After reports surfaced on Monday, April 13 that Los Angeles Lakers stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are inching closer to their returns from injuries, head coach JJ Redick made it clear on Tuesday, April 14 that there will be no further updates in the near future.
"Look, they're out indefinitely," Redick told reporters during his media availability at Tuesday's practice. "I'm not gonna have an update for you this week. They're out indefinitely."
NBA insider Marc Stein confirmed an earlier report that Doncic is scheduled to return to the Lakers on Friday and will be re-evaluated after undergoing multiple injection procedures in Spain in hopes of accelerating his recovery from a grade 2 left hamstring strain.
Reaves, meanwhile, has been rehabbing a grade 2 left oblique muscle strain in Los Angeles. Both Reaves and Doncic sustained their injuries during a blowout loss in Oklahoma City on April 2 and missed the rest of the regular season and will likely be out through at least the first round of the playoffs, where the No. 4-seeded Lakers will take on the No. 5 seed Houston Rockets.
While they're considered out indefinitely, both injuries usually carry a standard recovery window of about four-to-six weeks, which would sideline Doncic and Reaves through the first week of May. It's currently unclear how effective the treatment Doncic got in Spain actually was or if it impacted his timeline at all, and it most likely won't be known until after his re-evaluation at the end of the week.
What is a grade 2 hamstring strain?
A Grade 2 hamstring strain is a “moderate injury that is typically a partial tear in the muscle; patients are likely to limp when walking and will have occasional twinges of pain during activity,” according to Mercy Health.
The injury could take close to a month to heal, but “returning to sports before the injury is fully healed can cause more severe injuries.”
What is a grade 2 oblique strain?
A grade 2 oblique strain is another moderate strain in which "one of the abdominal muscles (internal or external oblique muscles) becomes frayed, torn or detached, often from the lower four ribs," according to Performance Place. The injury makes it painful for someone to breathe, cough and laugh and is common among baseball players and golfers.
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 12: Coby White #3 of the Charlotte Hornets dribbles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks on April 12, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. 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 Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Later tonight, the NBA Playoffs are set to begin. Well, somewhat. Tonight starts the Play-In Tournament that decides the final teams to make the playoffs, but either way, the march towards the NBA Finals begins over the next couple days. While UNC’s lack of a former player being a leading player on a championship-contending team has been well covered (and will hopefully change with Caleb Wilson’s ascendance), there are still a number of former Tar Heels around the bracket. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the former North Carolina players who will try and bring home the Larry O’Brien Trophy this year.
We’ll start with a Tar Heel who will quickly be in action this postseason, but will be up against it as far making a long stay is concerned.
After a midseason trade sent him to the Charlotte Hornets, Coby White has helped them back to the playoffs…somewhat. Later tonight, the Hornets will host the Heat in the 9/10 game in the Eastern Conference Play-In Tournament. In order to get into the main bracket, White and Charlotte will have to knockoff Miami tonight and then beat the loser of the 7/8 game between the 76ers and Magic. Even if they make it through that, the Hornets would then be tasked with facing the #1 seed and 60-win Pistons squad.
The Tar Heel with probably the most intriguing title chances this year is Harrison Barnes with the San Antonio Spurs. While Victor Wenbanyama is the key cog in the Spurs’ machine, Barnes has been a solid veteran presence as they’ve returned to the postseason this year. He’s put up 9.9 points per game and is knocking down a little under 40% of his three-point attempts as San Antonio cracked the 60-win mark. Barnes and the Spurs will go in as the #2 seed in the West, and will take on the winner of the Suns/Blazers play-in game. However, as a #2 seed, it’ll be hard for them not to hope for a deep playoff run.
Harrison Ingram is also on the Spurs’ roster, although he averages less than four minutes per game in only seven appearances this season, so he likely won’t be a key part of their playoff run.
Another Carolina player on a team hoping to make it far will be Cameron Johnson on the Denver Nuggets. He’s one of my favorite recent Tar Heels, so by no means do I say this to disparage him; by all accounts, he hasn’t been quite as good as what Denver was hoping for when they added him in on offseason trade. However, he’s still put up over double digits points per game and makes threes at a good clip. Denver will probably need him to be even better than that if they want to make another run at a championship, though. Their run will start with a series against the Timberwolves, which begins Saturday.
As mentioned, the Blazers will compete for one of the last couple places out West in the play-in tournament. He spent time in the G-League, as he’s on a two-way deal, but Caleb Love plays for Portland. When he’s been up with the NBA team, he’s averaged over 20 minutes a game in 49 appearances, so he’ll probably get some amount of run should the Blazers make the full playoffs — how much remains to be seen.
Best of luck to all the Tar Heels who will be competing over the coming weeks and months. My personal rooting interest does not have a former Carolina player, so I can’t say as of now that I’m rooting for one of them to win it all, but I certainly hope they all play well.
The chase for the Larry O’Brien Trophy is officially on! Every night of the 2026 NBA Playoffs brings fresh drama, from superstar takeovers to bracket-busting upsets that can flip the postseason picture in a heartbeat.
Whether you're tracking every first-round matchup, checking the latest results, or looking ahead to what's next, our NBA bracket hub has you covered.
Follow along for live scores, updated schedules, and playoff format details to help guide your NBA picks.
2026 NBA playoffs bracket
NBA Playoff downloadable bracket
Downloadable NBA Playoff bracket
Print the PDF for a clean, easy-to-read bracket you can fill out by hand, or save it digitally if you prefer to make your picks on a screen.
Start by writing in your winners for each matchup and advancing teams round by round. Whether you are joining an office pool, competing with friends, or following the tournament for fun, this blank bracket makes it simple to keep up with every result.
