The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to take a commanding 3-0 lead over the Toronto Raptors in their first-round series. The Cavs won the first two games in Cleveland with the series now shifting to Toronto for Games 3 and 4. Cleveland is favored by 2.5 points, and the over/under for the matchup is set at 219.5.
How to watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Toronto Raptors
Moneyline: Toronto Raptors +125 (42.2%) / Cleveland Cavaliers -155 (57.8%)
Over/Under: 219.5
Series results, schedule
Game 1:Cavaliers 126, Raptors 113 Game 2:Cavaliers 115, Raptors 105 Game 3: Thu., April 23 at Toronto (8 p.m., Prime) Game 4: Sun., April 26 at Toronto (1 p.m., ESPN) Game 5: Wed., April 29 at Cleveland (TBD) Game 6: Fri., May 1 at Toronto (TBD) *Game 7: Sun., May 3 at Cleveland (TBD)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 21: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets is double teamed by Rui Hachimura #28 and Marcus Smart #36 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half of Game Two of the NBA Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 21, 2026 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. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) | Getty Images
In the opening quarter, he was the most aggressive player on the court. He took seven shots and converted on five of them, including a trio of threes. Smart ended the quarter with 14 points, which was part of a 25-point performance.
Defensively, Smart was also at his best.
Smart had a game-high five steals and gave Kevin Durant plenty of trouble as he turned the ball over nine times, a season high for one of the best offensive players to ever play the game.
“I think we understand that kind of stuff and what he does on the floor, it doesn’t really show on the stats,” Hachimura said postgame. “But I think it gets us going as a team, especially the start of the game, he was guarding KD full court, and then he got the ball, and Bron almost got an and-one. Those kind of plays just set the tone. That’s really important for us. He always makes the plays.”
This game featured Durant’s return after missing Game 1, and Smart immediately set the physical tone this contest would take. Just minutes into the opening quarter, Smart was guarding Durant full court. He swiped the ball loose and dove onto the floor to guarantee the Lakers would gain possession.
The first of 2 early steals from Marcus Smart.
He also just drained his second 3-pointer of the game to give the Lakers an early 12-9 lead. pic.twitter.com/xCtbykkqfV
With the Lakers shorthanded, players have to elevate their game to win these playoff matchups. Luke Kennard did this in Game 1, scoring 27 points, and Smart matched that energy for Game 2. Now LA is up 2-0 in this series.
“He set the tone for us, got us going,” Kennard said. “We know with those guys out, it could be anybody any given night right now. Again, we try to elevate each other and push each other and motivate one another to just be who we are and have fun out there and play hard. Marcus definitely got us going there in the first quarter. It’s good to see. We need him to continue to be aggressive for us.”
Smart has emerged as one of LA’s most important leaders. And as a leader, he has to do the walking along with the talking for everyone to buy in. He’s been doing that all season, and Game 2 was a prime example of this.
Every playoff team needs a Smart on its roster. He’s a selfless player, and one who can do the dirty work along with the tough defensive assignments few can handle. This was a bounce-back year for Smart, and he deserves all the adulation coming his way. He’s set the tone for the Lakers and is a big reason why they have yet to lose in the playoffs.
Despite trailing by 12 points entering the fourth quarter, the Hawks mounted a late comeback led by CJ McCollum, who finished with a game-high 32 points. The Knicks had a chance to win at the buzzer, but Mikal Bridges missed a final jumper as time expired.
It’s only the second time in franchise playoff history that the Knicks lost a game they were leading heading into the fourth quarter; they’re now 40-2 all-time.
Knicks vs. Hawks: what to know
What: NBA Playoffs First Round, Game 3
When: April 23, 7 p.m. ET
Where: State Farm Arena (Atlanta, Georgia)
Streaming: Prime Video (try it free)
The Knicks and Hawks will be back in action on Saturday for Game 4 of the series.
Knicks vs. Hawks start time:
Knicks vs. Hawks Game 3 is scheduled to begin tonight, April 23, at 7 p.m. ET.
How to watch Knicks vs. Hawks for free:
Tonight’s Hawks vs. Knicks matchup is one of the NBA Playoffs games streaming exclusively on Prime Video, so you’ll need an Amazon Prime subscription to watch.
If you aren’t a Prime Video subscriber yet, you can get started with a 30-day Amazon Prime free trial, including Prime perks like the Prime Video streaming service, free two-day shipping, exclusive deals, and more. After the free trial, Amazon Prime costs $14.99/month or $139/year.
