TORONTO (AP) — Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scored an equalizer in the 98th minute to recover a point for the New York Red Bulls in a 1-1 draw with Toronto FC on Saturday in Toronto’s home opener.
Toronto (2-1-1) broke through in the 43rd minute when Dániel Sallói finished from the center of the box after a pass from Djordje Mihailovic. Goalkeeper Luka Gavran helped preserve the lead before halftime, turning aside several early chances from the Red Bulls.
New York (2-1-1) controlled much of the match, holding 63.3% possession and finishing with an 18-12 advantage in shots and an 11-5 edge in corner kicks. Gavran kept Toronto in front throughout the second half with multiple saves as the Red Bulls pressed for an equalizer.
Toronto nearly doubled the lead in stoppage time, but Ethan Horvath denied Sallói to keep New York within reach.
Moments later, the Red Bulls found their breakthrough. Choupo-Moting scored in the eighth minute of added time to salvage the draw and extend New York’s unbeaten streak against Toronto to 14 matches (9 wins, 5 draws) dating back to 2019.
The match was the 45th all-time regular-season meeting between the clubs, with New York holding a 24-10-11 advantage.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MARCH 10: Myles Turner #3 of the Milwaukee Bucks drives to the basket on Royce O'Neale #00 of the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Fiserv Forum on March 10, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 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 John Fisher/Getty Images) | Getty Images
In this week’s Tuesday Tracker and SB Nation Reacts poll, we asked about the Bucks’ two centers, plus their closeness to the Pelicans in the lottery standings and Taurean Prince. Here are the highlights:
There’s close to an even split among our respondents on who should be seeing the lion’s share of minutes at the five. 52% think Myles Turner should be playing more (he’s averaging 27.5 MPG this year and just 22.7 MPG since the All-Star break) than Jericho Sims (17.7 and 24.5, respectively).
However, the numbers slightly skew the other way when considering end-of-game scenarios: 51% think Sims should be Milwaukee’s closing center.
The majority of fans polled (75%) don’t care about the Pelicans’ place in the lottery standings relative to the Bucks. Right now, New Orleans is a half-game away from rising out of sixth to seventh, while Milwaukee is a game ahead of ninth.
If the season ended today, the Bucks would receive the 10th overall pick 60.7% of the time in the draft lottery. 78% of voters would want Milwaukee to make that pick come June instead of trading it, either for star talent or future firsts.
Thanks again for voting! Check back on Tuesday for another slate of questions.
Check out FanDuel, the official sportsbook of SB Nation.
WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 4: Will Riley #27 of the Washington Wizards handles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on December 4, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. 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 2025 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Washington Wizards (16-49) at Boston Celtics (43-23) Saturday, March 14, 2026 6:00 PM ET Regular Season Game #67 Home Game #32 TV: NBCSB, MNMT2, NBA-TV Radio: 98.5 Sports Hub, 106.7 The Fan, Sirius XM TD Garden
The Celtics host the Washington Wizards for the 3rd, and final, meeting between these two teams this season. The Celtics beat the Wizards 136-107 in Boston on November 5 and hey beat them 146-101 in Washington on December 4. The Celtics won the series 4-0 last season winning 1 game at home and 3 games on the road. The Celtics are 208-120 overall against the Wizards all time. They are 109-44 all time in games played in Boston. The Celtics have won their last 10 games against the Wizards.
The Wizards made significant changes at the trade deadline. They traded Corey Kispert and CJ McCollum to the Atlanta Hawks for Trae Young. They also traded Khris Middleton, Malachai Branham, Marvin Bagley III, and AJ Johnson to the Mavericks for Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell, Jaden Hardy and Dante Exum. They then waived Dante Exum.
The Celtics are 2nd in the East, 4.5 games behind 1st place Detroit. They are 1.5 games ahead of 3rd place New York , 3 games ahead of 4th place Cleveland, 5.5 games ahead of 5th place Orlando and 6th place Miami and 6.5 games ahead of 7th place Toronto. The Celtics are 28-14 against Eastern Conference opponents. They are 21-10 at home and 6-4 in their last 10 games. They have lost their last 2 games. (The Pistons, Knicks, Cavs, and Raptors are playing as I write this so that may change.)
The Wizards are 14th in the East, 31 games behind 1st place Detroit, 17 games behind 10th place Charlotte, 11 games behind 11th place Milwaukee, 10.5 games behind 12th place Chicago, and half a game behind 13th place Brooklyn. They are 1.5 games ahead of 15th place Indiana. They are 11-30 against Eastern Conference opponents. They are 5-27 on the road and 0-10 in their last 10 games. They are on a 10 game losing streak.
After this game at home against Washington, the Celtics will host Phoenix and Golden State. Then they will play one game at Memphis before a 3 game home stand against Minnesota, Oklahoma City and Atlanta. Then it’s back on the road for a 4 game trip through Charlotte, Atlanta, Miami and Milwaukee. They will then play two games at home against Toronto and Charlotte before one game on the road at New York. They will finish the season with 2 games at home against New Orleans and Orlando.
