dybantsa. Even though he has flirted with the idea of returning to college, he is the perfect missing piece (around Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Pascal Siakam and Ivica Zubac) for this roster. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year leads the nation in unassisted points scored (680) by a wide margin this season, per CBB Analytics. The emerging star became the youngest player in NCAA history with a 30-point triple-double against Eastern Washington on Dec. 22. Highlighted by his 43-point performance against in-state rival Utah on Jan. 24 and 40 points against Kansas State in the Big 12 Tournament on March 10, he has averaged 28.4 points per game over his last 16 appearances. 

2. Washington Wizards: Darryn Peterson

Kansas Jayhawks guard Darryn Peterson (22) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Desert Financial Arena.

  • TEAM: Kansas
  • POSITION: Guard
  • BORN: Ohio
  • HEIGHT: 6-5
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

While he is no longer perceived as the near-certain No. 1 overall pick that he once was due to relative inconsistency and injury issues, many scouts and evaluators feel that Darryn Peterson is the most talented player in this class. The Wizards would put the All-Big 12 guard in a strong position to begin his career alongside Trae Young and Anthony Davis. It is incredibly rare to find a prospect who is able to score as efficiently as Peterson while holding a usage rate as high as his has been this season.

3. Sacramento Kings: Cameron Boozer

Duke Blue Devils forward Cameron Boozer (12) under the basket in the first half at Spectrum Center.

  • TEAM: Duke
  • POSITION: Forward
  • BORN: Florida
  • HEIGHT: 6-9
  • DRAFT AGE: 18

He is projected here at No. 3 overall, but depending on which team gets the No. 1 overall pick, Duke freshman Cameron Boozer is potentially the top player in the class. The Kings have the second-worst offense in the Western Conference and could instantly inject life into their offense by selecting Boozer, who was arguably the best player in college basketball during his first NCAA season. The ACC Player of the Year isn’t a human highlight reel but his statistical profile jumps off the page by virtually any metric and he is nothing short of a dominant paint scorer. Boozer offers consistency and a diverse, impactful skill set. More importantly, he can bring a culture of winning after multiple championships in high school and an elite Duke team in college.

4. Brooklyn Nets: Caleb Wilson

Injured North Carolina Tar Heels foward Caleb Wilson jokes with teammates prior to a game against the Duke Blue Devils at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Duke Blue Devils won 76-61.

  • TEAM: North Carolina
  • POSITION: Big
  • BORN: Georgia
  • HEIGHT: 6-10
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

It was devastating news to learn North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson would miss the NCAA men’s basketball tournament with a broken thumb. Wilson, who also suffered a hand fracture earlier in the season, did more than enough to earn this placement though. After the Nets took five bites at the apple in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft last season, they could fill in the rest of the puzzle of their roster by adding the All-ACC big man. Before the injury, via Bart Torvik, the freshman led the nation with 67 dunks recorded. He was also the only player under 20 years old to reach thresholds of 2.5 percent for both block and steal percentage while also notching a defensive rebound percentage above 20.0 percent.

5. Utah Jazz: Kingston Flemings

Houston Cougars guard Kingston Flemings (4) reacts while playing against the Baylor Bears in the second half at Fertitta Center.

  • TEAM: Houston
  • POSITION: Guard
  • BORN: Texas
  • HEIGHT: 6-4
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

The Jazz currently have the worst defensive rating in the league but could potentially improve that by selecting Houston freshman Kingston Flemings. The All-Big 12 guard has several games when he has recorded at least three steals, notching eight against Arizona State earlier this season. He scored 42 points against No. 11 Texas Tech on Jan. 24 and had a strong performance against Baylor, recording 21 points with seven assists and two steals on March 4. With highs as high as his thus far, it will not take long for him to hear his name called on draft night.   

6. Dallas Mavericks: Darius Acuff Jr.

Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) during the game against the Florida Gators in the first half at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center.

  • TEAM: Arkansas
  • POSITION: Guard
  • BORN: Michigan
  • HEIGHT: 6-3
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

Now led by Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks need to find players who can help Dallas stay competitive on offense and Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. can do exactly that. The SEC Player of the Year is excellently efficient at operating ball screens or in isolation. He leads freshmen for points created per 40 minutes (43.1) either by himself or through an assist, per CBB Analytics. He can score well from either side of the court and is among the freshmen leaders in both alley-oop assists (15) and field goals made in transition (62) this season. There is a reason rival coach Sean Miller thinks this “generational” guard should have his name in the mix at No. 1 overall. 

7. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Keaton Wagler

  • TEAM: Illinois
  • POSITION: Wing
  • BORN: Kansas
  • HEIGHT: 6-6
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

After trading away Trae Young, the Hawks could find their point guard of the future in Illinois standout Keaton Wagler using a first-round pick they received from the Pelicans. The 19-year-old guard scored 46 points while shooting 9-of-11 on 3-pointers against No. 12 Purdue on Jan. 24. He projects as one of the best 3-point shooters in this class, shooting 41.0 percent from beyond the arc as a freshman this year. The Big Ten Rookie of the Year is a cerebral basketball player who is also averaging 4.9 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game this season. 

8. Memphis Grizzlies: Yaxel Lendeborg

  • TEAM: Michigan
  • POSITION: Forward
  • BORN: New Jersey
  • HEIGHT: 6-9
  • DRAFT AGE: 23

The Grizzlies could add to their rebuilding core after trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. by selecting Yaxel Lendeborg, who is perhaps the most NBA-ready player in this draft class. The Big Ten Player of the Year offers a bit of everything on both sides of the ball and has silenced skeptics who were unsure how his game would scale after transferring from mid-major UAB to high-major Michigan. The Grizzlies have drafted players with similar trajectories like Jaylen Wells and Cedric Coward.

9. Chicago Bulls: Mikel Brown Jr. 

  • TEAM: Louisville
  • POSITION: Guard
  • BORN: Florida
  • HEIGHT: 6-5
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

The Chicago Bulls need to simply draft the best player available with whatever pick they have and will likely keep Louisville floor general Mikel Brown Jr. highlighted on their big board. The All-ACC guard has deep shooting range and is among the freshmen leaders in 3-pointers made from beyond 25 feet (27) this year, per CBB Analytics. Brown was averaging 29.2 points per game over his last five appearances, including 45 points against NC State on Feb. 9 while hitting 10 shots from beyond the arc, before getting hurt on Feb. 28.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Brayden Burries  

  • TEAM: Arizona
  • POSITION: Guard
  • BORN: California
  • HEIGHT: 6-4
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

Arizona freshman Brayden Burries had two breakout games in January, which helped solidify his draft stock. But the All-Big 12 guard has continued to display his tantalizing talent, scoring 31 points with seven rebounds and five steals against Colorado on March 7 and 20 points with 12 rebounds and five assists during a victory against No. 14 Kansas on Feb. 28. Burries has proven productivity and that he is able to defend, relocate, move the ball and make 3-pointers off the dribble.   

11. Portland Trail Blazers: Nate Ament 

Tennessee Volunteers forward Nate Ament (10) brings the ball up court against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center.

  • TEAM: Tennessee
  • POSITION: Wing
  • BORN: Virginia
  • HEIGHT: 6-10
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

After a relatively slow and inefficient start to the season, Tennessee freshman Nate Ament is starting to realize some of his lofty expectations. The freshman averaged 21.6 points per game while shooting 38.9 percent on 3-pointers during a 13-game stretch before an injury against Alabama on Feb. 28. The All-SEC forward then had 27 points (4-of-6 on 3-pointers) with eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks and a steal against Auburn on March 12. It will only take one team to fall in love with Ament and given so much of what he brings to the table cannot be taught, that team is probably picking fairly early in the lottery.

12. Golden State Warriors: Labaron Philon

  • TEAM: Alabama
  • POSITION: Guard
  • BORN: Alabama
  • HEIGHT: 6-4
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

The Warriors could still use more reliable players in the backcourt and could find a fairly compelling player in Alabama sophomore Labaron Philon. Even though the All-SEC guard is not playing at 100 percent due to injury issues, he is still playing well. The guard is now averaging 21.5 points per game and has improved his 3-point shooting from 31.5 percent as a freshman to 38.9 percent as a sophomore, also managing 5.0 assists per game in the process. He has one of the most productive one-footed floaters in college basketball, too. 

13. Charlotte Hornets: Jayden Quaintance

  • TEAM: Kentucky
  • POSITION: Big
  • BORN: Ohio
  • HEIGHT: 6-9
  • DRAFT AGE: 18

Jayden Quaintance recorded just one start during his sophomore campaign and is highly unlikely to return to the court again this season as he recovers from a torn ACL, meniscus and fractured knee. But the sophomore big man is still one of the youngest players in this class and has shown flashes during his time at Arizona State and Kentucky. When healthy, he is arguably the most talented defender in this draft class and could help a team that desperately needs frontcourt help, like the Hornets.

14. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Thomas Haugh

  • TEAM: Florida
  • POSITION: Wing
  • BORN: Pennsylvania
  • HEIGHT: 6-9
  • DRAFT AGE: 22

After winning a national championship with Florida last season, Thomas Haugh was instantly regarded as one of the most interesting players who elected to return to college. The All-SEC forward has one of the top motors in the NCAA and he is an incredibly skilled basketball player. He does not need the ball in his hands very often to make a difference on the floor for his team, and he can serve as a glue guy for a contending team looking to win an NBA title like the Spurs.

