The Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics meet in a winner-take-all Game 7 to see who advances to the second round of the NBA playoffs. The 76ers forced the decisive game by winning Game 6. Celtics star Jayson Tatum is questionable for the game with a sore left knee. Boston began the day as 7.5-point favorites.
How to watch Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 30: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics dribbles the ball during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers during Round One Game Six of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 30, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Philadelphia 76ers (3-3) at Boston Celtics (3-3) Saturday, May 2, 2026 7:30 PM ET First Round Game #7 Home Game #4 TV: Peacock/NBC Radio: 98.5 Sports Hub, 97.5 Fanatic, Sirius XM TD Garden Officials: James Capers, Tyler Ford, Gedminas Petraitis
It’s win or go home for the Celtics as they host the Philadelphia 76ers for Game 7 of their first round series. After the Celtics led the series 3-1, they lost Games 4 and 5 to bring the series to a 3-3 tie. The Celtics dominated Game 1 with a 123-91 win over the 76ers. The 76ers topped the Celtics 111-97 in Game 2 to tie the series at 1 game each. The series shifted to Philadelphia where the Celtics squeezed out a win in Game 3 108-100 and dominated the 76ers 113-97 in Game 4.
After the blow out win in Philadelphia, it seemed as though the Celtics were primed to finish the series at home in Game 5. It appeared that they would do just that as they led by 7 at the half and by 13 in the 3rd quarter. But they completely fell apart in the 4th quarter to lose the game 113-97. The Celtics scored just 11 points in the 4th quarter, shooting just 3-22. In Game 6 in Philadelphia, the Celtics had a similarly poor showing and lost 106-93 to force a Game 7.
Teams that are up 3-1 in a series win the series 95.6% of the time. Teams that are up 3-2 in a best of 7 series wins the series 84% of the time. 357 teams have gone up 3-2 in a series and 300 of those teams won the series. Of those teams, 170 won Game 6 to close out the series while 130 lost game 6 and won Game 7. Only 13 teams have come back from a 1-3 deficit to win the series.
Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum have both had considerable Game 7 experience in their tenure with the Celtics. As a duo, they have played in 7 game 7’s total and have gone 5-2 in those series. Joel Embiid has played in 3 Game 7’s and is 0-3 in those Game 7’s. Tyrese Maxey is 0-1 in his career in Game 7’s Paul George has played in 5 Game 7’s between the Pacers and the Clippers and is 2-3 in those games.
Since 2003, 17 teams have either won their first round series in either 4 or 5 games (74%). Since 2015, every team that won the championship has gotten past the first round in 5 games or less. The Celtics in 2024 won their first round series over the Heat 4 games to 1. This might seem like a dire statistic, but there is a positive note to add from Celtics history. In the 2008 playoffs, it took 7 games for the Celtics to get past Atlanta in the first round and those playoffs worked out just fine for that team. However, this game will be played on the court with a different group of players and not in history.
One of the advantages that the Celtics have is their depth. In Game 1, the Celtics got 37 points from their bench while the 76ers got 27 points from theirs. Of course, there were about 6 minutes of garbage time in that game. In Game 2, the 76ers got 21 points from their bench while the Celtics got 20 from theirs. In Game 3, the Celtics’ bench put up 35 points while the 76ers got just 14 points from theirs. In Game 4, the Celtics bench put up 57 points while the 76ers got 24 from theirs. In Game 5, bench scoring was 29-25 in favor of the Celtics with neither group playing exceptionally well.
In Game 6, the bench scoring favored the Celtics 38-6 with the caveat that the Celtics pulled their starters and played only their reserves in the final quarter. That group immediately ran off an 11-0 run and cut the lead to 12. The starters had abandoned the ball movement that made them so tough to beat all season and especially Tatum and Brown were trying to do too much and spent too much time dribbling and didn’t move the ball. They also didn’t hustle for boards and seemed a step too slow all game. The starters had 3 offensive rebounds through 3 quarters while the reserves grabbed 5 in just 10 minutes in the 4th quarter. Hopefully the starters get back to playing Celtics basketball in this one but if not, hopefully Joe will turn to the reserves quicker.
Jayson Tatum left Game 6 in the third quarter with some calf tightness and did not return but all indications were that he would play un this game. He was a late addition to the injury report and is questionable due to knee soreness. Joel Embiid is once again listed as probable for this game. He returned from an appendix removal to play in Game 4. Recovery for an appendectomy is anywhere from 20 days to 5 weeks and Embiid returned just 17 days after having his appendix removed. He played very well in Games 5 and 6 with no minutes restrictions. Paul George was also a late addition to the injury report and is probable due to an illness.
Probable Starting Matchups PG: Derrick White vs Tyrese Maxey
Derrick White | NBAE via Getty ImagesTyrese Maxey | NBAE via Getty Images
SG: Jaylen Brown vs VJ Edgecombe
Jaylen Brown | Getty ImagesVJ Edgecombe | NBAE via Getty Images
SF: Sam Hauser vs Kelly Oubre, Jr
Sam Hauser | NBAE via Getty ImagesKelly Oubre, Jr | Getty Images
PF: Jayson Tatum vs Paul George
Jayson Tatum | NBAE via Getty ImagesPaul George | NBAE via Getty Images
C: Neemias Queta vs Joel Embiid
Neemias Queta | NBAE via Getty ImagesJoel Embiid | NBAE via Getty Images
Celtics Reserves Payton Pritchard Hugo Gonzalez Luka Garza Amare Williams Baylor Scheierman Jordan Walsh Max Shulga Nikola Vucevic Ron Harper, Jr Delano Banton John Tonje
76ers Reserves Andre Drummond Quentin Grimes Kyle Lowry Justin Edwards Trendon Watford Dalen Terry Dominick Barlow Jabari Walker Adem Bona
2-Way Players MarJon Beauchamp Tyrese Martin Injuries/Out Joel Embiid (appendix) probable Paul George (illness) probable
Head Coach Nick Nurse
Key Matchups Derrick White vs Tyrese Maxey In Game 1, the Celtics were able to hold Maxey to 21 points on 20 shots along with 1 rebound and 8 assists while shooting 40% from the field and 25% from beyond the arc. He pretty much had his way in Game 2 with 29 points, 4 rebounds, 9 assists, and 2 steals while shooting 39.3% from the field and 41.7% from beyond the arc. In Game 3, he scored 31 points but took 31 shots to get them. He finished with 31 points, 6 assists, 1 steal and 2 blocks while shooting 38.7% from the field and 38.5% from beyond the arc. With Embiid’s return, Maxey took just 14 shots in Game 4 and finished with 22 points, 2 rebounds, 6 assists and 1 block. In Game 5, he finished with 25 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and 1 block while shooting 55.6% from the field and 30.3% from beyond the arc. In Game 6, he once again excelled with 30 points, 2 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals while shooting 50% from the field and 60% from beyond the arc. The Celtics must do a better job of defending him in this game.