The Wizards are playing in the 4th game of a 4 game road trip. After this, they will have a 4 game home stand where they will host Golden State, Detroit twice, and Oklahoma City. Then, they have a 5 game road trip through New York, Utah, Golden State, Portland and the LA Lakers. After one game at home against Philadelphia, they play at Miami and at Brooklyn.
Jayson Tatum missed Thursday’s game due to injury management for his Achilles. He is expected to play in this game. Derrick White also missed Thursday’s game with knee soreness and is probable for this game. Baylor Scheierman has been playing with a fractured thumb but is listed as probable for this game with ankle soreness. Nikola Vucevic remains out due to surgery on his injured finger.
For the Wizards, Anthony Davis is recovering from ligament damage in his left hand and, although he has been cleared for some individual on court activity, he is out for this game. Kyshawn George is out with a partial tear of the UCL in his left elbow. Cam Whitmore is out for the season with a diagnosed venous condition. D’Angelo Russell has not played for the Wizards since he was traded but it is not injury related and he is not with the team. Sharife Cooper is questionable with an ankle injury.
Probable Starting Matchups PG: Derrick White vs Trae Young
Derrick White | NBAE via Getty ImagesTrae Young | Getty Images
SG: Baylor Scheierman vs Tre Johnson
Baylor Scheierman | NBAE via Getty ImagesTre Johnson | Getty Images
SF: Jaylen Brown vs Bilal Coulibaly
Jaylen Brown | NBAE via Getty ImagesBilal Coulibaly | NBAE via Getty Images
Neemias Queta | Boston Globe via Getty ImagesAlex Sarr | NBAE via Getty Images
Celtics Reserves Payton Pritchard Hugo Gonzalez Luka Garza Amare Williams Jordan Walsh Sam Hauser 2-Way Players Ron Harper, Jr Max Shulga John Tonje Injuries/Out Nikola Vucevic (finger) out Derrick White (knee) probable Jayson Tatum (injury available Baylor Scheierman (ankle) probable Head Coach Joe Mazzulla Wizards Reserves Bub Carrington Anthony Gill Jaden Hardy Tristan Vukcevic Jamir Watkins Justin Champagnie 2-Way Players Leaky Black Sharife Cooper Juju Reese
Injuries/Out Sharife Cooper (ankle) questionable Anthony Davis (finger) out Kyshawn George (elbow) out D’Angelo Russell (not injury related) out Cam Whitmore (shoulder) out
Head Coach Brian Keefe
Key Matchups Derrick White vs Trae Young Young is averaging 18.2 points, 1.8 rebounds and 8.4 assists per game. He is shooting 43.9% from the field and 32.9% from beyond the arc. He has not played against the Celtics this season with the Hawks or with the Wizards. He has averaged 25.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 7.5 assists in 15 games against the Celtics in his career.
Neemias Queta vs Alex Sarr Sarr was the 2nd overall pick in last year’s draft and is playing well for the Wizards. He is averaging 17.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2.0 blocks per game. He is shooting 49.9% from the field and 34.6% from beyond the arc. In one game against the Celtics this season, he finished with 31 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 blocks. The Celtics need to stay with him on defense and also keep hm off the boards as well as be aware of his ability to block shots. Honorable Mention Baylor Scheierman vs Tre Johnson Johnson is averaging 12.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists. He is shooting 42.9% from the field and 37.7% from beyond the arc. In one game against the Celtics this season, he finished with 7 points, 1 rebound, and 1 assist while shooting 40% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc,.
Keys to the Game Defense – Defense is always the key to winning games. The Celtics are now 5th with a defensive rating of 111.9. The Wizards are 29th with a defensive rating of 120.5. Although the Wizards have an offensive rating of 109.6 (27th), they can get hot at any time if they are not being defended. They beat the Pistons on the road and so the Celtics need to take them seriously and play lock down defense from start to finish and not allow them to get their offense going.
Rebound – Rebounding is also one of the biggest keys to winning. The Wizards are 23rd with 42.9 rebounds per game while the Celtics are 5th with 46.3 rebounds per game. They simply have to fight harder to grab rebounds than the Wizards. Much of rebounding is effort as evidenced by Payton Pritchard being the shortest guy on the court most nights and averaging over 4 rebounds per game. Every Celtic has got to crash the boards and fight for every rebound.
Don’t Underestimate – The Wizards are next to last in the East and actively tanking. The Celtics can’t take the Wizards for granted, even though they beat them handily twice already this season. Even tanking teams want to beat the Celtics. The Wizards wins have come mostly against middle of the pack teams, but they did beat Detroit as well. The Celtics have to take the Wizards seriously and play hard.
Maximum Effort for 48 Minutes – Many of the Celtics losses this season can be traced back to a lack of effort. Also, at times it seems that they either start off slowly and end up in a hole that they need to dig themselves out of or they jump out to a lead only to let up in the second half and allow their opponent to get back into the game and make it close. The Celtics have to play hard on both ends of the court for the full 48 minutes with no let up.
