Category: NBA

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Why Kerr views Butler's long-term Warriors fit as ‘easily sustainable'

Why Kerr views Butler's long-term Warriors fit as ‘easily sustainable' originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Although the Jimmy Butler era with the Warriors only is 20 games old, it’s safe to say it has been a success.

But that begs the question: Is it sustainable long-term?

Speaking to 95.7 The Game’s “Willard and Dibs,” Golden State coach Steve Kerr convincingly believes so. 

“I think it’s easily sustainable because he loves to play basketball and he loves to win,” Kerr told Mark Willard and Dan Dibley. “And so, he fits right in with our guys and what we are trying to accomplish.” 

Since joining the Warriors, Butler has been part of the team for 20 games, 16 of which ended in victory.

Out of the 20 games, the six-time All-Star has played 19 games, with only two negative plus/minus totals and averaging 17.3 points, 6.5 assists, 6.1 rebounds and 1.3 steals. 

Butler has meant business, and his reaction to his lone injury absence against the Philadelphia 76ers in early March indicates his commitment to excellence. 

“We lost the Philadelphia game a couple of weeks ago,” Kerr added. “He sat that game out. He had a back issue, and as soon as the game ended, he came over to me and told me, ‘Coach, I’m sorry. I hate losing. I can’t sit out anymore games.’

“I told him, ‘You got to stay healthy. If you have to sit out a game, you have to sit out a game.’ And Jimmy said, ‘No way, we can’t lose anymore.’ “

Initially viewed with some skepticism, the Warriors’ acquisition has resulted in a relative success, benefiting veteran stars Steph Curry and Draymond Green as much as Golden State’s young core. 

Certainly, a playoff-motivated Warriors won’t complain about Butler’s undeniable grit and winning mentality. 

“This guy is an amazing competitor, and he plays that way,” Kerr concluded. “But you don’t get to that level if you don’t love to play the game. 

“He loves basketball. He loves being out on the floor, and it’s been fun to watch him.”

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Cavaliers vs. Trail Blazers Predictions: Odds, recent stats, trends, best bets for March 25

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Portland Trail Blazers Preview 

The Cleveland Cavaliers (57-14) and Portland Trail Blazers (32-40) are all set to square off from Moda Center in Portland.

The Cavaliers are first in the Eastern Conference and have a 4.5-game lead on the Boston Celtics. They have won six of their last 10 games.

The Trail Blazers are 12th in the West, and three games out of a play-in spot.

The Cavaliers are currently 27-9 on the road with a point differential of 10, while the Trail Blazers have a 6-4 record in their last ten games at home. 

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch tipoff, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Listen to the Rotoworld Basketball Show for the latest fantasy player news, waiver claims, roster advice and more from our experts all season long. Click here or download it wherever you get your podcasts.

Game details & how to watch Cavaliers vs. Trail Blazers live today

  • Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
  • Time: 10:00PM EST
  • Site: Moda Center
  • City: Portland, OR

Never miss a second of the action and stay up to date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day NBA schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game.

Game odds for Cavaliers vs. Trail Blazers

The latest odds as of Tuesday:

  • Odds: Cavaliers (-282), Trail Blazers (+230)
  • Spread:  Cavaliers -7
  • Over/Under: 231 points

That gives the Cavaliers an implied team point total of 118.08, and the Trail Blazers 114.44.
 
Want to know which sportsbook is offering the best lines for every game on the NBA calendar? Check out the NBC Sports’ Live Odds tool to get all the latest updated info from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM & more!

Expert picks & predictions for Tuesday's Cavaliers vs. Trail Blazers game

NBC Sports Bet 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.

Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas) is leaning towards Cleveland Cavaliers -7…

Thomas: “Donovan Mitchell is out for today’s contest, which is why this line is lower than 9.5. The Cavs are 6-0 without Mitchell this season. Only two games were decided by less than seven points.”
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 today’s Cavaliers & Trail Blazers game:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Cleveland Cavaliers on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Portland Trail Blazers at +7.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is staying away from a play on the Game Total of 231.

