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The San Antonio Spurs aren’t looking to drag this first-round series out. As admirable as the Portland Trail Blazers’ season has been—especially given the turmoil surrounding their head coach’s arrest just before opening night—it’s likely to end quietly without much resistance in this matchup.

My Trail Blazers vs. Spurs predictions and these NBA picks welcome our new overlord, Victor Wembanyama, as he continues his dominance in Game 2 on Tuesday, April 21.

Trail Blazers vs Spurs prediction

Who will win Trail Blazers vs Spurs Game 2?

Spurs: Victor Wembanyama has officially arrived. Not to overreact to an easy Game 1 win, but this version of the San Antonio Spurs should be feared by everyone in the NBA.

The Trail Blazers had a delightfully surprising season, but it would be an act of mercy by the NBA to shorten this series to best-of-five, if not best-of-three.

Trail Blazers vs Spurs best bet: Victor Wembanyama Over 28.5 points (-105)

What of Victor Wembanyama’s resounding playoff debut might not be repeatable? The San Antonio Spurs’ superstar scored 35 points in a dominant win, playing fewer than 33 minutes.

He did shoot 5-for-6 from deep; perhaps he will shoot just 2-for-6 from beyond the arc in Game 2. Those nine points would be costly in pursuit of this points prop. But then again, Wembanyama did not need to stress in that Game 1 win. Missing a few more 3-pointers would create a more competitive game, leading to more Wembanyama minutes.

That would provide enough of a cushion to think Wembanyama should clear this prop in either game state.

Focus on his last few weeks. The Frenchman scored at least 34 points in four of his final five regular-season games. He has been locked in for a bit.

And as Sunday night made clear, the Portland Trail Blazers do not have a defender to slow down Wembanyama. Donovan Clingan may be a massive human being, but he is simply not quick or agile enough to defend Wembanyama outside the paint.

Trail Blazers vs Spurs same-game parlay

Clingan will have a quality NBA career. It should last more than a decade. His size and defensive instincts are assets that contenders will value.

But he is no match for Wembanyama right now. Portland realized that in Game 1, and Clingan played just 21 minutes. Logic would have expected him to be more in the 28-30 range, but with Wembanyama ruling, the Trail Blazers needed to alter their rotation.

Clingan’s minutes may stay limited this whole series, leading to some continued value in the Unders on his player props.

Trail Blazers vs Spurs SGP

• Victor Wembanyama Over 28.5 points
• Donovan Clingan Under 9.5 points
• Donovan Clingan Under 9.5 rebounds

Our "from downtown" SGP: Wemby, Whatever Way

This is not doubt in Wembanyama. I'm merely suggesting that Portland will try a different coverage, because Sunday’s clearly did not work. Forcing Wembanyama off the arc will do only so much to his overall scoring.

The one thing the Trail Blazers should carry over from Game 1 is slowing down the pace. Fewer possessions give San Antonio fewer chances to enjoy its talent advantages, led by Wembanyama, obviously.

Trail Blazers vs Spurs SGP

• Victor Wembanyama Over 28.5 points
• Victor Wembanyama Under 2.5 made threes
• Under 220.5

Trail Blazers vs Spurs odds for Game 2

• Spread: Trail Blazers +11.5 (-115) | Spurs -11.5 (-105)
• Moneyline: Trail Blazers +475 | Spurs -650 
• Over/Under: Over 220.5 (-110) | Under 220.5 (-110)

Trail Blazers vs Spurs betting trend to know

As every game became a must-win for Portland, the Trail Blazers became a reliable Under team. Six of their final eight regular-season games cashed their Unders. Find more NBA betting trends for Trail Blazers vs. Spurs.

How to watch Trail Blazers vs Spurs Game 2

Trail Blazers vs Spurs latest injuries

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The Minnesota Timberwolves head into Game 2 down 1-0 after Denver Nuggets protected home court in the opener, and the market isn’t exactly expecting a bounce-back. With Denver now laying -7.5, oddsmakers are pricing in a clear gap as the series stays in altitude.

Our Timberwolves vs. Nuggets predictions and free NBA picks break down whether that number is justified — or if there’s value on Minnesota to respond before this series gets out of hand.

Who will win Timberwolves vs Nuggets Game 2?

Timberwolves win probability:28% (+257)
Nuggets win probability:77% (-285)

With a 77% win probability, the Denver Nuggets are expected to take Game 2 behind Nikola Jokic’s playmaking and Jamal Murray’s scoring, while the Minnesota Timberwolves will need a big response from Anthony Edwards to beat the odds.