X-Factors Home Game – The Celtics are once again at home. They should get a boost from the home crowd and from being in familiar surroundings. The Celtics need to have a sense of urgency at home to protect home court and not expect to win because the Wizards have been tanking. The Wizards will have to deal with travel, staying in a hotel, and a hostile crowd and hopefully that will give the Celtics the advantage.
Officiating – Officiating is always an x-factor in every game. Every crew officiates differently. Some call it tight, others let them play. Some favor the home team. Some favor the road team. Some just make bad, head scratching calls as we have seen many times. The ejection of Jaylen Brown and the foulcalled with .8 left against the Thunder are examples of how officiating can be an x-factor. The Celtics need to adjust to the way the refs call the game and not let bad calls and no calls take them out of the game or affect their focus.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 31: Kon Knueppel #7 of the Charlotte Hornets guards Harrison Barnes #40 of the San Antonio Spurs during their game at Spectrum Center on January 31, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to the Game Thread. Veterans of the Game Thread know how we do things around here, but for all you newbies we have a few rules. Our community guidelines apply and basically say be cool, no personal attacks, don’t troll and don’t swear too much.
Today is an auspicious day, as it’s π day, and also Albert Einstein’s birthday, who entered this world on March 14, 1879. It’s also the final game of the current six game home stand, as the Spurs face the Charlotte Hornets, who previously defeated the Spurs 111-106 on January 31, just before the Silver and Black’s undefeated February run of 11 straight wins. San Antonio is coming off of a tough loss to the Nuggets, who used an unstoppable offensive surge from Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic to take over the game in the fourth quarter. The Spurs had incredible offensive efforts from Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox, but without Victor Wemanyama to anchor the defense, they just couldn’t get enough stops to hold on late. Some might say that the Spurs ran out of gas, but the fact is that the Nuggets kept their foot on the gas pedal, and they outran the home team late to take the win.
Victor is listed as questionable for today’s game, and Dylan Harper is a little banged up with a calf contusion. The Hornets have been one of the league’s hottest teams in 2026, and shoot and make a lot of three points shots. Kon Knueppel is having a terrific rookie season, and is shooting 44% on three-point shots, so the Spurs will have to keep an eye on him. This is just the kind of team that gives the Spurs defense fits, so the Spurs can’t afford to let down after the emotional letdown from Thursday night’s contest. Stephon Castle’s defense will be key for this game, and Castle must dominate Ball. The Spurs always seem a little out of sorts for these early afternoon games, so it’s probably a good idea to have coffee in the locker room before the game. Let’s GOOO Spurs!!
Game Prediction:
Victor Wembanyama will surprise the team with a selection of pies in the locker room for PI day. The game will be slightly delayed due to blueberry stains of some of the players’ jerseys.
San Antonio Spurs vs Charlotte Hornets March 14, 2026 | 2:30 PM CT Streaming: FanDuel Sports Southwest, Prime TV: FanDuel Sports Southwest, Prime Reminder: It is against site policy to post links to illegal streams in the comments.
Big Baby hopefully, has done some growing up following a stint in prison.
Glen Davis, who played for three NBA teams over eight seasons in the league, was released this week from prison 17 months into a 40-month sentence for his part with several other former players in defrauding the league’s health insurance plan.
“They tried to hold me down. You know what I’m saying?” the 40-year-old Davis, a member of the Celtics’ 2008 championship team, declared earlier this week in a video posted to X. “But I’m back, man. I’m back, baby.”
Davis, 40, was among two dozen former players, also including former Lakers player Andrew Bynum, and doctors convicted in a Manhattan court in November 2023 of cheating the NBA Players’ Health and Benefit Welfare Plan out of more than $5 million over a four-year span for submitting bogus medical and dental claims.
You & Diamond… Been playing gaaammmmeezzzz!! BIG BABY FREE!! WELCOME HOME KING KILO!! pic.twitter.com/R1CWkLLZsK
Glen ‘Big Baby” Davis was released from prison. @RealKrisDLofton
The start of his sentence was initially delayed several months so he could complete a documentary he was working on to help pay some of the $80,000 in fines and restitution associated with this case.
Davis still faces time in a halfway house and three years of probation as part of his early release
Boston Celtics center Glen Davis (11) celebrates after making a free throw late in the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Hornets during the second half of their NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Louisiana March 19, 2011. REUTERS
“He used his time productively while serving his sentence and took many programs during that time,” attorney Brendan White told The Athletic.
“He’s ready to become a productive member of society again.”
CARDIFF, Wales (AP) — Wales tasted Six Nations success for the first time in 1,099 days after blowing away Italy 31-17 in Principality Stadium on Saturday.
The growing confidence from spirited losses against Scotland and Ireland spilled over into an unexpected and dominant bonus-point win, Wales' first in the championship since March 2023 when it beat Italy in Rome.
Wales was physical, direct and ruthless, leading 21-0 by halftime then 31-0 before Italy scored.