2026 NBA Playoffs matchups and results
First Round - East
(1) Detroit Pistons vs. (8) TBD
Game 1: April 19
(2) Boston Celtics vs. (7) TBD
Game 1: April 19
(3) New York Knicks vs. (6) Atlanta Hawks
Game 1: April 18
(4) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (5) Toronto Raptors
Game 1: April 18
First Round - West
(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (8) TBD
Game 1: April 19
(2) San Antonio Spurs vs. (7) TBD
Game 1: April 19
(3) Denver Nuggets vs. (6) Minnesota Timberwolves
Game 1: April 18
(4) Los Angeles Lakers vs. (5) Houston Rockets
Game 1: April 18
2026 NBA Playoffs schedule
Event
Date
NBA Play-In Tournament
April 14-17
NBA Playoffs begin
April 18
NBA Conference Semifinals
TBD
NBA Conference Finals
TBD
NBA Finals Game 1
June 3
NBA Finals Game 2
June 5
NBA Finals Game 3
June 8
NBA Finals Game 4
June 10
NBA Finals Game 5 (if necessary)
June 13
NBA Finals Game 6 (if necessary)
June 16
NBA Finals Game 7 (if necessary)
June 19
NBA playoff format
The NBA playoffs adopt a format designed to favor successful teams while giving underdogs a shot at the championship. Here's a brief look at the structure:
The postseason begins with a Play-In Tournament featuring the 7th through 10th-ranked teams in each conference. This extends from April 14 to 17.
The NBA Playoffs kick off with the first round on April 18, where the top one to six teams in each conference join the winners of the Play-In.
The matchups are set as No. 1 vs. No. 8 seed, No. 2 vs. No. 7 seed, No. 3 vs. No. 6 seed, and No. 4 vs. No. 5 seed.
Each playoff round, including the Conference Semifinals, Conference Finals, and NBA Finals, features a seven-game series.
In these series, the higher-seeded team hosts Games 1, 2, 5 (if necessary), and 7 (if necessary) following a 2-2-1-1-1 format.
The NBA Finals start on June 3.
Looking for more intel? Our NBA Championship odds breaks down the clubs with the best odds of winning the NBA Finals. And be sure to check out our NBA Finals MVP odds page to see which player is most likely to hoist the Bill Russell Trophy when the dust settles.
The Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers fight over the East's No. 7 seed in the NBA Play-In Tournament.
With Joel Embiid out and Orlando reeling from a bellyflop in the season finale, oddsmakers expect a tight finish in Philly.
I’m leaning toward the home side but giving each team’s respective superstar their due in my NBA same game parlay for Wednesday night.
Here are my best NBA picks and predictions for Magic vs. 76ers on April 15.
Our best Magic vs 76ers SGP for April 15
The Philadelphia 76ers are short chalk for this Play-In tilt, scoring home court thanks to the Orlando Magic missing the mark in the season finale against the Celtics’ skeleton crew. Philadelphia is used to playing without Embiid and owns a 19-8 SU record as home favorites this season.
Paolo Banchero took the blame for the loss to Boston – a game in which he fired up 22 field goal attempts. I see another aggressive attack from Orlando’s standout, with game projections sitting between 23.5 and 25 points Wednesday.
Tyrese Maxey seems to find another gear when Embiid goes down. He’s become a fantastic inside-out scorer with improved shooting from deep. He knocked down three or more triples in two of the three meeting with the Magic and projection call for another 3+ day from 3-point land for Maxey.
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.
The NBA Finals are the true show-stopper of the basketball season, where fortunes can change as quickly as a chase-down block, a ruptured Achilles, or an improbable offensive rebound turning into a corner-3.
We've got you covered for all things NBA Finals, including NBA odds, picks, and predictions for the league's ultimate showdown.
NBA Finals odds
Keep an eye on our NBA Finals odds page as we document which teams' fortunes are falling and rising ahead of the NBA's championship series.
📅 2026 NBA Finals schedule
Game
Date/Time
Venue
Game 1
June 3 @ 8:30 pm ET
TBD
Game 2
June 5 @ 8:00 pm ET
TBD
Game 3
June 8 @ 8:30 pm ET
TBD
Game 4
June 10 @ 8:30 pm ET
TBD
Game 5 (if necessary)
June 13 @ 8:30 pm ET
TBD
Game 6 (if necessary)
June 16 @ 8:30 pm ET
TBD
Game 7 (if necessary)
June 19 @ 8:00 pm ET
TBD
NBA Finals format
The NBA Finals take place between the winners of the Eastern and Western Conference Finals, following a best-of-seven format. The team with the better regular-season record is awarded homecourt advantage, hosting Games 1, 2, 5, and 7, while the lower seed hosts Games 3, 4, and 6.
📊 2026 NBA Finals odds over time
Here's a visual representation of how the NBA championship odds have evolved over the course of this season.
📺 Where to watch the NBA Finals
The NBA Finals will air on ABC in the United States. Mike Breen will handle play-by-play duties for the 21st straight year. Those without cable can stream the games live on Fubo and NBA League Pass.
How to bet on the NBA Finals
The NBA Playoffs bring out plenty of new bettors looking to wager on basketball for the first time. If you fit this category, let us teach you how to bet on basketball with some betting basics and tips for tackling the basketball world’s biggest competition.
💵 Where to bet on the NBA Finals
Basketball betting is booming, and the NBA has embraced it with open arms. Basketball’s popularity spawns fun and unique ways to wager on the action almost all year round. Where you bet on basketball is just as important as what you bet, and we review the best basketball betting sites available in your region.
PORTLAND, OREGON - MARCH 10: Kon Knueppel #7 and LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets celebrate after defeating the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on March 10, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. 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 Soobum Im/Getty Images) | Getty Images
LaMelo Ball has been a lightning rod for criticism throughout his NBA career due to his loose play, seemingly unserious attitude, and deservedly for his dangerous driving. One thing that has been a total myth is his lack of basketball IQ, because inside of his floaty, street ball style is a guy who really understands ball.
A new story from ESPN on the rise of the Hornets this season put Melo’s impact on the team into full focus, especially when it came to the team finding their missing piece. Charlotte seemingly had shooters with their nucleus of Ball and Brandon Miller, but when LaMelo was asked by GM Jeff Peterson about the player in the 2025 class that he liked, there was only one answer.