Our prediction:Nuggets to win

Our NBA expert is calling for a Nuggets victory: "I fully expect the Nuggets to go up 2-0 in this series. When healthy, this Denver rotation may be the second-best team in the NBA, something not enough people recognize because it was healthy so rarely this season.

Read more in Douglas Farmer's full Timberwolves vs. Nuggets predictions.

More Timberwolves vs Nuggets prediction markets

You're certainly not limited to the main game outcome for Timberwolves vs. Nuggets at Kalshi; you also have options to trade on the spread, total, and more, among other NBA odds markets.

You can buy either side of a market — for example, "Yes" on the Nuggets -7.5 spread means the Nuggets will cover, while "No" means the Timberwolves will cover — with each side priced based on the implied probability (which can be converted to American, Decimal, or Fraction odds using the Covers odds converter).

Timberwolves vs Nuggets spread and total at prediction markets

Our predictions:Nuggets -7.5 — Yes and Over 230.5 points — Yes

Our projections back the Denver Nuggets to cover the -7.5 behind Nikola Jokic controlling tempo and Jamal Murray scoring efficiently, while the pace and shot-making on both sides push this game Over 230.5.

Other Timberwolves vs Nuggets prediction markets available

• Jamal Murray 25+ points (Yes: 60¢)
• Nikola Jokic 25+ points (Yes: 68¢)
• Anthony Edwards 25+ points (Yes: 65¢)

What is Kalshi and how does it work?

Kalshi is a federally regulated U.S. exchange where you trade directly on the outcome of real-world future events. Instead of traditional bets, you trade "Event Contracts" which are simple Yes/No questions like "Will the Nuggets win tonight?" These events are priced between $0.01 and $0.99, and the prices reflect the market’s estimated probability of that event occurring. For instance, $0.55 equals a 55% chance. If your prediction is correct, the contract pays out exactly $1.00; if not, it settles at $0. Kalshi is essentially a stock market for reality.

How does Kalshi differ from sportsbooks?

In a sportsbook, you bet against the bookmaker, who sets fixed odds and takes a "vig," which is a kind of commission. On Kalshi, you trade against other users. This peer-to-peer model means prices are driven by supply and demand, often resulting in fairer odds. Additionally, because these are financial derivatives, you can exit your position early. If your team takes a 14-point lead, the contract price will rise, allowing you to sell your "Yes" shares for a profit before the final whistle even blows.

Why should I wager on Timberwolves vs Nuggets at Kalshi?

Kalshi offers four unique advantages over traditional sportsbooks:

1. Flexibility: Unlike a "locked-in" bet, you can sell your contract at any time.
   
   
2. Transparency: You trade against other users, which can allow you to find better value.
   
   
3. Federal regulation: As a CFTC-regulated exchange, your funds are held in a secure, transparent environment.
   
   
4. Availability: Kalshi is available in 49 states (excluding Nevada) and D.C., including many regions where traditional sportsbooks aren't yet legal.

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The opening weekend of the NBA playoffs didn’t hit the heights of the Play-In drama, but that could all change tonight with the Toronto Raptors, Atlanta Hawks, and Minnesota Timberwolves trying to rebound from Game 1 losses.

As those teams dig into adjustments and counters, I’ve brought a similar focus to the NBA player props market, and my favorite targets lean into the home squads, with wagers on James Harden and Aaron Gordon.

Check out my three favorite NBA picks for the April 20 hoops action.

Best NBA player props today

Player	Pick
James Harden	Over 2.5 threes	-112
Dyson Daniels	Over 5.5 assists	-112
Aaron Gordon	Over 22.5 points + rebounds	-110

Prop #1: James Harden Over 2.5 threes

-112 at bet365

James Harden feasted against the Toronto Raptors on Saturday, racking up 22 points and 10 assists, and I expect his shooting stroke to be there again in Game 2. The Beard knocked down four 3-pointers over the weekend, and he’s finished with 3+ triples in four of his past five outings.

It’s fair to pencil in a better defensive effort from Toronto tonight. Still, Harden can get to his stepback 3-ball in any matchup, and he’ll gladly hunt Toronto's weaker defenders on the perimeter.

Harden made his 3-pointers at a 44% clip in his 26 regular-season contests for the Cleveland Cavaliers, and he’s set to be a thorn in the Raptors’ side again at Rocket Arena.

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

Prop #2: Dyson Daniels Over 5.5 assists

-112 at bet365

Dyson Daniels pushed the New York Knicks all the way in Game 1, and his motor will be a factor again tonight at MSG.

