Category: NBA

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to return for the Oklahoma City Thunder when they host the Denver Nuggets tonight.

The reigning MVP is no longer on the injury report after missing nine games with an abdominal strain. The question now is how much SGA will actually play.

My Nuggets vs. Thunder predictions and NBA picks are taking a measured approach to the reigning MVP's output on Friday, February 27.

Tip-off is set for 9:30 p.m. ET from the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, with the game airing on ESPN.

Nuggets vs Thunder prediction

Nuggets vs Thunder best bet: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 28.5 points (-115)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hasn’t played since February 3, with the Oklahoma City Thunder going 5-4 SU in his absence, allowing the surging San Antonio Spurs to close the gap in the West.

SGA’s return is a major boost for OKC, but preserving his health is the top priority. He not only needs to meet the MVP qualifying threshold, but the Thunder have only a 1.5-game lead atop the conference.

While a full workload could yield 30+ points, most models range from 18.4 to 23.7 points if his minutes are capped. I expect OKC to play it safe against the Denver Nuggets tonight.

Nuggets vs Thunder same-game parlay

The Nuggets reminded the league they’re still a contender by blasting the Boston Celtics earlier this week, showing they rise to the challenge against the NBA’s elite.

After missing nine games, OKC will protect the MVP in his first outing back, and he’s unlikely to reach that scoring total.

With SGA limited, Chet Holmgren drew more defensive attention, and his numbers dipped. Even with Shai seeing reduced minutes, the 7-footer will benefit from extra space, with models projecting him for 20+ points tonight.

Nuggets vs Thunder SGP

• Nuggets +8
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 28.5 points
• Chet Holmgren Over 16.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: Calling on Cam 

Cameron Johnson has looked great since returning from a six-week absence (knee bruise), averaging almost 12 points, four rebounds, and two assists in the last seven games.

Johnson's player projections all sit north of these prop totals tonight.

Nuggets vs Thunder SGP

• Nuggets moneyline
• Cameron Johnson Over 12.5 points
• Cameron Johnson Over 3.5 rebounds
• Cameron Johnson Over 1.5 assists

Nuggets vs Thunder odds

• Spread: Nuggets +8 (-110) | Thunder -8 (-110)
• Moneyline: Nuggets +250 | Thunder -310
• Over/Under: Over 233.5 (-110) | Under 233.5 (-110)

Nuggets vs Thunder betting trend to know

The Nuggets are 38-25-1 ATS as underdogs over the past three years, including a 12-6 ATS mark when catching points this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Nuggets vs. Thunder.

How to watch Nuggets vs Thunder

Nuggets vs Thunder latest injuries

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Two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference do battle when Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons host James Harden and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

With Cleveland banged up, Detroit is a 6-point home favorite, but my Cavs vs. Pistons predictions break down why the East’s No. 1 seed still deserves more respect.

Read more in my NBA picks for this matchup, set to tip off at 7:00 p.m. ET from Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.

Cavaliers vs Pistons prediction

Cavaliers vs Pistons best bet: Pistons -6 (-110)

It feels like people aren’t giving the Detroit Pistons enough respect. Cade Cunningham and Jaren Duren are stars, and the only team that has a better net rating than the Pistons this season is the Oklahoma City Thunder.

They’ve also been a great team at home this season, going 22-7 with an average margin of victory of 10.3 points.

Meanwhile, the acquisition of James Harden has been a home run for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Unfortunately, he’s questionable to play with a thumb injury while Donovan Mitchell is already out.

That’s too much to overcome against this really great Pistons team.

Cavaliers vs Pistons same-game parlay

Sure, the James Harden thing has worked for Cleveland so far. But he won’t help the fact that the Cavaliers allow the fifth-most points per game to opposing guards. Give me Cade to go Over 25.5 points, something he’s done in eight of his last 11 games.

The Pistons are also an elite rebounding team, ranking second in rebounding rate. Tobias Harris has hauled down six or more rebounds in seven of his last eight games, and with the Cavs potentially down their top two shooters, there could be plenty of boards up for grabs.

Cavaliers vs Pistons SGP

• Pistons -6
• Cade Cunningham Over 25.5 points
• Tobias Harris Over 5.5 rebounds

Our "from downtown" SGP: Cade!

Cade is getting some MVP buzz down the stretch, and a big game against an East contender could bolster that case.

Cavaliers vs Pistons SGP

• Cade Cunningham Over 25.5 points
• Cade Cunningham Over 5.5 rebounds
• Cade Cunningham Over 9.5 assists
• Cade Cunningham Over 1.5 steals

Cavaliers vs Pistons odds

• Spread: Cavaliers +6 | Pistons -6
• Moneyline: Cavaliers +200 | Pistons -240
• Over/Under: Over 227 | Under 227

Cavaliers vs Pistons betting trend to know

The Pistons have covered the 1H spread in 28 of their last 45 games (+10.75 Units / 21% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Cavaliers vs. Pistons.