Want even more NBA best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert NBA Predictions page from NBC Sports for money line, spread and over/under picks for every game on today’s calendar!

Important stats, trends & insights to know ahead of Cavaliers vs. Trail Blazers on Tuesday

  • The Cavaliers have won 4 of their last 5 at Western Conference Northwest Division teams
  • The Over is 20-17 in the Trail Blazers' home games this season
  • The Trail Blazers have covered the spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with winning records
  • The Trail Blazers are 22-15 ATS at home this season

 
If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NBA Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!
 
Bet the Edge is your source for all things sports betting. Get all of Jay Croucher and Drew Dinsick’s insight weekdays at 6AM ET right here or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. 
 
Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff: 
- Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
- Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper) 
- Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports) 
- Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)

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Spurs vs. Pistons Predictions: Odds, expert picks, recent stats, trends and best bets for March 25

It’s Tuesday, March 25, and the San Antonio Spurs (31-39) and Detroit Pistons (40-32) are all set to square off from Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.

The Spurs are currently 11-22 on the road with a point differential of -2, while the Pistons have a 7-3 record in their last ten games at home. Detroit won the only meeting of the season, 125-110 on February 21.

San Antonio has won the past three games, including a 34-point outing against the Raptors, while Detroit is 3-1 over the previous four contests.

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, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Listen to the Rotoworld Basketball Show for the latest fantasy player news, waiver claims, roster advice and more from our experts all season long. Click here or download it wherever you get your podcasts.

Game details & how to watch Spurs vs. Pistons live today

  • Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
  • Time: 7:00PM EST
  • Site: Little Caesars Arena
  • City: Detroit, MI
  • Network/Streaming:

Never miss a second of the action and stay up to date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day NBA schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game.

Game odds for Spurs vs. Pistons

The latest odds as of Tuesday:

  • Odds: Spurs (+278), Pistons (-350)
  • Spread:  Pistons -8.5
  • Over/Under: 233 points

That gives the Spurs an implied team point total of 115.38, and the Pistons 119.81.

Want to know which sportsbook is offering the best lines for every game on the NBA calendar? Check out the NBC Sports’ Live Odds tool to get all the latest updated info from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM & more!

Expert picks & predictions for Tuesday’s Spurs vs. Pistons game

NBC Sports Bet Best Bet

Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports) leans the Pistons to cover:

"San Antonio is playing some quality basketball, albeit it has come against bad teams or ones with injuries like the 76ers, Knicks, and Pelicans, a win is a win in the NBA. The Pistons are focused and playing well, climbing the ladder and it's hard to see a slipup against the Spurs. While the Spurs have been impressive, especially in their last game, that may set the public up to think this will be a close game. It's Pistons or pass."

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 today’s Spurs & Pistons game:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the San Antonio Spurs on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the San Antonio Spurs at +8.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play on the under on the Game Total of 233.

Want even more NBA best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert NBA Predictions pagefrom NBC Sports for money line, spread and over/under picks for every game on today’s calendar!

Important stats, trends & insights to know ahead of Spurs vs. Pistons on Tuesday

  • The Pistons have won 4 of their last 5 matchups against Western Conference Southwest Division teams
  • 4 of the Pistons' last 5 matchups with the Spurs have stayed under the Total
  • The Pistons have failed to cover in 5 of their last 6 games (83%)
  • The Spurs have covered the spread in 5 of their last 7 games (71%)

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NBA Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

- Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)

- Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)

- Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)

- Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)

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Watch Heat honor Butler with tribute video before Warriors game

Watch Heat honor Butler with tribute video before Warriors game originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The Heat paid homage to their former star forward on Tuesday as Jimmy Butler made his highly anticipated return to Miami.

Butler, who was traded to the Warriors at last month’s NBA deadline, was introduced for the first time in six years on the opposing end. Before Heat PA announcer Michael Baiamonte belted Butler’s name, Miami honored the six-time NBA All-Star with a special tribute video.