Daniels dished 11 assists at MSG on Saturday — his second straight outing with double-digit dimes — and we should see playmaking flashes from the Aussie again here, with New York clamping down on CJ McCollum, Jalen Johnson, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. 

That’ll leave the ball in Daniels’ hands on plenty of possessions, and he’s nailed this Over in four of his last five outings. Plus, look for his minutes to climb even higher as the Atlanta Hawks try to level the series tonight.

• Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: NBC/Peacock

Prop #3: Aaron Gordon Over 22.5 points + rebounds

-110 at bet365

Aaron Gordon was his usual steady self in Game 1, ending up with 17 points and eight rebounds, and I’m going back to the well tonight for another do-it-all performance from AG in this very familiar matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Denver Nuggets need Gordon at full strength to make a Finals run, and that’ll include more opportunistic sharpshooting from downtown, where he posted a 39% mark during the regular season.

Most of all, this pick banks on Gordon’s ability to go up a level in the playoffs. He averaged 16.2 ppg and 7.6 rpb in last year’s postseason, and he’s a natural beneficiary in the paint when Nikola Jokic draws a swarm of Minnesota defenders.

• Time: 10:30 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: NBC/Peacock

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

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Tyrese Maxey is like the wind. He gets up to dangerous speeds, and can make you feel uncomfortable. Fortunately, Boston brought their windbreaker, and inside TD Garden there wasn’t even a breeze.

Without Joel Embiid, Game 1 was all about Maxey. We knew that, he knew that, and most importantly, so did the Celtics.

Maxey played the entirety of the first quarter, and finished with a 34.5% usage percentage. In that frame he shot 3-9, outpacing everyone in field goal attempts on either side. It felt like a predetermined mindset that the best way to counter Boston’s plans to smother him was to be ultra aggressive.

He started the game with a lightly contested step back 3-pointer over Sam Hauser, then hit just 2 of his next 10. A substantial reason for this is that in preparation for an assertive Maxey, Boston focused on how they could still dictate the terms.

Jordan Walsh spoke before the series about the challenge and goals of covering a player like Maxey, and his analysis hit on the what the Celtics honed in on in Game 1.

“Taking away tendencies, and knowing the small things.” Walsh said. “Make them go to their second option, their third option… if he wants to go right and do a step back, just don’t let him do that and make him do something else and usually we’ll live with the end result.”

Walsh revealed one observable key to the matchup, limiting Maxey’s step backs going right. As the chart shows, Maxey is significantly more effective from distance when he’s shooting toward his right. On the night, just one of his four three point attempts came from that right wing.

His second shot of the game came after getting Jayson Tatum switched onto him.

The most important aspect of this possession is the positioning of Sam Hauser. The moment Maxey begins his drive, Hauser stunts at him. This is often an incredibly forcing idea. It can lead to live ball turnovers, kick outs, or early dribble pick ups. For a crafty downhill driver like Maxey, that lowers his threat levels if he can’t get to his floater or deep into the paint. He identifies the stunt — and an awaiting Queta — and opts for the left wing step back instead.

If there’s a true blind spot on the floor for Maxey, it is the left short midrange area. He has 28 attempts there on the season, and converted just 25% of those looks. It’s not a zone that he looks for, but on multiple occasions it’s exactly where the Celtics guided him to.

In this case, it was Maxey pushing the ball up quick, enjoying the space he found 1-on-1 with Derrick White. But again, it’s the positioning from Boston with Tatum and Hauser overextending that shrinks the middle of floor. This narrows his options, and Maxey settles for a contested turnaround jumper in unfamiliar territory.

A possession like that feels like the balance of Maxey trying to show he won’t be limited, versus Boston pushing him out of his comfort zones and living with the results, as Walsh explained.

This is arguably the best example of the Celtics’ guiding hand at work.

With Boston prepared to switch, Oubre sets a brush screen to try to create an opening for Maxey to get to his right. White had no interest in the screen, and beats Maxey to the spot. This forces the Sixers to reset, and Oubre comes back to ghost the screen this time.

Maxey gets downhill to his left but Vucevic is waiting in the paint, Hauser is cheating over, and White is still on his hip. His shot fake gets White out of the picture, but he is instantly replaced by Hauser and Tatum rushing to contest. He’s forced to kick it out to Paul George, who sees his own driving lane disappear with a similar hoard of Celtics in his path. His pass is picked off, and Tatum finishes in transition.

You can’t win every possession, but the goal was to keep Maxey driving left and staying left as much as possible. When he begins a play on the left wing — whether it’s isolation or pick & roll — he prefers to spin, crossover or euro his way toward the middle and his right hand.