Neemias Queta vs Joel Embiid After missing the first 3 games of the series, Embiid returned to the 76ers for Game 4. He started out strong, scoring the 76ers first 8 points and drawing 2 quick fouls on Queta. He played 34 minutes, finishing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block while shooting 42.9% from the field and 16.7% from beyond the arc. He struggle a bit in the first half of Game 5, but took over the 2nd half as he played more in the paint and finished with 33 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists and 1 block while shooting 52.2% from the field but going 0-5 from three. In Game 6, Embiid finished with 19 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists and 1 steal while shooting 33.3% from the field and 20% from beyond the arc. Queta needs to find a way to stay out of foul trouble and the Celtics need to keep Embiid out of the paint. Honorable Mention Jayson Tatum vs Paul George Neither of these players were able to play in any of the 4 games between Boston and Philly this season. In Game 1, George finished with 17 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assist while shooting 50% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc, but he only took 8 shots. In game 2, he finished with 19 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and 1 block while shooting 53.8% from the field and 40.3% from beyond the arc. In Game 3, he finished with 18 points, no rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals while shooting 50% from the field and 57.1% from beyond the arc. In Game 4, he finished with 16 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals and 1 block while shooting 46.2% from the field and 3-3 from beyond the arc. In Game 5, he finished with 16 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 steals while shooting 46.2% from the field and 44.4% from beyond the arc. ln Game 6, he finished with 23 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 1 block. He has been the most consistent player on the Sixers and the Celtics need to defend him better, especially on the perimeter.
Keys to the Game Defense – As always, defense is absolutely the key to winning this, and every, game. Defense becomes even more important in the playoffs. It is very true that defense wins championships. In Game 1, the Celtics held the 76ers to 38.9% from the field and 17.4% from beyond the arc. In game 2, the Celtics defense faltered as the 76ers shot 47.8% from the field and 48.7% from beyond the arc. In Game 3, the 76ers shot 43.7% from the field and 34.3% from beyond the arc. In Game 4, the Celtics held the 76ers to 41.3% from the field and 30% from beyond the arc. The Celtics allowed the 76ers to shoot 50% from the field and 35.7% from beyond the arc in Game 5. When the Celtics shot weren’t falling in Game 5, the Celtics defense disappeared also. In Game 6 the Celtics once again allowed way too many easy shots and were lax on defense. The Celtics have to play tough, physical, lock down defense from the opening tip until the final buzzer if they want to win this game.
Rebound – Rebounding is also one of the biggest keys to winning every game and has definitely been a big factor in this series. In the regular season, the Celtics were 43-12 in games that they tied or out-rebounded opponents and just 11-13 in games in which they were out-rebounded. In Game 1, the Celtics out-rebounded the 76ers 43-40. In Game 2, they out-rebounded the 76ers 50-42, but they were unable to capitalize on them since they shot so poorly. In Game 3, the Celtics once again out-rebounded the 76ers 45-37. And, in their big win in Game 4, they out-rebounded the 76ers 51-30. In Game 5, especially in the 2nd half, they stopped fighting for rebounds and the 76ers had 47 rebounds to 49 for the Celtics. In Game 6, the 76ers had the edge with 48 rebounds to 46 for the Celtics. Much of rebounding is effort and the Celtics need to put out more effort to grab rebounds then the 76ers. They have to fight harder to grab rebounds than the 76ers if they want to win this game.
3 Point Shooting – Three point shooting has been a big story for the Celtics in this series. They shot 42% from three in their 3 wins but only 28% from three in their 3 losses. The Celtics were 2-4 in last year’s playoffs, 0-3 in this year’s playoffs and 14-17 in the regular season when they shoot under 30% from beyond the arc. In Game 2, they shot 26% from beyond the arc. In Game 5, they shot 28.2% on threes. In Game 6, they shot 29% from beyond the arc. They have to stay focused and they need to work to get open and move the ball to find the best shots. When they get bogged down and try to do too much individually without passing the ball, they struggle. They need to keep the ball moving and not lapse into ISO ball. If the 3’s aren’t falling, they need to take the ball inside. And they need to defend the perimeter or the 76ers will beat them with 3’s of their own. The Celtics need to stay focused on offense and play tough perimeter defense in order to win this game.
Effort and Focus for 48 Minutes – The Celtics have to play with extra effort overall for all 4 quarters. In their losses in Game 2, Game 5, and Game 6 they allowed the 76ers to play with more energy than them for periods of time during the game. They play well for stretches but let up and allow the Sixers to surge ahead. The reserves showed what the starters had been missing when they brought energy and effort to the 4th quarter on both ends of the court and went on an 11-0 run. The Celtics had 13 turnovers and they missed 7 or 16 free throws and that shows a lack of focus. The Celtics must stay focused and give maximum effort from the opening tip until the final buzzer.
