The Oklahoma City Thunder host the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5, with concerns around OKC's biggest strength — its depth — heading into Tuesday.
Injuries to key guards and underperforming stars have made the Thunder vulnerable to San Antonio’s defensive schemes, as the series is now a best-of-three.
My Spurs vs. Thunder predictions see Game 5 playing much closer than the previous three contests, and my NBA picks are taking the points with the visiting Spurs on May 25.
Spurs vs Thunder Game 5 prediction
Spurs vs Thunder best bet: San Antonio Spurs +5.5 (-110)
Without those guards, OKC lacks reliable ball handlers. That forces Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to play true point guard rather than off the ball, where he’s most dangerous.
The San Antonio Spurs are keeping SGA guessing with pressure but not fully committing to double teams. Gilgeous-Alexander hasn’t been able to get into a rhythm, shooting a collective 12-for-32 the past two games.
The rest of the Thunder’s starters aren’t picking up the slack. Meanwhile the Spurs are getting great contributions from their starting five.
COVERS INTEL: San Antonio’s starting five has outscored Oklahoma City’s starters by an average of 31.7 points in the WCF. The Thunder’s bench posted a collective -9.4 in Game 4 after averaging a league-high +6.3 in the postseason.
Spurs vs Thunder Game 5 same-game parlay
Stephen Castle is back in his regular spot with the Spurs’ point guards healthy. Castle has been active on the glass in this series, pulling down five or more boards in each of the first three games.
He had three rebounds on 12 rebounding chances in Game 4, and projections sit as high as six rebounds in OKC on Tuesday.
Victor Wembanyama was much more aggressive on offense in Game 4, specifically from outside. He knocked down 3 of 7 attempts from distance and has made at least two triples in three of the first four games.
San Antonio is being conservative with Wemby on defense — limiting his amount of running around on close outs — in order to save his legs on the offensive end.
Game script says the Spurs are fighting from behind, needing big shots from their big man. Forecasts call for two 3-point makes from Wembanyama.
Spurs vs Thunder SGP
Spurs +5.5
Stephen Castle Over 4.5 rebounds
Victor Wembanyama Over 1.5 threes
Spurs vs Thunder odds for Game 5
Spread: Spurs +5.5 | Thunder -5.5
Moneyline: Spurs +165 | Thunder -200
Over/Under: Over 216 | Under 216
Spurs vs Thunder betting trend to know
The Spurs are 10-7 SU and 11-6 ATS as road underdogs on the year. Find more NBA betting trends for Spurs vs. Thunder.
How to watch Spurs vs Thunder Game 5
Location
Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Date
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Tip-off
8:30 p.m. ET
TV
NBC/Peacock
Spurs vs Thunder latest injuries
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The New York Knicks are in the driver's seat and have a chance to put the Cleveland Cavaliers out to pasture with a four-game sweep in the Eastern Conference finals tonight.
Our Knicks vs. Cavaliers same-game parlay expects that to come to fruition, with Mikal Bridges stepping up to show New York's superior depth.
All members of the New York Knicks' starting five are averaging 14-plus points per game, showing how the team's depth is vastly superior to what the Cleveland Cavaliers are throwing out there in this series.
Cleveland has struggled moving the ball, and New York has effectively isolated the Cavs' big-man duo of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. Without them finding a groove, it's been up to Donovan Mitchell and James Harden to beat the Knicks, and they simply haven't been up to the task.
SGP leg #2: Under 217
Game 1 saw 219 points, but that game required overtime. Game 2 went Under this number, and while Game 4 cleared it, the Cavs are exhausted and demoralized.
New York’s stifling defense has dominated this series, and I don’t expect many points from the struggling Cavs. I like this line at 217, but I’ll bet it down to 215.5.
SGP leg #3: Mikal Bridges Over 21.5 points + rebounds + assists
Jalen Brunson is the headliner, but the Knicks have thrived because of their bevy of depth options, including Mikal Bridges.
Bridges has averaged 26.1 PRA across his last eight games, clearing this combo line seven times. Cleveland’s lackluster defense won’t offer much resistance, particularly in transition as he scores and facilitates. I expected this line to be priced at 23.5, making it a solid value play
Get Zak Hanshew's full breakdown of this game, including his best bet, plus the latest NBA odds, injuries, and betting trends, in his Knicks vs. Cavaliers predictions for Game 4.