Although Cooper Flagg was the consensus can’t-miss prospect, Ball was talking up Kon Knueppel to the Hornets GM. Ball had watched Duke play during the season and told Peterson how savvy he thought the forward was. He was struck by Knueppel’s basketball IQ and understanding of the game — impressive even for a five-star prospect. And of course, there was Knueppel’s elite shooting.
This discussion happened before the NBA Draft lottery took place, without Charlotte knowing they would be picking 4th overall. The 19-63 Hornets had the third-worst record in the NBA, which gave them the identical 14% chance to land the top pick as the Utah Jazz and Washington Wizards. Despite all this Knueppel was the player that Ball couldn’t stop talking about.
“He’s spot on with those traits,” Peterson told ESPN of that break-of-dawn draft breakdown. “He was very detailed in his evaluation of why he liked him. That was even more impressive that he was able to kind of highlight him because there were some other guys that he didn’t highlight.
“He may have a future in the front office if he wants.”
The Hornets improved to 44-38 this season, good enough to make the NBA Play-In Tournament, and Knueppel is a mammoth reason why. His lights out shooting, and veteran-level ability to play off the screen has paired perfectly with a healthy Ball and Miller this season to transform Charlotte into one of the NBA’s hottest teams, and a legitimate nightmare matchup should they manage to make it through to the playoffs and face a top seed.
It’s impossible to know what the Hornets would have looked like had they landed the No. 1 pick and Flagg. There is no question that Flagg has the superstar ability to take over the league and become a legitimate top player in the NBA, but it’s unclear if he would have been a good fit alongside Ball and Miller. Meanwhile, Knueppel’s team-first, unselfish play has allowed Charlotte to flourish with perimeter shooting, stretching the floor, and morphing from a spot-up shooter early in the season, to now being a threat that has to be accounted for, opening up passing lanes for LaMelo Ball.
All in all, Kon Knueppel to Charlotte has been a match made in basketball heaven, and the Hornets are now a team to watch in the East for 2026-27, regardless of what happens in the postseason. LaMelo Ball is a huge part of that for identifying the Duke forward and helping to turn everything around.
Luka Doncic is back in Los Angeles after traveling to Spain to get platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell treatments on his strained left hamstring, according to multiple reports.
Whether those treatments will get him back on the court during the first round of the playoffs when the Lakers take on the Houston Rockets is another question. While nothing is official, Doncic and Austin Reaves (oblique strain) are expected to miss the start of the first-round series, which tips off Saturday.
Both Doncic and Reaves were injured on April 2 during a game against the Thunder. Players with a Grade 2 hamstring strain typically miss at least three weeks and more often four or five before returning to the court. PRP injections into a strained muscle have shown faster healing and a quicker return to play in some studies, but these were retrospective, not randomized, controlled studies, so there are still a lot of questions.
Doncic will take any edge he can get. With him and Reaves healthy, the Lakers had looked like an increasing threat in the West after the All-Star break. Now the Los Angeles heads into a playoff series with 41-year-old LeBron James as the primary shot creator, going against Houston's sixth-ranked defense, led by the long and athletic Amen Thompson.
Without Doncic and Reaves, the Lakers are heavy underdogs against Houston.
Doncic played at an MVP level this season, averaging a league-leading 33.8 points per game, while adding 7.8 rebounds and 8.3 assists a night. However, because of the hamstring injury, he played in just 64 games, one short of the league office's 65-game threshold to qualify for postseason awards. His agent and the Lakers filed an "extraordinary circumstances challenge" because Doncic missed two games earlier in the season to fly back to Slovenia for the birth of his child. The results of that appeal are expected to be public in the next 24 hours.
The decision follows a disappointing 32-50 season that left Milwaukee out of the playoffs, compounded by reported tension between Rivers and the players. ESPN has reported that the Bucks will still owe Rivers his salary for the 2026-27 season and Rivers could potentially transition to an advisory role with the organization, though nothing has been finalized.
Now, all eyes will be on who will take over in Milwaukee, and there are a few name in the mix.
Here are a few candidates to replace Doc Rivers as the Milwaukee Bucks' next head coach
Sam Cassell
Boston Celtics assistant coach Sam Cassell is widely considered one of the most qualified and overdue head coaching candidates in the NBA, making him a compelling fit for Milwaukee’s vacancy.
As a player, Cassell spent 15 seasons in the NBA, suiting up for eight franchises and earning an All-Star selection along the way. He won three championships on the court and added a fourth from the bench when the Celtics defeated the Dallas Mavericks in the 2024 NBA Finals, his first title as a assistant coach.
Cassell has 17 years of assistant coaching experience across four NBA franchises: the Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers and Celtics.
Jenkins was let go by the Grizzlies in March 2025 with just nine games left in the regular season, a stunning move given that Memphis was the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference at the time. He departed as the franchise’s all-time winningest coach, finishing with a 250-214 record across six seasons. During his tenure, he guided Memphis to three playoff appearances and two 50-win seasons. He also finished in the top 10 of NBA Coach of the Year voting three times, including a runner-up finish in 2021-22.
Prior to Memphis, Jenkins built a strong résumé as an assistant. He spent five seasons with the Atlanta Hawks under Mike Budenholzer, helping the team’s run to the 2015 Eastern Conference Finals. He then followed Budenholzer to Milwaukee for the 2018-19 season, where the Bucks finished with a league-best 60 wins and clinched the No. 1 seed in the East.
In five seasons, Thibodeau went 226-174, led the Knicks to back-to-back 50-win seasons for the first time since 1995, and guided them to their deepest playoff run in 25 years.
Before arriving in New York, Thibodeau had already established himself as a successful coach. He coached the Chicago Bulls from 2010 to 2015, going 255-139 and winning NBA Coach of the Year in his first season after tying the record for most wins by a rookie head coach with 62. He then coached the Minnesota Timberwolves from 2016 to 2019 before landing with the Knicks.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 10: Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers talks to the media after the game against the Indiana Pacers on April 10, 2026 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
A sentiment I’ve seen expressed towards Philadelphia’s participation in the NBA Play-In Tournament, both in person and online, is apathy.