15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Hannes Steinbach

  • TEAM: Washington
  • POSITION: Big
  • BORN: Germany
  • HEIGHT: 6-11
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

After winning the 2025 NBA Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder are projected to add even more talent near the lottery in the 2026 NBA Draft. They could use it to potentially replace Isaiah Hartenstein by drafting a younger German big man: Hannes Steinbach. The All-Big Ten big man is an instinctive rebounder with great hands, including an absurd 24 rebounds against USC on March 4. Additionally, the big man is one of the more prolific pick and roll finishers in college basketball. He shined during the FIBA U19 World Cup and scouts love that he is a smart basketball player who can make great reads.

16. Toronto Raptors: Bennett Stirtz

Iowa Hawkeyes guard Bennett Stirtz (14) shoots a free throw against the Maryland Terrapins during the second half at United Center.

  • TEAM: Iowa
  • POSITION: Guard
  • BORN: Missouri
  • HEIGHT: 6-4
  • DRAFT AGE: 22

The Raptors could use another guard and should have Bennett Stirtz on their priority list. After transferring from Division II to a mid-major and then to a high-major program, he is at the top of the class in creating his own shot off the dribble in isolation or the pick and roll. The All-Big Ten guard can also finish plays from dribble handoffs. Stirtz, however, occasionally struggled against highly ranked teams like Iowa State, Illinois, Michigan State and Nebraska. But the Raptors play at a slow pace, which would translate well for Stirtz, who is doing the same at Iowa.

17. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Karim López

  • TEAM: International (Australia)
  • POSITION: Forward
  • BORN: Mexico
  • HEIGHT: 6-8
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

The Thunder have drafted several players from Australia’s NBL, including Josh Giddey. They could dip into this well again by selecting Karim López with their pick from the Los Angeles Clippers. While the Mexican-born forward still needs some development, the physically gifted forward is widely seen as the top prospect from this class currently playing overseas. He exploded for 32 points (11-of-13 FG) with eight rebounds, two blocks and one steal against Melbourne on Jan. 30. Even if he is a draft-and-stash player, that is ideal for a team with a rotation as crowded as the Thunder.

18. Memphis Grizzlies (via Magic): Joshua Jefferson 

  • TEAM: Iowa State
  • POSITION: Forward
  • BORN: Nevada
  • HEIGHT: 6-9
  • DRAFT AGE: 22

A few years ago, research indicated that the Grizzlies tend to value a few statistical similarities in their draftees: Efficient shot selection, added value beyond scoring and defensive playmaking. For the second year in a row, Iowa State do-it-all Joshua Jefferson is an impactful dribble-pass-shoot forward who meets many of the qualifications that led Memphis to find players who spent many years on their roster. The All-Big 12 forward is someone who looks destined to have a sustainable NBA career. 

19. Miami Heat: Koa Peat  

  • TEAM: Arizona
  • POSITION: Forward
  • BORN: Arizona
  • HEIGHT: 6-8
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

The Miami Heat have drafted several prospects known for their athleticism, which means a player like Arizona forward Koa Peat will probably have some appeal to their organization. Peat is an ideal match for this franchise given his versatility as a playmaking forward. The All-Big 12 forward just needs a jumper to carve out regular minutes as a high-impact pro. Arizona plays at a significantly faster pace (4.6 extra possessions) when Peat is on the floor relative to when he is not, per CBB Analytics, which would fit very well with Miami’s fastest-paced offense in the NBA. 

20. Charlotte Hornets (via Suns): Braylon Mullins 

  • TEAM: Connecticut
  • POSITION: Wing
  • BORN: Indiana
  • HEIGHT: 6-6
  • DRAFT AGE: 19

Braylon Mullins, a five-star recruit and former McDonald's All-American, missed the start of the season due to an ankle injury. But he has returned to action for the Huskies and has shown what makes him such an appealing player. He is a useful off-ball threat, which gives him an immediately practical role at the next level. The Big East All-Freshman wing is shooting 37.1 percent on 3-pointers since moving into the starting lineup.

21. Detroit Pistons (via Timberwolves): Christian Anderson

Texas Tech Red Raiders guard Christian Anderson (4) reacts to a made three point shot during the second half against the BYU Cougars at Marriott Center.

  • TEAM: Texas Tech
  • POSITION: Guard
  • BORN: Georgia
  • HEIGHT: 6-3
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

While they are one of the best teams in the league this season, the Pistons are still struggling from the perimeter and could use more talented 3-point shooters on their roster. A simple fix would be drafting Texas Tech sophomore Christian Anderson, who has the third-most unassisted 3-pointers (59) in the NCAA, per CBB Analytics. Now playing at point guard, the All-Big 12 Most Improved Player is recording more than twice as many assists per 100 possessions as a sophomore now compared to when he was a freshman. 

