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Los Angeles Lakers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder series preview, predictions: Do LeBron, Lakers have a chance?

The Los Angeles Lakers know what they're up against.

"You want me to compare us to them? That's a championship team right there. We're not," LeBron James said of the Thunder after they beat the Lakers in February.

"I said to a bunch of people yesterday off site talking about this series, to me, the Thunder is one of the greatest teams ever in NBA history," Lakers coach JJ Redick said on Sunday, via Dan Woike of The Athletic. "It's just the reality. They're that good. I think our guys recognize that and respect that, and we know what kind of task we have in front of us."

Oklahoma City is the defending champion, with the reigning (and soon to be repeat) MVP, they have been the title favorites since before the season tipped off, showed no sign of a championship hangover and went out and won 64 games this season (the best record in the league), with the best defense in the NBA and a top-10 offense.

Not only did the Thunder sweep the season series from the Lakers, but they also won the four games by an average of 32.3 points. The gap between these teams was clear.

Can the Lakers pull off another upset? Do they need Luka Doncic to do that, and when might he return? We get into all of that in this preview.

When does the Lakers vs. Thunder begin?

Game 1 between the Los Angeles Lakers and Oklahoma City Thunder is set for 8:30 ET on Tuesday, May 5, at the Paycom Center in the heart of OKC. The game will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock.

Los Angeles vs. Oklahoma City Playoffs Schedule 2026

All times are Eastern (* = if necessary).
Game 1: Los Angeles at Oklahoma City, Tuesday, May 5 (8:30 ET, NBC and Peacock)
Game 2: Los Angeles at Oklahoma City, Thursday, May 7 (9:30 ET, Prime Video)
Game 3: Oklahoma City at Los Angeles, Saturday, May 9 (8:30 ET, ABC)
Game 4: Oklahoma City at Los Angeles, May 11, (10:30 ET, Prime Video)
*Game 5: Los Angeles at Oklahoma City, May 13 (TBD)
*Game 6: Oklahoma City at Los Angeles, May 15, (TBD)
*Game 7: Los Angeles at Oklahoma City, May 17 (TBD)

Player to watch: LeBron James

We should be watching and savoring every chance we get to watch maybe the greatest ever to do it, because we don't know how many more of these chances we're going to get from the 41-year-old.

With Doncic out, LeBron took on the load of being the primary shot creator for the Lakers against Houston. Through the first four games against the Rockets, he impressed, as he did in Game 6. LeBron averaged 26 points, 9 rebounds and 8.5 assists while shooting 42.9% on 3-pointers in the Lakers' four wins.

However, there were stretches — in Games 4 and 5 in particular — where he started to look like he was wearing down. That's where the return of Austin Reaves helped — he is another key for Los Angeles. The Lakers need Reaves to look like the All-Star he was early in the season.

How will LeBron hold up against physical defenders like Lu Dort in a series where the games are every other night? Can he play well enough to keep the Lakers in the series until Luka Doncic potentially returns? The Lakers are going to ask a lot of LeBron, but even at 41, he answers the call most of the time.

Keys to watch for in Lakers vs. Thunder

If/When does Luka Doncic return? Or Jalen Williams?

Behind some MVP-ballot level play from Luka Doncic this season, the Lakers had a top-10 offense in the league. Los Angeles' roster, while still in flux, was built with maximizing his skills in mind.

That said, Doncic didn't exactly thrive against the Thunder this season, averaging 15.5 points a game on 33.3% shooting (14.3% from 3) in the two games he played against them, with Dort as his primary defender. Still, Doncic is one of the five best offensive players in the league, he has a history of coming up big in the playoffs, and if the Lakers are going to have a chance in this series, they need him.

Which is why the report from ESPN's Shams Charania on Sunday that Doncic is not close to returning is not good. Officially, Doncic is week-to-week. "He's doing more on the court, but still not doing full-contact workouts," Charania said. That's not a great, and if he's out for the first three or four games of this series — as it appears he will be, at the very least — the Lakers may be in too big a hole to climb out of even if he does return.

The Thunder played much of the season without Jalen Williams and kept winning, but they could use his defense (traditionally, he has gotten the LeBron assignment) and secondary ballhandling against a Lakers defense that likes to press (and may have to blitz a lot in this series). Williams is week-to-week as well, and the only update we got came from Thunder coach Mark Daigneault. "He's chipping away at his rehab. He's doing a good job," Daigneault said. That said, Williams should be close.

Can the Lakers hit enough 3-pointers?

For the season, the Lakers didn't take many 3s — bottom 10 in the league — but when they did, they made a respectable 35.9% of them (14th in the league). If Los Angeles is going to keep pace with Oklahoma City's scoring this series, it needs a lot more attempts and more 3-pointers to fall.

With Chet Holmgren as the anchor, in the games against the Lakers this season the Thunder crowded the paint on defense and dared them to shoot over the top. The chances were there, but during the four meetings this season the Lakers shot 30.3% against OKC. The return of Reaves to the rotation should help, as will Luke Kennard playing well, but the Lakers need guys like Rui Hachimura and Marcus Smart (from the corner, ideally) to launch and make 3s, too.

Can the Lakers’ defense hold up?

The Lakers played much-improved defense as the season wore on, but stopping Oklahoma City is on an entirely different level. There's Gilgeous-Alexander, who will get downhill and either finish or draw a foul. There is Holmgren, who is 7-foot, can post up, face up, hit 3s or finish lobs at the rim. There are shooters all over the court at all times. It's a big ask for the Lakers, but they need to play their best defense, put pressure on SGA and the Thunder ball handlers like Ajay Mitchell, force some turnovers and just slow the Thunder down.