The line of thinking goes that the Sixers aren’t at all likely to win the title this year, so why worry if the season ends this week or if it is prolonged until after a probable first-round series loss to Boston or Detroit. And I understand that ‘championship or bust’ mentality. The Sixers haven’t won a championship in my lifetime. I’ve seen the Phillies win one (in person) and watched the Eagles hoist the Lombardi trophy twice. There’s no greater feeling as a sports fan and seeing the Sixers do it is the last item on my Philadelphia sports bucket list. (I’m not a hockey guy, but good luck to everyone getting Flyer’d up starting this weekend, seems like a fun squad.)
Still, on average, your team is going to win a title once every 30 years. So the three-decade intervals in between are just passing the time and chock full of disappointment? No. I mean, yes, we’ve had plenty of disappointment. More than most in Philadelphia, I’d wager. But sports are great not only because of the big moments, but the small ones too. In the Play-In Tournament, we have two decent enough teams equally motivated to give it their all with the entire season on the line. (In the case of the 7-vs-8 game, the loser gets one mulligan, but you get my point.) Isn’t seeing that sort of game what we’re always looking to watch in sports? It’s why we tune into early round NCAA tournament games, even if it’s two middling SEC and Big 12 teams who we know aren’t getting out of the Sweet 16.
If Wednesday’s game against the Magic was the final regular season game, with a playoff berth hanging in the balance, I bet the anticipation would be a lot greater. But because the Play-In Tournament creates this sort of ‘not quite playoffs’ event as a waypoint between the two seasons, it seems to dull the excitement. But no more!
Think of where this Sixers group was one year ago. They won just 24 games. It was their worst season in over a decade. Now, they’re not a true championship contender, and Joel Embiid’s appendicitis takes a lot of the wind out of our sails, but there’s still a lot to root for here. Don’t you want to see Tyrese Maxey have some more playoff moments like the Knicks series a couple years back? Or have VJ Edgecombe get his first taste of NBA playoff basketball? Or see Paul George in a Sixers uniform in the postseason? Those would be cool things. And all we have to do to get to see them is have the Sixers beat Orlando (or subsequently, the winner of Charlotte and Miami).
So let’s toss aside our inner pragmatists and just be fans in the truest sense of the world. Offseason roster-building discussions are the time to debate the franchise’s ceiling and getting off the treadmill of mediocrity. But when the local basketball team is taking the court in a (kinda) win-or-go-home scenario, let’s get amped up and appreciate what could be a really fun moment for the team and us as fans at home.
Despite injury concerns to two starters, the Los Angeles Lakers have quickly become an incredibly popular bet to win the NBA championship.
Key Takeaways
The Lakers are the most-bet team to win the NBA title at FanDuel over the last 24 hours.
The online operator has shortened L.A.’s odds during that period.
The Lakers are currently without stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Heading into this week’s playoffs, FanDuel reported on Tuesday that the LeBron James-led Western Conference four seed has received the most wagers over the last 24 hours to capture the league title.
The most bet team to win the NBA Finals over the last 24 hours:
FanDuel has since shortened L.A.’s odds from +25000 to +15000. Still, the Lakers have the 12th-shortest odds on FanDuel’s NBA champion market, right behind the Atlanta Hawks at +10000.
Five teams in the West, including first-round opponent and five-seed Houston (+5500), are listed ahead of the Lakers. Oklahoma City is a +115 favorite at FanDuel to win back-to-back championships, followed by the San Antonio Spurs and Boston Celtics at +550 each.
The Lakers are +10000 to win the West and make the best-of-seven Finals.
Injury issues
Los Angeles heads into the series with an unknown status on star Luka Doncic and without guard Austin Reaves until May. Doncic left the team last week to receive treatment on a hamstring strain in Spain.
He’s set to return to the Lakers on Friday, but when he’ll return to the court is uncertain. The team has not announced Doncic’s timeline.
Reaves suffered an oblique strain that will sideline him for multiple weeks, but none of that is stopping bettors, who are backing James to keep the team afloat until everyone is healthy.
Big liability
BetMGM reported this week that, at +25000 to win it all, the Lakers have received 7.9% of the championship market’s tickets and 7.4% of the handle. That’s enough, combined with the massive odds, to make L.A. the operator’s biggest liability entering the NBA postseason.
BetMGM lists the Lakers at +500 to win the series against the Rockets, who are -700 to advance.
Meanwhile, the Spurs lead all teams in the NBA championship market with 11.9% of the bets and over 20% of the handle. The Thunder are second with 15.3% of the money, but with the shortest odds, that’s the team BetMGM is rooting for in the playoffs.
“Among the true contenders, OKC is the best result on the futures market,” BetMGM sports trader Anthony Parenti said.
“The sportsbook is in the enviable position of getting to cheer for the favorite to win it all.”
I bet the Orlando Magic wish the “Back to the Future” ride was still running at Universal Studios.
That would be their best chance to reverse time and erase the embarrassment of last Sunday, while avoiding this road matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA Play-In Tournament.
Orlando was the laughingstock of the league in the season finale. It botched a scheduling layup as 13-point favorites to a makeshift Boston squad and faceplanted to the No. 8 seed in the East.
Our Magic vs. 76ers predictions feel the pressure on Paolo Banchero to pick up the pieces in Philly and my NBA picks are taking Orlando's star to top his points prop.
Magic vs 76ers prediction
Magic vs 76ers best bet: Paolo Banchero Over 22.5 points (-120)
Paolo Banchero was one of the best scorers in the NBA for most of March but seemed to hit a wall in the home stretch.
After tallying 105 points in a span of three games, his usage went from season rate of 27.8% to 24.9% over the final nine contest. Banchero averaged less than 18 points per game in that period and attempted less than 16 field goals in seven of those outings.