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This article was written by Angela Tricarico, Commerce Streaming Reporter for Post Wanted Shopping, Page Six, and Decider.com. Angela keeps readers up to date with cord-cutter-friendly deals, and information on how to watch your favorite sports teams, TV shows, and movies on every streaming service. Not only does Angela test and compare the streaming services she writes about to ensure readers are getting the best prices, but she’s also a superfan specializing in the intersection of shopping, tech, sports, and pop culture. When she’s not writing about (or watching) TV, movies, and sports, she’s also keeping up on the underrated perfume dupes at Bath & Body Works and testing headphones. Prior to joining Decider and The New York Post in 2023, she wrote about streaming and consumer tech at Insider Reviews.
The New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks meet in Game 3 of their NBA first-round playoff series. The Hawks rallied from a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat the Knicks 107-106 on Monday and even the series. The next two games will be played in Atlanta.
Moneyline: Atlanta Hawks -102 (48.3%) / New York Knicks -118 (51.7%)
Over/Under: 216.5
Series results, schedule
Game 1:Knicks 113, Hawks 102 Game 2:Hawks 107, Knicks 106 Game 3: Thu., April 23, at Atlanta (7 p.m., Prime) Game 4: Sat., April 25, at Atlanta (6 p.m., NBC) *Game 5: Tue., April 28,at New York (TBD) *Game 6: Thu., April 30, at Atlanta (TBD) *Game 7: Sat., May 2, at New York (TBD)
After a remarkable freshman season at BYU, 19-year-old forward AJ Dybantsa officially announced that he will declare for the 2026 NBA Draft.
Dybantsa will turn pro as an early entry candidate after a successful and impressive one-and-done collegiate campaign. The former McDonald's All-American forward averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.1 steals per game. He is currently projected at No. 1 overall to the Washington Wizards in USA TODAY's latest mock draft.
Dybantsa led the NCAA in scoring and was named a consensus first-team collegiate All-American, also earning Big 12 Freshman of the Year and the Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year Award.
During his sole appearance in March Madness, he scored 35 points with 10 rebounds. It was one of eight games in which he had at least 30 points, highlighted by a 43-point performance against in-rival Utah. Dybantsa also notched a 30-point triple double against Eastern Washington in December.
Dybantsa led the nation in unassisted points scored, per CBB Analytics, and is able to inject instant life in whichever NBA team selects him. While he is listed at 6-foot-9, the playmaking forward finished more of his possessions as the ball handler in pick and roll sets than any other play type.
He also scored efficiently as the ball handler in transition and one-on-one against his defender in isolation. All teams will have interest in such a talented offensive creator who also brings a solid frame.
No matter which team gets the pole position, it will highly consider Dybantsa when it is on the clock. Other candidates for No. 1 in this class include Duke forward Cameron Boozer and Kansas guard Darryn Peterson.
The NBA's draft lottery in Chicago is scheduled for May 10 with the Wizards, Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets and Utah Jazz as the most likely teams to get the No. 1 overall pick. The 2026 NBA Draft is scheduled for June 23 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Our NBA player prop projections are all set for tonight's Game 3 matchup between the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves, with the model flagging several high-value opportunities.
By breaking down the data and stacking it up against current market lines, we’ve identified where the strongest edges lie.
If you’re building out your card, here are the model’s top NBA picks for Thursday, April 23.
Nuggets vs Timberwolves computer picks for Game 3
Nuggets
Timberwolves
Murray o26.5 points -105
Randle o19.5 points -115
Hardaway Jr. o1.5 threes +150
Edwards o5.5 rebounds -150
Jokic o13.5 rebounds -120
Edwards o3.5 threes +122
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Nuggets Game 3 computer picks
Jamal Murray Over 26.5 points (-105)
Projection: 26.7 points
When it comes to putting points on the board, the Denver Nuggets have been unmatched, leading the league with 121.9 points per game.
Jamal Murray has been a driving force behind that firepower, clearing this 25.5-point line in six of his last 10 outings.
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Tim Hardaway Jr. Over 1.5 threes (+150)
Projection: 2.1 3-pointers
The Nuggets have been the league’s most efficient team from beyond the arc this season, and Tim Hardaway Jr. has played a key role in keeping that edge.
Hardaway has cleared his 1.5 made threes line in six of his last 10 games, as the veteran continues to deliver from deep.
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Nikola Jokic Over 13.5 rebounds (-120)
Projection: 14.9 rebounds
Nikola Jokic makes rebounding look effortless, and Game 3 should be no exception.
Expect an even more aggressive effort on the glass after a quiet Game 2 — one the Nuggets will be eager to move past — as the reigning force in the paint looks to swing the series back in their favor.
Jokic has also been clearing his rebounding line consistently, eclipsing 13.5 boards in seven of his last 10 games.
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Timberwolves Game 3 computer picks
Julius Randle Over 19.5 points (-115)
Projection: 20.4 points
The Minnesota Timberwolves have been playing at a fast clip at home over the last 20 games, ranking among the league’s most up-tempo teams, and they’ll look to keep that pace rolling in this matchup.