X-Factors Home Game – Teams play all season to secure home court in the playoffs but in this series, the 76ers have won more games in Boston than the Celtics have. The Celtics need to feed off the energy of the crowd and hopefully, the 76ers will be distracted by travel and the hostile crowd. The Celtics should play harder to win on their home court. They need to protect home court and win the series in front of their own fans.. The Celtics crowd will be loud and the Celtics need to use that to their advantage and get the win.
Coaching – Joe Mazzulla is in his 4th season as Celtics’ head coach. He won a title in 2024 with a very talented team that was packed with shooting stars. Now he has to win in a different way since his personnel has changed and he did a great job in the regular season. Nick Nurse is in his 8th season as a head coach overall and his 3rd as the 76ers head coach. He won a title with the Raptors in 2019. In the playoffs, coaching becomes more important as it becomes a game of adjustments as they play the same team game after game. Joe has been questioned about not playing the reserves enough since they were a big reason for the Celtics success in the regular season. He needs to reel the starters in if they play selfishly or without energy and he needs to be ready to make adjustments in game if needed,.
Officiating – Officiating is always an x-factor. Every crew calls the game differently. Some call it tight and call every bit of contact while others allow more physical play. Some favor the home team while others call both sides evenly. We have seen them call offensive fouls on Jaylen Brown far more than they have all season and he needs to adjust to avoid foul trouble. He has drawn 10 offensive fouls so far in the series and he needs to adjust to how they are calling the game. The Celtics can’t allow the no calls and bad calls to affect their focus on playing the game.
Official Report Crew Chief: James Capers Capers has a 44/22 home win/loss record this season. The Celtics were 3-1 this season and 2-2 last season with Capers. He called 18.2 fouls on the Celtics and 18.5 on their opponents. The 76ers were 2-1 this season and 2-1 last season with Capers. He called 23 fouls on the 76ers and 23.7 fouls on their opponents.
Referee: Tyler Ford You may remember Ford as the referee at the center of Jaylen Brown’s wrath in the game against the Spurs this season. The Spurs’ Stephon Castle shoved Brown out of bounds in front of Ford, who didn’t call a foul. Brown was irate and was tossed for just the 2nd time in his career. Brown had plenty to say about Ford after the game as well. Ford has a home win/loss record of 38-25. The Celtics are 1-2 with him this season and 2-4 last season. He called 21.7 fouls on the Celtics and 17 fouls on their opponents this season. The 76ers were 1-3 this season and 0-4 last season with Ford. He called 24 fouls on the Sixers this season and 22 fouls on their opponents.
Umpire: Gedminas Petraitis His home win/loss record is 34/35 this season. The Celtics were 6-1 this season with Petraitis. He called 21.1 fouls on the Celtics and 19.3 fouls on their opponents. They were 7-2 last season with Petraitis. The 76ers were 1-1 this season and he called 15 fouls on the 76ers and 21 fouls on their opponents. They were 1-2 last season with Petraitis.
Suns guards Royce O’Neale (00) and Grayson Allen (8) high-five after a scoring run against the Warriors during a game at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, on Feb. 5, 2026. | Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Phoenix Suns’ post-postseason media tour has wrapped. Mat Ishbia and Brian Gregory closed the season on Thursday with their press conference, and honestly, it’s something worth appreciating here in the Valley. Not every team gives you that kind of access at the end of the year. A lot of organizations leave you guessing about direction, roster decisions, and how they view the season that just played out. That’s not the case in Phoenix.
Since Ishbia took over, ownership has been open. That deserves acknowledgment. You won’t always agree with the strategy, the draft picks, the free agency targets, or the trades. But you still get a sense of where the team is coming from. Transparency is their best currency. While no team is fully transparent, Phoenix brass gives you a window into the process at the highest level of the organization.
Part of that media tour included a stop by Mat Ishbia on the Burns and Gambo show on Arizona Sports 98.7. And one of the more interesting takeaways was his desire to keep both Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale this offseason.
“I really think highly of Grayson and Royce, and I hope they’re both on our team next year,” Ishbia stated. “I expect them both to be on our team.”
“I really think highly of Grayson and Royce and I hope they’re both on our team next year, and I expect them both to be on our team”
You can look at this statement in a couple of ways.
The most obvious one starts with leverage. No owner is going to tip his hand and tell the league he’s shopping players. That lowers the value and hurts the return. If I tell you I’m trying to sell my Topps 3 autographed /49 Rasheer Fleming rookie-verse card, you’re going to negotiate harder because you know I want out. If I say I’m not looking to sell, the price goes up. Same idea here. It’s not surprising to hear ownership say they want to keep both Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale utilizing this principle.
The second way to look at the statement is that, on the surface, Mat Ishbia and ownership want to ride the wave from this past season and don’t disrupt the boat. That’s very much in play. One thing Suns fans might not be ready for is a quiet offseason.
I think injuries capped what this team could be, and I believe the Phoenix Suns front office sees it the same way. That’s why you kept hearing “development” during the end-of-season press conference. It’s not limited to rookies. It applies to everyone on the roster. The expectation is simple: put in the work this summer and come back better across the board.
Continuity and progression become the approach. Not flipping assets. Not rebuilding chemistry again. Let the group grow together.
From my perspective, one (or both) of those assets can be used to fill in the cracks on this roster. We don’t fully know where those cracks are yet, however. There’s still work to do. The No. 47 pick in the draft. The Dillon Brooks extension. Collin Gillespie is entering free agency. Mark Williams is in restricted free agency. That’s a lot to sort through. If you’re filling gaps, Allen and O’Neale both bring desirable traits. They can shoot the three. Their contracts are manageable, as both have two years left. Those are useful pieces when you’re trying to shape the roster.
