Two teams inside the Eastern Conference Play-In group collide when the Miami Heat visit the Chicago Bulls tonight.
Both teams lost games on Wednesday as they will play the second half of back-to-backs.
Miami is one of the better teams playing on consecutive nights, so my Heat vs Bulls predictions and NBA picks side with the visitors to the United Center on Thursday, January 29.
Heat vs Bulls prediction
Heat vs Bulls best bet: Heat -2 (-110)
You don’t see this very often, but this is the first of three straight games between these teams, with the Chicago Bulls hosting the Miami Heat tonight before back-to-back weekend games in South Beach.
The Heat got dumped 133-124 in Orlando on Wednesday, but they hold the fourth-best cover record in the NBA playing the second half of a back-to-back, going 7-3-0 ATS.
It helps that they have a Top-3 scoring offense, averaging 119.8 points per game.
The Heat are also dominant against teams below .500, going 15-4 – that’s tied for the fewest losses in the East, and second-fewest losses in the NBA in that category.
After a nice four-game winning streak, the Bulls have crashed down to earth, losing at home to the Lakers before getting toppled by the lowly Pacers 113-110.
They’re not exactly a successful turnaround team, either, going just 2-5-0 ATS on the second night of back-to-back sets, with only SacTo, OKC, and Brooklyn beneath them.
While these Bulls can also score, tied for seventh in the NBA at 117.7 points per game, this is also a Bottom-5 scoring defense, getting eaten up for 119.8 PPG.
Miami torched them for 143 points the last time they met – which, wildly, only matches the second-most points they’ve allowed in a game this season.
I like the Heat’s offense to carry them to a cover and a win tonight.
Heat vs Bulls same-game parlay
Norman Powell had 22 points against Orlando, snapping a three-game sub-20-point slide, but he hasn’t cracked 23 in seven straight games.
Josh Giddey’s assist line is 7.5, but he’s only topped that number once in the last five games. However, he’s been dealing against Miami, picking up at least eight dimes in three straight games, making this bet definitely worth the sprinkle.
Heat vs Bulls SGP
Heat -2
Norman Powell Under 21.5 points
Josh Giddey Over 7.5 assists
Our "from downtown" SGP: Flickering Flames
I get Bam Adebayo is on a rebounding binge, as he pulled down 12 against the Magic and has at least 12 in five of the last seven games. But it’s a different story against the Bulls, who have limited Bam to 10 or fewer in eight of their last 10 matchups.
And Jaime Jaquez Jr. has hit 14 points or more in a game just once in his last six, and if his recent minutes stay the same, so should his scoring. Jaquez has played 28 minutes or less seven times in his last 10. Of those games, he has scored 14 points or fewer six times.
Heat vs Bulls SGP
Heat -2
Norman Powell Under 21.5 points
Josh Giddey Over 7.5 assists
Bam Adebayo Under 10.5 rebounds
Jaime Jaquez Jr. Under 13.5 points
Heat vs Bulls odds
Spread: Heat -1.5 (-110) | Bulls 1.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Heat -120 | Bulls +100
Over/Under: Over 240.5 (-110) | Under 240.5 (-110)
Heat vs Bulls betting trend to know
Miami has won seven of its last eight games against Eastern Conference opponents with a losing record. Find more NBA betting trends for Heat vs. Bulls.
How to watch Heat vs Bulls
Location
United Center, Chicago, IL
Date
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Tip-off
8:00 p.m. ET
TV
FDSN Sun, CHSN
Heat vs Bulls latest injuries
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This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
The Atlanta Hawks will look to extend their four-game win streak when they host the Houston Rockets at State Farm Arena tonight.
Jalen Johnson has surged over his last five games, and my Rockets vs. Hawks predictions expect another strong showing from the do-it-all forward.
Here are my best free NBA picks for this inter-conference matchup on Thursday, January 29.
Rockets vs Hawks prediction
Rockets vs Hawks best bet: Jalen Johnson Over 39.5 points + rebounds + assists (-112)
Jalen Johnson is enjoying a career-best season, averaging 22.9 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 7.9 dimes, good for 41.3 PRA. He’s reached 40+ PRA in 27 of 45 games this season and 11 of 19 at home.
He's been even better as of late, averaging 44.6 PRA across his last five outings and hitting the Over on this combo line four times.
The Atlanta Hawks will play the second leg of a back-to-back set tonight, but Johnson has thrived in that situation all season. In seven games played with no rest, he’s reached 40+ PRA six times and averaged 47.6.
Johnson is hot right now, and he'll face a Houston Rockets team that's playing its second back-to-back set and fifth game in the last seven days. I expect him to stuff the stat sheet in front of the home crowd.
Rockets vs Hawks same-game parlay
The Hawks have won and covered in four straight and six of their last 10. The Rockets are just 3-7 ATS in that span, and the Rockets dropped a home game to the San Antonio Spurs last night.
Based on recent form, I'll back the home team to cover a small spread tonight.
The Rockets are 2-8 to the Under across their last 10, and the Hawks are 4-6 to the Under in that span.
Rockets vs Hawks SGP
Jalen Johnson Over 39.5 points + rebounds + assists
Hawks +3.5
Under 225.5
Our "from downtown" SGP: Good Sheppard
Reed Sheppard shot 41.4% from beyond the arc over his first 42 games, but he's knocked down just 2-of-18 three-pointers across his last three games. He's due for a bounce-back performance against a middle-of-the-pack perimeter defense.
Rockets vs Hawks SGP
Jalen Johnson Over 39.5 points + rebounds + assists
Hawks +3.5
Under 225.5
Reed Sheppard Over 2.5 made 3-pointers
Rockets vs Hawks odds
Spread: Houston -3.5 (-110) | Atlanta +3.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Houston -160 | Atlanta +135
Over/Under: Over 225.5 (-110) | Under 225.5 (-110)
Rockets vs Hawks betting trend to know
The Rockets have hit the Under in 15 of their last 18 games (+11.70 Units / 59% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Rockets vs. Hawks.
How to watch Rockets vs Hawks
Location
State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
Date
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Tip-off
8:00 p.m. ET
TV
Space City Home Network, FDSN Southeast Atlanta
Rockets vs Hawks latest injuries
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This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
NBA legend LeBron James was brought to tears by a tribute video during the Los Angeles Lakers' defeat at the Cleveland Cavaliers.
James, 41, returned to his home state and former team for possibly the last time on Wednesday as speculation continues over whether he will retire at the end of the season.
He won the NBA title with the Cavaliers in 2016 after returning for a second stint.