Notice how White positions himself against this screen. He stays above it, but waits for any sign of a drive to the right. Maxey concedes, using the Drummond screen to go left. White spins under it to meet him on the other side, while Vucevic and Brown join him to suffocate what just looked like open space. Maxey picks up his dribble, and attempts his second contested short midrange jumper from the left side.

The attention to detail stands out from every player on the floor. In each clip it’s not necessarily the individual defense of one player, but the collective understanding of what they’re trying to accomplish. As three players converge on one drive, the other two are rotating or zoning up on the weak side.

In the moments where it is about on-ball isolation defense, the rest of the team is still moving on a string to prevent breakdowns or openings elsewhere.

Here Maxey draws the Tatum matchup again. He has room to operate, and tries to get separation for his trusty step back. Tatum probably still doesn’t get enough credit for his defensive ability, but it’s his intuition here that allows him to throw Maxey off. He stays close enough to dissuade the three without giving up a step on the drive. He sends Maxey toward the baseline — where Vucevic is headed — and forces him to cross back toward the left hand, before trying an awkward floating shot facing away from the hoop.

While Tatum’s defense is under the spotlight here, it’s important to note the tandem effort from Vucevic and Walsh the allows them to send help to the rim without leaving the corner or the big available as outlets.

That connected effort was the theme of the night. Maxey finished with 21 points on 8/20 shooting, and his aggressiveness visibly diminished after the first quarter. Each defender had their job in slowing him down, regardless of who drew the initial matchup.

This was only Game 1, and Philly will adjust. They’ll look to free Maxey off the ball, flip the angle of his screens, and find ways to get him moving before the defense is set.

The larger problem remains if his supporting cast can’t command enough defensive attention to force Boston into tougher choices. As long as the Celtics can sag off the shooters and load up in the driving lanes, they’ll continue to dictate the terms.

Maxey is still the wind. Boston just knows which way it blows.

Going into the series against the Sixers, the Celtics had to wait to see which coverage Nick Nurse would pick on ball-screen actions. As most modern basketball plays start with a screen for the ball-handler, the chosen coverage tells a lot about a team’s philosophy and its capabilities.

If Joël Embiid was healthy (so a pretty big if), the Sixers would probably have been in drop coverage, with the former MVP staying low under the screen, waiting for the Celtics to attempt a drive or forcing them into pull-ups. But, as often, the big man from Cameroon is out. Nurse has to make do with either Adem Bona, Andre Drummond, or sometimes Dominick Barlow.

With these bigs, it makes less sense to go for drop coverage, as their rim protection isn’t elite. Plus, they are a little more mobile than Embiid, offering an opportunity to switch and try to contain the ball-handler, or hedge and apply pressure. With Nurse being an adept of aggressive coverages and defensive playmaking, it was somewhat expected to see a hedge coverage… and the Celtics totally exposed it.

With this approach, the Sixers wanted to force the ball out of Tatum’s hands and also create some chaos in the Celtics’ offense. However, JT has improved so much as a playmaker that he has learned how to deal with these coverages.

On this first example with Neemias Queta, he finds him on the short roll around the free-throw line, as he expects him to be free from his matchup. Because of his size and basketball IQ, this coverage doesn’t work if nobody comes to tag the roll man, like here.

However, basketball is like an onion and has many layers. So what happens if the Sixers tag the roll man (here Nikola Vucevic) when executing a hedge coverage? To do so, you need a third defender, who will have to leave his man open for a second to contain the roll. This takes away the paint but creates an open shot beyond the line. Here, for one of the best shooters alive, Sam Hauser.

While this approach makes Jayson Tatum’s passing shine, at least it takes away his scoring. At least a little. On this next play, Barlow is too slow to step up on the ball screen and leaves space between him and the screener. JT’s handle is sharp enough to split the defense as he crosses in front of the defender and finishes at the rim. This is a great example of why the Sixers coaching staff would rather put two on the ball so these drives don’t happen.

The other limitation of this coverage is how much the screener’s defender can anticipate the ball direction. Here, Drummond is getting ready for Jaylen Brown to go left and commits to that play too early. JB sees it, rejects the screen, and can drive with his right hand into an open paint. Bad coverage and bad execution.

Once everybody saw how bad the Sixers were at hedging the pick-and-roll, it became a playground for the Celtics’ offense. Here, Payton Pritchard beats it himself with patience, great vision, and good timing to find Queta alone below the rim, as Drummond is once again behind the play.