Personally, I think the organization wants to side with continuity. And truthfully? I’m not against it. We’ve had the splashy offseasons. They didn’t get you where you wanted to go. I don’t fully buy into every piece of the current roster construction theory, but still, continuity has value.
And that’s really where this all lands. You can question the ceiling, you can poke at the roster construction, and you can debate whether continuity is enough in a Western Conference that never sits still, but there’s a clarity to what the Suns are trying to do. They believe this group, healthier and more developed, can be better than what we saw. Rather than chasing the illusion of change, they’re choosing to invest in growth.
It may not be the loudest path, and it may test the patience of a fan base conditioned for fireworks. But it’s a direction, it’s intentional, and for now, it feels like the one they’re committed to seeing through.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 20: Starter Slade Cecconi #44 of the Cleveland Guardians prepares to pitch in the top of the first inning against the Houston Astros at Progressive Field on April 20, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Russell Lee Verlinger/Cleveland Guardians/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Here’s the Guardians lineup:
Saturday's Guardians lineup in West Sacramento:
CF Kwan LF Martínez 3B Ramírez 1B Hoskins DH DeLauter RF Fry 2B Bazzana C Hedges SS Rocchio
The New York Mets will try to make it two wins in a row as they face off against the Los Angeles Angels tonight.
Nolan McLean has been a rare bright spot this season for New York, and I’m counting on him leading the team to victory in my Mets vs. Angels predictions.
Let’s break down this matchup in my free MLB picks for Saturday, May 2.
Who will win Mets vs Angels today: Mets (-125)
Nolan McLean has been electric so far for the beleaguered New York Mets, posting a 2.55 ERA and 0.85 WHIP in his first six starts.
Although that hasn’t translated into many wins — New York is just 1-5 in his starts — that can’t be pinned on the 24-year-old, who has yet to allow more than three runs in any appearance.
McLean should deal against the reeling Los Angeles Angels, who have averaged only 3.86 runs per game during their seven-game losing streak and own a .698 OPS against right-handed starters this year. I like the Mets to come away with the win tonight.
COVERS INTEL:The Angels enter tonight’s game with the lowest Expected Batting Average in the majors, boasting an xBA of .227 this season.
Mets vs Angels Over/Under pick: Under 8 (-120)
The Angels haven’t been firing on offense lately, and McLean will keep them in check. The Mets have also played to totals of eight runs or fewer in each of McLean’s last four starts.
Of course, a lot of that has to do with the floundering New York offense as well. The Mets are scoring 3.44 runs per game, and while Reid Detmers isn’t the most intimidating presence on the mound, he’s solid enough to help keep the Mets from breaking out.
Ed Scimia's 2026 Transparency Record
ML/RL bets: 5-9, -4.31 units
Over/Under bets: 4-8, -4.26 units
Mets vs Angels odds
Moneyline: Mets -125 | Angels +105
Run line: Mets -1.5 (+140) | Angels +1.5 (-165)
Over/Under: Over 8 (+100) | Under 8 (-120)
Mets vs Angels trend
New York has won four consecutive head-to-head matchups against Los Angeles. Find more MLB betting trends for Mets vs. Angels.
How to watch Mets vs Angels and game info
Location
Angel Stadium, Anaheim, CA
Date
Saturday, May 2, 2026
First pitch
9:38 p.m. ET
TV
SNY, FDSN W
Mets starting pitcher
Nolan McLean (1-2, 2.55 ERA)
Angels starting pitcher
Reid Detmers (1-2, 4.28 ERA)
Mets vs Angels latest injuries
Mets vs Angels weather
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.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 30: The sneakers worn by Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers during Round One Game Six of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 30, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Mets pitching prospect Jonah Tong continues his journey back to the bigs with another impressive start with Triple-A Syracuse.
Pitching against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs on Saturday afternoon, Tong dominated, allowing just one unearned run on one hit and two walks while striking out six batters.
The one blemish to Tong's line was caused in the first inning. After allowing a leadoff walk and allowing Steward Berroa to reach on a throwing error by Tong on a sacrifice bunt, Otto Kemp made Tong pay with a sacrifice fly that brought in Christian Cairo home from third base. Tong would settle down, retiring 16 straight batters -- including the sac fly -- before a one-out walk and single put Tong in trouble again. But the young right-hander would get a flyout and Bryan De La Cruz to strike out to end the threat and Tong's day.
Saturday was a great bounce-back game for Tong after pitching just 4.2 innings in his last start. On April 26, Tong allowed three runs on five hits and three walks against the Worcester Woo Sox. He still struck out six batters in the loss, a positive trend for Tong. Including Saturday, Tong has struck out at least six batters in five straight games.
Tong also lowered his season ERA to 4.60 after seven starts.
Another top prospect was playing in this game. A.J. Ewing continued his scorching hot start to his Triple-A career with two more hits. Ewing went 2-for-5 with a run scored and a stolen base, his fourth with Syracuse. Through five games in Triple-A, Ewing is hitting .556 with a double, a triple and two RBI. Saturday was also Ewing's fourth multi-hit game.
Jonah Tong was absolutely DOMINATE today on the mound! 😤
WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 01: Jake Irvin #27 of the Washington Nationals tags out Tyler Black #7 of the Milwaukee Brewers in the fourth inning during the game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on Friday, May 1, 2026 in Washington, District of Columbia. (Photo by Alyssa Piazza/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
After yet another home loss, the Nats will look to get back on track at Nationals Park. They are now 3-11 at home, which is the worst in the league. There was not much they could do against Jacob Misiorowski last night, so hopefully the offense can get going against a different pitcher.