22. Philadelphia 76ers (via Rockets): Cameron Carr 

  • TEAM: Baylor
  • POSITION: Wing
  • BORN: Minnesota
  • HEIGHT: 6-5
  • DRAFT AGE: 21

One of the players who has improved his draft stock the most since the season began is Baylor junior Cameron Carr. The All-Big 12 wing is able to dunk and shoot from beyond the arc at a high clip and, per Bart Torvik, is currently the only player to make more than 40 field goals that were dunks and more than 50 field goals that were 3-pointers so far this season. Baylor has outscored opponents by an additional 28.5 points per 100 possessions when he is on the floor relative to when he is not, via CBB Analytics, which ranks as the fourth-most of any high-major player in the NCAA. 

23. Los Angeles Lakers: Patrick Ngongba II

  • TEAM: Duke
  • POSITION: Big
  • BORN: Virginia
  • HEIGHT: 6-11
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

The Lakers could use a big man like Patrick Ngongba II, who is an above-average passer for his position. His assist rate is the highest among underclassmen listed at 6-foot-11 or taller, per Bart Torvik, and he is at the top of his game when passing to a driving perimeter player. Ngongba is a big-bodied prospect who can carve out space as one of the most prolific cutters in college basketball. He is on an encouraging development track, displaying year-over-year improvement from his freshman to sophomore campaign.

24. Denver Nuggets: Allen Graves 

  • TEAM: Santa Clara
  • POSITION: Forward
  • BORN: Louisiana
  • HEIGHT: 6-9
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

Perhaps the most enticing, under-the-radar prospect in all of college basketball is Santa Clara freshman Allen Graves. It was hard not to notice the WCC Rookie of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year after he scored 30 points with 13 rebounds, four assists and two steals on Feb. 7 against Washington State. All-in-one metrics are high on him, per CBB Analytics: He ranks 99th percentile in Win Shares per 40 minutes, Wins Above Replacement Player and Player Efficiency Rating. Meanwhile, the only player under 21 years old who currently holds a higher box plus-minus is Cameron Boozer, via Bart Torvik.  

25. New York Knicks: Morez Johnson Jr. 

  • TEAM: Michigan
  • POSITION: Big
  • BORN: Illinois
  • HEIGHT: 6-9
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

Morez Johnson Jr. is one of the best, most underrated two-way players in the NCAA. He is a crucial part of the Michigan identity this season and has thrived since transferring to the Wolverines from Illinois. Johnson's shooting form at the free throw line looks good, and he scores well near the rim, especially when cutting to the basket. The former FIBA U-19 Team USA standout and All-Big Ten big man is a trustworthy defensive playmaker, too, and should find minutes at the next level.

26. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers): Amari Allen 

Alabama forward Amari Allen (5) shoots a three against Mississippi State at Coleman Coliseum.

  • TEAM: Alabama
  • POSITION: Wing
  • BORN: Wisconsin
  • HEIGHT: 6-7
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

Alabama's Amari Allen is a 6-foot-7 freshman who averaged 12.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.9 assists with 1.7 "stocks" (combined steals and blocks) per game for the Crimson Tide during SEC conference play. The SEC All-Freshman wing also shot 39.5 percent on 3-pointers while attempting 4.8 shots per game beyond the arc. Allen is a good connective piece who plays hard and knows how to make the right play.

27. Boston Celtics: Aday Mara 

  • TEAM: Michigan
  • POSITION: Big
  • BORN: Spain
  • HEIGHT: 7-3
  • DRAFT AGE: 21

As the Celtics continue to exceed expectations, they do have some holes to fill in their frontcourt after losing both Kristaps Porziņģis and Al Horford. After selecting Hugo González from Spain in the draft last season, they could potentially target his former FIBA U18 European Championship tournament teammate Aday Mara. The 7-foot-3 big man who transferred from UCLA is a fantastic rim protector. Opponents only attempt 18.7 percent of their field goals at the rim when the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year is on the court, per CBB Analytics, the second-lowest among all NCAA players. He can also pass well, finding some awesome outlet looks in transition. 