“That performance has been coming,” Wales coach Steve Tandy told broadcaster the BBC. “We've focused on not getting ahead of ourselves and making sure each part of our game improves. But the intent was there from the start from this young group. They’re desperate to learn and get better whether they win or lose. Their effort is amazing.”
Their scramble defense was also amazing as Italy had two tries disallowed, one held up, and another prevented by an ankle tap.
While Wales ended the nightmare of a national record 15-match losing streak in the Six Nations, it finished with a third consecutive wooden spoon.
“Not ideal to finish bottom of the table but everyone can see we're growing and moving in the right direction,” Wales No. 8 and player of the match Aaron Wainwright said. “The way we started today and hung in there shows how far we've come.”
Italy equaled its best Six Nations finish — fourth in 2007 and 2013 — but it wanted more, an historic third win in a single championship after beating Scotland and England. However, the Azzurri were smashed in the first half, and ultimately missed 30 tackles.
“We gave away too many penalties, too many times in their 22. ... We lost a lot of energy to try and max the energy Wales were giving,” Italy captain Michele Lamaro told ITV. “In the end it was too late. The first half cost us.”
Wales made the eight first-half penalties count.
A kick-chase penalty earned by workaholic winger Ellis Mee was booted into the corner and Wainwright crashed over. Despite lineout issues, Wales used the platform again to drive at the line for a second Wainwright try.
Another lineout drive finished with captain Dewi Lake touching down. With Dan Edwards a perfect four-of-four off the tee and nine-for-nine in the tournament, Wales was a deserved 21-0 up after 29 minutes.
They resumed from the second half kickoff. Edwards slanted through a tired defense, converted his try and chipped a drop goal for a scarcely believable 31-0 lead.
Italy ruled the last 30 minutes. But Wales still made it tough for the visitor.
Paolo Garbisi and replacements Tommaso Di Bartolomeo and Tommaso Allan dotted down for Italy but Wales' defense shone.
Mee held up hooker Giacomo Nicotera and made a try-saving tackle on opposite wing Monty Ioane, Edwards ankle-tapped Tommaso Menoncello when the midfielder looked like he was away, Tomos Williams stopped Allan on the tryline, and James Botham's sliding hip ruined a chance for Leonardo Marin.
“Those tries were not tries because (Wales) didn't give up,” Italy coach Gonzalo Quesada said. “The will was bigger for them. Their heart and physicality they put out there was stronger than ours, at least in the first half. That first half defined the game.”
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 12: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket during the game against the Chicago Bulls on March 12, 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
During LA’s current homestand, they’ve faced some of the toughest competition in the league. They responded impressively, earning results over the Knicksand Wolves. Even more surprising is that they won these games while LeBron James was out.
LA winning and Austin Reaves playing better in James’ absence led people to speculate that this team is better when James is unavailable.
While narratives like that can be exhausting to hear when the main takeaway should’ve been that the Lakers are playing well, everyone wanted to see what they would look like upon LeBron’s return. On Thursday, the answer came as James joined LA in their contest against the Bulls.
The result was the Lakers winning dominantly. LeBron was part of a starting lineup that scored 137 points, the most by a starting unit in a regular season game since the 1970-71 season.
After the game, Redick talked about LeBron’s willingness to take on whatever role benefits the team.
“LeBron and I, we talked, we had a great conversation over the last couple days,” Redick said. “I think again, he wants to do everything possible to help this team win. He understands the importance of making sure Luka and AR can be at their best. That’s incredible of him. It speaks a lot to just how much he cares about this team and his teammates and how much he wants to win.”
Throughout his career, LeBron has always been a team-based player. On the floor, he makes the right play even if it means he doesn’t take the last shot. So, of course, he’s willing to take a backseat to Luka Dončić and even Reaves if it means the team’s play is more optimized by him doing so. After the win over the Bulls, LeBron talked about how he did it against them.
“I’m able to adapt to whatever needs from the team,” LeBron said. “With Jaxson Hayes and Maxi Kleber being out, two of our really good screen setters, Jaxson being one of our best rollers, that’s a void that I could put myself in to help the team while Jaxson and Maxi are out. Just try to do that.
“Allowing AR and Luka to continue on the things that they’ve been doing. Obviously, ball handling, scoring, pick-and-roll play. Trying to help on the glass. I mean, I’m always past the ball, so I’m not worried about that. Also trying to be a little more active.”
The idea that the Lakers are actually better without LeBron was always ridiculous. This season, LeBron is still an All-Star and averaging 21.4 points, 5.7 rebounds and seven assists per game. At worst, he’s the third best Laker and no team improves when a player of that level is out.
The main thing to figure out is how to make three players who are best with the ball in their hands work well together as a unit. Against the Bulls, we saw signs of what that can look like.
LeBron had seven assists, did more offensive work inside the post and shot less than Dončić or Reaves.
While Chicago is one of the weaker teams in the NBA, the process the Lakers took toward success with their big three can be replicated against many teams.
Overall, there is still work for the Lakers to do, but with LeBron embracing any role that’s needed, they should be able to figure out how to optimize their roster.