During the break after the first quarter at Rocket Arena, the Cavaliers showed highlights of James' performance in game five of the 2007 Eastern Conference finals, when he scored 48 points to seal a double overtime victory.
James started watching the video before pulling his vest over his face then wiping his eyes with a tissue.
"I'm just trying to take everything in, not take the moments for granted," he said.
James said he had "not made a decision on the future" but that it "very well could be" his final season.
He said he was "more present" than on previous trips to Cleveland and that the occasion "definitely got to me a little bit".
James had won nine and lost three of his previous visits to Cleveland, with the Lakers and the Miami Heat.
He had never scored fewer than 21 points in a game, but managed only 11 in a 129-99 defeat on Wednesday.
James is the NBA's all-time leading scorer and has made 28 appearances for the Lakers this season.
The four-time NBA champion signed a one-year contract extension in June.
Although he missed the start of the season with sciatica, he became the first player to feature in 23 NBA seasons when he returned in November.
The sinking Sacramento Kings have been largely unwatchable during a six-game losing streak, and it’s no surprise that they’re big underdogs tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers.
While Philadelphia is still searching for consistency and juggling load management absences, Sacramento’s struggles are on a whole other level, and my Kings vs. 76ers predictions signal one-way traffic for the hosts, led by an in-form Joel Embiid.
Check out my NBA picks ahead of this contest on Thursday, January 29.
Kings vs 76ers prediction
Kings vs 76ers best bet: Joel Embiid Over 27.5 points (-120)
Say what you want about some of Embiid’s limitations after all his knee injuries, the man is still putting up huge numbers, raising hopes about the 76ers’ postseason chances. He’s averaging 28.3 PPG on 54% shooting in January, and I’m taking these odds for his scoring binge to continue.
Embiid has gone past this number in five straight, headlined by a 38-point effort against the Knicks last weekend, and his minutes are quietly creeping up. Even without some of his explosiveness around the basket, he’s been making plenty of noise — and actually making a few 3-pointers, too.
In this matchup, the Kings have no shot at slowing him down. They’re giving up 120.8 PPG, the fourth-worst mark in the NBA, and there’s not much reliable center depth beyond Domantas Sabonis.
When Embiid is on the court, it makes sense for Philadelphia to feed him touches and keep Tyrese Maxey fresher for when he’s flying solo. That kind of formula positions the former MVP to feast in the paint and paves the way to the Over.
Kings vs 76ers same-game parlay
The 76ers have had a major edge over the Kings in recent years, winning eight of the past 10 meetings and posting a 7-2-1 ATS mark in that span. Sacramento is 1-5 ATS during its ugly skid, and I’m laying the points with a Philly team that should be close to full strength.
DeMar DeRozan could be a trade candidate before the deadline, and this is a nice spot for an audition. He scored 34 points against the Knicks last time out, and the Kings are dealing with backcourt injuries to Malik Monk, Russell Westbrook, and Zach LaVine. Pencil him in for this Over.
Kings vs 76ers SGP
Joel Embiid Over 27.5 points
76ers -12
DeMar DeRozan Over 19.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: My Precious Rebounds
Precious Achiuwa has made the most of his minutes lately, and he’s averaging 5.9 RPG this month. The Kings will need all the frontcourt help they can get against Embiid, so this rebounds O/U line feels a little light.
Kings vs 76ers SGP
Joel Embiid Over 27.5 points
76ers -12
DeMar DeRozan Over 19.5 points
Precious Achiuwa Over 5.5 rebounds
Kings vs 76ers odds
Spread: Kings +11.5 (-110) | 76ers -11.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Kings +400 | 76ers -550
Over/Under: Over 225.5 (-110) | Under 225.5 (-110)
Kings vs 76ers betting trend to know
The Kings are 3-20 SU on the road this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Kings vs. 76ers.
How to watch Kings vs 76ers
Location
Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA
Date
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
NBC Sports California, NBC Sports Philadelphia
Kings vs 76ers latest injuries
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This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
The 2026 NBA trade deadline will have a hard time topping its predecessor. Last year’s Luka Doncic-for-Anthony Davis bombshell was an all-time trade deadline moment, and there were a bunch of notable deals after it, with De’Aaron Fox, Jimmy Butler, and Brandon Ingram among the players who were sent to new homes. There’s potential for more fireworks this year, but no one really knows what to expect just yet.
This feels like a seller’s market. There’s a pretty clear pack of 3-4 championship contenders, and then a handful of other teams on the outside edge of the title picture. The Oklahoma City Thunder don’t feel like a runaway favorite anymore, the Denver Nuggets still need to be worried about Aaron Gordon’s lower-body injuries, and the San Antonio Spurs still haven’t let a playoff game in the Victor Wembanyama era, let alone a series. That’s just the West: the East is so much more wide open, with the Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks, and Boston Celtics leading the pack, each of them saddled with their own potential fatal flaws.
With the Feb. 5 trade deadline rapidly approach, here’s 30 players who could be moved.
What would Mavs want back? Salary relief, a first-round pick, a promising young player.
3. Karl-Anthony Towns, C/F, New York Knicks
Why would he be traded? The Knicks are desperate to make the most of their championship window in the East in a down year for the conference. New York’s two best players might not be able to play together in games that matter. Towns probably won’t get traded at the deadline, but the probability that he’s traded will rise significantly this summer if the Knicks fail to make the 2026 NBA Finals.
What would Knicks want back? Giannis. Or assets that help them land their next star.
4. Domantas Sabonis, C, Sacramento Kings
Why would he be traded? The Kings need to blow it up badly. There’s no scenario where Sabonis is on the next good Kings team.
What would Kings want back? A first-round pick and/or a promising young player.
5. Michael Porter Jr., F, Brooklyn Nets
Why would he be traded? Porter Jr. has had an All-Star caliber season in his first year away from Denver, and the Brooklyn would be selling high on him now as it continues to go back into its rebuild.
What would Nets want back? Two first-round picks, or one pick and one interesting young player.
What would Grizzlies want back? A first-round pick and an interesting young player.
7. Coby White, G, Chicago Bulls
Why would he be traded? He’s an expiring contract, and the Bulls might want to get something for him now instead of entering a bidding war in free agency.
What would Bulls want back? A first round pick, an interesting young player, and expiring salary.
8. Kristaps Porzingis, C, Atlanta Hawks
Why would he be traded? He’s an expiring contract, and he can’t stay healthy.