Part of slowing OKC down: The Lakers have to take care of the ball. They were inconsistent against the Rockets, and Houston picked up some easy transition buckets (but missed plenty, too). The Thunder are more of the same, but when they get the ball out in transition, they finish. The Lakers can't afford to give up all those easy points.

Prediction: Thunder in five

I was at a couple of those matchups between these teams this year, and the talent gap is too great for the Lakers to make up. The return of Luka means the Lakers might be able to push this to six games, but the Thunder are moving on.

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Where to watch Minnesota Timberwolves vs. San Antonio Spurs Game 1 NBA playoffs: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Monday, May 4

The Minnesota Timberwolves face the San Antonio Spurs in the first game of their Western Conference semifinals series. The Timberwolves beat the Denver Nuggets 4-2 in the first round while the Spurs beat the Portland Trail Blazers 4-1. Minnesota star guard Anthony Edwards, who missed the last two games of the first round with a knee injury, could return in the opener.

  • Spread: San Antonio Spurs -13.5

  • Moneyline: San Antonio Spurs -641 (83.0%) / Minnesota Timberwolves +464 (17.0%)

  • Over/Under: 217.5

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Where to watch Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks Game 1 NBA playoffs: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Monday, May 4

The Philadelphia 76ers meet the New York Knicks in the opening game of their Eastern Conference semifinals series. The Sixers eliminated the Boston Celtics in seven games in the first round. The Knicks beat the Atlanta Hawks 4-2. The Knicks are favored at 7.5 points with an over/under of 212.5.

  • Spread: New York Knicks -7.5

  • Moneyline: New York Knicks -294 (71.4%) / Philadelphia 76ers +235 (28.6%)

  • Over/Under: 212.5

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Pablo Torre's podcast wins Pulitzer Prize for Clippers report, capping a remarkable rise

NEW YORK (AP) — The “Pablo Torre Finds Out” podcast won a Pulitzer Prize in audio reporting on Monday for its deep dive into the finances of the Los Angeles Clippers and star Kawhi Leonard, capping a remarkable rise for the influential show.

Torre's show — which has three episodes each week — has reported on several major stories since its debut in 2023. Topics include Jeffrey Epstein and his ties to Harvard, Madison Square Garden’s use of facial recognition software at games and team collusion in the NFL.

“We are honored to have been named the winner of the 2026 Pulitzer Prize in Audio Reporting!” the podcast’s official X account posted.

Last September, a report by Torre alleged that the Clippers violated NBA salary cap rules involving a $28 million endorsement contract between Leonard and the now-bankrupt California-based sustainability services company called Aspiration Fund Adviser LLC. The report led to an ongoing NBA investigation.

The Pulitzer judges called the project a “pioneering and entertaining form of live podcast journalism.”

Leonard has denied any wrongdoing, saying he didn’t receive all of the money he was owed from the company.

The Clippers have strongly denied that any rules were broken and said they welcomed the league’s investigation, which is being run by an outside firm.

Clippers owner Steve Ballmer made a $50 million investment in Aspiration, and the company and the team announced a $300 million partnership in September 2021. That was about a month after Leonard signed a four-year, $176 million extension with the Clippers.

The team ended its relationship with Aspiration after two years, saying the contract was in default. Aspiration’s co-founder, Joseph Sanberg, agreed to plead guilty in August after facing federal charges of wire fraud. Prosecutors said he defrauded investors and lenders out of $248 million, adding that “Aspiration’s financial statements were inaccurate and reflected much higher revenue than the company in fact received.”

Torre's podcast is produced by Meadowlark Media and licensed by The Athletic, which is owned by The New York Times Company. The 40-year-old Torre also has worked for Sports Illustrated and ESPN.

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AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA

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Cavs at Pistons Game 1: How to watch, odds, and injury report

DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 27: Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks to pass the ball during the game against the Detroit Pistons on February 27, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. 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 Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The team that’s won Game 1 has won every series that the Donovan Mitchell-led Cleveland Cavaliers teams have played. How much stock you put into that is up to you. What we can say is that Game 1 against the Detroit Pistons is important.

Neither the Cavs nor the Pistons have had much time to prepare for the second round. Both teams went seven games in a series that many thought would be over far before it was. As a result, both have just one day to transition from the highs of winning a Game 7 to the onset of a new series.

The lack of preparation usually means that the team, or more specifically the team with the star players, that executes better will come away with the win on Tuesday.

For what it’s worth, the Cavs and Pistons split their four regular-season contests this year.

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Who: Cleveland Cavaliers (52-30) at Detroit Pistons (60-22)

Where: Little Caesars Arena – Detroit, MI

When: Tue., May 5 at 7 PM

TV: Peacock, NBC Sports Network

Point spread: Pistons -3.5

Cavs injury report: None

Pistons injury report: Kevin Huerter – QUESTIONABLE (abductor strain)

Cavs expectedstarting lineup: James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

Pistons expected starting lineup: Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Previous matchup: The Cavs defeated the Pistons 113-109 in March thanks to a big game from Jaylon Tyson

Here’s a look at both teams’ regular-season impact stats via Cleaning the Glass.

Offensive RatingDefensive RatingNet Rating
Cavs118.9 (8th)115 (15th)+3.9 (9th)
Raptors118.3 (10th)109.5 (2nd)+8.8 (3rd)
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Detroit Pistons announce extension with coach J.B. Bickerstaff

DETROIT (AP) — Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff has agreed to a contract extension on the heels of Detroit's first-round playoff series victory over the Orlando Magic.