And if they do that, they’ll enter the playoffs as a Western Conference team with homecourt advantage in the opening round. All things considered, that’s a great place to be in.
The jump that Thomas Haugh has made from last year cannot be overlooked. With the transfers of Boogie Fland and Xaivian Lee to Florida the hopes of a back-to-back National Championship run were at an all-time high, and with the departures of Will Richard, Alijah Martin, and Walter Clayton Jr. to the NBA there was certainly a need for someone to step up into the roles that were left behind. I’m not sure that many people would have suspected that Thomas would be the guy after his season last year, but he proved us all wrong.
Tale of the Tape
Team: Florida Gators
Position: Forward
Height: 6’9”
Weight: 215 lbs
Counting Stats: 17 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 2 APG, 1.1 Steals Per Game, 1 Block Per Game
Shooting Splits: 46.4 FG%, 33.3 3P%, 76.4 FT%
Hardware/Honors: First-Team All-SEC, Potential All-American Team Selection (?)
Triumphs
The jump from year to year should not be overlooked. Haugh had a perfectly respectable 2024-2025 campaign, but to be asked to carry so much more responsibility AND deliver should be praised. Last year during Florida’s NCAA Championship season he averaged nearly 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists per game on decent shooting splits. He didn’t have many opportunities (only shot 6 times per game on average) but when he did get a chance he made it count.
Now when you compare that to this year, it is almost night and day. He added seven points to his scoring average, nearly doubled his shot attempts, sacrificed very little in efficiency (at least for his standards), and was able to step up on the defensive end as well. Not everyone that gets a green light can stay close to their previous efficiency numbers but Thomas was able to do that.
The counting stats look great but what’s going to get him to the league and keep him there is his ability to play without the ball. When we usually see these kinds of scoring jumps it’s because the ball is constantly in their hands but that hasn’t been the case this year. Lee and Fland still command a lot of the touches so Haugh has been able to take this leap by doing more of what he did well last year: off-ball cutting and rim-running.
Haugh has never seen a 45 cut he hasn’t liked and he is constantly running with his guys in transition. When Florida is in the half court set he also does a great job of relocating. You’ll see a few times in the video above where a Florida player will get a post touch and before you know it their dumping the ball off to Haugh who was in completely different position than he was at the start of the play. Taking advantage of the defense like this and being deceptive would be a welcome addition to any team in the association. Shooting nearly 63% around the rim doesn’t hurt either.
Shortcomings
Truthfully, there aren’t many shortcomings for Thomas other than a very glaring one; his shooting touch. He’s a great off-ball cutter, a good downhill attacker, and the percentages show that: he’s shooting nearly 91% on his dunk attempts and 63% around the rim that we just mentioned. Everything outside of that range? Could use some work.
Just looking at the 46.4 FG% you could say to yourself “yeah, that’s not very efficient, but he can work on it.” It gets a little worse when you realize that he’s shooting 32.4% from 2-point range that isn’t at the rim. Midrange shots are difficult (believe me I’m on a horrific midrange run at my local park) but in today’s NBA it’s vital to be accurate in your shot attempts, especially if you aren’t going to be the 1A, 1B, or 1C kind of guy.
His three point shooting, again, looks respectable on paper. On 5 attempts a game 33% is decent, but these are WIDE open shots he’s taking. Like, lick your finger and check the wind type of open. There’s a very good chance that he will get these same kind of looks in the NBA during his first few years, but depending on where he gets drafted there’s a chance that his coach won’t allow him to shoot through his mistakes and slumps. There is a silver lining in all of this and it’s that his shooting mechanics seem really solid. I’m not sure that he’ll ever be a 40% guy from deep but I also don’t think he’ll ever be any worse than league average once he get’s his footing in the NBA.
Is He Worth The Pick?
At the end of the day I do think that Thomas Haugh is going to be a very serviceable role player in the NBA. Will he be an All-Star? I doubt it. Will he be an elite 3-and-D guy? Elite might be stretching it. I do think that he has the intangibles to have a long career, though. He’s already played with NBA caliber players in a role player capacity. He’s been able to taste a bit of that “star player” role this year for the Gators, and now that he has a chance to be a first round draft pick I think he’ll be able to fall back into that role player mold very well.
For the Jazz specifically, we are in the midst of finding our role players for the future. A lot can be said about the play of guys like Elijah Harkless, Blake Hinson, and Brice Sensabaugh. I still believe in all of their futures but I know that the fanbase is split. The real question is how does the front office feel about them?
The way our first round pick is protected this year is if it falls between 1-8 we get to keep it, and if it falls after 8 it goes to the Oklahoma City Thunder (of course it does). If our pick lands in the top 3 I think there is a very clear hierarchy we need to adhere by to find our next “Face of the Franchise.” If it falls between 4-8, I also think that there are better prospects we could select from because this draft class seems to be so deep. With that being said, I don’t think that it would be wise for us to take Thomas Haugh at 8 when we could have someone else with a bit more upside.