What would Hawks want back? Salary relief and draft compensation
9. Ayo Dosunmu, G, Chicago Bulls
Why would he be traded? He’s an expiring contract, and the fact that he’s playing the best ball of his career offers Chicago the chance to finally sell high on a player.
What would Bulls want back? A first-round pick or an interesting young player and multiple seconds.
10. Zach LaVine, G, Sacramento Kings
Why would he be traded? The Kings need to blow it up, and LaVine needs a fresh start after spending his entire career with bad teams. He’s certainly opting in to the final year of his contract for $48.9 million, but then he’s off the books after next season. Can we finally get this guy to a contender?
What would Kings want back? Anything.
11. Tobias Harris, F, Detroit Pistons
Why would he be traded? If the Pistons want to make a big move to improve their chances at coming out of the East, Harris a large expiring salary to grease the wheels.
What would Pistons want back? A starting four or a starting-caliber guard to aid the NBA Finals push.
12. Goga Bitadze, C, Orlando Magic
Why would he be traded? An advanced stats star with two more playoff runs left on his cheap contract, Orlando could try to trade its backup center for future assets that could help them build.
What would Magic want back? Draft picks or a promising young player.
13. Bennedict Mathurin, G, Indiana Pacers
Why would he be traded? He’s set to be a restricted free agent, and he’s never really fit into the Pacers’ long-term vision.
What would Pacers want back? Picks and potentially a young big man.
14. Daniel Gafford, C, Dallas Mavericks
Why would he be traded? The Mavs need to prioritize their future over their present, and they already have a gifted young center on the roster in Dereck Lively II.
What would Mavs want back? Future draft assets and cap flexibility.
15. Naji Marshall, F, Dallas Mavericks
Why would he be traded? He has two playoff runs left on a team-friendly contract, and he could bring in a solid return.
What would Mavs want back? Future draft assets or a promising young player.
16. Rui Hachimura, F, Los Angeles Lakers
Why would he be traded? He’s an expiring contract, and the Lakers might want to get something for him now if he’s not part of their long-term vision around Luka Doncic.
What would Lakers want back? Future draft assets or a young player.
17. Grant Williams, F, Charlote Hornets
Why would he be traded? The Hornets are a year away from a playoff run in the East, and Williams will have some appeal as a 3-and-D veteran with two playoff runs left on his contract.
What would Hornets want back? Future draft assets and expiring salary.
18. Keon Ellis, G, Sacramento Kings
Why would he be traded? The Kings need to be rebuilt from the ground up.
What would Kings want back? Future draft picks.
19. Anfernee Simons, G, Boston Celtics
Why would he be traded? The Celtics are trying to duck the luxury tax, and he’s the biggest salary on the cap sheet that they could justify cutting ahead of the potential return of Jayson Tatum.
What would Celtics want back? A small enough salary to get them out of the tax.
20. Bobby Portis, F, Milwaukee Bucks
Why would he be traded? The Bucks are ready to tank, trade Giannis, and tear the whole thing down.
What would Bucks want back? Future draft assets and/or interesting young players.
21. Rob Dillingham, G, Minnesota Timberwolves
Why would he be traded? The Wolves need to upgrade at point guard next to Anthony Edwards, and their bold swing for Dillingham during the 2024 draft just hasn’t paid off. Dillingham still can’t crack head coach Chris Finch’s rotation, and it’s time to find a lead guard who can.
What would Wolvevs want back? A starting-caliber point guard.
22. DeMar DeRozan, G, Sacramento Kings
Why would he be traded? Because he’s on the Kings ahead of their liquidation sale.
What would Kings want back? Second-round draft assets and expiring salary.
23. Jusuf Nurkic, C, Utah Jazz
Why would he be traded? This is probably the final year of the Utah’s tank, and a veteran like Nurkic is an obvious player to free. He’s not in his physical prime anymore, but Nurkic can still crash the offensive glass at an elite level at a time when it feels more important than ever.
What would Jazz want back? Second-round draft compensation.
24. Jordan Poole, G, New Orleans Pelicans
Why would he be traded? The Pelicans have no use for the final year of his deal at $34 million.
What would Pelicans want back? Second-round draft compensation.
25. Gradey Dick, G/F, Toronto Raptors
Why would he be traded? As part of a package for an impact center or another ball handler.
What would Raptors want back? An impact center or another ball handler.
26. Dalton Knecht, F, Los Angeles Lakers
Why would he be traded? He’s demanded a trade! I repeat: Dalton Knecht has demanded a trade!
What would Lakers want back? Second-round draft compensation or a better defensive player.
27. Kyle Kuzma, F, Milwaukee Bucks
Why would he be traded? The Bucks are ready to tear it down as they weigh offers for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
What would Bucks want back? All of the picks if Kuzma goes out in a Giannis deal, also salary relief.
Why would he be traded? The Wolves are firmly in their championship window, and Shannon hasn’t been able to crack the rotation even after Nickeil Alexander-Walker left in free agency.
What would Wolves want back?
29. Jeremy Sochan, F, San Antonio Spurs
Why would he be traded? He’s out of the rotation, and out of time in San Antonio has he approaches restricted free agency.
What would Spurs want back? Second-round draft capital
30. Jakob Poeltl, C, Toronto Raptors
Why would he be traded? He has one of the least team-friendly contracts in the NBA, and he’s always hurt.
What would Raptors want back? Just getting off his deal would be a miracle.
The Houston Rockets head to Georgia to take on the Atlanta Hawks in the second game of a back-to-back for both teams. Atlanta was in Boston last night while the Rockets were at home against the Spurs.
Atlanta has already made their big move for the trade deadline, sending Trae Young to Washington for C.J. McCollum and Corey Kispert. The move paved the way for Jalen Johnson to become the alpha in Atlanta and the Hawks seem ready to build around the young star. After a tough start to the Johnson Era in Atlanta, the Hawks had won three straight heading into Boston. The Hawks have been scorching from deep as of late, and that has been Houston’s kryptonite at times. Sometimes, the NBA really is just a math problem.
My assumption is that Tari Eason and Dorian Finney-Smith will be held out tonight since it’s a back-to-back. With the injury to Steven Adams, Houston will be pretty thin if those two wings are unavailable. Expect plenty of Jae’Sean Tate minutes.
MUNICH (AP) — Germany midfielder Leon Goretzka says U.S. President Donald Trump “has managed to make us feel not only German, but also European.”
Goretzka, who plays club soccer for Bayern Munich, in an interview with Die Zeit newspaper published on Wednesday, spoke about the World Cup being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, and he suggested Germany and other European teams will be the favorites.