That dip in production did coincide with Franz Wagner’s return to the lineup, taking touches away from Banchero. However, we saw an aggressive approach in Sunday’s finale, with Paolo taking 22 shots – tying his second highest FGA mark of the season.
Banchero made just 7 of those 22 attempts, including whiffing on all five 3-pointers, yet was able to go 9 for 11 from the foul line and salvaged a 23-point performance in the loss.
Banchero took the blame for the flop in the finale, despite finishing with a triple-double in the loss. The versatile 6-foot-10 forward has a great opportunity to exploit Embiid’s absence against a smaller Philadelphia 76ers lineup.
Banchero’s two meetings with Philadelphia tell the story: With Embiid in, he finished with 14 points on 6-of-18 shooting and scored only two FTMs. Without him, Banchero hung 32 points (10 for 18) with 11 of those coming from the stripe.
Player projections for Wednesday sit between 23.3 and 25 points from Banchero. I’m leaning toward the high end of those forecasts, as Philadelphia doesn’t have anyone who can handle his combo of speed and size.
Magic vs 76ers same-game parlay
The Sixers are a tough challenge at home and even with Embiid out, this defense can still pack the paint due to the Orlando Magic’s awful 3-point shooting. Philadelphia is 19-8 SU as home chalk this season.
While Banchero headlines the Magic attack, Tyrese Maxey takes center stage for the 76ers. The kinetic guard is an inside-out threat, with projections calling for 3+ makes from beyond the arc. Maxey made three or more triples in two of his three matchups with Orlando this year.
Magic vs 76ers SGP
76ers Moneyline
Paolo Banchero Over 22.5 points
Tyrese Maxey Over 2.5 3-pointers
Our "from downtown" SGP: Florida Man
Banchero stuffed the stat sheet Sunday and still fell short, taking responsibility for the Magic’s egg in the season finale. Projections are all very positive for the superstar, who should also do some damage on defense against a smaller 76ers lineup.
Magic vs 76ers SGP
Paolo Banchero Over 22.5 points
Paolo Banchero Over 8.5 rebounds
Paolo Banchero Over 5.5 assists
Paolo Banchero Over 0.5 blocks
Magic vs 76ers odds
Spread: Orlando +2 | Philadelphia -2
Moneyline: Orlando +110 | Philadelphia -130
Over/Under: Over 222 | Under 222
Magic vs 76ers betting trend to know
Play-In favorites of three points or less are 8-3 SU and ATS since the league introduced the current tournament format in 2021. Find more NBA betting trends for Magic vs. 76ers.
How to watch Magic vs 76ers
Location
Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA
Date
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Tip-off
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
Prime Video
Magic vs 76ers latest injuries
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The Heat are trading at just 31 cents (+223) to go into Charlotte and leave with a win tonight. The Hornets have been one of the best teams in the NBA since the All-Star break and are trading at 69 cents to win tonight.
Our prediction:Hornets to win
Covers' NBA expert, Jason Logan, keeps it simple: "The Hornets are excellent at home when catching points and come into the Play-In Tournament producing some of the best two-way basketball, boasting a net rating of +11.3 over the final 15 games."
Sign up now using our exclusive Kalshi promo code 'COVERS' and get a $10 trading bonus after you trade $10 on any other event contracts — including Heat/Hornets!
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More Heat vs Hornets prediction markets
You're certainly not limited to the main game outcome for Heat vs. Hornets 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 Charlotte -6.5 spread means the Hornets will cover, while "No" on Charlotte means the Heat will cover — with each side priced based on the implied probability (which can be converted to American, Decimal, or Fraction odds using theCovers odds converter.)
Result (Price)
Hornets ML (69¢)
Trade atspan /spanstrongKalshi/strong
Hornets -6.5 (49¢)
Trade atspan /spanstrongKalshi/strong
Over 230.5 points (47¢)
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Heat vs Hornets spread and total at prediction markets
Outcome
Yes
No
Hornets -6.5
49¢ (+104)
53¢ (-113)
Over 230.5 points
49¢ (+104)
53¢ (-113)
Our predictions:Hornets -6.5
The Heat are horrendous on defense. Miami was 28th in defensive rating in the final 15 games while allowing 127.5 points against in that stretch. Foes racked up an average of 30 assists per contest — fifth most.
Charlotte cracked open the Heat’s zone defense like a piñata in that last meeting, thriving with off-ball movement and dribble-kick passing to spot-up shooters.
Other Heat vs Hornets prediction markets available
Kon Knueppel 20+ points (Yes: 49¢)
LaMelo Ball 8+ assists (Yes: 60¢)
Tyler Herro 20+ points (Yes: 59¢)
Bam Adebayo to record a double-double (Yes: 60¢)
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 Thunder 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 Heat vs Hornets at Kalshi?
Kalshi offers four unique advantages over traditional sportsbooks:
Flexibility: Unlike a "locked-in" bet, you can sell your contract at any time.
Transparency: You trade against other users, which can allow you to find better value.
Federal regulation: As a CFTC-regulated exchange, your funds are held in a secure, transparent environment.
Availability: Kalshi is available in 49 states (excluding Nevada) and D.C., including many regions where traditional sportsbooks aren't yet legal.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 06: Jalen Johnson #1 of the Atlanta Hawks is defended by Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks during the first quarter at State Farm Arena on April 06, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Well, here we are.
After a long, 82-game season full of twists and turns, we’ve arrived at the start of a playoff journey. Conventional wisdom said that the Toronto Raptors would be the first-round opponent entering Sunday, but the Orlando Magic somehow lost to the Celtics’ C-team, so here we are. Whatever way you feel about that doesn’t matter now.
It’s the No. 3 seed New York Knicks (53-29) and the No. 6 seed Atlanta Hawks (46-36), reviving a five-year-old rivalry whose main combatants are no longer in town. The fanbases sure as hell still remember, and you’ll be reminded of 2021 pretty much every single game, so we had to mention it.