So much of your early career is dependent on where and who you get drafted to, and I think that Haugh would be best served to be drafted by a team that is ready to compete right now or in the near future: the San Antonio Spurs, the Golden State Warriors, and the Charlotte Hornets come to mind. If we had another first round pick this year around the 12-20 range I would LOVE it if we could snag him, but that doesn’t seem to be in the cards for us unless our front office can make some magic happen after the season is over.
So is he worth the pick? I think so… just not for us. Just don’t be surprised when he’s an impact player for a Playoff team soon.
What kind of career do you think Thomas Haugh will have? Do you think Florida can repeat as NCAA Champions? Sound off in the comments!
ATLANTA (AP) — Giannis Antetokounmpo wasn't available for the Milwaukee Bucks' matchup with the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, marking the 31st game the two-time MVP has missed this season.
Although Milwaukee's injury report initially had listed Antetokounmpo as questionable due to injury management of his right calf, the team later ruled him out because of a left ankle sprain.
Bucks coach Doc Rivers said at his pregame availability that the issue stemmed from the Bucks’ 112-105 loss to Miami on Thursday night.
The Bucks are playing on back-to-back days; they return home to face the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. Antetokounmpo hasn’t played on consecutive days since returning on March 2 from a right calf strain.
This represents the highest total of games Antetokounmpo has missed in any season during his 13-year career.
LORIENT, France (AP) — Substitute striker Aiyegun Tosin scored the winner as second-placed Lens lost 2-1 at Lorient in the French league on Saturday, missing the chance to move back to the top of the standings.
With Paris Saint-Germain not playing this weekend, Lens had the chance to move two points clear with a win at mid-table Lorient.
But coach Pierre Sage's players struggled to get things going and were punished in the 18th minute when Bamba Dieng was left unmarked and scored from close range with a right-footed effort.
Following Odsonne Édouard's second-half equalizer, Tosin snatched three points for Lorient in the 65th minute, fluffing his initial attempt before rounding the Lens goalkeeper to score. Lorient goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo made five saves for the hosts.
PSG is off duty because Nantes agreed to postpone their scheduled game on Sunday in order to give PSG better preparation for the Champions League second leg against Chelsea next week. PSG is leading 5-2 from the last-16 first leg on Wednesday.
Balogun scores again
American forward Folarin Balogun continued his excellent run of form as Monaco posted a fifth consecutive win. He broke the deadlock from close range before Aleksandr Golovin made it 2-0 against Brest.
Monaco moved up to fifth place. Balogun has 14 goals overall this season.
Elsewhere, Nice won 2-0 at Angers with goals from defender Melvin Bard and Elye Wahi. The striker, a France youth international, joined the Riviera club on loan from Eintracht Frankfurt this winter until the end of the season.
Third-placed Marseille won 1-0 against struggler Auxerre on Friday. The result left Marseille in third place, three points clear of Lyon, which plays at Le Havre on Sunday. Marseille was seven points behind Lens and eight adrift of PSG.
BERLIN (AP) — Bayern Munich came from behind and finished the match with nine players in a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday, allowing Borussia Dortmund to close to within nine points of the Bundesliga leader.
Luis Díaz, who scored the equalizer following Aleix García's opener, was sent off in the 84th minute for a second yellow card. Nicolas Jackson had received a red card in the 42nd minute.
Leverkusen took the lead in the sixth minute after Montrell Culbreath stole the ball off Díaz and fed it to Patrik Schick, who set up García on the edge of the box. The midfielder slotted home with a deflected shot.
The hosts defended well to contain Bayern's attempts to come back, and frustration showed when Jackson was sent off before halftime for a late challenge on Martin Terrier.
Bayern played with third-choice goalkeeper Sven Ulreich because Manuel Neuer has a calf issue and backup Jonas Urbig was concussed in the 6-1 win over Atalanta midweek in the Champions League. Ulreich denied an effort from Schick in a one-on-one situation at the hour mark just before Harry Kane came on.
Back from a calf injury, Kane played for the first time since Feb. 28 after scoring eight goals in his past four Bundesliga games. He fired the ball into an empty net in the 62nd minute but it was disallowed for blocking the goalkeeper's clearance with a hand in the buildup.
Diaz leveled in the 69th with a low shot from Michael Olise's precise setup. The Colombia winger later received a second yellow card for diving and Bayern was down to nine men with six minutes left to play. The hosts could not snatch the win despite pushing hard until the end as Jonas Hofmann had a goal ruled out deep in stoppage time.
Bayern hasn’t won at Leverkusen in the league since October 2021.
Dortmund beats Augsburg
Dortmund was in total control throughout the first half and Augsburg was lucky to trail by just one goal at halftime. Karim Adeyemi broke the deadlock in the 13th and had several other chances, hitting the woodwork twice. Luca Reggiani made it 2-0 in the 59th.
Hoffenheim, aiming to qualify for Champions League for first time since the 2018-19 season, stayed third — 17 points behind Bayern — after a 1-1 draw with relegation-threatened Wolfsburg. Eintracht Frankfurt beat Heidenheim 1-0 with a goal from Arnaud Kalimuendo.