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Josh Hart Under 12.5 points (-110)
Projection: 11.08 points
Josh Hart had a big Game 2, scoring 26 points, but he took an uncharacteristic 21 shots. Hart will likely hover around 10-12 shots tonight, and he'll fall just short of this number like he did in Game 3.
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Mikal Bridges Under 15.5 points (-125)
Projection: 13.90 points
Mikal Bridges is playing like a man possessed, but our model sees regression tonight. As mentioned, the Cleveland Cavaliers will look to keep N.Y.'s wings quiet, which will limit Bridges' output.
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Cavaliers Game 4 computer picks
James Harden Over 18.5 points (-105)
Projection: 21.26 points
James Harden has eclipsed this point total in 10 of 17 playoff games thus far, and with the Cavs on the verge of elimination, you know "The Beard" will be chucking. It won't be pretty, but the volume will be there to reach 19 points.
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Jarrett Allen Over 1.5 assists (+135)
Projection: 1.63 assists
Our model calls for Jarrett Allen to pick up two dimes tonight. He had three in Game 1, but has had zero since. The Cavaliers will look to rely on him to kick out and hit shooters if the big man can't get anything easy down low.
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Donovan Mitchell Over 3.5 assists (-165)
Projection: 5.05 assists
With the amount of time Donovan Mitchell has the ball, Over 3.5 assists seems like a gift. He had four in his last outing, and our projections call for five dimes tonight.
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How to watch Knicks vs Cavaliers Game 4
Location
Rocket Arena, Cleveland, OH
Date
Monday, May 25, 2026
Tip-off
8:00 p.m. ET
TV
ESPN
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PORTLAND, OREGON - OCTOBER 18: Collin Sexton #2 of the Utah Jazz dribbles the ball while defended by Anfernee Simons #1 of the Portland Trail Blazers during the first quarter of the game at Moda Center on October 18, 2024 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 Alika Jenner/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Golden State Warriors are expected to make an aggressive run at signing combo guard Anfernee Simons or Collin Sexton in free agency, according to a report by Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints. In his latest mock draft, Siegel included plenty of other trade and free agent rumors. He predicted the Dubs would selected Arizona combo guard Brayden Burries with the 11th overall pick, citing the team’s desire to add a rookie who can contribute immediately and help solidify the backcourt. If the Warriors target a wing or big with the pick (either through the draft or trade), however, Siegel noted that Golden State is making waves that they will add a legit combo guard this offseason.
“Anfernee Simons and Collin Sexton are two early names league sources have described as key Warriors targets as unrestricted free agents this summer utilizing the mid-level exception,” Siegel writes. “The Dubs intend to add an impactful guard who can play on or off the ball alongside Steph Curry.”
It’s easy to see how either Simons or Sexton would fit with the Warriors. Both players are excellent scorers who can also space the floor as shooters. They could lead Golden State’s offensive attack when Curry is out and seemingly fit in well alongside him as well. It’s a role that Jordan Poole excelled in with the team, especially in the 2022 championship run, and one that the team has been unable to fill since.
Despite the offensive fit, dedicated what would likely be the full mid-level exception to either Simons or Sexton would mark a significant shift in roster-building strategy from the Warriors. Simons and Sexton are both smaller guards who struggle mightily on the defensive end. Besides Poole and Chris Paul (who was acquired in a contract dump trade for Poole), the Dubs have avoided dedicated much cap space to offense-first guards like that.
Of course, the Warriors have made it clear that they need to change things up after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign. The team’s lack of offensive firepower around Curry was embarrassing and is likely leading to the shift in strategy.
Sexton has averaged 18.3 points per game in his career and recorded 15.4 points, 3.3 assists, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.1 turnovers on 48.5%/40.1%/85.5% shooting in 23.7 minutes per game this past season in 68 games between the Hornets and Bulls. The 27-year old has never appeared in an NBA postseason game.
Simons was also traded to the Bulls at the deadline earlier this year by a contender. He finished the season averaging 14.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.2 turnovers on 44.0%/38.5%/89.6% shooting in 24.9 minutes per game across 55 contests.