Details regarding the value and length of the extension were not released by the Pistons when they announced the deal on Monday.

The Pistons have gone 104-60 in regular-season games under Bickerstaff and made two playoff appearances since he took over for Monty Williams at the start of the 2024-25 season.

Detroit lost in the first round a year ago. This season, the Pistons had the best record in the Eastern Conference at 60-22 and on Sunday defeated Orlando 116-94 to close out a playoff series victory for the first time since 2008.

In the fall of 2024, Bickerstaff took over a Pistons franchise that had posted the NBA's worst record in each of the previous two seasons, including a 14-68 record in 2023-24.

Before Bickerstaff arrived, Detroit finished with the worst record in the NBA in consecutive seasons.

Detroit opens a second-round playoff series at home on Tuesday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers — a team Bickerstaff coached from the end of the 2019-2020 season through the 2023-24 campaign.

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AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

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MLB Power Rankings: Cubs continue Wrigley Field dominance, Phillies off to hot start with Don Mattingly

Featured in this week’s MLB Power Rankings, the Cubs continue to rise, Fernando Tatís Jr. is suffering a power outage, the Phillies find momentum after switching managers, there’s a notable change in Miami, and the Reds probably just walked another guy.

As a reminder, this article is a combination of current performance and long-term outlook.

Let’s get started!

Note: Rankings are from the morning of Monday, May 4

MLB: Cleveland Guardians at Atlanta Braves
Fantasy baseball streaming starting pitchers and arsenal changes for Parker Messick, Davis Martin, more
Eric Samulski lists his favorite streaming starts of the week and discusses some key pitch mix changes.

1) Atlanta Braves

Last week: 1

The Braves swept the Rockies over the weekend, giving them their best 35-game start (25-10) in the Modern Era. They’ve already opened up an 8.5 game lead in the NL East, for goodness sakes. It's a nice cushion as the club waits for Ronald Acuña Jr. to return from a hamstring injury.

2) New York Yankees ⬆️

Last week: 3

R.I.P to longtime Yankees radio voice John Sterling, who passed away at the age of 87.

Sterling was the quintessential showman in the radio booth. He cared about his craft, and he cared about making the game feel important and fun. I always enjoyed his play-by-play during long drives because it felt like someone was keeping me company. There will never be another one like him.

3) Los Angeles Dodgers ⬇️

Last week: 2

Justin Wrobleski is headlining the Dodgers’ rotation, just like we all expected. The 25-year-old reeled off another scoreless outing Sunday against the Cardinals and he has now allowed one earned run or fewer in all five of his starts. The craziest thing is how he’s doing it. He didn’t strike out a single batter on Sunday and has just 15 strikeouts in 36 innings overall this season. How is that possible in 2026?

4) Chicago Cubs ⬆️

Last week: 5

In completing a sweep over the Diamondbacks this weekend, the Cubs have now won 11 consecutive games at Wrigley Field. That’s their longest home winning streak since 2008. Michael Busch got off to a miserable start this season, but he's hitting .288 with two homers and 15 RBI over his last 19 games.

5) Tampa Bay Rays ⬆️

Last week: 7

It’s easy to look at this roster and say it shouldn’t last, but we have a history of saying that when it comes to this franchise. The Rays have won nine out of 10 during which Shane McClanahan has a pair of scoreless starts.

6) San Diego Padres ⬇️

Last week: 4

Want to hear something shocking? The calendar just flipped to May and Fernando Tatís Jr. has yet to connect for his first home run of the season. He’s still hitting the ball very hard, so there’s reason to believe better days are ahead, but he’s currently sporting the lowest launch angle of his career while also pulling the ball less often than ever before.

7) Pittsburgh Pirates ⬆️

Last week: 8

Five straight losses followed by a dominant weekend sweep against the Reds where they outscored them 27-8 in the three games.

Fun moment here from Friday’s game as Paul Skenes was on the mic when Henry Davis hit his first of two homers on the day.

The Pirates are on MLB Sunday Leadoff on Peacock on May 24 against the Blue Jays. Just saying, Paul. You are welcome to join us.

8) Cincinnati Reds ⬇️

Last week: 6

The Reds tied a major league record with seven consecutive walks on Saturday and somehow they didn’t burn the tape.

Believe it not, the Pirates were also the opposing team the last time it happened on May 25, 1983 against the Braves.

9) Detroit Tigers

Last week: 9

The Tigers used six pitchers to defeat the Rangers on Sunday Night Baseball on Peacock/NBCSN, which makes them 12-3 at home this season compared to 6-14 on the road. That needs to change for them to take charge in the AL Central. It's going to be tough without their ace Tarik Skubal, who is reportedly undergoing surgery to remove loose bodies from his elbow. Yikes.

10) St. Louis Cardinals ⬆️

Last week: 16

The Cardinals’ six-game winning streak ended Sunday, but this club continues to surprise relative to preseason expectations. I definitely keep being wrong about them. Jordan Walker has started to heat up again in recent days with two homers and 11 RBI over his last six games.

11) Cleveland Guardians ⬆️

Last week: 14

Travis Bazzana is here! It’s no secret that the Guardians have struggled to develop bats to complement Jose Ramirez and Steven Kwan, but they have some hope with Bazzana and Chase DeLauter in the fold.

12) Milwaukee Brewers

Last week: 12

The pitching has exceeded expectations so far, but the lineup is poised to get a boost to begin the week with Andrew Vaughn slated to return from the injured list. Jackson Chourio fouled a ball off his left ankle in what was expected to be his final rehab game on Saturday, so it might take a bit longer to get him back. Still, things are looking up.