28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Pistons): Tyler Tanner

  • TEAM: Vanderbilt
  • POSITION: Guard
  • BORN: Tennessee
  • HEIGHT: 6-0
  • DRAFT AGE: 20

It is unusual to find a 6-foot sophomore projected in the first round of a mock draft, but if there were ever a player who has earned that kind of praise it's Tyler Tanner. Despite his size, the All-SEC guard has found meaningful ways to contribute on both sides of the floor. He can score efficiently, dunk, block shots, steal the ball, and he is more than serviceable as a floor general capable of earning rotation minutes for a team like the Timberwolves. His performance on March 3 against Ole Miss included 34 points (3-of-6 on 3-pointers), five rebounds, seven assists and five steals. It was his second performance with at least 30 points in a 30-day stretch.

29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs): Henri Veesaar

  • TEAM: North Carolina
  • POSITION: Big
  • BORN: Estonia
  • HEIGHT: 7-0
  • DRAFT AGE: 22

We have seen a remarkable improvement from Henri Veesaar after transferring from Arizona to North Carolina. The 7-foot big man from Estonia has an excellent shot diet on offense. The All-ACC big man is scoring efficiently at the rim (especially when cutting or rolling) and on 3-pointers, while also holding his own as a rebounder and passer. Any team looking for a big man who can provide NBA minutes on an expedited timeline, like the Cavaliers, will have him high on their priority list.

30. Dallas Mavericks (via Thunder): Dailyn Swain 

  • TEAM: Texas
  • POSITION: Wing
  • BORN: Ohio
  • HEIGHT: 6-8
  • DRAFT AGE: 21

After transferring from Xavier to Texas during the offseason, Dailyn Swain has become one of the more intriguing breakout players in college basketball. The All-SEC forward is versatile and contributes a little bit of everything for the Longhorns on both sides of the ball, scoring well both in the paint and on fastbreaks. Another element that is notably compelling is that Swain is efficient one-on-one in isolation against his defenders. 

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: 2026 NBA mock draft predictions for Cam Boozer before March Madness

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Moses Moody working out in brace, shooting left-handed in preparation for return

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 02: Moses Moody #4 of the Golden State Warriors and Darius Garland #10 of the LA Clippers go for a loose ball during the first half at Chase Center on March 02, 2026 in San Francisco, California. 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 Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Just like Inigo Montoya and the Dread Pirate Roberts, Moses Moody is not left-handed, but he’s practicing that way.

Moody sprained his right wrist and injured his shoulder after a collision with Darius Garland in the Warriors’ March 2 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. He knocked the ball away from Garland, but the dastardly tiny guard wrenched Moody’s shoulder in the subsequent struggle for the ball, perhaps while repeating, “My name is Darius Garland. Your team employed my father. Prepare to miss 5-7 games.”

The Warriors fifth-year wing will miss his fifth straight game Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Some would say his return is inconceivable, but the Dubs hope he can provide much-needed reinforcement during their six-game road trip next week. He’s working out to keep up his fitness and shooting left-handed, which he also did while recovering from hand surgery last summer.

Does his shot look great? No, but this author is still impressed, as he perpetually struggled to make a simple left-handed layup for much of his own basketball career. This author also employed the “stare at the ball while you dribble” technique pioneered by Michael J. Fox in “Teen Wolf” that proved very stoppable during the CYO Oakland diocese playoffs, though this author did win multiple free-throw shooting contests that earned him free frozen yogurt. (R.I.P. Yogurt Clouds)

He’s still wearing a wrist brace, so perhaps a return to play the Boston Celtics on Wednesday or the Detroit Pistons Friday is plausible. The short-handed Warriors could certainly use him, as their hopes of avoiding the 9-10 play-in game are, in the words of Miracle Max, “mostly dead” right now — which does mean slightly alive!

So the Warriors hope their dedicated fifth-year wing can help them storm the castle of their opponents in a poorly-timed nine-day road trip where they won’t have Steph Curry. Friday, they’ll at least have Kristaps Porzingis on the court, playing consecutive games as a Warrior for the first time and trying to prove that trading for an oft-injured seven-footer isn’t a classic blunder on the level of getting into a land war in Asia or a battle of wits with a Sicilian where death is on the line.

R.I.P. Rob Reiner.

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Malachi Smith earns Nets 10-day contract as Grant Nelson’s season ends early

BIRMINGHAM, AL FEBRUARY 19: Malachi Smith #18 of the Long Island Nets drives to the basket during the game against the Birmingham Squadron on February 19, 2026 at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, AL. 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 GettyImages License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Mercedes Oliver/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Brooklyn Nets are signing guard Malachi Smith, a 6’4” combo guard, to a 10-day contract. Smith has spent this season with Brooklyn’s G-League affiliate, the Long Island Nets, while on a standard G-League contract. At least temporarily, Smith fills the Nets open roster spot.

Hoopshype’s Michael Scotto was the first to report the news…

Smith has played In 39 total games in Long Island this season. Undrafted out of Gonzaga in 2023, he had previously played for the G League affiliates of the Trailblazers, Bucks and Grizzlies traded him to Long Island last September.