“Others have caught up but in the most important game in the world we’re still ahead of every continent,” Goretzka said. “Far from being left behind, Europe will show everyone what’s what on the field.”
The countdown to the June 11-July 19 tournament has drawn calls for a boycott. Oke Göttlich, the president of Bundesliga club St. Pauli and one of the German federation’s 10 vice presidents, last week said the time had come to “ seriously consider and discuss this.”
"I’m aware of the political debates,” Goretzka said. “Still, I expect it to be a great tournament. It will advance football there and convince many people that it’s a fantastic game.”
Germany has been drawn in World Cup Group E with Ivory Coast, Curaçao and Ecuador.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) goes up for a dunk in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Cleveland, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki) (Sue Ogrocki / Associated Press)
He hears it in nearly every arena the Lakers enter.
“We want Bronny. We want Bronny.”
But on Monday night in Cleveland’s Rocket Arena, where the familiar chant reached arena-filling decibels, it felt different. It felt like home.
Bronny James provided some of the few Lakers highlights in the team’s worst loss of the year — a 129-99 drubbing by the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday — to turn an emotional homecoming for his father into a happy return for the 21-year-old. James scored eight points with two rebounds, an assist and a steal. He knocked down two three pointers and slammed a one-handed transition dunk to elicit a roar from the crowd that welcomed back a son they watched grow up.
Laker Bronny James #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers shakes hands with the Cavliers' Larry Nance Jr. Wednesday. (Jason Miller / Getty Images)
“I was just excited to go out there and play,” James said. “I’m always ready to go out and play, whether that’s when the entire arena is saying ‘We want Bronny‘ or no one is. I was just really, really grateful that they put me in at that time and I was able to go out and get a few buckets.”
With the Lakers trailing by 20 by the third quarter, the chants for James started early. “We want Bronny” chants occur at nearly every Lakers game, almost turning the young guard’s playing time into a sideshow instead of much-needed opportunities for a developing player trying to find his footing in the NBA.
James hadn’t played in a game since Jan. 18 and hadn’t scored since Jan. 12. But he got on the scoreboard in thrilling fashion Wednesday night, tipping away a crosscourt pass and taking the ball in transition for a dunk that left even his dad nodding approval from the bench.
“He handles all of it so well,” said guard Gabe Vincent, who called Bronny “a light” in the Lakers’ otherwise forgettable blowout. “It's incredible. His maturity through it all is incredible. … It's great to see him have a moment like that.”
The former USC guard who also scored his first NBA points in Cleveland as a rookie last year has bounced between the Lakers and the team’s G League affiliate this year as he hopes to make strides as a shooter and on-ball defender while “building up his tolerance for being in elite shape,” coach JJ Redick said. James has had some promising moments, especially when the Lakers were short-handed earlier this season, showing quicker decision making and increased confidence shooting the ball.
Monday was just the second time in his career that he made two threes in a game.
“He's as level headed and just as normal of a 21-year-old as I've ever been around,” Redick said.
When the Lakers got to the arena Monday, James was welcomed home by a childhood photo of him on a screen outside the visiting locker room. It showed him on stage in 2016 during the Cavaliers’ championship celebration wearing a championship hat and white T-shirt, holding up one finger.
LeBron James glanced at the championship banner from that team before the game Monday, fueling the intense emotions of what could be his last game in his hometown against the team that launched his NBA dreams in 2003.
The Cavaliers, wearing navy blue throwback uniforms, showed a tribute video for LeBron James during the first quarter, highlighting James’ takeover of Game 5 of the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals in which he scored 25 consecutive points. Bronny was 3 years old at the time. Almost two decades later, he remembered all the afternoons he spent at the Cavaliers arena after school.
“It’s literally my entire life,” Bronny said of the city of Cleveland. “So just really appreciative of all the people that show some love. I just remember being a kid and being here pretty much every day after school. It’s a bunch of nostalgia coming back and being here.”
The James family was prepared for the occasion. LeBron scanned the arena before the game to find his mother in a suite. She once watched him begin his career in this very arena, now she was watching both her son and her grandson play in the same game. After saying it out loud, the elder James struggled to process 5 idea.
“I don't even know how to even, like, wrap that all in one in my brain,” LeBron James said. “It’s so weird and so cool and so surreal. My mom gets to watch her son and her grandson play in the NBA at the same time.”
Gloria James waited in the hallway outside the Lakers locker room to take photos with her son and then her grandson. Bronny was the last Laker out of the arena, stopping to take dozens of photos with family members dressed in purple and gold Lakers jerseys. His grandmother told him to “act right.” He promised to oblige.
The Phoenix Suns needed a win on Tuesday night. Badly. Two straight losses had already piled up, and the schedule ahead offers no mercy. Detroit is looming. Cleveland too. Then the Clippers. Lose this one, and a six-game skid was no longer theoretical, it was staring them down. So this game mattered. Not as a statement, but as a tourniquet. Stop the bleeding first, worry about momentum later.
What they can actually build on came from the middle of the floor. Mark Williams delivered his best night since arriving in Phoenix. 27 points on 13-of-16 from the field. Perfect in the second half. Calm, physical, dependable. He gave them interior stability and something this offense rarely has, a release valve that does not live beyond the arc.
And here is the contrast. The Suns are not an interior team by design. They do not hunt shots at the rim. They are 29th in the NBA in attempts inside five feet, taking 23.8 per game. That is who they are. On Tuesday, that script bent. 28 of their 77 shots, 36.3%, came from inside five feet. Not because the philosophy changed, but because Williams forced it to.
So to see them bend their identity and adjust how they operate, all in response to a specific opponent, speaks to the intellect and schematic feel that Jordan Ott brings to the bench. There is flexibility here. There is awareness.
But now comes the real question. Is it replicable?
Because the stretch ahead demands it. The Suns are entering a run where every ounce of offensive potency matters, no matter the matchup, no matter the look they are given. Can they keep feeding Mark Williams with enough consistency and with enough purpose to actually win games?
That is where this gets tricky.
On Tuesday night, when the Suns beat the Nets 106-102, the math worked in their favor. It was a plus matchup for Williams. Nic Claxton is a solid center and a legitimate defender. He grades out in the 80th percentile as a rim protector. But the Suns leaned into his lack of size, used switching to their advantage, and consistently put Williams in spots where he could thrive. They maximized the skill set.
And Williams has a very specific one. He finishes around the rim. Not through bodies, but around them. Fluid, patient, controlled. He grades out in the 92nd percentile in finishing talent.