This coverage is also going poorly due to the elite spacing that the Celtics have. On this play, with Derrick White as the ball-handler, the secondary rim protector and low man is supposed to be Paul George. However, PG is forced to choose between protecting the paint or covering Hauser in the corner—an impossible decision leading to another shot at the rim.

Overall, the Celtics had elite rim efficiency, and it was largely due to poorly chosen and executed coverages. Now, the Sixers have a couple of days to adjust their approach to slow down the Celtics’ avalanche.

Well, any news is good news after what we all witnessed Sunday afternoon.

After the Sixers were thoroughly beaten by the Celtics in Game 1 in Boston, it appears there is a glimmer of hope that Joel Embiid can return before the series ends.

The Sixers Monday announced that Embiid has started his strength and conditioning program.

Embiid is back in Philly and not with the team in Boston.

It’s hard to know what to make of this as far as when Embiid could return to action.

Embiid underwent his emergency appendectomy on Thursday, April 9, so we’re 11 days post-surgery. Again, this feels like positive news that he’s even reached a stage where he can begin a strength and conditioning program — something he wouldn’t be doing unless there was a chance he could come back — but there are likely many more hurdles to clear and much will depend on how Embiid’s body responds.

Remember, you’re asking Embiid to play in NBA playoffs games against a great team when he’s been unable to do much physically for over a week. That’s an impossible ask. But if we’ve learned anything about Embiid in recent years, it’s that he’s going to push to play — sometimes to his own detriment.

Both Adem Bona, who got the starting nod, and Andre Drummond struggled mightily in Game 1. Both got in early foul trouble as well, only adding to the Sixers’ litany of issues. It’s painfully obvious that Embiid would help a great deal, but it’s hard to know what to expect when/if he comes back.

The Sixers will be without Embiid for Game 2 in Boston Tuesday night. Could he be available when the series goes to Philly for Game 3 on Friday night? It appears we’re back to playing the will he/won’t he game with Embiid yet again. To be honest, it’s comfortable territory at this point.

And it beats having to watch the version of the team we watched Sunday.

Spurs' Victor Wembanyama wins Defensive Player of the Year after historic season originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

Victor Wembanyama is officially the NBA’s best defender.

The San Antonio Spurs star was named Defensive Player of the Year on Monday after a historic season, becoming the award’s first unanimous winner since its inception in 1982-83.

He beat out finalists Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren and Detroit Pistons wing Ausar Thompson.

At just 22 years old, Wembanyama is the youngest player to ever earn the award – surpassing 23-year-old winners Alvin Robertson (1986), Dwight Howard (2009), Kawhi Leonard (2015), Jaren Jackson Jr. (2023) and Evan Mobley (2025).

Wembanyama has led the NBA in blocks in each of his three NBA seasons since being drafted first overall in 2023. In 2025-26, he averaged 3.1 blocks and 1.0 steals per game.

As a rookie in 2023-24, Wembanyama finished second in DPOY voting behind Rudy Gobert while making First-Team All-Defense. His second season ended early with just 46 games played, making him ineligible for awards despite averaging a league-high 3.8 blocks per game.

Wembanyama is also a finalist for MVP, along with Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic. In his playoff debut on Sunday night, Wembanyama led the second-seeded Spurs to a 111-98 win over the Portland Trail Blazers while blocking two shots and scoring 35 points.

If he can stay healthy, this is expected to be the first of many Defensive Player of the Year honors for the French star. For now, though, his focus is on helping the Spurs win their first playoff series since 2017.

Spurs' Victor Wembanyama wins Defensive Player of the Year after historic season originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Victor Wembanyama is officially the NBA’s best defender.

The San Antonio Spurs star was named Defensive Player of the Year on Monday after a historic season, becoming the award’s first unanimous winner since its inception in 1982-83.

He beat out finalists Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren and Detroit Pistons wing Ausar Thompson.

At just 22 years old, Wembanyama is the youngest player to ever earn the award – surpassing 23-year-old winners Alvin Robertson (1986), Dwight Howard (2009), Kawhi Leonard (2015), Jaren Jackson Jr. (2023) and Evan Mobley (2025).

Wembanyama has led the NBA in blocks in each of his three NBA seasons since being drafted first overall in 2023. In 2025-26, he averaged 3.1 blocks and 1.0 steals per game.

As a rookie in 2023-24, Wembanyama finished second in DPOY voting behind Rudy Gobert while making First-Team All-Defense. His second season ended early with just 46 games played, making him ineligible for awards despite averaging a league-high 3.8 blocks per game.

Wembanyama is also a finalist for MVP, along with Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic. In his playoff debut on Sunday night, Wembanyama led the second-seeded Spurs to a 111-98 win over the Portland Trail Blazers while blocking two shots and scoring 35 points.