P&T will have plenty of coverage as we lead up to Saturday’s series-opener at the World’s Most Famous Arena, but use this as a starting point. Here’s everything you need to know about this matchup.
Season Recap
You know how the Knicks’ season has gone. After all, you’re reading this on a Knicks site, but just to sum it up.
After firing Tom Thibodeau, engaging in a long coaching search, and keying in on Mike Brown, the Knicks mostly ran back the same team, albeit with new faces Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele, while drafting Mo Diawara. It was supposed to be a deeper, offensive powerhouse, and, for the most part, it was. The Knicks started 23-9 and even got some hardware along the way, beating the Spurs in the NBA Cup Final in December. Everything was coming up New York as 2025 turned into 2026.
And then everything fell apart. Starting with a New Year’s Eve collapse in San Antonio, the Knicks lost nine of their next 11 games, capped off by a terrible effort on Martin Luther King Jr. Day at MSG against the tanking Mavs. The sky was falling, we had podcasters saying he couldn’t wait to blow up this core, we had loud calls for Mike Brown’s job, the defense was abhorrently bad, and the season was in a tailspin.
Then, they mollywhopped the Nets by 54 and everything calmed down. After going from 23-9 to 25-18, the Knicks won 28 of their final 39 games, powered by the NBA’s second-best defense over the final 2.5 months of the season. They swapped the disappointing Yabusele for Jose Alvarado, who may not be in the rotation, but was an upgrade. Unlike last year, they haven’t looked overmatched against the top dogs (well, except Detroit), and they look poised to make a run.
The Hawks had a surreal season to watch from afar. Entering the season with real expectations of the playoffs after pairing Trae Young and a great collection of wings with former All-Star big man Kristaps Porzingis. The season then started disastrously. The team was playing better when Young was sidelined, Porzingis was still battling his mysterious illness, and the Hawks were struggling to stay in the play-in.
Then reports started to surface that both Young and the Hawks wanted to move on. A complicated contract situation made the former All-Star grow estranged from the team he had emerged under, and it came to a head with a January trade to the Wizards. With Porzingis later traded for Jonathan Kuminga, the Hawks appeared to be content with a play-in berth and regrouping next year with a juicy draft pick from that boneheaded Pelicans trade.
But sometimes, that’s not how sports work. After falling to 27-31 to end February, the Hawks hit a lighter part of their schedule and tore through it. They won 18 of their next 20 games, outlasting the brief win streaks of Orlando and Miami to surpass them and make the playoffs. Nickeil Alexander-Walker was blossoming into a star and was no longer in his cousin’s shadow, Jalen Johnson is likely heading for an All-NBA selection, and the role players were all contributing. They met the expectations they had in October, but did it with an entirely different team.
The season series alone encompasses just how different the Hawks are from where they were a few months ago. The first matchup saw the final installment of the Trae Young/Knicks rivalry end in a whimper, as the flamboyant point guard had just nine points and 10 assists on 2-for-9 shooting and six turnovers in 31 minutes, while being -13 in a three-point loss.
Powered by Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson combining for an efficient 70 points (and Towns shooting a season-high 18 free throws), the Knicks led by as much as 18 before a ferocious Hawks comeback gave them the lead with two minutes left. Kevin McCullar Jr. even had a standout performance with Josh Hart injured!
Of course, Captain Clutch took over and put the Knicks back in front, despite the Hawks’ offense tearing through a then-terrible Knicks defense. With a one-point lead and 10 seconds to go, OG Anunoby picked off a pass from Young (his final installment of this rivalry) and made two free throws. Alexander-Walker bricked his chance to send it to overtime.
The second game was much less competitive. With no Towns or Mitchell Robinson, Onyeka Okongwu feasted on the overmatched center rotation of Ariel Hukporti and Yabusele, as we reached the part of the Stretch of Hell where the offense stopped working. Jalen Johnson recorded a triple-double, and the Hawks led by 26 late in the third quarter. The Knicks pulled to within 11 with four minutes to go, but ran out of gas in an ugly loss that was a sign of things to come.
The finale came after Young was traded (he was on the roster but injured for the January 2 clash) and the keys to the offense were firmly being shared by Johnson and Alexander-Walker, with the latter putting up a performance that made you think his cousin was wearing Hawks colors. With a 13-game home winning streak, the Hawks looked a step quicker than the Knicks all night and, when the game was at their pace, they thrived. A 10-point third-quarter deficit and a struggling Brunson made things look bleak for the Knicks as their grip on the No. 3 seed loosened.
And then, Captain Clutch took over again. Running an excellent two-man game with Towns, Brunson scored 17 points in the fourth quarter and dragged the Knicks back into the game and into the lead, outdueling Alexander-Walker’s 36-point masterpiece. Some late-game shenanigans ensued, as even though the Knicks successfully knocked down all of their free throws, the Hawks somehow came a millisecond away from tying the game on a miracle half-court heave by CJ McCollum, but he fortunately couldn’t get it out of his hands.
Playoff History
(Andrew has a full story on the playoff history here)
Trends: Knicks since 1/20: 118.5 ORtg (6th), 108.2 DRtg (2nd), +10.3 net rating (3rd) Hawks since 3/1: 120.1 ORtg (6th), 109.9 DRtg (3rd), +10.2 net rating (4th)
Coaching Breakdown
Mike Brown (NYK): Season with team: 1st Season as head coach: 12th Career teams coached: CLE, LAL, SAC, NYK Career record: 507-333 (.604) Career playoff record: 50-40 (.556) Best finish: 2007 Cavaliers (Finals appearance)
Mike Brown is entering the postseason as the head coach of a third different team. He’s never won a game past the Eastern Conference Finals, but he’s certainly experienced deep playoff runs as an assistant under Gregg Popovich from 2001-03 and an assistant under Steve Kerr from 2017-22, winning four championships as an assistant coach.