There will be some changes to that offense with a lefty on the mound. Joey Wiemer will be in the lineup and in right field, which pushes James Wood to left field and Daylen Lile to DH. Curtis Mead will remain at first base with a lefty on the mound. Jacob Young moves up in the lineup as well. Nasim Nunez and Keibert Ruiz will also be playing today. This will be the first time Foster Griffin sees a team twice, and I am intrigued to see how the lefty attacks this Brewers lineup for a second time.
history: the first-ever may 2, 2026 nationals lineup
The Brewers are only making a couple changes, despite a lefty being on the mound. Joey Ortiz will be back at shortstop and Brandon Lockridge will be in left field. Gary Sanchez will be behind the plate, which moves William Contreras to DH. Kyle Harrison has gotten off to a great start in his Brewers career and will get the ball this afternoon.
Now that they are not facing the Miz, this offense will actually have a chance. They have responded well after poor showings this season, and hopefully the same will be the case today. I feel like James Wood is due! Follow along in the comments down below and let’s go Nats.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 26: Kyle Harrison #52 of the Milwaukee Brewers reacts after striking out a career high 12 batters during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates of the game at American Family Field on April 26, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) | Getty Images
After the Brewers offense kept rolling in last night’s game against the Nationals, they will try to keep that momentum going this afternoon. It will be a rematch of starting pitchers from three weeks ago, when these teams played on April 11th.
First, we have today’s set of injury updates. After Jacob Misiorowski left last night’s game early, we were hopeful that it was just a cramp and nothing more serious. Thankfully, that looks like it was the case. Before the game today, Misiorowski gave a thumbs up on his hamstring. Manager Pat Murphy had the same opinion, saying that he still needs a normal day of work to make sure, but everything looks good so far. His next turn in the rotation would be Wednesday’s series finale against the Cardinals, but it’s also worth noting there’s an off-day right after it, if the Brewers want to give him a little extra rest.
Meanwhile, the news is not as good for Angel Zerpa. He’s seeking a second opinion on his forearm tightness and is deciding whether or not to have surgery. Murphy did not elaborate on what that surgery would be, but said it would be Zerpa’s decision. Either way, it’s looking like it will be a while before we see Zerpa on the field again.
Finally, Logan Henderson is currently the Brewers. He hasn’t been added to the active roster yet, but he will likely fill Brandon Woodruff’s spot in the rotation. That start would be on Tuesday in St. Louis, but Henderson could also start sooner. His last start for Nashville was on Sunday. Currently, Chad Patrick is the probable starter for tomorrow, but the Brewers have not announced their probable starters for the Cardinals series yet.
Kyle Harrison gets the start today after his dominant performance against the Pirates on Sunday. He’s coming off of six shutout innings where he allowed just one hit and one walk, while striking out 12 batters. This is his second start against the Nationals this season and he will be looking for a better result this time. In his last start against them, he only pitched 4 1/3 innings and allowed two runs on five hits and a walk, with just one strikeout.
On the other side, Foster Griffin starts today for the Nationals. He had his own strong performance last time he faced the Brewers, holding them to just one hit and three walks in 5 1/3 scoreless innings. Griffin is also coming off of a seven shutout inning start against the White Sox on Sunday. However, his two starts before that were rougher. He allowed four runs to the Pirates in 5 1/3 innings, and three runs to the Braves in six innings.
The lineup machine keeps spinning today, and it likely won’t end anytime soon with two starters due back on Monday. William Contreras gets a day off from catching and will serve as the designated hitter. Gary Sánchez will start behind the plate and bat fourth today. Brandon Lockridge and Joey Ortiz also get starts today.
First pitch is set for 3:05 p.m. It will be on Brewers.TV and the Brewers Radio Network.
Jan 17, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard De'aaron Fox (4) dribbles against Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) in the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images | Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
The Eastern Conference has three series that have yet to be decided, with three game sevens between today and tomorrow, but at least the second round of the West is set, and the NBA has released the broadcast schedule for Games 1-4 of the 2nd seed San Antonio vs. the 6th seed Minnesota Timberwolves — and it’s kind of brutal if you’re like me, have to get up early for work and therefore don’t like late tip-off times.
Western Conference Semifinals schedule: San Antonio Spurs vs. Minnesota Timberwolves ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/D1RSHxccnl
Games 1-3 will all be at 8:30 PM CT, while Game 4 will be at 6:30 PM CT. Games 5-7 are TBD and will be scheduled as needed. Another note is there is only one time there will be an extra day off between games (i.e. two instead of 0ne), and that will be between Games 5 and 6 if needed, but there will be no break for any other travel days, such as between Games 2 and 3.
Game 1 at San Antonio: Monday, May 4 @ 8:30 PM CT on NBCSN/Peacock
Game 2 at San Antonio: Wednesday, May 6 @ 8:30 PM CT on ESPN
Game 3 at Minnesota: Friday, May 8 @ 8:30 PM CT on Prime
Game 4 at Minnesota: Sunday, May 10 @ 6:30 PM CT on NBC/Peacock
Game 5 at San Antonio: Tuesday May 12 (TBD)
Game 6 at Minnesota: Friday May 15 (TBD)
Game 7 at San Antonio: Sunday May 17 (TBD)
Perhaps the most annoying thing about this schedule is Game 1 in particular does not have to be so late since it’s not a double header, but oh well. The Spurs are back in the playoffs, and that’s all that really matters. This will be an interesting round considering we don’t know the state of the Timberwolves’ health. We know Donte DiVincenozo is out, but players like Ayo Dosunmo and especially Anthony Edwards are still up in the air.
We will have more on this series, such as match-ups, X factors, and more coming soon.
ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 26: Chris Sale #51 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the second inning during the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Truist Park on April 26, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Matthew Grimes Jr./Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images
After an epic comeback victory in game 1, the Braves will hope to secure yet another series win behind their ace against a Rockies team that is generally not good but has been competitive this season.