Fans in attendance rose to their feet while the 40-second video montage played inside Kaseya Center. After Baiamonte shouted his iconic “Jim-my Butler” intro, fans cheered and gave Butler a warm welcome back.

Butler embraced the crowd right back, holding his arms to the crowd before the introductions carried over to the Heat side.

Over the past few days, Butler has downplayed the emotions of this game but openly expressed his gratitude to the fanbase and city.

Butler led an often undermanned Heat squad to five postseason trips and two NBA Finals appearances.

Even though things didn’t end the way both sides had hoped, it’s clear Butler still has a lot of love for Heat fans — and the feeling is mutual.

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Magic vs. Hornets Predictions: Odds, expert picks, recent stats, trends and best bets for March 25

It’s Tuesday, March 25, and the Orlando Magic (34-38) and Charlotte Hornets (18-53) are all set to square off from Spectrum Center in Charlotte.

The Magic are currently 15-21 on the road with a point differential of -1, while the Hornets have a 3-7 record in their last ten games at home. Orlando has won all three meetings against Charlotte this season. This is the final matchup of the year.

Orlando won two straight games and three of the past four contests. This is a back-to-back with no rest for the Magic and they've lost three straight without rest. Charlotte is 1-4 over the past five games and dropped the last two contests.

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, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Listen to the Rotoworld Basketball Show for the latest fantasy player news, waiver claims, roster advice and more from our experts all season long. Click here or download it wherever you get your podcasts.

Game details & how to watch Magic vs. Hornets live today

  • Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
  • Time: 7:00PM EST
  • Site: Spectrum Center
  • City: Charlotte, NC
  • Network/Streaming:

Never miss a second of the action and stay up to date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day NBA schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game.

Game odds for Magic vs. Hornets

The latest odds as of Tuesday:

  • Odds: Magic (-207), Hornets (+171)
  • Spread:  Magic -4.5
  • Over/Under: 211 points

That gives the Magic an implied team point total of 107.02, and the Hornets 104.67.

Want to know which sportsbook is offering the best lines for every game on the NBA calendar? Check out the NBC Sports’ Live Odds tool to get all the latest updated info from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM & more!

Expert picks & predictions for Tuesday’s Magic vs. Hornets game

NBC Sports Bet Best Bet

Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports) leans the Hornets early against the Magic:

"The Magic beat the Lakers last night in an upset win and turn around to get the Hornets who they are most likely looking past or taking lighitly. While I do think Orlando should win and likely cover, I would target Charlotte early in this game if you get a +2 or +2.5 on the first quarter spread. Orlando has lost the last three games without rest, so I lean the Hornets on the first quarter spread."

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 today’s Magic & Hornets game:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Orlando Magic on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Charlotte Hornets at +4.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play on the over on the Game Total of 211.

Want even more NBA best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert NBA Predictions page from NBC Sports for money line, spread and over/under picks for every game on today’s calendar!

Important stats, trends & insights to know ahead of Magic vs. Hornets on Tuesday

  • The Magic have won 4 straight matchups against Eastern Conference Southeast Division teams
  • The Magic's last 3 games have gone over the Total
  • The Magic have covered in their last 4 matchups against divisional opponents
  • The Magic have won 4 of their last 5 games at Eastern Conference Southeast Division teams

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NBA Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

- Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)

- Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)

- Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)

- Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)

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Grizzlies vs. Jazz Predictions: Odds, recent stats, trends, best bets for March 25

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Utah Jazz Preview 

The Memphis Grizzlies (43-28) and Utah Jazz (16-56) are all set to square off from Delta Center in Salt Lake City.

The Grizzlies are on a three-game skid and, unfortunately, will be without superstar Ja Morant. They will have to lean heavily on Jaren Jackson and Desmond Bane until Morant returns.

The Jazz are on a path to the number one overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. They are 16-56, and have lost eight of their last nine games.