Brown’s philosophy is a stylistic change from former head coach Tom Thibodeau, in that he prioritizes ball movement, spacing, and a drive-and-kick to open shooters (which he calls “sprays”). He was mostly unsuccessful in increasing the Knicks’ pace, showing that the team’s slow play is rooted in the way their captain operates in the offense, rather than the scheme. His biggest success has been increasing three-point attempts, but those have slowly decreased as the season has gone on.
Defensively, Brown has been flexible in his scheme. While Thibodeau always required a true rim protector on the floor, Brown has been more willing to mix up lineups in certain areas. After starting the season with a scheme that funneled the ball towards the middle of the floor into the help, Brown switched the scheme to look to send the ball towards the sidelines after the Knicks endured a month-plus stretch of abhorrent defense, powered by other teams driving and kicking to open shooters.
Quin Snyder (ATL): Season with team: 4th Season as head coach: 12th Career teams coached: UTAH, ATL Career record: 504-399 (.558) Career playoff record: 23-34 (.404) Best finish: 2021 Jazz (Second Round berth)
Snyder has been an active head coach since 2014-15 and is finally back in the playoffs after the Hawks flamed out in the play-in in back-to-back years. His tenure with the Jazz was defined by playoff disappointment, as he never reached the Western Conference Finals in six years. While most of that was because the pairing of Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert was the No. 5 seed on five different occasions, the biggest disappointment came in 2020-21, when the Jazz had the No. 1 seed and lost in six games to the Clippers in the second round.
Under Snyder, the Hawks have been about ball movement and pace. That was a key tenet with Young in tow, but they’ve kept it in place despite trading their pass-first point guard. McCollum and Alexander-Walker predominantly run the offense, with Johnson in a point-forward role. They want to grab the ball and run down the floor, and will look to push the pace whenever and however. They have more than enough shooting to be matchup nightmares in transition, and the versatility defensively to match up with everyone.
Projected Rotations
Knicks: Jalen Brunson Mikal Bridges Josh Hart OG Anunoby Karl-Anthony Towns – Deuce McBride Jordan Clarkson Landry Shamet Mitchell Robinson
Situational: Mo Diawara, Jose Alvarado, Tyler Kolek, Ariel Hukporti
Hawks: Nickeil Alexander-Walker CJ McCollum Dyson Daniels Jalen Johnson Onyeka Okongwu – Gabe Vincent Corey Kispert Jonathan Kuminga Tony Bradley/Mo Gueye
For the Knicks, they have a clean bill of health entering the postseason with one major question mark (and, for once, it’s not Mitchell Robinson). It’s OG Anunoby, who left Friday’s win over Toronto with an ankle sprain. All reporting so far makes us believe that it isn’t major and he should be able to heal in the eight-day span between games. It’s something to watch, though.
For the Hawks, it’s also one player: Jock Landale. Their backup center, acquired from Memphis at the trade deadline, has missed the last two weeks with an ankle injury, and he will be re-evaluated before the series begins. It seems like a stretch that he’ll be available for Game 1, but he could return at some point in the series to bolster Atlanta’s center rotation.
Broadcast Schedule
(The full schedule has yet to be released, this will be updated)
Game 1: Sat, April 18, 6 pm (Prime Video) Game 2: TBA Game 3: TBA Game 4: TBA Game 5*: TBA Game 6*: TBA Game 7*: TBA
The Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers collide in a high-stakes Play-In matchup, with both sides now just one win away from locking up the No. 7 seed.
The Suns enter as favorites, but this isn’t a spot where the market is fully aligned — especially when you factor in how each team’s rotation tightens, and stars take on heavier workloads in a win-or-go-home environment (with a safety net).
With prediction markets like Kalshi offering a different lens on the game, we’re breaking down the best Trail Blazers vs. Suns predictions and free NBA Picks for Tuesday, April 14.
The Portland Trail Blazers are in tough on the road tonight, trading at just 42 cents (+144) to win, while the Devin Booker-led Suns are trading at 59 cents (-144) to grab that No. 7 seed.
Our prediction:Suns to win
Covers' NBA expert, Douglas Farmer, keeps it simple: "Phoenix needs either Dillon Brooks or Jalen Green to complement Booker to pull off this upset and avoid the Oklahoma City Thunder. Portland is more likely to let Brooks get an advantage than Green. That is to effectively say, betting on Phoenix’s third option is both the best bet and the Suns’ best approach to winning this game.
Sign up now using our exclusive Kalshi promo code 'COVERS' and get a $10 trading bonus after you trade $10 on any other event contracts — including Trail Blazers/Suns!
Sign Up Now at img src="https://img.covers.com/betting/sportsbooks/336/kalshi.svg" alt="Kalshi" width="100" height="28" style="vertical-align: middle;"
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More Trail Blazers vs Suns prediction markets
You're certainly not limited to the main game outcome for Trail Blazers vs Suns 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 Suns -2.5 spread means the Suns will cover, while "No" on Phoenix means the Trail Blazers will cover — with each side priced based on the implied probability (which can be converted to American, Decimal, or Fraction odds using theCovers odds converter.)
Result (Price)
Suns ML (58¢)
Trade atspan /spanstrongKalshi/strong
Suns -2.5 (53¢)
Trade atspan /spanstrongKalshi/strong
Over 216.5 points (51¢)
Trade atspan /spanstrongKalshi/strong
Trail Blazers vs Suns spread and total at prediction markets
Outcome
Yes
No
Suns -2.5
53¢ (-113)
48¢ (+108)
Over 116.5 points
51¢ (-104)
51¢ (-104)
Our predictions:Suns -2.5 and Over 216.5 points — Yes
I expect Phoenix to win this game by multiple buckets, but suppose it comes down to the final minute. Who are you going to side with, the team leaning on Scoot Henderson initiating an offense to feature either Jrue Holiday or Deni Avdija for a needed bucket, or the team with Devin Booker?