If he can stay healthy, this is expected to be the first of many Defensive Player of the Year honors for the French star. For now, though, his focus is on helping the Spurs win their first playoff series since 2017.

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Trusting the Process was never about winning an NBA title. It was about having the genuine chance at winning an NBA title.

Well, with Joel Embiid sidelined, the Philadelphia 76ers cannot justifiably have either thought this season, certainly not with the Boston Celtics looking poised to win the Eastern Conference.

My 76ers vs. Celtics predictions and these NBA picks lean into the lopsided nature of this series, including in Game 2 tonight.

76ers vs Celtics prediction

Who will win 76ers vs Celtics Game 2?

Celtics: If a five-game series is considered a “gentlemen’s sweep,” then what is a four-game sweep where every game is settled by at least 15 points? “An NBA TV series,” perhaps?

That is the reality coming for the 76ers in this first round, the worrying reward for winning their Play-In game. Frankly, Philadelphia would have been better off losing at home last week to then fall to the No. 8 seed and face Detroit.

76ers vs Celtics best bet: Celtics first half -8 (-110)

It is the Philadelphia 76ers’ misfortune that the Boston Celtics were without Jayson Tatum for so long this season. They are effectively playing the best team in the Eastern Conference despite being the No. 7 seed. In a more just life, the 76ers would get a shot at the stumbling Detroit Pistons.

Instead, this should be the most lopsided of sweeps in this postseason.

The Celtics led by 18 at halftime in Game 1, and they did not even play that well. Boston shot just 6-for-18 from beyond the arc in the first half on Sunday. Philadelphia attempted four more free throws in the half as well as three more field goals, and the rebounding margin was even.

But the Celtics’ dominance is so thorough that they do not need to play well to steamroll the 76ers. Philadelphia shot 2-of-16 from deep in that first half, turned over the ball nine times compared to logging nine assists, and if not for 10 offensive rebounds, may have trailed by 25 at the break.

Could the 76ers have played better? Obviously, but it is an emphatic realization that the Celtics did not play well in the first half, yet they won by 18 points. Their margin for error in this series is humbling and intimidating, and should worry everyone else in the Eastern Conference.

76ers vs Celtics same-game parlay

With a bounty of respect for the veteran center, Philadelphia is relying too much on Andre Drummond to be taken seriously in the playoffs in 2026. Drummond has put together an impressive 13-year career, one defined by rebounding dominance in the 2010s that has now become a quality asset in a reserve.

But looking at Drummond for rebounds is not a smart move when he cannot defend anyone in the opponents’ rotation. He posted a -19 in 21 minutes in Game 1.

With Joel Embiid sidelined by an appendectomy, the 76ers have little choice but to play Drummond, but that reality dooms Philadelphia to waiting for a blowout in which its offense eventually becomes a liability.

76ers vs Celtics SGP

• Celtics first half -8
• Celtics -13.5
• Under 216

Our "from downtown" SGP: Philly desperation

Consider this a desperation measure from Philadelphia. If the 76ers are going to find any traction in this series, it needs more than 34 combined points from Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. They probably need to play more than 36 and 34 minutes, as they respectively did in Game 1.

Unless one of them goes off to the tune of 40+ points, it likely will not be enough, but these are the horses that got Philadelphia here. They need to be the horses the 76ers ride in this first-round series.

76ers vs Celtics SGP

• Celtics first half -8
• Tyrese Maxey Over 25.5 points
• VJ Edgecombe Over 15.5 points

76ers vs Celtics odds for Game 2

• Spread: 76ers +13.5 | Celtics -13.5
• Moneyline: 76ers +575 | Celtics -850
• Over/Under: Over 216 | Under 216

76ers vs Celtics betting trend to know

For a team that was effectively locked into its postseason seeding, Boston never let up as the regular season ended. The Celtics know they still need to find all forms of rhythm with Jayson Tatum in the lineup, hence going 7-1 ATS in their last eight games. Find more NBA betting trends for 76ers vs. Celtics.

How to watch 76ers vs Celtics Game 2

76ers vs Celtics latest injuries

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

In a move likely unprecedented in NBA history, the Brooklyn Nets announced Monday that the franchise has extended head coach Jordi Fernandez and nine assistant coaches. The Nets staff is among the largest if not the largest in the league.

“Jordi is a tremendous leader who, along with his coaching staff, put his stamp on this franchise from the moment he arrived in Brooklyn,” said Sean Marks in the team’s press release. “Over his first two seasons, Jordi has built a strong foundation rooted in player development, a competitive spirit and honest communication, all of which have been embraced throughout our roster.