They draw a similarly high-speed opponent in the Denver Nuggets, one of the fastest visiting offenses over the last 10 games, setting the stage for an increased number of possessions and more scoring chances for Julius Randle to stay productive within Minnesota’s offense.
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Anthony Edwards Over 5.5 rebounds (-150)
Projection: 5.54 rebounds
The T-Wolves have been dominant on the offensive glass at home, ranking near the top of the league with 13.6 offensive rebounds per game over their last five outings.
Anthony Edwards also brings strong rebounding production that exceeds that mark, and with Game 3 back in Minnesota, expect him to be especially active on the boards, fueled by the energy of the home crowd.
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Anthony Edwards Over 3.5 threes (+122)
Projection: 3.7 3-pointers
There’s no question Anthony Edwards will come into Game 3 with plenty of energy after helping the Minnesota Timberwolves steal a win in Denver.
That momentum should carry into his perimeter game, where he’ll look to bounce back from recent misses after finishing with Under 3.5 threes per game in eight of his last 10 outings. He'll change that luck for tonight.
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How to watch Nuggets vs Timberwolves Game 3
Location
Target Center, Minneapolis, MN
Date
Friday, April 23, 2026
Tip-off
9:30 p.m. ET
TV
Prime Video
Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 25: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the Chicago Bulls in the first quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 25, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images
After an upset win in Boston in Game 2 of the opening round of the NBA Playoffs, the Sixers could have reinforcements on the way as the series turns to South Philadelphia.
The Sixers said on Thursday afternoon that Joel Embiid participated “in parts” of practice the day before the team’s Game 3 matchup with the Celtics.
Joel Embiid participated in parts of practice today, the Sixers say.
When asked what Embiid was able to participate in at practice today, Nick Nurse notes that today's practice was "a little more than a walkthrough", but not much more in terms of intensity level.
This would be quite the turnaround for Embiid, who had an emergency appendectomy on April 9 that has kept him off the court since then. The team stated on April 20 that Embiid has started a strength and conditioning program as he’s recovered from that surgery.
To say that an Embiid return this weekend, whether for Game 3 on Friday or Game 4 on Sunday, would be a boost for the Sixers would be a colossal understatement. The Sixers hung tough while stealing a road victory on Tuesday, but they’ve been getting nothing from their big men. Even a version of Embiid that’s not 100 percent, which Sixers fans have been accustomed to seeing in the postseason anyway, would do wonders for their chances of prolonging this series against the vaunted Celtics.
Embiid’s getting back into action would mean this is the fourth time he’s faced Boston in the playoffs during his career. While 2018 and 2020 saw the Celtics making quick work of the team, that 2023 loss still stings. I’m not necessarily banking on it, but perhaps Embiid combining with the backcourt duo of VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey could have the Sixers doing something they haven’t done in 44 years: eliminating the Celtics.
Apr 21, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) warms up before game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Portland Trail Blazers at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images | Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
In some potentially good news for the Spurs, Victor Wembanyama is going to travel with the team to Portland, per ESPN’s Shams Charania. Wemby entered concussion protocol after falling and smacking his chin on the court in the second quarter of Game 2 on Tuesday. He appeared dazed before getting up and heading to the locker room. The Spurs were quick dispel rumors that were going around during/after the game he had been taken to the hospital for x-rays on his head or jaw.
Victor Wembanyama will indeed travel with the Spurs today to Portland ahead of Games 3 and 4 this weekend. https://t.co/mRjpxcjKKo
Per the NBA’s concussion protocol rules, he must go through a 48-hour observation period with no contact basketball allowed, although he can do workouts such as cardio and non-contact drills as deemed fit, which he was seen doing at practice yesterday and today. Players must also undergo cognitive/neurological testing, be symptom free and cleared by team and league doctors to return to play.
Head coach Mitch Johnson told reporters at practice today that Wemby is progressing well, but they have not yet determined whether he will be available for Games 3 and 4 in Portland.
Game 3 is on Friday, which is outside the mandatory 48-hour window since the incident occurred on Tuesday. While it would be rare for a player to return that quickly from a concussion — 5-7 days is the most common time frame — it’s not unheard of. That being said, there are levels of severity to concussions, and it would appear this is a mild one based on his quick progression. If he was in any danger to fly or the Spurs did not think he stood a chance of returning on Friday or Sunday for Game 4, he would not be traveling with them.
In other injury related news, Harrison Barnes and Dylan Harper are cleared to play in Game 3. Barnes exited in the fourth quarter Game 2 after suffering a shoulder stinger in a collision with Deni Avdija, and Harper reaggravated an existing thumb injury after getting tangled with Donovan Clingan a play later. Harper returned to that game, Barnes did not.