The New York Knicks are on one of the best postseason runs we have ever seen. The Western Conference Finals are understandably drawing more attention, but do not overlook what New York is doing, led by none other than Jalen Brunson.
These Jalen Brunson picks trust the Knicks star to lead the way to complete a sweep in Game 4 on Monday, May 25.
Jalen Brunson best bet: Jalen Brunson Over 26.5 points (-110 at bet365)
Jalen Brunson is the New York Knicks’ clear leader, and he has utterly dominated this Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers. In Games 1 and 3, Brunson scored 38 and 30 points, respectively. In his seeming letdown in Game 2, the diminutive point guard dished out 14 assists.
The Cavaliers' defense focused on Brunson in Game 2, holding him to 7-for-16 from the field. However, he solved that riddle in Game 3, going 10-for-19 from the field and getting to the free-throw line 12 times.
By no means is Brunson a shoddy playmaker, but he is a bucket-getter first. With the chance to secure a berth in the NBA Finals, expect Brunson’s true nature to show itself plenty tonight.
Furthermore, every Brunson bucket should have a deflating effect on the Cavs. Exploiting James Harden’s and, to a lesser extent, Donovan Mitchell’s defense will only push that backcourt duo closer to the offseason and the beach.
Jalen Brunson same-game parlay
Brunson’s deep shot has not shown up for him in this series. Going 2 of 17 (11.8%) from beyond the arc through three games may look like a small sample size, but it is too egregious to be dismissed so easily.
Most notably, Brunson took only four 3-pointers in Game 3 while scoring 30 points. He knows where his success comes against the Cavaliers, inside the arc.
Brunson has shot 60% or better from inside the arc in every game of this series. Emphasizing that will only help his scoring.
And if Brunson is scoring, then this game should get away from Cleveland. In a rout, doubt Brunson to play enough to record seven assists.
Look at each of the last two rounds: New York won so handily in each clinching game, Brunson did not play even 29 minutes in either game. Fading his assists prop is actually a bet on the Knicks.
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DALLAS, TEXAS - JANUARY 24: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers makes a move to the basket during the first half against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on January 24, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. 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 Sam Hodde/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s been nearly 16 months since the Dallas Mavericks traded Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, but the two sides could find themselves making another deal this offseason.
ESPN contributor Zach Kram suggests the trade that would send center Daniel Gafford to the Lakers for Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht, and the No. 25 overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft.
“This deal should be a no-brainer for the Lakers, as they’d address their glaring hole at the center position — which would still exist even if Deandre Ayton exercised his option for next season — with a player who’s a proven fit next to Doncic. Gafford would certainly help the Lakers more next season than any rookie they could draft with the No. 25 pick,” Kram wrote.
“On the other side, Dallas lost a 2028 pick swap when it acquired Gafford at the 2024 trade deadline, but it could recoup some of that value and add another young player here. The Mavericks also would clear future cap space, with Gafford signed for more money and years (through the 2028-29 season) than Vanderbilt.”
Gafford took a step back this season with the Mavericks, averaging 9.5 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. That was slightly below his 12.3 points per game during the 2024-25 campaign. Gafford’s 3-year extension is about to go into effect, and the Mavs will have to pay him $54 million over the next three seasons, with Dereck Lively II also on the roster.
This is a big season coming up for Lively in terms of whether he will be a long-term part of the Mavs, so the team needs to get the best look on what he can do as long as he is healthy.
With all of the change surrounding the Mavs at the moment, moving on from Gafford could be in the cards as the team looks to get younger around Cooper Flagg.
MM community, what do you make of the trade suggestion? Chime off in the comments section below.
BOSTON, MA - MARCH 16: The sneakers worn by Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns during the game against the Boston Celtics on March 16, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Adam Silver's anti-tanking quest — a dramatic reaction to this year's unique situation with an especially deep draft — comes to a head this week when the NBA owners are scheduled to meet and vote on that latest lottery reform proposal.