UPDATE: Good news, as Chourio was activated on Monday after all.

13) Athletics ⬆️

Last week: 15

We all know about Shea Langeliers’ prodigious power, but did you know that he’s tied for the major league lead with 45 hits? The A’s backstop slugged two homers on Saturday (his wife Raegan’s birthday) and he became a dad on Sunday after his wife gave birth to a baby boy. Are you ready for Langeliers with dad strength?

14) Seattle Mariners ⬇️

Last week: 11

What do you do when you are pitching on the day Randy Johnson gets his number retired? Strike out 14 batters, of course.

Hancock has been outstanding this season, with a 2.59 ERA through seven starts. The Mariners will soon have more pitchers than rotation spots with Bryce Miller on the verge of returning from the injured list. It might be the struggling Luis Castillo who ends up with a different role.

15) Arizona Diamondbacks ⬇️

Last week: 10

Merrill Kelly got a late start on the season due to intercostal nerve irritation in his back and he’s really struggled since making his return. Including a loss on Sunday, he’s posted a 9.95 ERA with 29 hits allowed (including six homers) and 15 walks in 19 innings. That amounts to a 2.32 WHIP, which is the opposite of a cool WHIP. I'm so sorry. My only excuse is that I'm a dad.

16) Texas Rangers ⬇️

Last week: 13

The bats have gone quiet lately, as they have scored just 20 runs over their last nine games. The Rangers were originally hoping that Wyatt Langford would be able to return over the weekend, but he’s been shut down for a week due to continued soreness in his right forearm.

17) Philadelphia Phillies ⬆️

Last week: 20

Coincidence or not, the Phillies are 5-1 under new manager Don Mattingly. This roster is too good to think they would stick among the dregs of the league. How interesting would it be if Mattingly finally gets closer to that elusive World Series championship, but has to face the Yankees to get it? Of course, the Phillies have a lot more work to do to even get back to .500, but it seems they are on their way.

18) Toronto Blue Jays

Last week: 18

It's safe to say that Kazuma Okamoto is beginning to find his comfort level against MLB pitching. He’s homered in three straight games (including a two-homer game on Friday) and is slashing .296/.387/.704 over his last 15 games.

19) Miami Marlins ⬆️

Last week: 21

Big news to begin the week, as Agustín Ramírez has been demoted while top prospect catcher Joe Mack is being called up from Triple-A. It’s well known that Ramírez is not great defensively and it’s harder to live with when he’s not producing offensively. Mack is an upgrade behind the plate at the very least, while early-season standout Liam Hicks figures to see more time at first base and designated hitter.

20) Baltimore Orioles ⬇️

Last week: 17

The Orioles enter the week with four straight losses and a 15-19 record despite a host of changes this offseason. The hope was that Kyle Bradish would lead the rotation this year, but he’s sporting a rough 5.03 ERA with 21 walks in 34 innings across his seven starts.

21) Kansas City Royals ⬆️

Last week: 28

With a weekend sweep of the Mariners, the Royals are starting to turn things around. They’ll play their next 10 games against division opponents, including a four-game series against the Guardians at home to begin the week.

22) Minnesota Twins ⬇️

Last week: 19

It was a brutal Sunday for the Twins. In addition to right-hander Joe Ryan leaving his start due to elbow soreness, top prospect outfielder Walker Jenkins was forced to exit a game in Triple-A after injuring his shoulder while crashing into the outfield wall to make a catch.

23) Washington Nationals ⬆️

Last week: 27

The Nationals signed left-hander Foster Griffin to a one-year, $5.5 million deal this offseason after a successful three-season stint in Japan. While the move didn’t get much attention at the time, he’s been the team’s best starter so far. With a deep bag of seven (!) pitches, Griffin sports a shiny 2.27 ERA through seven starts.

24) Houston Astros

Last week: 24

There was plenty of speculation this offseason about the Astros shopping Christian Walker, but he’s looked like a different hitter to start off his second season with Houston. After being hit in the head by a 93 mph fastball on Saturday, he notched two hits and a walk Sunday’s extra-inning win over the Red Sox. The 35-year-old is hitting .317 with eight homers and 26 RBI through 35 games.

By the way, look out world: The Astros have won three out of their last four games. Up next are the defending World Series champion Dodgers.

25) Chicago White Sox ⬆️

Last week: 30

I wanted to give some credit to the White Sox, who are 10-5 over their last 15 games. Munetaka Murakami is understandably getting most of the attention nationally, but Sean Burke (2.72 ERA) and Davis Martin (1.95 ERA) have been outstanding to begin the year.

26) Boston Red Sox

Last week: 26

As opposed to the Phillies, switching managers hasn’t paid off in the win column for the Red Sox. They’ve lost four out of their last five as the lack of power continues to stand out. Only the Brewers and the Giants have hit fewer home runs. And they are missing staff ace Garrett Crochet to boot.

27) New York Mets ⬇️

Last week: 25

The Mets just won their first road series in nearly a month, but now they’re down another shortstop after Ronny Mauricio fractured his thumb on a dive into first base over the weekend. Bo Bichette should see more time at his natural position until Francisco Lindor is ready to return, but recent call-up Vidal Brujan will also be in the mix.

28) Los Angeles Angels ⬇️

Last week: 23

A big slide for the Angels, who have lost 12 out of their last 14 games. The bullpen has been one of the biggest culprits with a 5.62 ERA. Only the Astros (6.20 ERA) have been worse.

29) Colorado Rockies

Last week: 29

The Rockies have lost five out of six since sweeping the Mets. The good news is that they get to face the Mets again to begin the week.