The Grizzlies are currently 18-17 on the road with a point differential of 5, while the Jazz have a 2-8 record in their last ten games at home. 

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch tipoff, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Listen to the Rotoworld Basketball Show for the latest fantasy player news, waiver claims, roster advice and more from our experts all season long. Click here or download it wherever you get your podcasts.

Game details & how to watch Grizzlies vs. Jazz live today

  • Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
  • Time: 9:00PM EST
  • Site: Delta Center
  • City: Salt Lake City, UT
  • Network/Streaming:

Never miss a second of the action and stay up to date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day NBA schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game.
Game odds for Grizzlies vs. Jazz
The latest odds as of Tuesday:

  • Odds: Grizzlies (-444), Jazz (+347)
  • Spread:  Grizzlies -10
  • Over/Under: 242 points

That gives the Grizzlies an implied team point total of 125.08, and the Jazz 119.88.
 
Want to know which sportsbook is offering the best lines for every game on the NBA calendar? Check out the NBC Sports’ Live Odds tool to get all the latest updated info from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM & more!

Expert picks & predictions for Tuesday's Grizzlies vs. Jazz game

NBC Sports Bet 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.

Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas) is leaning towards Desmond Bane over 22.5 points…

Thomas: “Bane has an amazing matchup tonight. Jazz are giving up 25.62 points per game to point guards. Bane is averaging 21 points per game without Morant this season.”

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 today’s Grizzlies & Jazz game:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Memphis Grizzlies on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Utah Jazz at +10.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play on the under on the Game Total of 242.

Want even more NBA best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert NBA Predictions page from NBC Sports for money line, spread and over/under picks for every game on today’s calendar!

Important stats, trends & insights to know ahead of Grizzlies vs. Jazz on Tuesday

  • The Grizzlies have won 4 of their last 5 away games against teams with losing records
  • 15 of the Grizzlies' last 18 road trips to the Jazz have gone over the Total
  • The Jazz have covered the Spread in 6 of their last 8 home games against the Grizzlies
  • The Jazz have lost 17 of their last 20 games against teams with better records

 
If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NBA Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!
 
Bet the Edge is your source for all things sports betting. Get all of Jay Croucher and Drew Dinsick’s insight weekdays at 6AM ET right here or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. 
 
Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff: 
- Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
- Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper) 
- Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports) 
- Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)

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Hawks vs. Rockets Predictions: Odds, recent stats, trends, best bets for March 25

Atlanta Hawks vs. Houston Rockets Preview 

The Atlanta Hawks (35-36) and Houston Rockets (46-26) are all set to square off from Toyota Center in Houston.

The Atlanta Hawks have been playing great basketball recently. They are on a three-game winning streak and have won seven of their last 10 games. They are now seventh in the Eastern Conference, and 1.5 games ahead of the eighth seed, Orlando Magic.

The Rockets had their nine-game winning streak ended on Sunday against the Denver Nuggets. They climbed to second in the Western Conference with their stellar play.

The Hawks are currently 16-18 on the road with a point differential of -2, while the Rockets have an 8-2 record in their last ten games at home. 

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch tipoff, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Listen to the Rotoworld Basketball Show for the latest fantasy player news, waiver claims, roster advice and more from our experts all season long. Click here or download it wherever you get your podcasts.

Game details & how to watch Hawks vs. Rockets live today

  • Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
  • Time: 8:00PM EST
  • Site: Toyota Center
  • City: Houston, TX

Never miss a second of the action and stay up to date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day NBA schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game.
Game odds for Hawks vs. Rockets
The latest odds as of Tuesday:

  • Odds: Hawks (+261), Rockets (-327)
  • Spread:  Rockets -8
  • Over/Under: 233 points

That gives the Hawks an implied team point total of 115.39, and the Rockets 119.56.
 
Want to know which sportsbook is offering the best lines for every game on the NBA calendar? Check out the NBC Sports’ Live Odds tool to get all the latest updated info from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM & more!