That proposal is a modified version of the "3-2-1" proposal put forward last month (named after the number of ping-pong balls a team could get). A number of league front offices have serious concerns about what this will mean in terms of trading draft picks and for the value of picks already traded. This new proposal dramatically flattens the odds of the lottery and expands it to 16 teams — that changes the value of picks that could be traded or picks that already have been. From Mike Vorkunov at The Athletic.
Team executives have predicted that first-round picks would be harder to trade under the new rules, as the 3-2-1 format gives teams higher up in the standings a better chance to land not just a high draft choice but the No. 1 pick...
Earlier this month at the draft combine, some team executives bemoaned that these changes are coming after those picks have been dealt. A majority of the league would be impacted by these after-the-fact changes. In 2027, 14 teams have already traded away control of their first-round picks. In 2028 and 2029 each, only 12 teams control their own first-round picks without any encumbrances, swaps or as part of elaborate waterfall conveyances.
The NBA offseason loves the attention that offseason blockbuster trades generate, but making first-round picks less likely to be traded means it’s harder to put together a deal for someone like Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The value of all those already traded picks and swaps changes under this new "3-2-1" system, which is the latest, further flattening the odds that seems to be the league's only solution to tanking.
As a reminder, here is how the new system would break down:
• Three teams with the worst records: They fall into a poorly-named "relegation zone" and be penalized for their poor performance by only getting two lottery balls, giving them a a 5.4% chance at the No. 1 pick, and they could fall all the way to 12th in the lottery. • Teams with the 4-10 worst records: They get three lottery balls and an 8.1% chance at the No. 1 pick. • Teams that finish as the No. 9 and 10 seeds in each conference will each get two lottery balls and a 5.4% chance at the No. 1 pick. (If this had been in place this season, Golden State, the LA Clippers, Miami and Charlotte would have had the same odds at getting the No. 1 pick as Washington, Utah and Sacramento.) • Teams that lose the 7-8 play-in for each conference get one lottery ball, and with it a 2.7% chance of landing the No. 1 pick (this season that would have been Orlando and Phoenix).
The 3-2-1 proposal also grants Commissioner Adam Silver dramatically expanded, unchecked authority to punish teams he perceives as tanking. Again from The Athletic.
"He would be able to fine a team up to $10 million, force them to forfeit or transfer draft picks, reduce lottery odds, change draft positions or suspend team officials, according to league sources."
The NBA owners, so scared of the perception of tanking — even though fans of teams in places like Utah and Washington were good with it for this season to chase the talent they need to win — that they are expected to pass it.
This new system moves the NBA another step away from the very point of having a draft in the first place — to get the worst teams the best incoming players to help balance the talent around the league. For small or mid-market teams, the NBA Draft remains the best — and for some, the only — way to acquire the talent needed to win. Those teams also could trade draft picks to help bring in winning talent, but now those picks' values have changed, and trading them may no longer make sense.
In the league's attempt to refine the system over the past decades, they've moved away from that core idea of helping the struggling teams, and now teams that lose because they just don't have the needed talent are likely to be bad longer. And if the NBA is concerned about fan bases tuning out, having them struggle for years on end with little hope of getting quality players is a good way to do it.
SAN ANTONIO, TX - MAY 24: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs hits a buzzer beater three point shot during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Game Four of the NBA Western Conference Finals on May 24, 2026 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. 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 (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The stakes were high for the San Antonio Spurs in Game Four. At risk of going down 3-1, the Spurs needed to respond to a disappointing loss in Game Three. They followed up the loss with a blowout 103-83 win to tie the Western Conference Finals at 2-2.
It was one of the Spurs’ best defensive performances of the playoffs. They held the Oklahoma City Thunder to 33% shooting from the field and 18% shooting from three. They forced 20 turnovers in the win. Victor Wembanyama spearheaded the win with a dominant two-way performance. He will lead our player grades for Game Four.
As a quick reminder, player grades are based on each player’s on-court performance, going beyond just the stat sheet. A “B” grade represents the average performance for an individual. If a player logs fewer than 5 minutes or plays only in garbage time, their grade will be incomplete.
San Antonio needed a herculean effort from Wembanyama, and they got one. He came out swinging, contesting shots around the rim and scoring at the basket over tough defense. Wemby did everything to try to get his offense going, even throwing the ball off the backboard to himself multiple times in an attempt to create an easier shot.