30) San Francisco Giants ⬇️

Last week: 22

The Giants have been swept by the Phillies and the Rays over the past week and have scored the fewest runs of any team in baseball. They’ve scored 12 fewer runs than the next-closest team, the Mets. The Giants are calling up prospects Bryce Eldridge and Jesus Rodriguez in hopes of giving a jolt to their beleaguered offense.

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Lakers vs Thunder Same-Game Parlay for Tuesday's NBA Playoffs Game 1

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The Los Angeles Lakers may never have a distinct edge in this series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, and my Lakers vs. Thunder same-game parlay picks believe that should be particularly true in Game 1.

My Lakers vs. Thunder predictions have no faith in Los Angeles in any regard before Game 1 on Tuesday, May 5.

Our best Lakers vs Thunder SGP for Game 1

SGP leg #1: Thunder First Half -9.5 (-115)

The Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Los Angeles Lakers four times in four tries this season. Is that not bad enough?

The Thunder covered the full-game spread at halftime in three of those games. In the fourth? Oklahoma City was an 18-point favorite for the game and led by exactly 18 points at halftime.

There is no traction here for the Lakers. Not in any regard.

SGP leg #2: Thunder -15.5 (-110)

Most of the time, the thought of a fourth-quarter flurry could inspire fear about a number this large. Los Angeles might push late, right?

Not in this Game 1. Not when on the road and already with a rest disadvantage. This is the one moment to expect JJ Redick to pack it in early if the game is out of hand, likely turning any 20-point deficit into a 30-point misery.

SGP leg #3: Austin Reaves Under 21.5 points (-120)

No one on the Lakers’ roster should be pulled sooner than Austin Reaves, not even LeBron James. Reaves has rushed back from an oblique strain to give James some scoring help, but he still shows some wear.

Save the stress for a winnable game.

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See our full Lakers vs Thunder Game 1 preview

Get Douglas Farmer's full breakdown of this game, including his best bet, plus the latest NBA odds, injuries, and betting trends, in his Lakers vs Thunder predictions for Game 1.

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SB Nation Reacts results: Do you want the Rockets to trade Kevin Durant in the offseason?

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 29: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets smiles during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers during Round One Game Five on April 29, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

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

This past week’s question asked Rockets fans about Kevin Durant. Following a tumultuous season in which KD played well on the court, was a vibe-killing disaster off of it, and a no-show come NBA Playoffs time, we asked our readers if they wanted the Rockets to trade him in the offseason. Not what they thought the Rockets would do. What they WANT the Rockets to do.

Here’s the results:

As you can see, a full 65 percent of Rockets fans want KD gone. You can count me in that 65. Sadly, it doesn’t appear that we will get our wish. In today’s ESPN article about the Rockets, Ramona Shelbourne reported that KD was a grumpy gus all season in the locker room, saying:

“Durant was predictably brilliant on the court throughout the 2025-26 season, averaging 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists while playing in 78 games, but team sources said his “moodiness” took some getting used to and wore on the team’s young players throughout the campaign, a dynamic that was exacerbated without VanVleet and Adams as buffers.“

However, despite the burner incident playing a role in Houston’s chemistry issues this season, the Rockets fully intend to have KD back in the fold next season, calling Durant part of their core. The article also mentions that the locker room is supposedly fine now after some meetings, but I don’t think anyone who’s watched the Rockets recently doesn’t think the chemistry and comraderie was better without him. Were the Rockets a better team overall without him? That’s a different convo. Can they reach the next level by trading him for assets and being a little patient? I think that’s also a serious convo that needs to be had.

Anyway, it seems we’re not getting our wish, but if there’s one thing that I’ve learned in 25 years of writing about the NBA is to expect the unexpected.

Thanks for voting. We’ll be back soon with more Reacts.

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Cavaliers vs Pistons Same-Game Parlay for Tuesday's NBA Playoffs Game 1

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Both the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Detroit Pistons have notable frontcourts, but the Cavaliers’ big men were inconsistent in the first round against the Magic.

This Cavaliers vs. Pistons same-game parlay expects Detroit to win on the glass in Game 1 on Tuesday, May 5.

Our best Cavaliers vs Pistons SGP for Game 1

SGP leg #1: Jarrett Allen Under 7.5 Rebounds (+100)

Jarrett Allen starred on the glass twice in the first round, but that was twice in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ seven-game series win. Which is to say, he fell short of this very modest prop five times against the relatively undersized Raptors.

That kind of rate will age even worse against the Detroit Pistons. They thrive on the offensive glass, No. 3 in the NBA in offensive rebounding rate since the All-Star Break, the kind of strength that gets overlooked during the regular season and by casual fans but can be a massive postseason difference-maker.

SGP leg #2: Jalen Duren Over 9.5 Rebounds (-145)

Jalen Duren leads that offensive rebounding focus. He pulled in at least four offensive boards in five of Detroit’s seven games against the Magic. In each of the final three games of that series, Duren snagged at least five offensive rebounds.

This is Duren’s most reliable skill, and even if he is not scoring, every offensive rebound he finds creates another scoring chance for the Pistons.

SGP leg #3: Pistons Moneyline (-150)

Homecourt advantage plus what could be a distinct rebounding edge should be all the logic needed to trust Detroit in this series opener, particularly given how well Cade Cunningham was playing as the first round ended.