Expert picks & predictions for Tuesday's Hawks vs. Rockets game

NBC Sports Bet 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.

Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas) is leaning towards Trae Young under 24.5 points…

Thomas: “Could this be a great buy-low spot for Young? He’s scored at least 25 points in four straight and six of his last seven games.

It is a tricky matchup for betting an under, though. The Rockets aren’t great against opposing point guards. They are giving up the third-most points at 25.6 per game.

In any buy-low spot, there is some bit of variance that is needed. It’s just a lean at this point.”

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 today’s Hawks & Rockets game:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Houston Rockets on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Atlanta Hawks at +8.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play on the under on the Game Total of 233.

Want even more NBA best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert NBA Predictions page from NBC Sports for money line, spread and over/under picks for every game on today’s calendar!

Important stats, trends & insights to know ahead of Hawks vs. Rockets on Tuesday

  • The Rockets have won 14 of their last 20 home games
  • The Hawks' last 4 games have gone over the Total
  • The Hawks have covered in 5 of their 8 matchups against Western Conference Southwest Division teams this season
  • The Rockets have won 9 of their last 10 games

 
If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NBA Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!
 
Bet the Edge is your source for all things sports betting. Get all of Jay Croucher and Drew Dinsick’s insight weekdays at 6AM ET right here or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. 
 
Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff: 
- Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
- Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper) 
- Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports) 
- Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)

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Butler's agent hopes upset Heat fans exorcize anger in star's return

Butler's agent hopes upset Heat fans exorcize anger in star's return originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

One of Jimmy Butler’s closest confidants hopes disgruntled Heat fans can let bygones be bygones after the star forward’s return to Miami on Tuesday night.

Butler, now a member of the Warriors, will return to Kaseya Center for the first time since the blockbuster trade to Golden State on Feb. 5, and his agent, Bernie Lee, hopes the big matchup can help heal any resentment some Heat fans might have toward Butler after his rocky exit from the organization this season.

“My hope is Tuesday is cathartic for everyone,” Lee told the Miami Herald. “If you have some anger in your heart, get it out. Get it all out. But once that’s all released, my hope is we get to the next step, which is appreciation. Appreciation for a pretty incredible five years together.

“One unfortunate aspect of sports is the amount of change. Nothing ever stays the same and everything has a time limit. We hit ours, but once we get a bit of distance from the separation, what will hopefully remain is a really immense feeling of accomplishment and the profound connection Jimmy had with this city and community at large. He was the right person at the right time. And over time, I think more and more, we will all see and appreciate that.”

Lee found himself at the center of the Butler-Heat saga when he publicly refuted a report from ESPN’s Shams Charania about the then-Heat star preferring to be traded to either the Warriors, Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks or Houston Rockets.

Butler eventually was dealt to Golden State (41-30), which has gone 16-4 since his debut with the Warriors on Feb. 8, and is surging toward an NBA playoff spot.

Meanwhile, the Heat (30-41) have gone 5-17 since trading Butler and are clinging on to the final NBA play-in tournament spot.

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Steph out for Warriors vs. Heat game with pelvic injury

Steph out for Warriors vs. Heat game with pelvic injury originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Steph Curry will miss his second consecutive Warriors game as he continues to deal with a pelvic injury.

Curry, who was upgraded to questionable for Tuesday’s contest against the Miami Heat, officially was ruled out of the team’s second game of a six-game road trip.

Curry sustained the pelvic bruise when he took a hard fall to the ground during the second half of last week’s win over the Toronto Raptors. An MRI confirmed he sustained a pelvic contusion but avoided any structural damage.

He didn’t travel with the team to Atlanta for its first game of the road trip, in which the Warriors fell 124-115 to the Hawks and 7-4 while playing without their star point guard this season. Curry joined the Warriors in Miami where his status was upgraded before ultimately being ruled out.