The stars will be out in Hollywood as LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and the Los Angeles Lakers host Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena tonight.
My Nuggets vs. Lakers predictions expect the visiting team to cover the spread, with Nikola Jokic picking apart the pitiful defense of Los Angeles.
Here are my free NBA picks for this powerhouse showdown on Saturday, March 14.
Nuggets vs Lakers prediction
Nuggets vs Lakers best bet: Nuggets -3 (-110)
DeAndre Ayton’s pitiful 117.1 defensive rating ranks 32nd among 40 centers averaging at least 27 minutes per game.
He won’t have any answer for the size and physicality of the Denver Nuggets' frontcourt, who will feast down low.
The Los Angeles Lakers lack quality defenders to throw at Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and a cast of capable 3-point shooters.
Expect plenty of drive-and-kick opportunities for Murray to feed teammates and some quality looks in the lane as Aaron Gordon and Jokic pull interior defenders out to the perimeter.
Denver has unlimited ways to score and pull away tonight.
Nuggets vs Lakers same-game parlay
Denver has played in plenty of high-scoring games, going 26-10 to the Over on the road. The Lakers are 20-14 to the Over at home, and will do their fair share of scoring against a Nuggets defense ranked 22nd.
Jokic has been so effective stuffing the stat sheet that his odds to record a triple-double are down at -150.
He’s recorded one in three straight, four of his last five, and six of his last 10. Joker has reached the statistical milestone in three straight head-to-head matchups, and he’s averaged 22.9 points, 13 rebounds, and 8.8 assists over his last 10 matchups against his pal Luka Doncic.
Nuggets vs Lakers SGP
Nuggets -3
Over 245.5
Nikola Jokic triple-double
Our "from downtown" SGP: Stars shine brightest
Luka Doncic recorded a 51/10/9 line in his last outing, narrowly missing a second straight triple-double. He’s got seven on the season, including one of two games against Denver.
I expect him to be at his best against a Nuggets team that ranks 23rd in defensive rating (119.9) across its last five games.
LeBron James returned from a three-game absence and went for 18/7/7 against the Chicago Bulls. He’s recorded two games with double-digit boards and 11 with double-digit dimes.
Double-doubles haven’t been easy to come by for King James, but Luka Doncic will need help to keep pace with the Nuggets’ top-rated offense.
Nuggets vs Lakers SGP
Nikola Jokic triple-double
Luka Doncic triple-double
LeBron James double-double
Nuggets vs Lakers odds
Spread: Nuggets -3 | Lakers +3
Moneyline: Nuggets -155 | Lakers +130
Over/Under: Over 245.5 | Under 245.5
Nuggets vs Lakers betting trend to know
The Denver Nuggets have hit the game total Over in 35 of their last 50 away games (+18.53 Units / 34% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Nuggets vs. Lakers.
How to watch Nuggets vs Lakers
Location
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Date
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Tip-off
8:30 p.m. ET
TV
ABC
Nuggets vs Lakers latest injuries
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.
DUBLIN (AP) — Ireland kept alive its Six Nations title hopes and buried Scotland's in a familiar-looking 43-21 victory to launch the final round on Saturday.
The Irish are three points ahead of France, which hosts England in the day's last match in Paris. France can take the title by beating England or even drawing with a bonus point.
If not, Ireland could emerge as the champion from starting the day in third place.
“It's a rare day as an Irishman to be cheering them (England) but we have controlled what we can control and now we'll sit back and be cheering them on later,” Ireland captain Caelan Doris told broadcaster ITV.
The Irish at least won the Triple Crown for a fourth time in five seasons, denying the Scots their first sweep of the home nations since 1990.
Both sides began the match with title ambitions. But to win their first title since 1999, the Scots had ghosts to exorcize. They'd won only once in Dublin in 26 years, not since 2010, and never at Aviva Stadium. They'd also lost their last 11 contests to Ireland.
Ireland's modus operandi was power, controlling the gainline, and relentless pressure. They smashed a Scotland side that put 50 points and seven tries on hapless France last weekend.
“We saw what their attack was capable of last week and again today it came in waves, but our defense stood up and big moments helped keep them out,” Doris said.
“There were some calm heads in there which was helped by the fact we had scoreboard pressure throughout from a fast start which we aimed for as well. It felt composed out there and it was good.”
Ireland started fast again, scored six tries — three in each half — with five converted by Jack Crowley who added a penalty. Scotland trailed 19-7 at halftime and twice rallied to within five points, but each time Ireland had a quick response.
“I’m gutted,” Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu said. “We really set our sights on coming here and getting a result but Ireland were too good today. I think we’ve made progression but we want to be where these guys are with a trophy.”
The game was intense and lively from the start.
The first scrum earned a penalty that moved Ireland into the Scotland 22. Fast hands fed fullback Jamie Osborne bursting between the posts for their quickest try of this championship, just after two minutes.