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MMBets: Eastern Conference Semifinals feature several unknowns

DETROIT, MI - MAY 3: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons drives to the basket during the game against the Orlando Magic during Round One Game Seven of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on May 3, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. 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 Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The NBA Playoffs are a fickle beast, and that remains especially true for the Eastern Conference Playoffs. Three of the four first round series went the distance, which saw the pre-playoff favorite Boston Celtics be eliminated after blowing a 3-1 lead to the Sixers. The number one seed Detroit Pistons staged a 3-1 comeback of their own, highlighted by a 24-point comeback win in game six in Orlando. The Cavaliers toppled the Raptors in seven games, which saw the home team win all seven contests. And last, but certainly not least, the Knicks closed out the Hawks in game six, which was an all-time beat down.

What could the semifinals bring? Our brightest betting minds here at Mavs Moneyball have some disagreement about what the future might hold.

Check out our Western Conference Semifinals preview here.

(1) Pistons vs (4) Cavaliers

(Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Series moneyline: Detroit -120, Cavs +102

David’s pick: Cavaliers over Pistons 4-2

I do not think either of these teams are real. Detroit looked really bad after going down 3-1 to a Magic team that had no identity. But the Pistons won 60 games for a reason and ultimately did not fall victim to the same fate the Mavericks did 19 years ago. Donovan Mitchell has been a career loser in the playoffs and James Harden’s choking is well documented. Fortunately for them, experience will win out here and the Pistons’ dream season will fall short of their ultimate goal. 

Series props:

  • Cavaliers to win (+105)
  • Series to go 6 games (+200)
  • Detroit to win game one/Cleveland to win series (+320)

The Cavaliers will bring Donovan Mitchell to the conference finals for the first time. James Harden will have a chance to go back to the NBA Finals. They will finish it in six games after Detroit runs out of shooting. I think the Pistons will come out and keep their momentum alive in game one, but will not win another game until game 5. 

Tyler’s pick: Pistons over Cavs 4-1

The Pistons were just down 3-1 to the Orlando Magic, so you might be wondering why exactly I think they lay the hammer here. It’s simple for me: Detroit is going to physically beat Cleveland into submission. Jalen Duren was pretty brutal against Orlando, but in game seven he finally found some form. Instead of the physical front line of Orlando, he and his Pistons will face off with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, who are not exactly known for their power game. Detroit is going to get the series they want here. It’ll be ugly, physical basketball with final scores rarely exceeding 100. If that is indeed the case, this will be over quickly.

Series props:

  • Pistons -1.5 series spread (+155)
  • Detroit to be leading 3-0 after game three (+490)
  • Jalen Duren to lead series in rebounds (-115)

There’s not much to be added here, I really like the Pistons to get the job done early. And as noted above, I don’t think Jalen Duren’s struggles against a very physical Orlando front line will carry over against the Cavs, who are a different team that plays a different brand of basketball. I would venture to guess that Duren has a great series here on the glass. 

(3) Knicks vs (7) Sixers

(Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Series moneyline: Knicks -270, Sixers +220

David’s pick: Sixers over Knicks 4-3

This is going to be a fantastic series if Joel Embiid plays all of it. Even if he misses a game or two, there will be fireworks. Both teams will struggle to defend the other, and the bad blood runs through the veins of every player. It is not hyperbole to say that this is a legacy-defining series for Embiid. He just defeated his Celtics demons and now faces the easiest path to the NBA Finals that he has had in his career. On the flip side, Jalen Brunson is still looking to get over the hump as the number one guy. Every guy in this series has something to prove. The deciding factor will be who has the better player, and that honor goes to Joel Embiid and the Sixers. Philadelphia wins game seven in a close game.

Series props:

  • Sixers to come back from a 2 game deficit (+1000)
  • Sixers to win (+220)
  • Over 5.5 games (-150) 

I think the Knicks hold serve at home and go up 2-0. After the extended rest, the Sixers get right and ultimately win four out of five. The over on 5.5 seems free, this has seven game classic written all over it. 

Tyler’s pick: Knicks over Sixers 4-3

I’ve gone back and forth on this a couple of times. The Knicks are the kings of engaging in nonsense, while the Sixers are not immune to that themselves. This series will feature small guards everywhere, the rekindling of a feud between Joel Embiid and Karl-Anthony Towns. The coaching angle here is interesting as well, as I give a pretty strong edge to the Sixers staff. 

So with that, why exactly am I taking the Knicks? I think the role players for New York are going to do circles around what Philly has outside of Maxey and Embiid. The Knicks have great main role players in Hart, Bridges and Robinson, and even then the fringe guys like Shamet, McBride and Alvarado can all do something well. When you look at the other side, Philly will basically run six or seven guys, with Quentin Grimes and Andre Drummond being the only real guys who get minutes. Because the Knicks will run a couple guys deeper, they should have a massive advantage on rest and having their legs.

Series props:

  • Sixers +1.5 series spread (-120)
  • Knicks game one + series win (-105)
  • Josh Hart to lead series in rebounds (+500)

There are tons of trends about teams who just won a game seven facing a team who didn’t play seven games in a game one. Spoiler alert: the rested team does really well! I expect a resounding Knicks game one win, but that will not change my opinion on the series. As far as Hart goes, I wonder if Towns and Embiid cancel each other out in this series on the glass. They could be too busy fighting amongst themselves, which in turn would get KAT into foul trouble. Enter Josh Hart, who averaged over 10 rebounds per game against the Sixers last postseason.

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Submit your questions for The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast

Send in your questions now for this week’s episode of The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast to discuss everything Pistons. Submit your question to the comments section here or on X/Twitter to @TheRealWesD3 and/or @blakesilverman.