“The energy and passion the entire staff relentlessly pour into our players reverberates throughout the organization, and we are excited to have this group continue to lead our franchise into the future.”

Shams Charania was first with the news…

The Nets did not name the assistants but the team’s official website lists nine assistant coaches, all of whom have been with the club for at least two years. In addition to Fernandez, the coaching staff includes Fernandez top assistant, Steve Hetzel as well as Juwan Howard, Jay Hernandez, Dutch Gaitley, Deividas Dulkys, Ryan Forehan-Kelly, Connor Griffin, Corey Vinson and Travis Bader.

Contract details were not disclosed. Shams Charania wrote this about the timing and rationale behind the decision.

Nets owner Joe Tsai and general manager Sean Marks landed on the extensions with the staff this week, sources told ESPN, showing long-term commitment to Fernandez after two seasons at the helm.

Fernandez has pushed the Nets to competitive play amid consecutive rebuilding seasons in which he’s gone a combined 46-118, focusing on player development from the team’s young players and career years from veterans such as Michael Porter Jr., Nic Claxton and Day’Ron Sharpe.

Although the Nets record under Fernandez is among the league’s worst at 28.0% in two years, Shams and Bobby Marks noted the Nets future looks brighter.

The offseason presents an opportunity for Brooklyn to improve significantly. Heading into the May 10 lottery, there is a 40% chance that the Nets select in the top three for the first time since 2010. For the second straight offseason, the Nets will have over $30 million in cap space to use in trades or in free agency.

Brooklyn also has 13 first-round picks available over the next seven years, including nine that can be traded. It also has 19 second-rounders.

The extensions are Joe Tsai’s latest commitment to the franchise future and a significant vote of confidence in Marks who hired Fernandez and staff.

Fernández was named the 24th head coach in the franchise’s NBA history on April 22, 2024. The Badalona, Spain, native arrived in Brooklyn following 15 years as an NBA assistant with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets and Sacramento Kings. Fernández’s international coaching journey also led him to positions with the national teams of Spain, Nigeria and Canada, where he served as head coach for the bronze medal-winning team at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup along with Canada’s Olympic entry at the 2024 Paris Games.

• Sources: Nets sign coach Jordi Fernandez, staff to extensions – Shams Charania – ESPN

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Game 2 between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets is where the market starts to adjust — and where value begins to show.

Our model highlights the top player prop edges based on usage, minutes, and matchup shifts coming out of Game 1.

For a full breakdown, check out our Timberwolves vs. Nuggets predictions, along with today’s NBA picks and NBA player prop projections.

Timberwolves vs Nuggets computer picks for Game 2

Timberwolves	Nuggets
DiVincenzo o3.5 assists  +130	Braun o11.5 points  -105
McDaniels u15.5 points  -115	Gordon u15.5 points  +105
Edwarsds u4.5 assists  +112	Jokic u10.5 assists  -130

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Timberwolves Game 2 computer picks

Donte DiVincenzo Over 3.5 assists (+130)

Projection: 3.97 assists

Donte DiVincenzo’s role as a secondary playmaker continues to grow alongside Anthony Edwards, with Minnesota leaning on his ball movement against Denver’s half-court defense.

At plus money, the projection edge and expected minutes make this a strong value look.

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Jaden McDaniels Under 15.5 points (-115)

Projection: 13.82 points

Jaden McDaniels remains a low-usage option offensively, with most of his value coming on the defensive end in this matchup. With limited shot volume and tougher half-court possessions, his scoring ceiling stays capped.

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Anthony Edwards Under 4.5 assists (+112)

Projection: 4.2 assists

Anthony Edwards is more likely to take on a scoring-heavy role rather than facilitate, especially in a tighter playoff rotation. Denver’s defensive scheme also encourages isolation scoring over playmaking, limiting his assist upside.

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Nuggets Game 2 computer picks

Christian Braun Over 11.5 points (-105)

Projection: 13.35 points

Christian Braun continues to carve out a larger offensive role with his energy, cutting, and transition scoring. With increased minutes and high-efficiency looks, he’s well-positioned to clear this number.

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Aaron Gordon Under 15.5 points (+105)

Projection: 14.68 points

Aaron Gordon’s scoring is heavily dependent on play-finishing rather than self-creation, making him vulnerable in slower half-court sets. If Minnesota limits easy looks at the rim, his path to this number gets thin.