The numbers back it up. Across two matchups this season, Williams guarded Claxton for 15:40. In that span, 72 points were scored on 70.9 possessions, and Claxton accounted for 11 of them, going 4-of-10 from the field. Flip it around. When Claxton guarded Williams, 13:49 of game time, the Suns scored 71 points on 58.8 possessions. Williams went 7-of-9 for 15 points.
Keep those numbers tucked away. They are going to matter later.
The hope is that nights like this become the norm for Mark Williams. The reality is they probably will not. Because for all the value he has brought this season, the size, the stability, the calming presence at center, there is a tradeoff on the other end of the floor. Williams can be hunted defensively. That is not a secret. It is also why we have seen so much Oso Ighodaro.
Credit to Oso for fully embracing that role and being effective in it. His value lives on the defensive end. He can switch. He can move. He can survive in space. That is what makes him playable. Opponents know the counter with Williams. They spread the floor, pull him out of the paint, run high screen actions, and force a decision. When Williams does not sit in drop coverage, the geometry breaks. The paint opens. Driving lanes appear. The offense gets comfortable. When he drops, pull the trigger from deep.
Oso does not bring the same offensive ceiling. That is clear. What he does bring is defensive versatility, and that matters in this league. It matters every night.
So the Suns have work to do here. They need to get more creative defensively when Williams is on the floor. They need to protect him in specific situations, anticipate when teams are clearly trying to target him, and manage those minutes with intent. Because his offense is worth it. It has real value.
But it is matchup-driven. When the opposing center is someone Williams can neutralize, or someone who cannot impose their will, he lasts longer. He becomes more effective. He tilts the math. When that is not the case, the margin shrinks fast.
And that, more than anything, is the challenge. And the next three games? That challenge will be tested.
Detroit first. Jalen Duren. That matchup already gave us a preview, and it was not encouraging. Williams logged 6:24 against him, covering 31.5 possessions. In that window, the Suns gave up 46 points. Duren went 5-of-9 for 10 points. On the other end, Duren guarded Williams for 5:45 across those same 31.5 possessions. The Suns scored 22 points in that span, and Williams finished with zero points on 0-of-2 shooting.
Then comes Cleveland the following night. Jarrett Allen, with Evan Mobley sidelined. Williams versus Allen has also happened once this season. The results were similar. Williams defended Allen for 6:51, covering 39.8 possessions. Cleveland scored 61 points in that stretch, and Allen put up 12 points on 5-of-9 shooting. Flip the matchup. Allen guarded Williams for 6:18 and 31.2 possessions. The Suns scored 31 points, and Williams again finished scoreless, 0-of-2 from the field.
The upcoming center matchups are a concern for Mark Williams. Numbers in their previous matchups:
vs Duren (10 pts, 5-of-9): PHX allowed 46 pts in 31.5 possessions; Williams went 0-of-2
vs Allen (12 pts, 5-of-9): CLE scored 61 pts in 39.8 possessions; Williams again 0-of-2 pic.twitter.com/tshzRgSLV9
And then the homestand closes on Sunday with the Clippers. Ivica Zubac is the assignment. A load. A true center. One the Suns can work if their high actions are sharp and if they can consistently pull him away from the paint. That said, the Clippers have been locked in defensively as a group lately, so that muddies the waters.
Across three matchups this season, Williams defended Zubac for 19:12, covering 86.3 possessions. In that time, Zubac scored 29 points on 12-of-17 shooting, and the Clippers scored 87 points overall. Offensively, Williams was more productive here. He scored 19 points in 16:12 and 84.9 possessions, going 7-of-12 from the field. The Suns scored 109 points.
That is the spectrum. The good, the bad, and the uncomfortable middle. And it brings us right back to the same place. Matchups decide everything.
I love what Mark Williams brings to this team. He gives them the rim running element they have been craving for a long time. He is long defensively, and while no one is confusing him for a perimeter stopper, he does a solid job as a deterrent when he is stationed in the paint. He is a capable rebounder too, even if it does not always feel dominant for a center. He grades out in the 81st percentile in defensive rebounding and the 93rd percentile in offensive rebounding.
All of that said, there is an important reminder here. He is making $6.3 million. You are getting exactly what you paid for, and probably a little more. Price for value paid? Check.
But over these next few games, as the Suns search for answers within the flow of a night, as they try to manufacture points without Devin Booker and Jalen Green, the focus has to sharpen. When Mark Williams is on the floor, he has to be involved. Intentionally. Deliberately.
Because he is not going to play with total regularity. Defensive limitations and matchup realities see to that, and there are other options on the bench who make sense in certain stretches. Still, there are moments in almost every game where you find yourself yelling it. “Give the ball to Williams!!!”
During this upcoming stretch, that instinct needs to become policy. At least in the moments that he is out there.
On Wednesday, the San Antonio Spurs announced a partnership with Austin-based Wanderlust Wine Co. Coincidence or not, the announcement came on the birthday of Gregg Popovich, a noted wine connoisseur.
The San Antonio Spurs announced a new partnership with Wanderlust Wine Co., making it the official wine of the organization. Wanderlust will also become an official partner of the team’s NBA G League affiliate, the Austin Spurs. The collaboration will come to life with future Spurs pop-up events at Wanderlust’s storefronts in Austin and sampling at select home games, furthering the strong connection between the team and its fanbase throughout the entire I-35 corridor.
Said Sammy Lam, founder & president of Wanderlust Wine Co.,
“We’re incredibly proud to partner with the San Antonio Spurs and Spurs Sports & Entertainment. This collaboration brings together two organizations that care deeply about community, innovation, and delivering memorable fan experiences. We’re excited to introduce Spurs fans to Wanderlust wines in a way that’s both premium and sustainable.”
The award-winning winery remains family-owned and laser focused on maintaining their green practices.
Brandon James, senior vice president of strategic growth and deputy general counsel for Spurs Sports & Entertainment added,
“We’ve been fortunate to engage with Wanderlust organically over the past few years, watching them grow and scale while staying true to Austin’s character. To now grow together through an official partnership is a big win for both organizations. Their strong connection to the community mirrors the special bond we share with our fans, making this partnership a natural fit.”
This partnership extends the Spurs organization’s presence in Austin. Through fan engagement activations, game watch parties, support for the local sports and fitness community, the Spurs continue community outreach.
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The video was highlights of James from his incredible Game 5 performance against the Detroit Pistons in 2007. He watched a version of himself that physically couldn’t be stopped by one of the best defensive teams of that decade, even though each defender was doing everything in their power to do so.