Game 3 will be tomorrow at 9:30 PM CT and streamed on Prime. The Spurs went 2-1 against Portland in the regular season without Wemby, including a win at the Moda Center in November. De’Aaron Fox scored 37 points in that game, and they will need a similar performance from him and for everyone else to step up in Wemby’s absence should he miss one or both games. The Spurs were down two points when he exited early in the second quarter of Game 2, and while regrouped and got the lead up to 14 in the fourth quarter, the offense fell apart down the stretch to lose the game 103-106. The series is currently tied 1-1.
LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 21: Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) shoots the ball during the West First Round Houston Rockets vs Los Angeles Lakers game on April 21, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
After the Lakers took Game 1, desperation naturally had to set in for the Rockets. No team wants to fall down 2-0, as those who hold that lead go on to win 92.7% of the time.
Houston was held to an abysmal 37% from the floor in the playoff opener, setting the stage for superstar Kevin Durant to return and, theoretically, fix their offensive problems in Game 2. He was upgraded to available hours before tipoff, seemingly shifting the series back in their control.
Durant started Game 2 on fire, hitting his first four shots before the purple and gold decided it was enough. They switched back into their defensive rotation bag and got the ball out KD’s hands.
It began at the end of the first quarter. In the clip below, Durant comes to the screen for Alperen Şengün. The Lakers’ scheme is to switch any of his screen actions, negating its advantage, and then to blitz or “fire,” as head coach J.J. Redick calls it, to get the ball out of his hands.
LeBron James meets Şengün at the free throw line, Jake Laravia plays the low man role, dropping down on Amen Thompson, and they strategically leave the player on the wing, Tari Eason, open. The intention is to live with a late contest on shooters they deem unable to consistently hurt them.
This defense not only takes the ball out of the superstar’s hands, but it also forces role players who are not accustomed to being playmakers to make split-second pass-shot decisions, which are even more sped up by playoff intensity and physicality.
LA has practiced this defense numerous times in the regular season, so it is prepared to dish out now. Every player being in sync means any hesitation from the offense allows the connective group to recover and take away the given advantage.
Watch below as Durant is doubled once again on a straight line drive attempt. The Rockets made five passes following his kick out, including one that got the basketball back in his hands.
No open shot created as the Lakers cleanly recover and Jabari Smith is forced to heave at the end of the clock.
This all culminated in one of the bigger moments of Game 2. With LA nursing a five-point lead late in the fourth, Durant and Şengün run their pet screen action in the clip below. The Lakers switch the play, with a double likely coming once Durant decides to attack.
Looking to move the ball before it happens, Durant whips a one-handed pass to the corner that’s deflected by LeBron and stolen by Luke Kennard. LA scores on the other end and pushes the lead back to a comfortable spot.
LA frustrated Durant into nine turnovers overall and just 1-5 shooting in the second half. Every successful defensive possession that leads to a turnover, an indecisive shot, or a rushed pass increases the brewing confidence of the Lakers team to dig their teeth in more.
It’s filled a squad left for dead in public perception with the belief of life. A roster of subpar defenders, at best, has a blueprint to follow that’s leading to playoff wins.
Houston has two days to sit with this film and make adjustments before Game 3 on Friday. The questions to the test are readily available, as they’ve been available for months before this matchup, but it remains to be seen if the Rockets have any answers.
LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 21: Alperen Sengun #28 of the Houston Rockets warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on April 21, 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
I don’t know if the Rockets are going to come back and win this series or not. I’ll admit it looks bleak. However, I’ve seen too many things happen in sports to write them off completely. Here’s what I do know. If they go out, they better go out with a fight, and that starts with the man they choose to make the centerpiece of their franchise.
Alperen Sengun has not been good in this series offensively or defensively. Yes, he has outscored and slightly outrebounded his Laker counterpart, but DeAndre Ayton has completely outshined Sengun in his role. Sengun is shooting 38-percent from the field with the majority of his shots coming in the paint. When Sengun gets the ball, it seems he wants nothing to do with it until he is forced into a feeble shot attempt. This was especially the case in Game 2 when Kevin Durant returned.
This is a far cry from the Alperen Sengun we saw in the playoffs a season ago against the Golden State Warriors, and it speaks to the culture that has been set by this version of the Houston Rockets. “When all else fails, look to Kevin Durant.” That was not supposed to be the case. The role KD is playing on this team was never going to be a winning formula and it was proven so in Game 2. You cannot strictly rely on a 37-year-old Kevin Durant to carry your team to a championship. Kevin Durant was supposed to be the perfect complement to the Rockets young core, not their crutch.