Golden State (41-30) is in the midst of a pivotal six-game road trip as the Warriors cling to the Western Conference’s No. 6 playoff seed in a jam-packed postseason race. After Miami, they’ll face the New Orleans Pelicans, San Antonio Spurs, Memphis Grizzlies and Los Angeles Lakers before returning home to battle the Denver Nuggets.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Tuesday the team expects Curry to play against the Orleans Pelicans on Friday.

In his 16th season, Curry is averaging 24.2 points on 44.7-percent shooting from the field and 39.4 percent from 3-point range, with 4.4 rebounds and 6.0 assists through 60 games.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

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Watch Russell Westbrook move past Kevin Garnett into 20th all-time in points scored with logo 3-pointer

DENVER NUGGETS VS CHICAGO BULLS, NBA

DENVER, CO - MARCH 24: Russell Westbrook (4) of the Denver Nuggets misses a three pointer as the Chicago Bulls lead 126-119 during the fourth quarter of the Bulls’ 129-119 win at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Monday, March 24, 2025. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

Denver Post via Getty Images

Russell Westbrook has scored a lot of points in a lot of different ways over his Hall of Fame career, but the book on defending him remains the same: If he wants to shoot a 3-pointer, let him.

As he has throughout his 17-year career, Westbrook proved that book on him wrong on Monday night, hitting a logo 3-pointer that moved him past Kevin Garnett for 20th on the NBA All-Time scoring list.

Westbrook should move past Celtics legends John Havlicek and Paul Pierce on that list early next season.

Westbrook is a two-time NBA scoring champion as well as the 2017 NBA MVP, a nine-time All-NBA player and All-Star who has had a legendary career. His being in the top 20 in scoring all-time just seems fitting.

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Jayson Tatum leaves game with sprained ankle, says later it's "sore" but left arena without boot

NBA: Boston Celtics at Sacramento Kings

Mar 24, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) lays on the ground after suffering an injury against the Sacramento Kings in the third quarter at the Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

Hopefully, this will not be as bad as it looked when it happened.

Boston's Jayson Tatum had to leave the game in Sacramento in the third quarter after he pulled up for a 3-pointer over Domantas Sabonis and came down on the foot of the Kings' center, rolling his ankle. Sabonis' reckless closeout took away Tatum's landing space and he was given a Flagrant 1 foul for it.

Tatum left the game not to return but left the arena that night without a boot or crutches, telling ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne his ankle was “just sore.” Still, with just 10 games left in the Celtics' regular season and the team essentially locked into the No. 2 seed, there is no reason to push him to return. Expect Boston to be cautious with his return and Tatum to get some nights off to rest his ankle down the stretch of the season.

After the game, Sabonis apologized for the closeout and injury.

Boston went on to win the game comfortably, 113-95, and Tatum was still the leading scorer with 25 points, plus he dished out eight assists. Payton Pritchard had 22 points off the bench, and Kristaps Porzingis had 16 points and eight rebounds.

This was the Kings third loss in a row and they are now just half-a-game ahead of No. 10 seed Phoenix. Zach LaVine said after the game, "The vibe is not good."

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Why Kerr anticipates ‘heated atmosphere' for Butler's Miami return

Why Kerr anticipates ‘heated atmosphere' for Butler's Miami return originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Jimmy Butler’s return to Miami might get a little … heated.

At least that’s what Warriors coach Steve Kerr anticipates for Golden State’s matchup against the Heat on Monday at Kaseya Center.

“I haven’t talked to him about it,” Kerr said Monday on 95.7 The Game’s “Willard and Dibs.” ” … Tomorrow will be a heated atmosphere, no pun intended. He was such an amazing player for this franchise and meant so much to the fans. I think it’ll be very emotional for him, for a lot of people.

“But Jimmy’s an incredible competitor. That’s the main thing I’ve learned about him. I know he’s going to go out there and compete like crazy and get through it fine. Hopefully, we can get back on track here.”

It will be Butler’s first trip to Miami since the blockbuster deal that brought the six-time NBA All-Star to Golden State at last month’s NBA trade deadline.