His biggest moment came right before halftime, when he waved off multiple San Antonio guards to heave a half-court buzzer beater. Was this shot purely luck or a manifestation of his basketball greatness? I’ll leave that up to you. Either way, it was another dominant performance in a memorable playoff run.
Fox is a tough grade. On one hand, he isn’t shooting the ball well enough. His scoring impact has been significantly limited since his ankle injury. On the other hand, Fox has been doing everything else he needs to do to help the Spurs win. He’s competed defensively, even in tough matchups like when he’s switched onto Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. In Game Four, he had 10 rebounds and 5 assists without any turnovers. San Antonio will need his scoring to come around eventually. Until then, having the veteran guard chip in everywhere else on the court will be enough to help them win.
Castle was excellent in the pick-and-roll in Game Four. He was patient, didn’t force it, and made some great reads. He threw lobs to Wembanyama and finished at the rim. He hit a tough contested three-pointer as the Spurs made their run. He didn’t have the type of offensive game that would blow you away, but he played a smart, controlled game. He did a much better job guarding Gilgeous-Alexander. He was disciplined and fought through every screen to keep up with him in the half-court.
It feels like Castle’s performance from here on out will be a major factor that decides the series. With the Spurs being +162 underdogs in Game Five on FanDuel, Castle will need to once again play well on both ends to upset the Thunder.
Champagnie isn’t hitting shots right now, which is a huge problem for the Spurs’ offense. Even open looks aren’t falling at the moment. He was much better defensively in Game Four, but his impact on that end doesn’t make up for his lack of offense on the other end. This series is going to get even tighter from here. Wasting good possessions by missing wide-open threes could sink the Spurs in the long run.
Vasell has arguably been one of the Spurs’ best players in this series. He continues to hit timely shots, and his defense has been incredible. His block on Jared McCain under the basket was one of the best defensive plays of the game. Vassell is locked in on both ends and has established himself as an important piece for the Spurs’ championship hopes.
Harper was great defensively in Game Four. It wasn’t a loud performance by any means, but when he was tasked with guarding Gilgeous-Alexander, he held his own. He made some great contests on shooters as well. His motor was running on high on that end, despite struggling through an injury. Speaking of that injury, Harper continued to struggle getting into the paint, as he clearly has lost some power in his lower half. Hopefully, more rest will get him ready for Game Five.
Johnson brought energy off the bench, but tried to do way too much offensively. He got tunnel vision and made some bad mistakes on his drives. Johnson could afford to let some things come to him within the offensive flow. Right now, what he is doing isn’t working.
The nuns have blessed Kornet, and perhaps the Spurs for the rest of the series. Call it divine intervention or just improved play from Kornet. He was solid protecting the paint when Wembanyama needed a rest. He did a lot of good work tapping the ball to other players on the boards to create extra opportunities. It’s still hard for the Spurs to stay afloat when he is in the game, but perhaps Game Four was a sign of a turnaround for San Antonio’s backup big man.
Barnes didn’t hit shots off the bench, but he brought a lot of energy and toughness to the game. He hustled after every offensive rebound and got to the free-throw line by playing physical offense. In the Game Three player grades post, we talked about Barnes needing a spot in the rotation. He may have earned himself more minutes moving forward.
Bryant got an earful from Mitch Johnson after making a few too many mistakes late in the game. He hasn’t been able to defend without fouling and is forcing things offensively. It’s hard to play him right now with the stakes being so high. It’s hard not to feel bad for Bryant, who is genuinely trying to make a positive impact with his energy and athleticism. Right now, it’s just not being channeled in a way that will lead to winning playoff games.
There is no evidence he actually will be building rockets, although apparently his aerospace skills do translate to basketball.
The scientist, Rohan Ramadas, has been hired to serve as an assistant general manager under Lakers president and general manager Rob Pelinka.
Ramadas worked last as vice president of strategy and operations for the New Orleans Pelicans.
According to his LinkedIn profile, he spent 12 years with The Aerospace Corporation.
ESPN quoted a Pelicans source as saying of Ramadas, "He's a literal rocket scientist."
In September 2024, Ramadas joined the Pelicans as Senior Director of Analytics and Innovation, according to his LinkedIn profile, which indicates he was promoted to the strategy and operations position a year ago.