If the Rockets are going to get back in this series Alperen Sengun has to play like a star. If he can’t do that against DeAndre Ayton and a depleted Lakers squad, then whom in the league can he do it against? Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets? Chet Holmgren and the Thunder? The Houston Rockets traded away a hyper athletic two-way guard with star potential and an absolute junkyard dog in Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks and yes, it was to acquire Kevin Durant, but it was also because they believe that Alperen Sengun is the future of this franchise.
A conversation is to be had about the culpability of Ime Udoka in all this mess and believe me, we will have that discussion. However, the playoffs are still going on until the Rockets have lost four games, and Ime Udoka isn’t getting fired mid-series. The players ultimately have to play. Sengun has that dog in him, we’ve seen it in flashes. We need to see it in droves if the Rockets are going to come back and tie this series at 2-2. That is the only way that the Rockets are coming back to win and get to the next round.
It won’t be easy, especially with LeBron James standing in their way. But crazier things have happened in Houston Rockets history. This writer for one is not throwing in the towel just yet. Now, it’s up to these players to show they have as much pride in themselves as you and I have in this franchise. May the ghosts of Clutch City reside at Toyota Center for the next 72 hours.
Victor Wembanyama will be traveling with the San Antonio Spurs to Portland for Game 3 of their first-round series, but whether he will be able to play in Game 3 Friday night — or even Game 4 on Sunday — remains unclear.
"He looks good. The update is that he is following the league's protocol and he's progressing, and he'll travel with the team," coach Mitch Johnson said Thursday before the Spurs practice and flight to Portland.
Johnson would not say when Wembanyama might return to the court, noting that ultimately it is a league-appointed doctor, not the Spurs, who needs to clear his return to play.
While Wembanyama did some cardio work last night, according to Shams Charania of ESPN, the NBA's concussion protocol requires him to complete a multi-step process to be cleared to play. Those steps involve him not showing symptoms through multiple steps of increased physical exertion (from a stationary bike to jogging to on-court work). The results from his tests are compared to a baseline of these same tests he (and every NBA player) took before the start of the season. This entire process is monitored and must ultimately be approved by a league-appointed physician specializing in neurological issues.
Wembanyama's injury occurred in the second quarter of Game 2 on Tuesday, when he tried a spin move in the paint and was incidentally tripped and fouled by Jrue Holiday. Wembanyama tried to pass the ball as he fell and was unable to protect his head as it hit the court. Wembanyama left the game and did not return. The Trail Blazers came back in that game to get the win and even the series at 1-1.
"We know that he's chomping at the bit to get back on the court and be with his guys," Johnson said.
Wembanyama, the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year, averaged 25 points, 11.5 rebounds and 3.1 blocks per game this season.
Scott Foster might grab the headlines tonight, but the real story belongs to the players on the floor. Someone might want to remind him before tip-off in Minnesota, because Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns, and more are ready to take center stage for their respective teams in a Game 3 slate.
So keep your attention where it matters — on these player props and NBA picks for Thursday, April 23 — not on the whistles trying to steal the spotlight.
The New York Knicks center has hit multiple 3-pointers in each game of this series against the Atlanta Hawks, going 5-of-9 in the first two games at home. Why in the world is this prop priced at such plus-money?
No, really, why? Let’s try to think of reasons.
Karl-Anthony Towns struggled in the last month of the regular season, going just 13-of-37 from deep in his final 12 games. But even a month of struggles featured Towns shooting 35.1% from beyond the arc.
The bigger worry then may have been attempting just 3.1 triples per game, but upping that to 4.5 already in this series is reason enough to expect Towns to keep hitting multiple 3-pointers in each game. At that rate, even Towns’ struggling rate of 35.1% would make him more likely than not to hit two 3-pointers.
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
Prop #2: Collin Murray-Boyles Over 10.5 points
+100 at bet365
Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic benched Jakob Poeltl in the second half of Game 2, trying a small-ball lineup against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Did it work? Well, Toronto trailed by six at halftime and lost by 10, so not really.
But the Raptors’ shooting percentage jumped to 60% in the second half, compared to 41.9% in the first. That may be enough proof of concept to encourage Rajakovic to continue leaning on his wings, even if he said on Wednesday, “[Poeltl] needs to be part of the solution for us. He needs to be more aggressive. … He’s going to be a big part of Game 3.”
Collin Murray-Boyles played 12 minutes in Game 2’s first half and then 14 in the second half. He plays regardless of Poeltl’s action, though a slight uptick makes sense if Poeltl sees fewer minutes.
So this prop has potential no matter Poeltl’s workload.
Murray-Boyles has cleared this prop in both games of this series, scoring 14 and then 17. He topped it in six of his final eight regular-season games, discounting his truncated appearance in the season finale.