Scotland fired back in 19 phases. With big gains by forwards Jack Dempsey and George Turner, Finn Russell orchestrating, Darcy Graham finished out wide for his Scotland record-extending 38th try.
But an offside penalty against Graham sent Scotland reeling back to its tryline again, and Ireland hooker Dan Sheehan shot out of a collapsing maul for his 18th try, extending his Six Nations record for a forward.
Ireland was 19-7 ahead after 19 minutes with a try from first phase when midfielder Stuart McCloskey threw a huge pass to unmarked right wing Robert Baloucoune, whose pace beat the cover.
Ireland's defense in its 22 then turned over Scotland three times before halftime.
The Scottish backs finally clicked in the second half with tries by Russell and Rory Darge, but Ireland quickly restored 12-point leads after converted tries by Darragh Murray, a brief blood-bin replacement for the immense Tadhg Beirne, and winger Tommy O'Brien.
Crowley added a penalty to give Ireland a three-score lead and Irish supporters broke into song. Just for unnecessary gloss to the scoreline, O'Brien scored his second try of the match after Tuipulotu spilled the ball with time up.
Keegan Murray's season-long battle with injuries continues, and the Kings' best young player will be out at least two more weeks with a sprained left ankle, the team announced Friday.
With Sacramento focused on its draft position and having already shut down a number of key players — Domantas Sabonis (back), Zach LaVine (finger), De'Andre Hunter (eye) — there will be no rush to get Murray back on the court.
Murray played in at least 76 games in each of his first three NBA seasons, but has battled injuries all season long. He was delayed in starting the season due to thumb surgery, but what really has slowed him is a sprained left ankle. He missed 20 games starting just after the first of the year with the sprained left ankle, returned to play four games and then re-injured that same ankle. That's where things stand now.
When he has played this season, the 25-year-old wing has averaged 14 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. He has struggled with his shot this season, which is about the injuries and not a long-term concern.
Murray signed a five-year, $140 million contract extension with the Kings that kicks in next season.
Sacramento is tanking to get a young star to pair with Murray, which is another reason not to rush him back. The Kings have the worst record in the Western Conference and are in a "race" with Indiana and Washington for the league's worst record.
As you would expect at this stage of the season, there are some lopsided spreads on today’s hoops schedule. However, we also get three monster matchups with big-time seeding stakes.
My NBA picks target those battles, with the San Antonio Spurs facing the frisky Charlotte Hornets, a Nikola Jokic-Luka Doncic duel, and an all-Florida showdown in the tight East playoff race.
Here are my favorite NBA player props for the March 14 slate.
Prop #1: Stephon Castle Over 23.5 points + assists
-105 at bet365
Stephon Castle notched his third career triple-double in Thursday’s loss to the Denver Nuggets, and he’s a prime candidate for another do-it-all effort today against the Hornets.
He’s gone past this combo prop number in three straight outings, and he’s shooting 43% from downtown this month.
With the San Antonio Spurs still chasing the No.1 seed in the West, there’s no margin for error, and Castle could see even more touches this afternoon if Victor Wembanyama and Dylan Harper — both questionable — sit out.
Plus, Castle had 16 points and nine dimes in Charlotte in late January.
Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
Where to watch: Prime
Prop #2: Nikola Jokic Over 10.5 assists
-120 at bet365
The Denver Nuggets are still searching for their best form in the lead-up to the playoffs, but Nikola Jokic has dished 12+ dimes in four of his past five outings, including a win over L.A. earlier this month.
The Nuggets lead the NBA with 120.6 points per game, and Joker’s passing is also the spark for their league-best 39% mark from beyond the arc.
While the Lakers are on a four-game win streak, they just don’t have the frontcourt options to contain Jokic here. If JJ Redick’s men lean on double teams, the three-time MVP will be surgical in making the right reads.
Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
Where to watch: ABC
Prop #3: Desmond Bane Over 4.5 assists
-120 at bet365
Give the Orlando Magic credit. Despite a bumpy year, they’re up to fifth in the Eastern Conference after six straight victories. I’m jumping on this Over for Desmond Bane, who’s racked up 21 assists across his past three games.
Bane’s strong play is a big reason for Orlando’s rise, and he’ll be a key figure tonight against a Miami Heat team that’s matching the Magic’s scorching form. He’s averaging 5.6 assists so far in March, and he’s had five dimes in his last two outings against the Heat.
There’s a clear path to a big playmaking impact here for Bane, with Franz Wagner still out and Anthony Black joining him on the sidelines.
Cash your ML bets quicker with bet365's early win payout!
Take advantage of the early win payout at bet365, where any pre-game NBA moneyline bet gets paid out as a winner if your team goes up by 20+ points!
Learn more about this feature, and all of bet365's offerings, with our comprehensive bet365 review!
Sign Up Now atimg src="https://img.covers.com/betting/sportsbooks/2/bet365.svg" alt="bet365" width="100" height="28" style="vertical-align: middle;"
21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
Stephon Castle
Nikola Jokic
Desmond Bane