Join us live on Saturday afternoon for the show where we’ll recap the Pistons’ incredible 3–1 comeback to eliminate the Magic in the first round and preview the second-round series against the Cavaliers. How are you feeling heading into round two? How far can this Pistons team go? And how surreal is it to watch a playoff series win for the first time since 2008?

Plus, The Pindown has a phone line where you can leave a message and hear your voice on the show. Call (313) 355-2717 and leave us a voicemail with your question. Please try to keep the message around 45 seconds or less so we can fit everyone into the show.

The podcast will be uploaded to all audio platforms the following morning.

The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast Vitals:

When: Tuesday May 5 at 11 a.m. ET

Where: Detroit Bad Boys YouTube Channel

How to submit questions:

  • Detroit Bad Boys Website: Comment section of the weekly Pindown episode articles.
  • Call (313) 355-2717 and leave us a voicemail with your question. Please try to keep the message to 45 seconds or less.
  • Twitter: @detroitbadboys, @blakesilverman or @therealwesd3
  • YouTube: Chat section of The Pindown live recording — Subscribe here

As always, leave any questions or topics you want to be discussed in the comment section below.

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Lakers vs Thunder Prediction, Picks & Odds for NBA Playoffs Game 1

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Could LeBron James’s time with the Los Angeles Lakers end not with a bang, but with a whimper? This series against the Oklahoma City Thunder should certainly force that question.

MyLakers vs. Thunderpredictionsand NBA picks have no faith in L.A., not even in Game 1, on Tuesday, May 5.

Lakers vs Thunder Game 1 prediction

Lakers vs Thunder best bet: Thunder -15.5 (-110)

Maybe if Luka Doncic returns to the Los Angeles Lakers’ lineup, this series will find intrigue. As it is, the Oklahoma City Thunder defense is too overwhelming to put faith in the Lakers.

They met four times this season. The Thunder covered the spread in each game by an average of 19 points compared to bookmakers’ expectations.

The Lakers fell short of their team total in three of the four meetings by an average of 11.6 points even when including the sole Team Total Over, which came by two points.

Without Luka, expect OKC to collapse on LeBron James at every moment.

Covers COVERS INTEL: Los Angeles had far fewer worries against Houston’s offense, which went 12-of-48 from the midrange in that six-game series, than it will against Oklahoma City.

Lakers vs Thunder Game 1 same-game parlay

Los Angeles played on Friday, and while that did become a rout, it was a rather tense moment heading into that game. Meanwhile, Oklahoma City has had a full week off after its easy sweep of Phoenix.

Every advantage lines up for a Thunder blowout to open this series, and once the game is out of hand, Lakers head coach JJ Redick likely will sit Austin Reaves to spare his oblique any added stress. Reaves played just 34 and 31 minutes in his two games back against the Rockets. There will be no logic to pushing him while trailing by two dozen.

Lakers vs Thunder SGP

  • Thunder First Half -9.5
  • Thunder -15.5
  • Austin Reaves Under 21.5 Points

Our "from downtown" SGP: Not Yet, LeBron

LeBron James may continue to get away with it, but there is no logic to pushing him in a lopsided Game 1. Every ounce of reason expects Los Angeles to lose this game handily. Chalk it up to rest, chalk it up to home court, chalk it up to anything you want. Just expect it.

Redick will be smart to preserve any massive game from James for when it is within reach.

Look at Game 4 of last round: The Lakers lost by 19 and trailed by more than that. Related: James played just 33 minutes and scored only 10 points.

Lakers vs Thunder SGP

  • Thunder -15.5
  • LeBron James Under 20.5 Points
  • LeBron James Under 7.5 Rebounds
  • LeBron James Under 7.5 Assists

Lakers vs Thunder odds for Game 1

  • Spread: Lakers +16 | Thunder -16
  • Moneyline: Lakers +700 | Thunder -1100
  • Over/Under: Over 213.5 | Under 213.5

Lakers vs Thunder betting trend to know

In four meetings against the Lakers this year, the Thunder covered the full-game spread in just the first half in three of them. In the exception, they exactly matched the full-game spread of 18 points. Find more NBA betting trends for Lakers vs. Thunder.

How to watch Lakers vs Thunder Game 1

LocationPaycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
DateTuesday, May 5, 2026
Tip-off8:30 p.m. ET
TVNBC/Peacock

Lakers vs Thunder latest injuries

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3 Ways the Cavs can beat Detroit in round two

CLEVELAND, OHIO - MARCH 03: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons guards James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the fourth quarter at Rocket Arena on March 03, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Pistons 113-109. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The stage is set for round two of the NBA Playoffs. Here are three ways the Cleveland Cavaliers can ensure victory over the 60-win Detroit Pistons.

1. Shrink the floor

The Raptors and Pistons share a similar offensive profile. Neither team loves to shoot three-pointers, primarily because they aren’t very good at it. They’d prefer to score from the mid-range or attack the basket — led almost entirely by one primary initiator (more on this later).

That means Cleveland’s defensive game plan will be similar to round one. Pack the paint, shrink the floor, and dare someone to beat you.

Toronto surprised most of us with its efficiency. They nailed 35.6% of their three-point attempts in round one, the fifth-best of any playoff team this year. But they also struggled to score for long stretches, often because the Cavs declined to pay them any respect behind the arch. Shrinking the floor makes it really hard to score if you don’t have the personnel to shoot with volume.

That’s why the Raptors took the third fewest three-point attempts per game in round one, despite shooting better than anyone expected. They just didn’t have guys who could launch ‘em.

Neither do the Pistons… mostly.