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
Prop #3: Anthony Edwards Over 5.5 rebounds
-140 at bet365
Anthony Edwards has grabbed 19 rebounds so far in this series against the Denver Nuggets. This is a common postseason emphasis of the Minnesota Timberwolves’ superstar, now clearing this prop in 24 of his last 33 playoff games.
Sure, he tends to average 5+ rebounds per game in the regular season — 5.4 two years ago, 5.7 last season and 5.0 this year — but he then plays a more all-around game when games matter most.
Much like Towns and Murray-Boyles, sportsbooks are putting too much of an emphasis on regular-season results, not recognizing tangible and intangible postseason changes.
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The Timberwolves return to their home floor with a slight edge in setting, but still head into Game 3 as 46% underdogs, while the Nuggets draw the spotlight as 54% favorites to snag a road win.
Our prediction:Nuggets to win
The Minnesota Timberwolves came back from 19 points down in Game 2 and held on convincingly in the final minutes. The praise is deserved.
But no one should be shocked if Minnesota now offers an absolute let down, something that the Denver Nuggets will gladly take advantage of.
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More Nuggets vs Timberwolves prediction markets
You're certainly not limited to the main game outcome for Nuggets vs. Timberwolves at Kalshi; you also have options to trade on the spread, total, and more, among other NBA odds markets.
You can buy either side of a market — for example, "Yes" on the Nuggets -1.5 spread means the Nuggets will cover, while "No" means the Timberwolves will cover — with each side priced based on the implied probability (which can be converted to American, Decimal, or Fraction odds using theCovers odds converter).
Nuggets vs Timberwolves spread and total at prediction markets
Outcome
Yes
No
Nuggets -1.5
54¢ (-126)
47¢ (+105)
Over 232.5 points
53¢ (-121)
48¢ (+101)
Our predictions:Nuggets -1.5 — Yes and Over 232.5 points — No
Game 3 should be a Nikola Jokic showcase, even if the game’s overall defense drastically improves thanks to the added day between games.
Other Nuggets vs Timberwolves prediction markets available
Anthony Edwards Over 5.5 rebounds (Yes: 59¢)
Nikola Jokic Over 29.5 points (Yes: 51¢)
Donte DiVincenzo Over 11.5 points (Yes: 63¢)
What is Kalshi and how does it work?
Kalshi is a federally regulated U.S. exchange where you trade directly on the outcome of real-world future events. Instead of traditional bets, you trade "Event Contracts" which are simple Yes/No questions like "Will the Timberwolves win tonight?" These events are priced between $0.01 and $0.99, and the prices reflect the market’s estimated probability of that event occurring. For instance, $0.55 equals a 55% chance. If your prediction is correct, the contract pays out exactly $1.00; if not, it settles at $0. Kalshi is essentially a stock market for reality.
How does Kalshi differ from sportsbooks?
In a sportsbook, you bet against the bookmaker, who sets fixed odds and takes a "vig," which is a kind of commission. On Kalshi, you trade against other users. This peer-to-peer model means prices are driven by supply and demand, often resulting in fairer odds. Additionally, because these are financial derivatives, you can exit your position early. If your team takes a 14-point lead, the contract price will rise, allowing you to sell your "Yes" shares for a profit before the final whistle even blows.
Why should I wager on Nuggets vs Timberwolves at Kalshi?
Kalshi offers four unique advantages over traditional sportsbooks:
Flexibility: Unlike a "locked-in" bet, you can sell your contract at any time.
Transparency: You trade against other users, which can allow you to find better value.
Federal regulation: As a CFTC-regulated exchange, your funds are held in a secure, transparent environment.
Availability: Kalshi is available in 49 states (excluding Nevada) and D.C., including many regions where traditional sportsbooks aren't yet legal.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 22: Khaman Maluach #10 of the Phoenix Suns celebrates during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round One Game Two of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 22, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Phoenix Suns might be down 0-2 after losing Game 2 to the Oklahoma City Thunder, but I walked away from that one appreciating some of the adjustments from Jordan Ott. I know. Words I didn’t know if I’d be typing for the remainder of this season. The final two months of the season were rough for the Suns, and while injuries played a big role, the team struggled with rotations, couldn’t close games, and lost some of the competitive edge and execution that defined them early on.
From a fanalyst perspective, one of the more frustrating parts of that final stretch was the lack of minutes for the rookie class. This is a team that needs internal development to sustain anything long-term, yet Khaman Maluach and Rasheer Fleming were collecting DNPs when clear opportunities were available.
Maluach’s absence stood out the most because the situation was tailor-made to give him an opportunity. Mark Williams missed 17 of the final 21 games, and in that stretch, the 7’2” center out of Duke averaged only 13.7 minutes per game. He put up 4.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks, which scale to 12 points, 12 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per 36 minutes. You had the seventh seed locked in. Your starting center was out. The minutes were sitting there. It felt like the right time to see more of him.