Chris Sale has been great this season, despite one of his career-worst starts against the Angels. Coors can always make things a bit funky, but Chris Sale hasn’t had trouble with the thinner air in a tiny sample size during his long career. He has only made three appearances at Coors, two out of the bullpen in 2011 and one start last year in which he went 7.0 innings with 10 Ks. Sale has pitched 10.1 innings, allowing 2 runs and accruing 13 strikeouts at Coors overall. Ultimately, this is a Chris Sale game against the Rockies and while this Colorado team has been less miserable so far this year than in recent years, that’s a game Atlanta should win.
It looks like the Rockies will throw Chase Dollander and he has been a very positive story for the Rockies this season. He has been used strangely this season, often following an opener or pitching bulk even later in games and it appears that he may not be the formal starter today either. He has averaged just under 5.0 innings per outing, so still has a starter-like impact. Dollander has an impressive 3.05 FIP and 3.08 xFIP this season through 32.0 innings, after a replacement-level debut 2025 season. He is striking out nearly 11 batters per 9 innings and has kept his walks down substantially. Looking at his minor league numbers, the strikeouts could be real, but the walks seem likely to creep up towards average or perhaps even higher. He was a top prospect for a reason, however, and is clearly a talented pitcher. Dollander pitches primarily off of an upper 90s 4-seamer and sinker, which both have well above average arm-side run. He is still working on secondaries however, and opts for quantity over quality, with a slider, changeup, curveball, and sweeper. He seems to struggle with location on these secondaries and can leave them over the middle of the plate or miss the zone substantially a good bit. The Braves would do well to put some runs up before Dollander enters the game, but with Sale on the mound should still feel good about this matchup.
Game Info
Game Date/Time: Saturday, May 2, 8:10 p.m. EDT
Location: Coors Field, Denver, CO
TV: BravesVision
Streaming: MLB.tv (and Braves.tv if you’re in-market, etc.)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 26: Spencer Arrighetti #41 of the Houston Astros pitches in the first inning against the New York Yankees at Daikin Park on April 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Maria Lysaker/Getty Images) | Getty Images
TODAY’S GAME: The Houston Astros (12-21) and Boston Red Sox (13-19) play the 2nd game of this 3-game weekend series at Fenway Park this afternoon.
RHP Spencer Arrighetti (3-0, 2.00 ERA) will start for the Astros vs. BOS LHP Connelly Early (2-1, 2.84 ERA). The Astros will be facing Early for the 1st time in his young career.
SPENCER’S GIFTS: After starting the season at Triple A Sugar Land, RHP Spencer Arrighetti has been strong in his 3 starts for the Astros this season. He is 3-0 with a 2.00 ERA (4ER/18IP) with 9 BB and 21 SO and a .169 opp. avg.
In his last start on Sunday vs. NYY, he allowed just 3 hits and 1 run in 7.0 IP with 8 strikeouts (7-4 win).
SUCCESS VS. THE SOX: RHP Spencer Arrighetti has had success in his previous 2 starts vs. the Red Sox. In those 2 starts combined, Red Sox hitters are just 3×38 (.079) vs. him.
In his Fenway Park debut on Aug. 10, 2024, Arrighetti tallied a career-high 13 strikeouts en route to a 5-4 win (7 IP, 2 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 13 SO).
On Aug. 12 of last season, Arrighetti allowed just 1 hit in 5.0 IP vs. BOS, but took the loss in what ended in a 14-1 Red Sox win (5 IP, 1 H, 2 ER, 5 BB, 3 SO).
LOTS OF LEFTIES: The Astros are scheduled to face LH starters in all 3 games of this series.
The last time they faced a LH starter in all games of a 3-game series was April 30-May 2, 2021 vs. TB (almost exactly 5 years ago).
The last time that HOU has faced 3 consecutive LH starters overall was Sept. 19-21, 2024 vs. LAA (4-game series).
ROADIES: Today is the 5th game (1-3 thus far) of a 6-game road trip for the Astros.
HOU was 1-2 in BAL on the first stop of the trip.
DAYTIMERS: As a result of Wednesday night’s rainout in BAL, 4 of the 6 games on the Astros current road trip will be day games.
HOU ended their last homestand with a day game, so they will have played 5 of 7 games in the daytime once they complete this road trip.
VS THE SAWX: The Astros swept the Red Sox in a 3-game series at Daikin Park earlier this season, Mar. 30-April 1.
Over the past 10 seasons (since 2017), HOU is 33-23 (.589) vs. BOS overall.
FUN AT FENWAY: Despite being swept in a 3-game series in their last visit here (Aug. 1-3), the Astros have had recent success at Fenway Park. HOU has won 6 of their last 10 games at Fenway.
Prior to last year’s series in Aug., HOU had swept the Red Sox in 2 consecutive visits to Fenway, Aug. 28-30 of 2023 and Aug. 9-11 of 2024 (both 3-game series).
The Astros are 16-10 (.615) in the regular season at Fenway Park since 2017. Houston is also 4-3 at Fenway all-time in the postseason.
YORDAN AT FENWAY: In 13 career reg. season games at Fenway, Yordan Alvarez is hitting .438 (21×48) with 7 HR and 16 RBI with a 1.529 OPS. His career OPS, SLG (.979) and OBP (.550) at Fenway are the best all-time (min. 50 PA).
PLAYER OF THE MONTH?: Yordan Alvarez is a strong candidate for the AL Player of the Month Award for March/April as he has had a torrid start to his season, hitting .341 with 12 HR and 27 RBI.
Alvarez currently leads the AL in RBI (27), TB (87) and OBP (.446) while ranking 2nd in batting avg. (.341), SLG (.707) and OPS (1.153) and T-2nd in HR (12).
HIT PARADE: The Astros, who lead the AL in batting (.267), have reached double-figures in hits in each of the last 3 games, going 38×118 (.322) in that span.
Last night marked the 14th game in which HOU reached double figures in hits in 2026.