That clip was 19 years old and from multiple basketball lifetimes ago, even though James still remembers “that moment like it was yesterday.”
Basketball mortality isn’t something James has seemingly had to contemplate often. The guys he came into the league with have transitioned to different phases of their lives. Even someone like Derrick Rose, who was once thought of as the up-and-coming young player that represented a new generation to challenge James for his throne, just had his jersey retirement ceremony with the Chicago Bulls last weekend.
The regular laws of physics and aging have generally not applied to James, but that’s changing.
“I don’t take these moments for granted, because it could be,” James said when asked if this was his last game in Cleveland. “Obviously, I haven’t made a decision on the future, but it very well could be.”
The hometown fans didn’t take the moment for granted either. As has been the case for the last 23 years, they reacted to every move that he made once he entered the stage.
The crowd erupted when he first emerged from the tunnel for pregame warmups. Provided him with the loudest ovation during player intros. Groaned when he missed a putback layup. And gave him the loudest ovation of the night after the tribute video ran.
One of those people cheering was his mother. James took a moment to look up to her suite at the start of the game and gave her his signed jersey from the game as a present.
As has become a tradition the last two seasons, Bronny James has been one of the highlights of the night. He scored eight points once the game was decided, including a breakaway dunk that garnered one of the loudest crowd pops of the evening.
“My mom is here watching her son and her grandson,” LeBron said. “I don’t even know how to even wrap that all around in my brain, you know. It’s so weird and so cool, and so surreal. My mom gets to watch her son and her grandson play in the NBA at the same time. … Shit.”
Anything bought from the links helps support Fear the Sword. You can also shop all of Homage’s Cavs gear HERE. The link to the 2016 championship shirt HERE.
This warm and familial reception from his hometown stands in stark contrast to what James has been facing with the Los Angeles Lakers.
James is no longer the star the organization revolves around. He wasn’t offered a contract extension last off-season, and could enter free agency next season with his current team presumably not too concerned about whether or not he leaves.
His play on the court reflects this new reality. The night-to-night excellence isn’t to the level it’s been for the last two decades. Wednesday’s 11-point performance, in which James had more turnovers than assists, was the exception to what has been an All-Star caliber season. Still, it’s been rare to see James draw a blank on a game that meant something to him.
Aging is a difficult process. You’re trapped with the memories of who you used to be, even though that person can never be summoned again.
But the player that is currently there is still better than an overwhelming majority of the league and can still reach a gear that few can. That’s the reason why the Cavs are reportedly interested in opening the door for a possible third stint this summer.
While a reunion would be a great story, James would also fill a lot of holes around this core. His playmaking, size, and ability to beat mismatches are all things the Cavaliers have shown they needed based on previous postseason runs. And Wednesday made clear that the hometown fans would welcome him back with open arms.
Whether or not James would be up for a second return — or another season in general — remains to be seen. He’s accomplished everything there is to in the game and has nothing further to prove to the outside world. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean there isn’t motivation there to continue on.
“My why has been that I’m still playing at a high level,” James said. “I still love the process of putting in the work, inspiring, given what I got to the game because I’ll have more years in my life without it than I will with it. … The thought (of retiring) creeps in my mind more at 41 years old, of when the end is and where the finish line is to hang this thing up. … [I want to see] how much juice I can squeeze out of this orange.”
James is no longer the superhero in the baggy, navy blue jersey, carving through that great Pistons defense in overtime. No one can keep playing at that level forever.
At the same time, there’s something more inspiring and relatable about an all-time great waging a war they’ll eventually lose. Even though he’s closer to the end of that fight now, it’s not one he’s given up on yet.
“I’m in a battle with Father Time,” James said, “and I kind of take it personally. I want to see how many more times I can be victorious over him.”
The San Antonio Spurs spent much of Wednesday night searching for their footing, trailing early and struggling to slow Houston’s tempo. By the final buzzer, they had imposed their will, turning a shaky start into a dominant 111–99 road victory over the Rockets at Toyota Center.
San Antonio overcame a double-digit first-half deficit by tightening its defense, controlling the glass, and leaning on its size in the paint. The Spurs outscored Houston 58–38 in the second half and limited the Rockets to just 13 points in the fourth quarter, sealing the win with disciplined execution and physical play.
“I think it’s the job that everyone was doing around him [Wembanyama] that allowed Victor to be that impactful at the rim,” Spurs Head Coach Mitch Johnson said. “We had quite a bit of crowds at the rim and we did a much better job of securing loose balls in the second half and the latter part of the game.”
The Rockets dictated much of the opening half, attacking early in the shot clock and finding success from the perimeter. Houston built a lead that grew to 16 points as San Antonio struggled to contain dribble penetration and gave up second-chance opportunities.
That changed after halftime.
The Spurs emerged with a renewed focus on defense, shrinking the floor and forcing Houston into contested shots. San Antonio began to chip away late in the third quarter, closing the gap behind improved ball movement and a steady diet of interior scoring.
“It felt like we were freaking out a bit,” Johnson said. “It felt like we didn’t settle down into the game [in the first half], but we kept our composure.”
Victor Wembanyama was at the center of it all. He star finished with 28 points and 16 rebounds, anchoring the Spurs on both ends of the floor. Wembanyama repeatedly punished Houston inside, altering shots defensively while drawing fouls and creating space for teammates offensively.
San Antonio’s patience paid off early in the fourth quarter. After finally taking the lead late in the third, the Spurs opened the final period with an 11–0 run that shifted momentum decisively. Defensive stops led to transition opportunities, and the Spurs capitalized by attacking the rim and controlling the pace.
The Spurs’ advantage in the paint proved decisive. San Antonio consistently beat Houston to loose balls and dominated the rebounding battle, limiting the Rockets’ ability to generate second chances. As the game slowed, Houston struggled to find clean looks against San Antonio’s length and discipline.
Rookie guard Dylan Harper provided a significant boost off the bench, scoring 16 points and offering energy during critical stretches. His ability to attack downhill and convert at the rim helped stabilize the Spurs’ offense when the game tightened, preventing Houston from regaining momentum.
Amen Thompson led the Rockets with 25 points, showcasing his athleticism and aggressiveness throughout the night. But despite strong individual performances, Houston could not sustain its early success once San Antonio imposed its defensive structure. The Rockets committed key turnovers and endured extended scoring droughts in the fourth quarter as the Spurs closed out the game.