His numbers jumped in mid-season when Long Island coach Mfon Udofia inserted him at point guard after Nolan Traore was called up to Brooklyn. In his past 10 games with Long Island, Smith averaged 18.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 7.8 assists while shooting 57.9% from the field and converting 50% of his opportunities from beyond the arc. He’s also become one of league leaders in assists with games of 15, 13, 11 and 10 assists. He has also had issues turnovers in that stretch but retains a 2-to-1 assist to turnover ratio.

At 26 years old, Smith will be the third-oldest player on Brooklyn’s squad behind Terance Mann and Nic Claxton.

He will join high school teammate, Nets two-way E.J. Liddell, on the Brooklyn roster. The two, playing for Belleville West High School in Belleville, Illinois, won the state championship in 2018. Liddell is a year younger.

Smith’s opportunity in the NBA comes amid word that Grant Nelson who previously played on a 10-day, is done for the season. As Brian Lewis first reported Nelson will return to Long Island but will not play due to a diagnosis of patellar tendinitis…

Nelson dealt with a nagging knee injury this season, an issue that has persisted since his college days as a freshman at North Dakota State. Following a seven-week rehab process in mid-season, he was able to return to the court and start 15 games with the G League club, though under minutes restrictions.

 “I’ve been dealing with knee soreness for I don’t know how many years, really, since I started college. It was kind of just affecting how I was playing, and I had to get it over with and get all the rehab done, and get it back to feeling 100%. The performance staff here did a great job. Everyone really cares about me, and that meant a lot,” Nelson told NetsDaily.

Even on a minutes restriction, Nelson was able to dominate. In those 15 starts, he put up 24 points and 12 rebounds per 36 minutes. The organization rewarded him with a 10-day deal. In four games, Nelson played 35 minutes, putting up 17 points, six rebounds, six assists and three blocks. Surprisingly, he was not renewed for a second 10-day. The injury diagnosis may explain why. The status of his G League rights going forward remains murky.

The diagnosis comes at an inopportune time for Nelson. With Day’Ron Sharpe out for the season, Nelson may very well have gotten minutes with Brooklyn if he’d been healthy.

For now, Smith gets an opportunity to showcase his skills in the NBA while Nelson’s promising season comes to an end.

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Lakers future is bright with Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves in the backcourt

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 21: Austin Reaves #15 high fives Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the game against the Golden State Warriors on October 21, 2025 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Lakers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

How the Lakers’ season will end is very much in flux. They can finish the year as high as the No. 3 seed in the West, but can still fall all the way down to the play-in if they go on a losing streak.

Once the postseason begins, it’s anyone’s guess how well or poorly that will go.

While how the 2025-26 season concludes for the purple and gold is still in question, one thing is certain: this will be a big summer for the Lakers.

They’ll have a ton of cap space and open roster spots available to be very aggressive in the free agency market as they look to build the best contender possible around Luka Dončić.

Austin Reaves is one of those players who will have to decide where he’ll play next year. He will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason and is reportedly looking for a big payday. If the Lakers pay that price, they’ll be locked into a backcourt featuring Dončić and Reaves for years to come.

But is that the best path forward?

For our SB Nation Reacts survey this week, we asked fans how confident they are in a Dončić-Reaves backcourt. The results are in, and the overwhelming majority, 80%, are confident in the duo.

Clearly, Lakers fans believe in Luka and Austin. And they have good reasons to. Dončić is leading the NBA in scoring and is just entering his prime.

Reaves has gotten better every year and is putting up his best numbers this season, averaging 23.9 points, 4.8 rebounds and 5.5 assists. Had he not suffered a calf injury and missed a bunch of games, he would’ve likely made his first All-Star appearance this season.

It’s very possible we haven’t yet seen the best basketball either player reach, and locking up this duo for their best years seems like a good use of LA’s resources.

Their chemistry on and off the court is incredible, and as the seasons go on, this tandem will likely only get better. While most Lakers fans like the Dončić-Reaves backcourt being the future, 11% were unsure.

The hesitance is likely because we have yet to see this duo find postseason success. Last year in the playoffs, the Wolves picked apart the Lakers, and both Dončić and Reaves struggled in the series. With the goal always being a championship, Lakers fans will be watching this year’s playoff run and undoubtedly putting a lot of stock into how well Luka and Austin perform against the best in the West.

The good news for the Lakers front office is that only 9% of fans are not confident in this backcourt pairing. That’s a relatively low number, so re-signing Reaves seems like it will be an easy and popular decision to make this summer.