I get it. He’s 19. There is going to be hesitation. But he is also the 10th overall pick. At some point, you have to put him on the floor, take the training wheels off, and let him grow.
On Wednesday night against the Oklahoma City Thunder, we finally saw more of Khaman Maluach. I am not sure if it was a planned adjustment by Jordan Ott and his staff or if they reached a point where they said, “Eff it, let’s see what this looks like.” Because Oso Ighodaro did not look good in this game. My apologies. “Did not look good” is being nice. He was bloody awful. He was short-rimming shots, turning the ball over, and doing a convincing impression of a traffic cone as the Thunder repeatedly waltzed to the rim. It wasn’t pretty. And perhaps Jordan Ott finally realized that I might as well try out this Malauch thing, give it some extended minutes, and see what happens.
If you are looking at the box score, what Malauch did does not stand out. 18 minutes, 4 points, 3 rebounds. No blocks, no steals, no assists. You can point to the plus/minus and see a +10, the only positive mark on the team, but that stat can be misleading in a single game. It says more about lineups than individual impact.
That +10, however, came in the fourth, when he played all 12 minutes. And what he brought was different. His size shifted the geometry of the game. All of a sudden, the Suns looked like a basketball team. His presence alone made opponents think twice about attacking the rim. Offensively, the team had someone who, when the ball touched his hands, the defense didn’t run away from. Because when you see the Thunder and how they react to Ighodaro, it’s comical. They know he can’t shoot. They know his primary function is to connect the possession. So they retreat, and all that is left is Oso in an arena with the ball in his hands, and that is not threatening.
I think back to that game against the Denver Nuggets, when Khaman Maluach did get some run with Mark Williams out. Nikola Jokic and that offense are a machine, and the Phoenix Suns had no real answer. But when Maluach was on the floor, you could feel it shift a bit. He was not shutting Jokic down — nobody does — but his size and length made things uncomfortable for the three-time MVP. He disrupted sight lines, forced tougher passes, and made everything a little less clean, especially compared to when Oso Ighodaro was on him.
And still, he only played 11 minutes. 6 points, 2 blocks. Meanwhile, Ighodaro logged 34. You know how it ended. Jokic gets a clean look over Oso and closes it out, 125-123.
That has been part of the frustration with the rotations. Oso is a good player. For a 40th overall pick, the return has been strong. He gives you a lot. He screens well, he connects the offense, you can run sets through him, he moves, he rebounds, and he can switch defensively. There is value in all of that.
But he is more of a Swiss Army knife. Useful in many ways, not overwhelming in any. And maybe that is why Jordan Ott leans on him. He fits into everything and allows for differing offensive connections and defensive switchability. But I’ll tell you this, if I’m eating a steak, I’m not reaching for a Swiss Army knife. I want a weapon. I want a damn steak knife. That is Khaman Maluach.
Oso is like a Swiss Army knife. He does a lot of little things, gives you versatility. But if I need to eat a steak, I’m using a goddamn knife. Maluach is that weapon
He does not have the same all-around skill set as Oso Ighodaro, but he brings something different. Power. Motor. Length. Shot deterrence. And there is a hint of shooting there. It is not polished yet. He has not had the reps, but you can see the possibility of him stretching the floor when needed.
More than anything, he changes that geometry. His presence alone shifts how teams approach the paint. He gives you size and length at the rim. He will have his issues in space, especially in high pick-and-roll situations where his closeouts need work, but around the basket, he alters his behavior. Teams think twice, and they settle more.
You saw it in the numbers. Through three quarters, the Oklahoma City Thunder were 21-of-31 in the paint, 46.5% of their attempts. In the fourth, that dropped to 3-of-6, 35%.
OKC attempted 46.5% of their shots in the paint during the first three quarters of Game 2 and made 67.7% of them (21-of-31). In the fourth quarter, that number fell to 35% of their attempts and 50% (3-of-6)
Khaman Maluach played all 12 minutes of the fourth.
In short, he nudges teams toward jump shots instead of letting them live downhill.
Chances are Mark Williams is done for the year. I would be surprised if we see him in Game 3. That shifts the focus to Jordan Ott and how he handles the frontcourt minutes. Does he start Khaman Maluach? Does he expand his role?
On Wednesday, Oso Ighodaro played 29 minutes, and Maluach played 18. I think that should flip. It gives you a better chance to compete. It also matters for development. This is the time to start thinking about next season, about what this team could look like, and what the rotation might be. Rosters change, that is part of the league, but Maluach is part of the future. Give him the minutes, give him the reps, and let him provide the size this team needs.