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Nikola Jokic Under 10.5 assists (-130)

Projection: 9.61 assists

Nikola Jokic will always create opportunities, but Denver’s scoring distribution and Minnesota’s defensive attention can cap his assist totals. With the offense leaning slightly more toward scoring balance, this number sits a bit high.

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How to watch Timberwolves vs Nuggets Game 2

Location	Ball Arena, Denver, CO
Date	Monday, April 20, 2026
Tip-off	10:30 p.m. ET
TV	NBC, Peacock

Not intended for use in MA.
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Going into his 19th playoff run, it’s remarkable that LeBron James is still capable of breaking records. And yet, on Saturday, the league’s greatest scorer and all-time leader in games played collected eight assists in the first quarter in the Lakers’ Game 1 win over the Rockets, a career high for any quarter of a playoff game.  

His playmaking and precision set the offensive tone against a high-pressure and physical top-ten regular-season defense.

​LeBron has oscillated between the number one through three offensive options all season for the purple and gold, depending on the health of his star backcourt. Without either, he jumps back to a very familiar spot.

News broke hours before tip-off that superstar Kevin Durant would not play for Houston, joining Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves for LA to sit on the sidelines. Shockingly, the 41-year-old was the healthiest out of the four stars, but age seemed to be just a number during LA’s playoff home opener.

LeBron finished the first half with 10 assists, tying his playoff career high, and ended the game with 13 dimes to go with a stat-stuffing line of 19 points, eight rebounds, two steals and a blocked shot.

​The offensive game plan was simple but effective: involve the Rockets’ weakest defenders in as many actions as possible to create an advantage and start the blender. They hunted Houston with LeBron either as a lethal screener or initiator.

Early on, the Rockets looked to hide young guard Reed Sheppard on Marcus Smart. Watch below as Smart sets up to back him down with LeBron first coming over to screen, but decides to back-cut. He catches the pocket pass and throws a wrap-around on the money jump pass through traffic to Rui Hachimura in the corner.

A few possessions later, he and Ayton ran an action in the middle of the floor, attacking the slow-footed backup center, Clint Capela, in the clip below.

His defender chases over the screen, while Capela retreats in drop coverage. No help comes to tag the roll, and it’s an easy touch lob pass for one of the best playmakers ever to his big man for the jam.

​​”We talked all week about being connected offensively and trust in the pass,” head coach J.J. Redick said postgame. “He led us there in the first half, getting 10 assists, and then was able to make some scoring plays down the stretch. Just a fantastic overall game from him.”

With about five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter and Smart at the helm, watch LeBron delegate and point to every player’s position on the floor. The final hand signals to get Hachimura and Jared Vanderbilt to spread to the corners. He orchestrates with the goal of maximizing space against the Rockets’ 2-3 zone.

Smart finds LeBron on the stampede cut, where he catches it already in motion towards the rim and kicks it back out for the big 3-pointer late in the fourth.

Without Luka and Reaves, the Lakers are not only out on the scoring but are missing 14 assists combined per game. LeBron can’t replace all of it alone, as he’s got many different responsibilities on the team.

Some nights, like Game 1, he will be asked to be a passer and facilitator, while on other nights the Lakers may need him to score. Whichever role it is, he looks primed to be able to fill it.

“For me, I have to do a little bit of everything,” LeBron said postgame. “That’s what the job requires. Just being a triple threat, being able to rebound. Being able to pass, being able to shoot. Also, defend, put myself in a position to where I can bring value to this ball club, bring value to this series. It’s going to be a game to game position to see how the game plays out.”

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Jordi Fernandez is sticking with the Nets for the foreseeable future.

The Nets announced that they have signed Fernandez, along with the entire Brooklyn coaching staff, to multi-year contract extensions. 

"Jordi is a tremendous leader who, along with his coaching staff, put his stamp on this franchise from the moment he arrived in Brooklyn," said Nets general manager Sean Marks. "Over his first two seasons, Jordi has built strong foundation rooted in player development, competitive spirit and honest communication, all of which have been embraced throughout our roster. The energy and passion the entire staff relentlessly pour into our players reverberates throughout the organization, and we are excited to have this group continue to lead our franchise into the future."

Fernandez, 43, has been the Nets head coach for the past two seasons. While his overall record of 46-118 may not look spectacular, the Nets have obviously been going through a multi-year rebuild following the breakup of the Kevin Durant-Kyrie Irving-James Harden era.

When Fernandez was hired, the former Nuggets and Kings assistant was known for his player development skills, and that's been a key piece of his time with the Nets as well, working with young players like Egor Demin, Noah Clowney, Ziaire Williams, and others. The Nets do not have a player over the age of 29 on their current roster.