For San Antonio, the win served as a reminder of how effective the team can be when it commits to defense and physicality. After a recent stretch marked by inconsistency, the Spurs demonstrated their ability to respond under pressure and win a tough, grind-it-out game on the road.
The victory also highlighted the Spurs’ growth in late-game situations. Rather than rushing possessions or settling for contested jump shots, San Antonio remained composed, working the ball inside and trusting its defensive rotations.
As the Spurs continue to navigate a competitive Western Conference, Wednesday’s performance offered a blueprint for success — defend, rebound, and let discipline dictate the outcome. Against a young and energetic Rockets team, San Antonio proved that resilience and execution can still make a difference.
Game notes
Charles Barkley said Stephon Castle “single handedly changed the game” for the Spurs. And if you look at the tape, he’s right. Castle was in Sengun and Kevin Durant’s business in the second half and made life difficult for him. While Durant finished with 24 points, he shot 8-for-17 and that is largely due to Castle.
Can we stop with the Mitch Johnson hate? His coaching in the second half and adjustments of putting Wembanyama on Amen Thompson was a huge reason why the Spurs rallied for the win. The Spurs are 32-15 and are en route for the NBA Playoffs. He’s a huge reason why.
San Antonio’s bench outscored Houston’s 38-14.
Dylan Harper had a nice evening at the office with 16 points on 8-11 shooting.
After the Celtics went into Atlanta and beat the Hawks by 26, Atlanta decided to return the favor by beating Boston 117-106 in TD Garden. It was an annoying game to watch because every time the Celtics got close to coming back and cut into the lead, the Hawks would go on a run. The frustration was definitely boiling over for Boston, no better personified than when Joe Mazzulla lost it on the refs in the third quarter. Mazzulla essentially waved the white flag at the 4:39 mark of the fourth quarter and Atlanta exacted their revenge.
In the postgame interview, Joe Mazzulla was adiment about this being a game that you just flush away. From the hot Hawks shooting to the Celtics turnovers, Mazzulla just chalked it up to “just a bad day at the office.”
Joe Mazzulla on the tough loss and the Hawks three point shooting
This loss started with the Celtics very slow start to the first quarter and it felt like they never recovered from it. The Hawks went on a 26-9 run to open the game up by 3:35 mark. Anfernee Simons tried to will the Celtics back into the game with 8 straight points out of the timeout, but the score was 38-18 after the first quarter. The Hawks shot 13-26 (50%) from the field and 7-12 (58%) from three. Although Boston got close multiple times in this game, the monster start by Atlanta really was the beginning of the end for this game.
Hawks Shooting Zone in 1Q (Via NBA.com)
3. Three Point Difference
In the past the Celtics have won and lost games this season just because of the three point shot. That was the great equalizer again in this game, but it was on the losing end for Boston. The Celtics shot 9-34 (27%) from three as a team in this one while the Hawks shot 18-42 (43%) from three. In a game where Boston lost by 11 and Atlanta made 9 more three pointers, that is a recipe for a guaranteed loss.
4. Brown/Pritchard/White Off Nights
It was a tough game for the Celtics three main offensive guys tonight as Jaylen Brown, Payton Pritchard, and Derrick White all combined to shoot 19-44 (43%) from the field but 1-13 (7%) from three. There were times where all three of them had short bursts in this game that cut in to Atlanta’s lead but it never felt all that cohesive.
Derrick White had a burst in the third quarter that started with a three on wing. He then was able to make a nice driving layup off of a good screen by Luka Garza. Next he was being defended by Jalen Johnson, was able to stop on a dime and hit a mid range jumper over him. Finally, he drove into the midrange and hit a floater over CJ McCollum.
Pritchard went on his short run at the beginning of the fourth quarter. He started with a pump fake over McCollum, got him up in the air, then finished a wide open layup. The next bucket came when he ran around a Garza screen and hit a nice midrange jumper over Onyeka Okongwu. Finally, he was matched up on Corey Kispert and hit another mid range jumper over him after make a quick stop.
Brown also had his burst in the fourth quarter but it was in the middle when the Celtics were trying to make their last attempt at winning the game. He started with a nice play where Luke Kennard was guarding him and Brown just took him to his spot in the midrange and splashed the jumper. The next play came on a drive blowing by Jalen Johnson where he was fouled and finished the layup for an And-1. The third play was a goal tending call against Dyson Daniels. Finally, he was matched up on Daniels again and hit a sweet midrange jumper with him draped all over him.
In a game where a lot of guys struggled to get going, Anfernee Simons was able to play a pretty good game overall. He finished with 12 points on 5-7 shooting from the field and 2-4 from three. He was a big part of the Celtics turning the game around in the first quarter with some really huge baskets.
Simons came out of a Celtics timeout and finished a nice finger roll over the outstretched arm of Okongwu. Next he got the ball from Amari Williams and hit a side step three over Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Finally, on the next Celtics possession he hit another three over Alexander-Walker in essentially the same exact place.
Another guy that had a good night for the Celtics in this game was Luka Garza coming off of the bench after missing Monday’s game against the Trail Blazers with an illness. Garza finished with 11 points, 6 rebounds, and a career high 6 assists.
All of Garza’s baskets came in the second quarter but they were pretty much all tough buckets. The first one was a put back layup where he sealed off Luke Kennard and was able to finish the play after Jordan Walsh missed a layup. The next play came when Brown found him wide open underneath the basket and finished an And-1 layup through contact. The third basket was another layup, this time off of a nice bounce pass by Derrick White. The fourth was an all out hustle play where he missed a layup, grabbed his own rebound, and put it back up to score. Finally, after Brown missed a layup, Garza was able to tap it back up twice to finish the basket.
When it comes to his new career high in assists, Garza had two of them that made him look like the new-aged Magic Johnson. The first one came off of a nice offense rebound off of a Sam Hauser missed three. Hauser then was able to relocate to the corner where Garza made a nice pass to find him to hit the three. The second started with a nice pick and roll between Hugo Gonzalez and Luka Garza. Garza received a bounce pass and made a nice pass over a double team to find a cutting Jordan Walsh who finished with a reverse layup.
Coming off a couple good games against the Bulls and the Trail Blazers, Amari Williams had a bit of rough game. Williams finished with 2 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists on 1-3 shooting. He started the game for the Celtics and played 10 minutes in the first quarter but after that was benched for the rest of the game until garbage time. The reason I can think of for his benching was a culmination of the two smoked layups and two turnovers in the first quarter.