With the Pelicans, Ramadas implemented AI and coded models to aid the front office, according to ESPN, which reported he will be focused on similar responsibilities for the Lakers that he had with the Pelicans.
The Lakers are expected to hire another assistant general manager, with the staff expanding a year after Mark Walter, majority owner of the Dodgers, bought the Lakers for $10 billion. And maybe it really does take a rocket scientist for the franchise to win its first NBA title since 2020 and 18th overall.
LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 11: An overall view of the arena court before the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers during Round Two Game Four on May 11, 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
The Lakers look to have made their first of two assistant general manager hires.
On Monday morning, Shams Charania of ESPN reported that the Lakers had hired Rohan Ramadas. Previously, Ramadas served as the Pelicans’ vice president of strategy and operations.
The Los Angeles Lakers are hiring former New Orleans Pelicans vice president of strategy and operations Rohan Ramadas as an assistant general manager under president Rob Pelinka, sources tell me and @mcten. The Lakers have interviewed candidates to bolster their front office.
Dave McMenamin of ESPN provided a bit more insight into Ramadas’ past prior to even joining the Pelicans in an article on Monday as well.
After graduating from the University of Southern California, Ramadas spent more than a decade with the Aerospace Corporation before his first opportunity in the NBA with New Orleans.
“He’s a literal rocket scientist,” a Pelicans source told ESPN.
While working for the Pelicans, Ramadas implemented AI and coded models to aid the front office, the source told ESPN.
Pelinka gave some insight into the roles of two general managers during his exit interview. One position was going to be focused on “pro scouting, draft scouting, player development,” while the other was going to be “cap, analytics and data.” Given the little we know about Ramadas from McMenamin’s article and his previous job title, this definitely looks to be the latter of the two roles.
While it shouldn’t be surprising given his roles, there isn’t a lot out there about Ramadas during his time with the Pelicans. All that’s really been reported or released is that he was elevated to the role of Senior Director of Analytics and Innovation with New Orleans in 2024.
Ramadas enters his eighth season with New Orleans, his first full-time season after spending seven years as an analytics consultant. Prior to working with the Pelicans, Ramadas was a draft analyst with the Miami Heat in 2016-17. Ramadas has spent the past twelve years supporting the Aerospace Corporation, U.S. Space Force, and NASA as a rocket guidance, navigation, control, and mission design engineer. A native of Cupertino, CA, Ramadas holds B.S. and M.S. degrees in astronautical engineering from the University of Southern California.
However much or little is known about Ramadas, his hiring is another sign of the makeover the front office is going to undergo this summer. Importantly, it’s an outside voice coming in, which is a rarity in this front office.
It’s a sign of what is to come with the Lakers and should lead to excitement about the future.
The New York Knicks have continued their dominance in the Eastern Conference Finals, jumping out to a 3-0 series lead.
I expect New York to rely on a Brunson/KAT combo to finish off Cleveland in Game 4, and my best Knicks vs. Cavaliers parlay for tonight's matchup leans directly into that tandem.
Best of all, my Knicks/Cavs SGP has been BOOSTED by our friends at bet365 — see why we're all going to be yelling "BING BONG" by the time the game ends.
Under Tom Thibodeau, it always felt like the New York Knicks would mess around in potential closeout games and let teams back into a series.
That hasn’t been their identity under Mike Brown during these NBA Playoffs.
The Knicks closed out the Atlanta Hawks by 51 points and the Philadelphia 76ers by 30 points in elimination games — considering the Cleveland Cavaliers' backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and James Harden can’t consistently defend, there’s nothing tactically that suggests Cleveland won’t suffer the same fate as the Hawks and Sixers.
SGP leg no. 2: Karl-Anthony Towns 20+ points
The Cavs are in full desperation mode, trailing 3-0 and constantly searching for defensive answers. So far, nothing has worked. Jalen Brunson has either exploded as a scorer or carved them up as a playmaker, including a 14-assist performance earlier in the series. That’s why I think Karl-Anthony Towns is positioned to benefit most from Cleveland’s likely adjustments in Game 4. The Cavaliers can’t aggressively help off the wings in the Brunson-Towns two-man game, as OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges have consistently punished rotating defenses with catch-and-shoot opportunities created by Brunson. That should push Cleveland toward a more aggressive drop coverage with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, forcing them to concede more open perimeter looks to Towns.