I will end on something a little ridiculous. I have been diving into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, watching everything in chronological order. Not release order. Timeline order. I am 14 movies in and heading toward Avengers: Infinity War. It’s a maniacal way to end my days, but for some reason, I started something, and I can’t stop until I am finished.
Why bring it up? Because Maluach feels like one of the infinity stones. And if the Suns ever rolled out Maluach with Rasheer Fleming, it starts to feel like the set is complete. Snap your fingers, and defenses have to adjust. It is a little tongue-in-cheek. I have preached patience all season, and now I am leaning the other way. But at this point, what are you really risking?
At this point, the downside of playing it safe outweighs the risk of finding something real. You are already down 0–2. The known quantities have not been enough, and sticking to them is not going to suddenly change the trajectory of this series. Maluach might not be polished, and there will be mistakes, but he offers a dimension this team otherwise lacks. And sometimes that alone is enough to tilt a game, or at least force the opponent to think twice.
If this season is going to end, it should end with clarity, not hesitation. Give him the floor, live with the results, and see if there is something there worth carrying forward. Because right now, that possibility is more valuable than the illusion of control.
What is the old phrase?...Familiarity breeds contempt? Yes, and tt certainly can be applied to the Western Conference series between the Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves. This is the third time in the last four years they are meeting in the playoffs. The latest iteration continues tonight with Game 3 of their Western Conference first round series.
Last postseason these teams entertained us with a thrilling seven-game series in the Western Conference Semis with Minnesota prevailing 4-3. The Timberwolves took Games 6 and 7 to advance to the conference finals. In 2023 Denver won in the Opening Round against Minnesota taking the best-of-seven series in five games, 4-1. Minnesota has won nine of their 17 playoff games overall against Denver.
Monday night saw the Nuggets blow an early 20-point lead at home and eventually lose to the Timberwolves, 119-114. Anthony Edwards poured in 30 points to leads Minnesota’s attack. Naz Reid added 27 and Julius Randle added 24 to help support the comeback. Nikola Jokic was just OK for Denver putting up what for him was a pedestrian stat line of 24 points, 15 rebounds, and 8 assists in the loss.
Game 3 more than likely comes down to how efficiently the Nuggets are on offense vs. Minnesota’s ability to shut down the perimeter defensively. Jamal Murray has done whatever he wants to this point. That needs to stop for Minnesota to win and grab the upper hand in this series.
Lets take a closer look at tonight’s matchup and take into consideration lineups, injuries, and other factors affecting the line and total.
We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on how to catch tipoff, odds courtesy of DraftKings recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.
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Game Details and How to Watch Live: Timberwolves vs. Nuggets
Date: Thursday, April 23, 2026
Time: 9:30PM EST
Site: Target Center
City: Minneapolis, MN
Network/Streaming: Prime Video
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Game Odds: Timberwolves vs. Nuggets
The latest odds as of Thursday courtesy of DraftKings:
This game opened Nuggets -1.5 with the Game Total set at 231.5.
Be sure to check out DraftKings for all the latest game odds & player props for every matchup this week on the NBA schedule!
Expected Starting Lineups: Timberwolves vs. Nuggets
Minnesota Timberwolves
PG Anthony Edwards
SG Donte DiVincenzo
C Rudy Gobert
SF Julius Randle
PF Jaden McDaniels
Denver Nuggets
PG Jamal Murray
SG Christian Braun
SF Cam Johnson
C Nikola Jokic
PF Aaron Gordon
Injury Report: Timberwolves vs. Nuggets
Minnesota Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards (knee) is listed as probable for tonight’s game
Denver Nuggets
Aaron Gordon (calf) is probable for tonight’s game
Peyton Watson (hamstring) has been declared OUT of tonight’s game
Important stats, trends and insights: Timberwolves vs. Nuggets
The Timberwolves are 26-15 at home this season
The Nuggets are 26-15 on the road this season
The Nuggets are 45-39 ATS this season
Minnesota is 38-46 ATS this season
The OVER has cashed in 53 of the Nuggets’ 84 games this season (53-31)
The OVER has cashed in 38 of the Timberwolves’ 84 games this season (38-46)
Christian Braun is 3-6 from 3-point range in this series
Cam Johnson is 3-13 from 3-point range in this series
Donte DiVincenzo is 8-14 from 3-point range in this series
Rudy Gobert is averaging 8.5 rebounds per game in this series
Rotoworld Best Bet
Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the NBA calendar based on data points like recent performance, head-to-head player matchups, trends information and projected game totals.
Once the model is finished running, we put its projections next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.
Here are the best bets our model is projecting for tonight’s Timberwolves and Nuggets game:
Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Timberwolves on the Moneyline
Spread: Rotoworld Bet is recommending a play on the Timberwolves +2.5 ATS
Total: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Game Total UNDER 233.5
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