ROAD WARRIOR: In 12 road games (9 starts) this season, Brice Matthews is 11×35 (.314) with a HR, 7 RBI and 5 BB, slashing (.313/.400/.486) for an .886 OPS.
In his young career, Matthews is hitting .288 in 19 road games (15 starts) with 5 HR and 16 RBI with a .373 OBP and a .593 SLG (.966 OPS).
CLIMBING THE CHARTS: With 238 career HR as a second basemen, Jose Altuve needs one more to tie Lou Whitaker for 7th place all-time among 2nd basemen.
Altuve also needs 3 RBI to become the 5th player in franchise history to reach 900.
WALKER, TEXAS HAMMER: Christian Walker is hitting .375 (15×40) in his last 10 games (since 4/20) with 3 HR and 8 RBI.
For the season, Walker enters today ranked T-7th in the AL in RBI (24), 7th in SLG (.546), 5th in TB (65), 9th in OPS (.917) and T-6th in doubles (9).
TODAY IN ASTROS HISTORY: 2017 – The Astros erupt for 5 runs in the bottom of the 8th inning, lifting them to an 8-7, come-from-behind win over the Texas Rangers in Houston. Marwin Gonzalez led the way as his grand slam in that 8th inning was the key blow. For the game, Gonzalez went 2×3 with 2 HR and 5 RBI.
Game Info
Game Date/Time: Saturday, May 2, 3:10 p.m. CT
Location: Fenway Park, Boston, MA
TV: Space City Home Network
Streaming: SCHN+
Radio: KBME 790 AM & 94.5 FM HD2; TUDN 102.9 FM HD2 (Spanish)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 31: Michael Porter Jr. #17 of the Brooklyn Nets looks on from the bench during after the game against the Charlotte Hornets at Barclays Center on March 31, 2026 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. 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 Ishika Samant/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s that time of year again. Michael Porter Jr. is on the podcast circuit with its usual misogyny, assorted hangers-on and certified weirdness that, sadly, we’ve become accustomed to. He’s been warned about it and we’ve commented on it. But as in the past, there’s usually some news amidst the detritus: After intially admitting to hating the trade, New York has won him over and he can “see the the future” in Brooklyn.
In this instance, during an extended run with 21-year-old live-streamer with a half-million followers, N3ON (described charitably as having “mastered the medium by stirring up trouble”) we see and hear MPJ, among other things: Get into an argument with an ex-girlfriend that leads to her doxxing him and police call; first scolding then jokingly (?) offering a youngster $500 to beat up a friend who had called MPJ the N-word at a video arcade; and suggesting that his decision to disclose Adam Silver’s personal phone number years ago may have cost him an All-Star berth … while also noting he apologized to the commissioner during the Nuggets ring ceremony. He even gets into the controversy surrounding Deni Advija’s loyalty to Israel. Like we said, among other things
Curious Mike indeed … but yes entertaining as well.
In the same conversation, all it not only streamed but broken into somewhat digestible pieces, MPJ spoke about last June’s salary dumps of all salary dumps, the one that sent him and an unprotected first round Nugget pick in 2032 to Brooklyn for Cam Johnson and some cap space that the Nuggets then used to sign Christian Braun. (Bill Simmons famously called it “one of the worst trades of the decade” and in a way he might be right … if he had been talking about Denver.)
As he has in the past, Porter described how he learned of the trade from his agent and the Nuggets GM on a flight to St. Tropez on the French Riviera but he added for the first time that he was not at all happy going to Brooklyn from a perennial contender…
Michael Porter Jr. tells N3ON he was HEATED after the Denver Nuggets traded him to the Brooklyn Nets 😳
“My first reaction, I was sick,” he admitted to N3ON. “because first of all, I knew Brooklyn wasn’t a good team at the time and I hated New York. New York is my least favorite city I have ever been in. I always hated New York because it’s so claustrophobic. I’m from Missouri in the middle of nowhere where you get to move around and New York’s the opposite so I hated that I was traded there. But then, I got there and know my way around, it’s lit! New York is crackin!” N3ON
When N3ON asks if Nets have a good “culture”, MPJ offered an enthusiastic response.
“Yeah, great culture. Everyone’s cool Young team! So that’s nice,” he added, saying that he’s embracing his role at the team leader as the third oldest player on the team (dropping to second by season’s end behind only Terrance Mann.)
In the same clip, Porter spoke about how he thinks the Nuggets made a mistake in trading him and how he sees the future in Brooklyn.
When N3ON asks if he thinks the Nuggets would’ve won the NBA title — instead of crashing out in the first round — with him on the roster, MPJ agreed.
“I do, they never should have traded me,” he said, but quickly pointed out that he is happy with the Nets. “Honestly, I’m living my best life in Brooklyn. Even though we didn’t do well this year, I can see the future. We’re the youngest team in the league. We got a lot of money to spend.”
In comparison with some of his podcasts last summer, the back-and-forth with N3ON, one of the top practicioners of live-streaming’, was tame. Not to mention that the 27-year-old Porter has ingratiating himself with Nets fans. Bottom line is he is what he is.
Star players were on the bench in street clothes. Houston lacked shooting or consistent shot creation from their young core — their offense got stagnant. Without Steven Adams, they lacked the offensive rebounding power to cover that up. While the defense remained impressive — the Lakers didn't score in triple-digits and had just a 106 offensive rating — if Houston wasn't creating turnovers and converting them into transition buckets, its offense struggled.
Houston was a team that looked better on paper than it did on the court for most of the season. Which begs the question:
Now what?
Stand pat, bank on better health and improved play from their young core, and hope that is enough? Even if things go much better, is that enough in a Western Conference with Oklahoma City and San Antonio? And where does Kevin Durant fit into all of this?
Or, there is another option.