SGP leg no. 3: Jalen Brunson 7+ assists
The Brunson assist prop in the SGP is meant to work directly in tandem with the KAT points prop because I think we’ll see a higher-than-usual number of potential assists from Brunson to Towns. I believe the Cavaliers will use their bigs in a deep drop coverage to slow down Brunson, while limiting the amount of help coming from the wings. If that’s the case, it will be on Brunson to find Towns as an open shooter, and I'd be shocked if Towns clears 20-plus points without multiple baskets coming directly off passes from Brunson.
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May 5, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren (0) dunks in the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers during game one of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Jalen Duren was announced as a member of the All-NBA Third Team last night. He was a Top-15 player this season (of those who qualified) after he produced 19.5 PTS, 10.5 REB, and 2.0 AST while shooting 65% from the field and 75% from the line.
Duren’s Production
For a way to compare Jalen’s output with other big men in the NBA, I’m going to set a filter of playing at least 40 games this season.
According to the NBA Stats website, Duren ranked 8th in scoring per game among all centers, just behind Alperen Sengun (20.4), Bam Adebayo (20.1), and Karl-Anthony Towns (20.1). I’ll note of those in the Top 11 in scoring, Duren averaged the lowest number of field goal attempts per game as well.
Duren ranked 7th in rebounding per game among all centers behind Rudy Gobert (11.5) and Ivica Zubac (10.6) while being just ahead of Jusuf Nurkic (10.4). He ranked 4th in offensive rebounding (3.8 per game) behind Donovan Clingan (4.5), Mitchell Robinson (4.2), and Rudy Gobert (3.9).
His 6.1 free throw attempts per game was 3rd among qualifying centers behind J0kic’s 7.4 and Wemby’s 7.0. Duren was just ahead of Bam’s 5.8 attempts per game. Jalen’s 65% field goal percentage ranked 12th.
To sum that up: Jalen Duren had a fantastic regular season. And yet, what does he deserve to get paid?
All-NBA Money
The wrinkle in all of this is that JD is now eligible to sign a five-year max with the Pistons worth roughly $287 million. Prior to making the All-NBA Third Team, his five-year max was scheduled to be $239 million. The most that any other team can offer him during free agency is a four-year max worth $177 million.
Now that we know where Duren’s production falls and how much money he can be offered this summer, let’s see how much the top centers are currently being paid:
Name
Average Annual Value
Total Contract
Joel Embiid
$62,624,612
3yr/$188m
Anthony Davis
$58,456,566
3yr/$175m
Nikola Jokic
$55,224,526
5yr/$276m
Karl-Anthony Towns
$55,110,496
4yr/$220m
Bam Adebayo
$53,460,000
3yr/$160m
Chet Holmgren
$47,850,000
5yr/$239m
Alperen Sengun
$37,000,000
5yr/$185m
Rudy Gobert
$36,500,000
3yr/$110m
Jarrett Allen
$30,240,000
3yr/$91m
Isaiah Hartenstein
$29,000,000
3yr/$87m
That’s a lot of cash.
To me, there’s no doubt that Jalen Duren is a top-10 center in the league. If that’s the case, you have to pay him like one. Given where he is at in his career, he should fall in the bottom-five of the above list – but, where?
The Offer
Chet Holmgren’s contract is the max that Duren could’ve received from Detroit prior to making an All-NBA team. To me, even a five-year deal worth $200 million seems like too much for Duren, but I wouldn’t be surprised if his agent starts the negotiations by asking for the new max of $287 million. At $57.4 million per year, he’d be the third most expensive center in the league – no thanks! Even at $200 million, he’s still making $40 million per year, more than Sengun or Gobert.
Out of that bottom-five of the above list, there aren’t many that outproduced Duren. Only Sengun outscored him, only Gobert outrebounded him, only Gobert shot better from the field, and only Holmgren shot better from the line. There are arguments to be made that he deserves to be above those guys on the list.