Detroit has some weapons that the Cavs will have to monitor. Duncan Robinson can burn you. Tobias Harris is capable of big games. Even Cunningham shot near 40% from deep in round one. But truthfully, perimeter shooting is a weakness that the Cavs can exploit.

The Pistons shot the second-fewest three-pointers in round one and converted on the fifth-worst percentage. Harris, Dannis Jankins, Caris LeVert, and Javonte Green all shot below 30% from downtown. Thompson only attempted one three-pointer, which he missed. Neither big man in Detroit is likely to push their luck from deep either.

I’d expect the Cavs to totally ignore Thompson, and to dare everyone other than Harris, Cunningham, and Robinson to make them pay. I’d also expect the Cavs to win that gamble, given that the Pistons ranked 20th in three-point accuracy during the regular season — even worse than Toronto (18th).

2. Put it all on Cade Cunningham

Both the Cavs and Pistons battled to the end in round one. A seven-game series can be draining. More so, if you’re the one carrying the entire team on your back.

This isn’t to discredit Harris, who showed up big in Game 7 for Detroit, but let’s be real… Cunningham’s usage was through the roof during that series. He posted an absurd usage rate of 37%, matching Joel Embiid for the highest load in round one.

For comparison, Donovan Mitchell led the Cavs with a usage rate of 30%.

Carrying that much weight will wear anyone down. The deeper you go into the playoffs, the more of a toll it takes. Cunningham averaged 32 points on 22 shots per game in the first round. He’ll be asked to do something similar versus Cleveland. That’s a benefit for the Cavs.

The more pressure you can put on Cade to win this series on his own, the better. That means the Cavs will do everything in their power to limit Detroit’s supporting cast. The weight could be unbearable if Cleveland keeps a lid on the Pistons’ role players.

The Cavs are well-equipped to make Cunningham work. Dean Wade just had a phenomenal defensive series, while Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen will no doubt pack the paint and contest every drive. Even Max Strus and Sam Merrill have shown they can ramp up the intensity — while Jaylon Tyson is more than ready to be physical with Cunningham.

Cunningham averaged 18.5 points on just 34% shooting against the Cavs in four games this season. I’m sure he’ll be better than that in this series. But it shows the Cavs can give him problems offensively.

On the other end, Cleveland would be mistaken not to include Cunningham in as many screening actions as possible. He’s already being tasked with too much offensive responsibility, so the more they can challenge him defensively, the more exhausted he’ll become.

3. Attack mismatches

Not having to worry about Scottie Barnes will be nice.

Seriously, Barnes delivered one of the better defensive performances I can remember. It felt like he was everywhere, using his length, athleticism, and seemingly never-ending motor to disrupt everything Cleveland wanted to do. The backcourt struggled primarily because Barnes, along with Jamal Shead, RJ Barrett, Ja’kobe Walter, and Collin Murray-Boyles, made them struggle.

Can Detroit replicate any of that?

Some things are certain. The Pistons will try to muck things up by using Thompson on one of Donovan Mitchell or James Harden. He’ll pressure them up the floor and deny the ball whenever possible. Other Pistons will attempt to do the same.

But that’s where Cleveland starts to gain advantages.

The Raptors were loaded with length and athleticism on the wing. No matter who the Cavs brought into the action, Toronto was able to switch and swarm the ball with their wings. The Pistons — while a better defensive team — are arguably a better matchup for the Cavs from this perspective.

Thompson is a great defender. But Duncan Robinson is not. The Cavalier backcourt will feel significantly more comfortable attacking Robinson than anyone on the Raptors roster outside of Jakob Poeltl.

This extends down Detroit’s rotation. Harris is a fine defender, but I don’t see him matching Mitchell’s speed like any of Toronto’s best defenders. Duren isn’t as mobile as CMB. Jankins shouldn’t be as disruptive as Jamal Shead. Kevin Huerter might not even get on the floor, and if he does, could promptly be played off it.

That’s kind of a big deal.

The playoffs are matchup-dependent. You are only as strong as your weakest link. The Raptors’ baseline of having no bad defenders made it an eternal struggle for the Cavs offense to get rolling. But Detroit’s weak points will be tested at every available opportunity.

If that happens, Mitchell might remind us of why he’s become a perennial All-NBA player at this stage of his career.

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Minnesota's Anthony Edwards reportedly expected to play in Game 1 against San Antonio Monday

How critical is Anthony Edwards to Minnesota's chances in a matchup with San Antonio? When they met in January, Edwards dropped 55 points on the Spurs (his season high) in a game the Timberwolves still lost by 3. Without him, it's going to be tough for them to score.

Which is why it's good news that Edwards is expected to suit up and play for Minnesota in Game 1 on Monday night, just nine days after he suffered a bone bruise in his knee, reports Shams Charania of ESPN. Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic confirmed the news, but added that Edwards' exact role — whether he starts or comes off the bench and if there is a minutes limit — is still being discussed.

You can watch Edwards' return in Game 1 on Peacock, starting at 9:30 ET.

Edwards suffered a nasty knee hyperextension and, with that, a bone bruise in Game 4 against Denver. The Timberwolves went on to close out the series without him or his starting backcourt mate, Donte DiVincenzo, who tore his Achilles in that same game.

Officially, Edwards remains listed as questionable for Game 1, something not likely to change until much closer to game time. The team said a day before that Edwards "has been cleared for on-court basketball activities" after missing just two games due to a knee hyperextension and bone bruise.

The other looming question when Edwards returns: What version of him do we see? Is he at 80%? 90%? Will he look like himself?

Minnesota needs him to be close to his best in a tough matchup against the No. 2 seed Spurs and Victor Wembanyama.