Rockets may go star hunting
With that young talent and a lot of draft picks, the Rockets could make an impressive pitch for Giannis Antetokounmpo or any other star players who become available (Kawhi Leonard and Donovan Mitchell are popular targets of speculation). A lot of people around the league expect the Rockets to push their chips in and try to maximize their window with Durant, William Guillory and Sam Amick at The Athletic report.
Should Houston prioritize chasing the limited window that comes with a 37-year-old superstar, even if it means chipping away at these young players that they've built up over the past few seasons? If the Rockets decide to chase another star-level talent this summer — like so many rival executives believe they will — they are well positioned to do so. But whether it's chasing Antetokounmpo, or perhaps Leonard or Mitchell, that approach runs the risk of backfiring if they come up short while sending the wrong kinds of signals to this current core.
Any trade for another star likely involved Alperen Sengun going out, both because of his potential — he's a two-time All-Star — and his contract, which would be needed to match the money (Sengun is in the first year of a $185 million, five-year deal). Houston also has a lot of draft picks they can throw in the mix.
That star would have to pair well with Durant, who signed a two-year, $90 million extension with the team last summer and has said he wants to end his career in Houston. He's not going anywhere unless he asks out, despite the reported friction with teammates about his X burner accounts.
Just getting healthy
Houston's loss of Fred VanVleet to a torn ACL during a September players mini-camp changed the Rockets season. He was the secondary shot creator and the veteran floor general this team sorely lacked — something that was very evident during the playoff series with the Lakers. Adams was another big loss because of his offensive rebounding, pick setting and presence in the paint.
Then there was Durant. He had been incredibly healthy all season, playing in 78 games and more total minutes than he had since 2013-14. However, he banged knees with a teammate in practice before Game 1 and had to sit that one out, then rolled his ankle in Game 2 and suffered a bone bruise. He played in just one of the six games in the series, and it was another big blow to the Houston offense.
What if those veterans all come back next season healthy, while the young core with Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr. and Reed Sheppard all take a step forward? Is that enough? This team amassed 52 wins and finished fifth in the Western Conference despite all the injuries.
While Udoka will certainly be under fire for the part he played in the collapse, he signed a lucrative multiyear extension last summer that most league observers believe should shield him from being fired. The third-year Rockets coach is still considered one of the NBA's elite defensive coaches, with this latest version of his team still finishing sixth in defensive rating despite losing their most impactful defender, Dillon Brooks, in the Durant deal (they were fifth last season).
Does management force Udoka to take on an "offensive coordinator" assistant coach? Maybe.
While a lot of options are on the table, expect the Rockets to be bold this summer. They already spent big and went all-in with Kevin Durant, this is no time to start playing it safe.
After falling behind 3-1 in the first-round series against the Orlando Magic, the Detroit Pistons have forced a Game 7, and they’ll look to complete an improbable comeback in front of the home crowd.
Cade Cunningham has put Detroit on his back throughout the series, and my Magic vs. Pistons predictions expect him to have another monster performance as he leads his team to victory.
Here are my best free NBA picks for Sunday’s winner-take-all Game 7 at Little Caesars Arena.
Magic vs Pistons prediction
Magic vs Pistons best bet: Cade Cunningham Over 44.5 points + rebounds + assists (-120)
Cade Cunningham was tremendous in the regular season, but as good as he was through those 64 games, he’s elevated his play to another level in the postseason.
Cunningham has averaged 32.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 6.3 assists in the series, good for 45.3 PRA. He’s averaged 48.7 at home compared to 42 on the road. He recorded 45+ PRA in two of three home playoff games, going for exactly 44 in the other.
The Detroit Pistons star point guard averaged an eye-popping 32.7 points, 8.3 rebounds and 10.7 assists in three regular-season matchups with Orlando, comfortably clearing the Over on this combo prop in each game. He averaged 54.5 PRA in two at home in the regular season.
In the playoffs, Cunningham ranks second in points per game, first in field goal attempts, third in free throw attempts and fourth in minutes. His 23 field goal attempts are up from 18.6 in the regular season. His free throws have increased from six per game to 10.7, and his minutes have shot up from 33.9 to 40.5.
Cunningham leads all players in postseason usage at 35.3%. He comfortably leads his team in that category, with Tobias Harris coming in second at just 24.8.
The Pistons go as far as Cade takes them, and the team will need him to stuff the stat sheet in order to complete the series comeback and avoid an upset by the No. 8 seed. I’m expecting a huge game for the breakout playoff star.
Magic vs Pistons same-game parlay
The Orlando Magic have outplayed the Pistons for most of the series, but the psychological aspect of competition comes into play here.
The Magic were up 22 points at halftime in front of the home crowd before suffering an historic meltdown and blowing its chances to complete the upset and advance to the second round.
The Pistons were clearly feeling themselves at the end of Game 6, and they’ve got swagger and momentum to go with home court advantage. Orlando has got to be reeling, and I’ll bet on Detroit to win this one by double digits.
Scoring has come at a major premium in this series, and the Game Total Under has hit in four of six matchups. The Game Total has gone Under 203.5 in three of six, including two of the last three.
Both teams failed to record 100 points three times in the series, and I’ll take the Under in what should be a gritty, physical dog fight.
Magic vs Pistons SGP
Cade Cunningham Over 44.5 points + rebounds + assists
Magic -9
Under 203
Magic vs Pistons odds for Game 7
Spread: Orlando +9 | Detroit -9
Moneyline: Orlando +290 | Detroit -370
Over/Under: Over 203 | Under 203
Magic vs Pistons betting trend to know
The Orlando Magic have hit the Game Total Under in five of their last six road games. Find more NBA betting trends for Magic vs. Pistons.
How to watch Magic vs Pistons Game 7
Location
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
Date
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Tip-off
3:30 p.m. ET
TV
ABC
Magic vs Pistons latest injuries
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