Other Trail Blazers vs Suns prediction markets available
Deni Avdija 15+ points (Yes: 64¢)
Toumani Camara 10+ points (Yes: 76¢)
Devin Booker 25+ points (Yes: 60¢)
Dillon Brooks 15+ points (Yes: 70¢)
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 Suns 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 Trail Blazers vs Suns at Kalshi?
Kalshi offers four unique advantages over traditional sportsbooks:
Flexibility: Unlike a "locked-in" bet, you can sell your contract at any time.
Transparency: You trade against other users, which can allow you to find better value.
Federal regulation: As a CFTC-regulated exchange, your funds are held in a secure, transparent environment.
Availability: Kalshi is available in 49 states (excluding Nevada) and D.C., including many regions where traditional sportsbooks aren't yet legal.
Feb 15, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers (left) and Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins (right) watch during the second half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
During the last couple weeks of the regular season, Doc Rivers kept dropping hints that his time as Bucks head coach would be concluding after the season, much to the fanbase’s relief. As we wait to find out if Rivers will have a future role with the team as a consultant/advisor, which had also been rumored for weeks, let’s take an early look at the scuttlebutt. At the moment, there are technically two current vacancies in the NBA because New Orleans’ James Borrego (more on him later) is an interim, but some in league circles believe a lot more openings are ahead, perhaps more than eight. If Milwaukee has more competition later, it probably makes sense to start the interviews ASAP before other teams, particularly those in the playoffs or play-in get going.
Despite what Jon Horst may say publicly, though, any interviewee will want some clarity on what’s happening with Giannis. They (and we) may not get that during initial rounds, but a big tell as to Giannis’ future in Milwaukee may come during this search. His input and involvement—or lack thereof—this time would be a major indicator of whether he sees a future in a Bucks uniform, as trade rumors consistently dog the franchise.
During the last two full coaching searches the Bucks have conducted during offseasons in 2018 (Mike Budenholzer) and 2023 (Adrian Griffin), Giannis entered the conversation once the finalists were selected. Before Bud’s hiring was made official, he had breakfast with Giannis and Khris Middleton, presumably so the front office got their sign-off on what must have been their preferred candidate. Griffin was reportedly not the front office’s first choice in 2023, but it’s believed Giannis met with him and the other finalists before a decision was made, who were Nick Nurse—Horst’s preference—and Kenny Atkinson. Ultimately, the Bucks went with Giannis’ choice in Griff, whose tenure in Milwaukee was hugely problematic and lasted 43 games.
It’s my hope that Horst—who doesn’t appear to be going anywhere this offseason, especially after signing an extension last summer—can hire who he wants this go-around, and many fans would probably agree. Reports indicated in January 2024 that he was again overruled when it came time to replace Griffin, with ownership choosing Doc Rivers. While some understandably assumed that was a Jimmy Haslam-led move, I’ve heard from a team source that it was driven by co-owner and governor Wes Edens. Horst wanted Atkinson. If 2018 was indeed the only time Horst had full autonomy to make a coaching hire, the fact that he nailed it then, plus had clearly better preferences in 2023 and 2024, means it should be only his decision in 2026.
Onto the scuttle. Beginning with a former Bucks assistant: a full week before Rivers was confirmed to be stepping down, Marc Stein wrote that ex-Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins “has already emerged as a likely prime candidate” for what was then not yet an opening. Jake Fischer, also of The Stein Line, confirmed that and stated Jenkins could be someone the Wizards look at if they move on from Brian Keefe.
If Jenkins emerges as a true candidate, a fair bit might be made about his connection with Giannis and what bringing an old assistant back might mean. But this would be too deep a read: Jenkins was in Milwaukee just one season, coming over with Bud after five years in Atlanta. So I doubt he developed much of a relationship with Giannis, or even Horst, in that limited tenure. Here, he was really only known as the guy who hilariously held the bench back from getting on the court if there was the potential for a skirmish.
It came as a surprise that this little-known assistant emerged as a serious head coaching candidate in summer 2019, but he did a fine job in Memphis with two 50-win seasons and a winning record in nearly six full seasons. He was fired with nine games remaining last spring, 15 games over .500, amid talk of a disconnect with players. Though, to be fair, the Grizz front office insisted Jenkins swap out five of his longtime assistants prior to the season with their handpicked replacements. So he was being put in a bad situation, to say nothing of Memphis’ many injuries and Ja Morant-induced woes in recent seasons.
Another Bud disciple is longtime Buck assistant Darvin Ham, who rejoined the franchise in 2024 after a two-year stint running the Lakers. There, he won an NBA Cup and advanced to the Western Conference Finals in his first year, finishing with a 90-74 record. He was Bud’s top lieutenant in Milwaukee after five years in Atlanta, and was hailed by big men Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis as a key voice on the staff. So he had a lot to do with the 2021 championship. He took over for a COVID-stricken Bud to notch a win in 2022, and guided a Giannis-less Bucks to an impressive victory over the defending champs in February while Doc was away from the team.
Fischer mentioned that Ham would be in the running for the Magic gig if Jamahl Mosely isn’t retained following the conclusion of their playoff run, and Michael Scotto of HoopsHype says the Pelicans will pursue him too. The Big Easy is where Borrego just wrapped up 70 games as the interim guy, taking over after Willie Green was fired in November. New Orleans has begun searching for a permanent head coach already, and Borrego remains in consideration per Stein and Fischer. Borrego interviewed with Milwaukee in 2023, though he wasn’t selected as a finalist. He’s twice been an interim replacement (also with Orlando in 2015 for 30 games) and only a full head coach in Charlotte from 2018–21. It wasn’t until the last of those four seasons that the Hornets finished above .500, but they still missed the playoffs.
Much like we did in 2023, in the coming weeks we’ll take a broader look at candidates, including these names and more speculative candidates. As far as the latter goes, if there is anyone you’re interested in, rumored or otherwise, the comments section would be a good place to let us know. If they’re a viable name (i.e., not a current head coach whose team wouldn’t want to give them up), we’ll discuss them.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Boston Celtics
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Golden State Warriors
Milwaukee Bucks
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