His firs tough play came on a bad pass to Jaylen Brown. Williams was trying to make a bounce pass to Brown but just threw it into Dyson Daniels feet for a turnover that resulted in a Corey Kispert three. The next play came on the Celtics next offensive possession where he ran a pick and roll with Brown. Two defenders went to Brown and it looked like Williams had an easy layup but he just smoked it on the way up. The next one came on alley-oop pass from Derrick White that Williams didn’t slam down, but tried to lay it up and smoked again. Finally, at the end of the first quarter, he committed an illegal screen at half court on Alexander-Walker and Mazzulla pulled him for the rest of the night. This is normal for a rookie in the NBA to have growing pains but it was hard not to see Williams performance as a reason for the Celtics slow start in this game.
Baylor Scheierman had a quite two first quarters of this game but once he entered the game in the third quarter, he was chaos personified. Scheierman had all 6 of his points in the third quarter along with 2 rebounds, 1 assist, and a lot of hustle plays.
Scheierman started his run of great play by drawing a charge on Jalen Johnson where Johnson threw his shoulder into Baylor’s chest. Then on the next possession, Baylor drew the attention of three Hawks defenders and found Hugo Gonzalez wide open for a corner three. The next play came where the ball was being juggled in the air, Scheierman picked it off and drove to the lane for a layup. That was until Okongwu hit him with a horse collar tackle and Baylor went to the line and hit 1-2 free throws. Finally, at the 1:13 mark, Scheierman backed down CJ McCollum from the three point line to the basket and finished an And-1 layup over him.
Neemias Queta was ruled OUT before this game with an illness and I didn’t know the Celtics would look so poor in the paint without him. Clearly he is what makes their defense role because Boston ended up getting destroyed in the points in the paint battle, giving up 44. Hawks were able to take advantage of Williams to start the game in the first quarter, shooting 5-9. The second quarter was a little better for Boston as Garza took over and held Atlanta to 4-9 shooting. However, once the Celtics ran a small ball lineup in the third quarter, the Hawks were able to feast down low, shooting 8-9.
10. Bad Turnover Game
This was a game that was dominated by turnovers for the Celtics. The Hawks only finished with 9 turnovers but Boston ended with 16 turnovers on the night where Atlanta was able to generate 23 points off of them. These turnovers were most seen in the first half as the Celtics had 9 of them. This culminated with the tough shooting game from three was a big reason for the loss.
BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) — Six direct places in the Europa League round of 16 are up for grabs and 11 teams remain in contention for the five last spots in the knockout stage in the final round of the opening phase on Thursday.
Only leader Lyon and second-placed Aston Villa have already qualified for the last 16. They are tied on points atop the standings with six wins and a loss.
Like in the Champions League, all 36 teams play in the last 18 games that kick off simultaneously, and the top eight finishers advance automatically after eight rounds.
The teams placed from nine to 24 enter a two-leg playoff.
Lyon hosts PAOK while Villa meets Salzburg at home.
Third-placed Freiburg, which trails the leaders by a point, travels to 21st-placed Lille and a point would be enough for the Bundesliga team to advance.
Roma in sixth is away at Panathinaikos in 19th. Sixteenth-placed Nottingham Forest plays seventh-placed Ferencváros at City Ground.
Celtic sits in the 24th and last qualifying place and needs a win against Utrecht, which is 34th and already eliminated. Scottish rival Rangers in 31st is also out of knockout contention.
BOSTON — Jaylen Brown felt apologetic after Hawks forward Onyeka Okongwu was left missing a tooth following Wednesday night’s 117-106 Celtics loss at TD Garden.
In the fourth quarter, Brown swung his right elbow and connected with Okongwu’s jaw on an offensive possession. Okongwu immediately clutched his face and was left bloodied and missing a tooth, though the 25-year-old later returned to the scene of the crime to shoot his two flagrant free throws. He then retreated to the player’s tunnel, cutting his night short with 6:43 remaining.
Brown addressed the collision with Okongwu and offered his sympathy, drawing from his own experience with facial injuries.
“Just being aggressive like I always am,” Brown said. “Just a basketball play, it’s unfortunate. Okongwu is a good player, and I know from my own experiences with a fractured face and chipped teeth — that s••t is a hassle. It wasn’t intentional, and I know it’s gonna be a long day at the dentist for him, so hopefully he has a good recovery.”
Two seasons ago, Brown took an elbow to the face from teammate Jayson Tatum that resulted in a maxillary facial fracture and required him to wear a protective mask upon his return. Brown missed just four games after a miscommunication while going for an offensive rebound left him dealing with discomfort and pain for nearly two weeks.
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – JANUARY 28: Onyeka Okongwu #17 of the Atlanta Hawks jogs off the court after shooting two free throws from a flagrant foul by Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics (not pictured) during the second half at TD Garden on January 28, 2026 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. (Photo by Jaiden Tripi/Getty Images)
While Brown was the culprit this time, he’s uniquely qualified to speak from the perspective of someone who’s been through it.
Okongwu finished with 17 points on 6-of-12 shooting, adding six rebounds, three assists, two steals, and a block in 28 minutes. After the Hawks closed out the Celtics, he took to social media while receiving medical treatment to send a message to his teammates, offering them a virtual pat on the back for a job well done.
“Good winssss birdsss,” Okongwu posted on his Instagram story.
But even with Okongwu left bloodied, the Celtics suffered the heaviest blow.
Atlanta faced little resistance as Boston struggled to find any rhythm. The Celtics shot just 9-for-34 (26.5%) from three, while the Hawks connected on 18-of-42 (42.9%) from beyond the arc. In the third quarter, Atlanta quickly went on a 10-4 run over the first 4:25 to take a 20-point lead (70-50), prompting Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla to call a timeout. The C’s then proceeded to shoot 2-of-11 from three to end the frame.
The defeat, while harsh, isn’t one Boston plans to harp on.
“I give credit to Atlanta,” Brown said. “They just beat us up and down the floor — offense and defense. They shot the ball really well, so give credit to them. They put a lot of pressure on us. This is the part of the season where you have to dig deep physically and mentally, and tonight wasn’t the best example of that.”
Okongwu’s missing tooth didn’t go in vain, and Hawks coach Quin Snyder doesn’t expect the sixth-year veteran to miss much time despite the injury. As one of the more durable members of the team, Okongwu has missed only two games all season.
“He’s tough,” Snyder told reporters. “He took quite a shot, and it’s a good thing that dentistry is a profession. I don’t know what he’s gonna need, but he’s pretty banged up. He took quite a shot. I told him he’s still handsome. But it’s a good thing that people can repair his teeth because he’s going to need some work.”