Despite Butler bringing the organization much success, including leading the team to the playoffs five times and two NBA Finals appearances, the last few months of his Heat tenure were filled with drama and nonstop headlines that led to his eventual departure.

Nonetheless, he’s made it clear that he has a lot of love for the fans and city — even from afar.

“We had a practice today and he’s been here the last couple of days,” Kerr said. “He’s got a lot of people here who he’s connecting with. I think he’s enjoying being back.”

At the end of the day, though, Butler is one of the most competitive guys in the league. And while he might be enjoying mingling and catching up with old friends, once tip-off begins at 4 p.m. PT Tuesday, his focus purely will be on basketball and getting a dub for the Warriors.

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All eyes on Butler vs. Wiggins matchup in Warriors-Heat game

All eyes on Butler vs. Wiggins matchup in Warriors-Heat game originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Programming Note: Watch “Warriors Now” with Dalton Johnson and Zena Keita at 1 p.m. PT today, streaming live on the NBC Sports app. Watch the show later on YouTube and Facebook.

Though Jimmy Butler III, in his second month with the Warriors after five years with the Heat, downplays the possibilities of getting emotional upon returning to Miami, his desire to win will be loud even if unheard.

On the other side is Andrew Wiggins, in his second month with the Heat after five years with the Warriors. He’s a low-key presence, easygoing and laconic. He speaks with his talent, his latest statement being a 42-point masterpiece on Sunday.

Butler and Wiggins will see plenty of each other partly because they were traded for each other last month but mostly because they will be playing the same position when the ball goes up Tuesday night at Kaseya Center. Coverage on NBC Sports Bay Area begins at 3:30 p.m. with Warriors Pregame Live, with tipoff scheduled for 4:30.

There is no doubt that each wants to pin a defeat on his former team, but Butler would seem to have the higher incentive.

The Warriors (41-30) are in sixth place, locked in a riveting battle for playoff position in the rigorous Western Conference. It’s cutthroat time for Golden State, which will spend the final three weeks of the regular season fighting to remain in the top six, thereby avoiding the dreaded Play-In Tournament.

The Heat (30-41) are 10th in the East, securely in the Play-In Tournament with practically zero chance of rising above it or tumbling below it.

Though Butler and Wiggins have very different personalities, they have in common an immense sense of pride. And it’s evident that Butler so far has done more for the Warriors than Wiggins has for the Heat.

Butler has played in 19 of 20 games for the Warriors since being acquired at the Feb. 6 trade deadline. His individual per-game numbers – 17.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.3 steals – don’t shout yet his positive impact has been both tangible and intangible. The Warriors are 16-4 since his arrival and their metrics have taken an appreciable leap.

Asked recently about Butler’s influence, Kerr immediately cited his intellect.

“IQ,” he said. “Basketball IQ, toughness, competitiveness. Those are the marks of great players. And when you happen to have that package in a body like his, with that kind of strength, it all makes sense. The game makes sense to Jimmy and when he’s on the floor that translates to other guys.”

Wiggins was having a solid season with Golden State but his time in Miami has been limited due to illness and a couple minor injuries. He has missed eight of 21 games and is averaging 21 points and 3.9 rebounds. The Heat is 5-16 since Wiggins arrived, but he was fantastic in successive games last weekend, scoring 72 points on 76.5-percent shooting from the field and 66.7 percent from deep.

Can Butler slow Wiggins’ sudden momentum? Can Wiggins keep Butler out of his comfort zone, aka the free throw line? The answers could dictate the outcome.

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Kerr likens Warriors' Butler-Draymond duo to Jordan and Pippen

Kerr likens Warriors' Butler-Draymond duo to Jordan and Pippen originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

  • Programming Note: Watch “Warriors Now” with Dalton Johnson and Zena Keita at 1 p.m. PT today, streaming live on the NBC Sports app. Watch the show later on YouTube and Facebook.