Overall, the future looks bright for the Lakers with Luka and Austin as the two main players the team can build around. Last season, the Lakers were a 50-win team and similar success is still on the table this year. And if they bring back Austin, that type of winning will be a realistic outcome moving forward.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.

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Timberwolves vs Warriors Boosted Same Game Parlay for March 13

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Desperation defines this evening's clash at Chase Center as a pair of Western Conference fixtures fight to snap identical three-game skids. The Warriors must navigate life without Stephen Curry against a Minnesota squad hungry to protect a Top 6 seed in danger of slipping even further.

I'm taking advantage of this evening's showdown with a three-leg same-game parlay focused heavily on the vision and playmaking of Anthony Edwards. Ant's willingness to share the rock will guide the Wolves to victory tonight.

This parlay has been BOOSTED from +625 to +750 by our friends at bet365.

Timberwolves vs Warriors same game parlay for March 13

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Anthony Edwards 5+ assists

Julius Randle 20+ points

Timberwolves moneyline

s+625/s strong+750 at bet365/strong

Timberwolves Minnesota Timberwolves vs Warriors Golden State Warriors

  • Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
  • Location: Chase Center
  • TV: Prime Video, NBCSBA, TSN

Anthony Edwards isn’t known as a high-assist player and typically doesn’t generate a large number of potential assists. However, this matchup against the Warriors creates a path for him to clear an alternate line of 5+ assists. Golden State is expected to start Draymond Green at center with Gui Santos in the frontcourt, leaving them with very little rim protection. That lack of size makes it difficult for them to contain Edwards’ downhill drives. Instead of meeting him at the rim, Green and Santos will likely have to step in early to slow him down.

When that help comes early, it should open up several dump-off opportunities to Minnesota’s bigs around the basket. Against a much smaller Warriors frontcourt, those interior looks should be high-percentage chances to convert Edwards’ passes into assists.

The 20+ points for Julius Randle pairs naturally with the assists for Edwards. If Edwards is creating advantages off the dribble, some of those potential assists should go directly to Randle, who can use his strength to bully his way to the rim and convert those opportunities. Randle also has a clear size advantage against the Warriors’ small frontcourt. That mismatch should lead to plenty of isolation opportunities, allowing him to attack defenders one-on-one and generate efficient scoring chances around the basket.

The Timberwolves are listed as 5.5-point favorites against the Warriors, and that’s a number I’m comfortable backing as I make the line closer to 8. The key factor in this matchup is Minnesota’s size advantage, which becomes even more significant with Stephen Curry out of the lineup.

When Curry plays, the Warriors can go small and use his gravity to pull Rudy Gobert away from the paint. Without that threat, Gobert can stay near the rim, allowing Minnesota to fully control the interior without being punished for playing big. That creates a difficult matchup for Golden State. Green simply doesn’t have the size to consistently deal with a frontcourt that includes Randle, Gobert, and Naz Reid, especially with Edwards applying constant pressure at the rim.

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Jaylen Brown rips NBA foul baiting: 'Don't think it's basketball'

If there’s one division among NBA players these days, it’s about foul baiting.

The tactic, which essentially is when players seek unnecessary contact or exaggerate existing contact with flops, can be an effective tool to draw whistles and get to the free throw line.

And on the night when the Boston Celtics lost a close game to the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, Celtics star Jaylen Brown called out players who foul baited and expressed frustration over the way officials reward that behavior.

“I just don’t foul bait,” Brown told reporters after Boston’s 104-102 loss. “I’m not looking to flop or anything like that, but it’s almost like you got to. Cause there’s a couple of plays in the fourth quarter where I felt like I drove strong, went up strong, and I didn’t get the benefit of the doubt. But maybe if I would have flopped, maybe I would have been able to sell those calls. And those decide games.

“So it’s like, we commend players for playing the game the right way, but we give the benefit to those who necessarily are trying to manipulate the game into their advantage. I just don’t think it's basketball. Let’s just play basketball. All the foul baiting, I think it’s whatever for me.”

Brown didn’t mention any player by name, but Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is one of the players most effective at drawing contact and getting to the line. He ranks first in the NBA in free throws made per game (8.2) and third in attempts (9.2).

During one sequence midway through the third quarter Thursday night, Gilgeous-Alexander was driving down the left side of the paint when he crashed into Celtics center Luke Garza, drawing the foul.

On-court microphones from the Amazon Prime broadcast clearly picked up Brown shouting at officials in response to the whistle: “That’s not basketball.”

Gilgeous-Alexander would convert both free throws.

“Just accentuating contact,” Brown said when asked to characterize foul baiting. “It’s one thing to get fouled, but it’s like when you’re not even trying to score when you’re driving and flailing your body just to make it look like you’re getting fouled. I think that’s the part where it’s like, all right, come on. But I mean, that’s where our league is at. That’s where the NBA is at. So it’s like, get down or lay down. So maybe I need to flop a little bit more.”