Yet, I can’t help but notice that the Top 7 guys can all stretch the floor. The jury may still be out on Sengun and Anthony Davis’ stretch big days may be over, but it sure seems like you need to be an offensive weapon to make $40m+ as a big man.
So, to conclude, I’d be extremely happy to get JD at Jarrett Allen’s value with a five-year $150 million contract. Since I believe JD wants at least $200m, I’d be willing to meet in the middle and give Duren a five-year $175 million deal. At $35 million per year, he’d settle in just behind Sengun and Gobert as the 9th highest paid center in the league. I feel comfortable with JD at that number.
Anything higher and I start to get uncomfortable about Detroit’s roster flexibility moving forward. The teams that will have the most cap space this summer that are most likely to offer Duren a 4-year $177 million max are the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, and Brooklyn Nets. It may be worth letting Duren find a contract that Detroit can match if they don’t want to outbid themselves, but if you want to think of trade possibilities in the event that Langdon doesn’t want to overpay for Duren, I’d start with looking at those three teams.
What contract do you feel comfortable giving Jalen Duren, DBB?
These ladies are apparently trying to prove Charles Barkley wrong about San Antonio women.
A pair of Spurs fans went viral for wearing low-cut tops while sitting in the front row behind the San Antonio bench during Game 3, and the duo returned Sunday for Game 4 at Frost Bank Arena.
The NBA broadcast captured the pair while showing Spurs coach Mitch Johnson on Friday, with one wearing a revealing violet shirt and the other wearing a tight-fitting orange top.
The two made it back to the arena for Sunday’s Game 4, a 103-82 Spurs win, and their front-row seats again landed them on the broadcast during a shot of Johnson.
Both wore rather revealing tops once again, which, as expected, had the internet buzzing.
The fan who goes by @bluebeari3 posted plenty of behind-the-scenes content over the past few days, including selfies of them in the stands and their outfit reveal before Sunday’s game.
The Spurs fans posing for Tiktok. @ yourbluebeari3/TikTok
She captioned a TikTok video Sunday that featured photos of their Friday outfits: “Cuties in Fiesta colors.”
The two garnering such attention in San Antonio elicits callbacks to Barkley’s famous beef with women of San Antonio dating back to his Hall of Fame career.
These fans are guaranteed at least one more game in San Antonio on Thursday for Game 6 with the Spurs and Thunder tied at 2-2 in the Western Conference finals.
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - APRIL 10: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves handles the ball against Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies during the first half at FedExForum on April 10, 2025 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Justin Ford/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Minnesota Timberwolves are sitting on the couch for the Western Conference Finals for the first time since 2023 and it’s a feeling they don’t want to have again next May.
The Wolves will look for ways to improve their roster throughout the offseason, especially on the trade market. ESPN senior writer Andre Snellings suggested a trade that would send Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant to the Wolves for Julius Randle, Terrence Shannon Jr. and Joan Beringer.
“Morant has had difficulties remaining available in recent years due to a combination of injuries and off-court issues, but he still has the talent that made him one of the more exciting young guards in the league. Edwards and Morant, on paper, would form one of the most dynamic and explosive backcourts in the NBA. And even after trading away Randle, the Wolves would still have a strong frontcourt with an elite defense built around Rudy Gobert, Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels. This could be the nucleus for a championship-level team,” Snellings wrote.
Morant, who turns 27 in August, is viewed as one of the more polarizing players on the trade block this offseason. The former No. 2 overall pick was smothered in trade rumors before the deadline, especially after the Grizzlies traded Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz, signalling a rebuild for the franchise.
Morant would fit a Wolves team in need of some point guard help and he would create a dangerous backcourt pairing with Edwards. While the depth the team would lose could be costly, the Wolves have to make a trade in order to gain something in return to challenge the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs for the top spots in the Western Conference.
Canis Hoopus community, what do you make of this trade? Would you swap Randle for Morant? Chime off in the comments section below.
COVERS INTEL: San Antonio’s starting five has outscored Oklahoma City’s starters by an average of 31.7 points in the WCF. The Thunder’s bench posted a collective -9.4 in Game 4 after averaging a league-high +6.3 in the postseason.
Knicks
Cavaliers
JJ
(@bluebeari3) 