When discussing iconic NBA duos, there is one that stands out above the rest. Analysts and fans oftentimes use it as the most complementary comparison for two teammates, but rarely are any players worthy of it.

Warriors forwards Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, however, are worthy of it in coach Steve Kerr’s eyes.

Golden State’s coach spoke to ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk for a recent story about the Butler and Green duo, and offered a high-profile comparison for the two Warriors teammates’ defensive acumen.

“[Scottie] Pippen and [Michael] Jordan,” Kerr told ESPN of his comparison for Butler and Green. “Just incredible intelligence and athleticism combined with versatility. There’s definitely some of that.”

Yes, you read that correctly.

Of course, Kerr is speaking about the duo’s defensive partnership, not their overall games. However, in terms of NBA comparisons, that’s about as good as it gets.

The Warriors are 16-4 overall since Butler first took the court for Golden State on Feb. 8, and his impact has been felt both offensively and defensively.

With the Warriors (41-30) hoping to make another championship run this season, Kerr certainly hopes the Butler-Green duo can have a familiar Jordan-Pippin-like impact in the NBA playoffs.

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Holiday makes strong case for Pritchard to win Sixth Man of the Year

Holiday makes strong case for Pritchard to win Sixth Man of the Year originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday is so convinced that Payton Pritchard is the Sixth Man of the Year that, if the John Havlicek trophy isn’t sitting inside the Auerbach Center by early May, then Holiday is calling shenanigans.

“If he’s not Sixth Man of the year, then this is rigged,” said Holiday.

“My man, he’s breaking records … We really need him and I think he’s realized that we really need what he brings to our team, in terms of scoring and playmaking and big-shot making. So it’s really cool to see, just even the elevation from last year to this year, to be able to take that big of a leap is pretty cool.”

Earlier this month, Pritchard broke the NBA record for most 3-pointers off the bench in a single season. Even after a spot start in his native Portland on Sunday night, 232 of Pritchard’s 236 3-pointers this season have come off the bench as he leaves Wayne Ellington’s previous record mark of 218 bench 3s in the rearview mirror.

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The next record in Pritchard’s sight could be besting the Celtics’ single-season record for 3-pointers made. He’s jockeying with teammates Jayson Tatum and Derrick White for a new franchise record, and might have the edge if those two veterans get rest to the finish line of the season. Tatum sprained his left ankle in Monday night’s win in Sacramento.

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Pritchard leads the NBA in bench points at 997. He will soon become only the fourth Celtics player in team history to score 1,000 points off the bench in a season (Kevin McHale did it 3 times; Ricky Davis and Malcolm Brogdon each did it once).

Pritchard’s 22 games with 5-plus 3-pointers this season is a franchise record. His 20 games with 20+ points off the bench leads the NBA this season. Earlier this month, Pritchard and White became the first Celtics duo in team history to score 40 points apiece in a win over the Portland Trail Blazers.

After early foul trouble limited his output in Portland on Sunday during his lone start of the year, Pritchard joked that maybe he needs to stick to coming off the bench.

Holiday has loved watching Pritchard’s progress.

“We talked about it, I think his first points were against [Milwaukee] when I was with the Bucks. And I think it was a 3,” said Holiday, who was indeed on the floor when Pritchard drilled a second-quarter triple for his first career points in his NBA debut on Dec. 23, 2020.

“I think to be able to witness that and see, even a time like that where he wasn’t playing much, you could see that everybody kind of has potential. And him just being steady, stay working, you could see. If it’s off-days or optional [workout] days, he’s still in the gym. He’s not taking any days off. He wants to be the best player he can, and I think that means a lot. I don’t think he does it just for himself. I think he does it for our team.”

Holiday doesn’t need any reminders on how competitive Pritchard can be.

“I used to play against Payton, so the times that I’ve seen him play and played against him, you could tell that he’s always had a chip,” said Holiday. “And I’m pretty sure, even in terms of being shorter, he has always had that dog in him.

“To be his teammate, I’m glad to be on his side.”