Boston Celtics guard/forward Jaylen Brown (7) shoots over Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort (5) on March 12 at Paycom Center.

Part of Brown’s frustrations stem from his ejection in a game against the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, March 10. Brown played just 14:42 and was ejected for arguing an apparent no-call when Spurs guard Stephon Castle made contact with Brown as he dribbled the ball near the sideline, eventually losing it in a turnover. Brown was assessed two technical fouls. The Celtics would go on to lose 125-116.

Brown said he was especially “pissed” about the ejection because he had circled this game on his calendar, given San Antonio’s positioning in the standings.

“I felt great,” Brown said of his ejection against the Spurs. “I felt like I was ready to have a big-time performance, and my night got ended short. In certain spots, maybe I could have been a little bit better, but you’re passionate. It’s a big game. You want to see emotion. You want to see your star players showing that emotion. I don’t think I deserved to get tossed. And I think the NBA agreed, because I didn’t get fined or anything like that. So it is what it is. It happens. People make mistakes, but I’m just looking forward now.”

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NBA foul baiting 'not basketball,' Jaylen Brown complains

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Knicks vs Pacers Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

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The New York Knicks will look to finish up their five-game road trip with a winning record as they visit the Indiana Pacers on Friday night.

Indiana is in a tailspin right now, which is why I’m backing the New York to cover the hefty spread in my Knicks vs. Pacers prediction.

Let’s take a closer look at how to bet tonight’s matchup in my free NBA picks for Friday, March 13.

Knicks vs Pacers prediction

Knicks vs Pacers best bet: Knicks -13.5 (-110)

“Just bet against the Indiana Pacers” may seem like a simplistic betting strategy, but it’s been an effective one.

Indiana has now lost 11 straight, and hasn’t covered in any of those games. In six of their last eight games, the Pacers have lost by 15+ points.

The New York Knicks have been one of the best offensive teams in the NBA this season. With an offensive efficiency of 116.4, they rank second only to the Denver Nuggets. 

That will place especially well against a Pacers team allowing 120.0 ppg on the year. I’m taking New York to cover tonight.

Knicks vs Pacers same-game parlay

Both teams have played towards the Over in recent games, and the Knicks offense should be able to push the score up against this Indiana defense.

I’ll also take Jalen Brunson to hit his scoring total after coming off two straight 28-point performances.

Knicks vs Pacers SGP

  • Knicks -13.5
  • Over 227.5
  • Jalen Brunson Over 26.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: All Knicks, all night

Even for my lottery SGP, I’m sticking with the Knicks to cover, as that’s my lynchpin for all the prop bets I’m backing here.

I’ll once again take Brunson to hit his points total, while also picking Karl-Anthony Towns to make Over 1.5 threes, as he’s hit three shots from deep in each of his last two games.

I’m also backing Mikal Bridges to pick up a block on the defensive end, since he’s gotten at least one in three of his last four games.

Knicks vs Pacers SGP

  • Knicks -13.5
  • Jalen Brunson Over 26.5 points
  • Karl-Anthony Towns Over 1.5 threes made
  • Mikal Bridges Over 0.5 blocks

Knicks vs Pacers odds

  • Spread: New York -13 (-110) | Indiana +13 (-110)
  • Moneyline: New York -800 | Indiana +550
  • Over/Under: Over 227 (-110) | Under 227 (-110)

Knicks vs Pacers betting trend to know

The Pacers are 0-11 ATS in their last 11 games overall. Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. Pacers.

How to watch Knicks vs Pacers

LocationGainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
DateFriday, March 13, 2026
Tip-off7:30 p.m. ET
TVMSG, FDSN-IN

Knicks vs Pacers latest injuries

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What Royals pitcher had your favorite pitch?

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 08, 2024: A closeup view of an official Major League Baseball being held in a pitching grip prior to a game between the Detroit Tigers and the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on April 08, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Chris Bernacchi/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images

Careers are made on a signature pitch. Nolan Ryan’s fastball. Sandy Koufax’s curve. Mariano Rivera’s cutter. Over the years, the Kansas City Royals have had plenty of pitchers with a signature offering that defined their style on the mound.

What Royals pitcher had your favorite pitch? Here are some of my favorites:

  • Dan Quisenberry’s sinker
  • Mark Gubicza’s sinker
  • Tom Gordon’s curveball
  • Kevin Appier’s forkball
  • Zack Greinke’s slow curve
  • Joakim Soria’s curveball
  • Jason Vargas’ change-up
  • Wade Davis’ cutter
  • Greg Holland’s slider

Tell me your favorite pitch from a Royals pitcher!