How to watch Cavaliers vs Pistons

Cavaliers vs Pistons latest injuries

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A lot is going on in Long Island! Even before Friday morning’s moves that sent Grant Nelson to Brooklyn on a 10-day, returned Ben Saraf to the big club, and sent Drake Powell to the G League, the Nets’ G League affiliate lost a tight one, 119-116, to the Grand Rapids Gold Thursday night at Nassau Coliseum.

And in the midst of it all, Brooklyn may have found a new development prospect in Chaney Johnson.

Johnson is the newest and youngest two-way player on the Long Island Nets roster. At 6’8”, 225 pounds with a 6’11” wingspan and a max vertical approaching 40”, the 23-year-old Johnson has 3-and-D potential. Signed off the Cleveland Charge just before New Year’s, Johnson keeps making progress, and Thursday night, that progress reached a high point.

The Auburn product had his biggest game as a pro, scoring 29 points, one night after scoring 19! Johnson connected on 10 of his 12 tries, while hitting all three of his tries. The Alabama native also had seven rebounds, one assist, and two blocks … both in crucial moments for Long Island. He did everything he could to put the team in a position to win, but the Gold had their number.

Indeed, after a somewhat slow start, Johnson has taken off in the last nine games, averaging 15.5 points while shooting 77.7% from two and 32.0% from three and grabbing 5.5 rebounds. He was not the only Long Islander to impress on the back-to-back at Nassau Coliseum.

Complementing Johnson’s game, Saraf had another big game in what he no doubt hopes will be his 21st and final game in the G League.

Coming off his 12-for-19, 32-point shooting performance the night before, Saraf followed it up with yet another solid offensive output. He connected on nine of his 15 shots and connected on three of his six attempts from beyond the arc for 21 points, giving him 53 points in a little more than 24 hours. He also had two rebounds, two assists, and three steals, the most in the game.

However, one glaring issue with Saraf has always been ball protection. Saraf turned the ball over five times, Nolan Traore had the same issue in the early going of this season, and he turned his game around.

In his most recent assignment, Saraf has looked much better than earlier in the season. There were many times back then when he was a big question mark, as his Flatbush 5 counterparts took off. The 19-year old, the NBA’s eighth youngest player, has been showing flashes of why Brooklyn drafted him in the 2025 NBA Draft in the first place.

Malachi Smith had another performance. He finished with 18 points, shooting 60% overall. He hauled in seven rebounds, including five in the fourth quarter alone, and two steals. His big downfall came in the ball protection department, his Achilles heel since starting at the point a few weeks back. Smith turned the ball over seven times, leading the game. After the game, NetsDaily spoke with Smith about his performance…

“Obviously, those are good numbers,” Smith tells ND. “But the number that’s sticking with me right now is the seven turnovers. I pride myself on being a low-turnover point guard, and today it was just a lot of dumb ones that I wish I could get back. It’s not something I usually do. As I said, I pride myself on having low turnovers. I know it’s a game of possessions, and one play doesn’t ruin the game. Right now, it feels like those seven turnovers are a big reason we lost tonight, and that’s not a good feeling as a point guard. I have to just be better and learn from it.”

Putting aside the turnovers, since being named a starter for the first time, the Gonzaga product’s performances become quite common for Smith. When asked about what he attributes this to the most, Smith told ND, “I think just trusting my work, staying ready. I’ve played in a lot of big games in college and have contributed in multiple ways. So, I’ve always been the type to put the work in behind the scenes, and whenever my number gets called, the work will show. I think that’s just what you see. Credit to my teammates, the coaches for helping me develop, and my teammates for having faith in me, but just being ready whenever my number is called.”

The 26-year-old picked up 13 assists, continuing to showcase himself as a playmaker and cementing yet another double-double. Smith told ND after the game, “I think as a point guard, making sure your teammates get to their spots and helping them get to their spots, gives them confidence, but also opens up my game. If I’m spreading it, when I drive, they might fan out and let me finish. I try to make the right play at the end of the day. Whatever the right play is, I just want to make it. I do a lot of film and stuff. So, I try to know what the defense is going to do and try to find my teammates where they’re most comfortable.”

Nelson remained on a minutes restriction, being the only starter to not reach 30 minutes, but in his last game before being called up. Nelson finished with just over 26 minutes, but once again continued to make the most of every second on the court. He finished with 17 points, on 47% shooting. There was a big difference in Nelson’s game on Thursday. He took many more three-point attempts than normal.

Nelson connected on just one of his six shots from deep, the most he’s put up this season and likely something Brooklyn has encouraged. Nelson is trying to expand his game from beyond the arc in hopes of reaching the NBA. In today’s NBA, if you hope to not just thrive but survive, you have to know how to shoot from deep, even as a big man. Nelson showed himself to be a solid three-point shooter in college, so if he can get back to this, it’s just one more tool Nelson will have working for him.

Tyson Etienne finished with 18 points, having one of his better shooting performances as of late, connecting on seven of his 11 tries, including four-for-seven from deep. EJ Liddell had four points, his lowest output in weeks, connecting on two of his nine attempts. Liddell shone in other aspects of the game, including hauling in nine rebounds and finishing with a team-leading three blocks.

The Gold went on an 8-0 run in the first quarter before Long Island responded with a 22-4 run over the final 5:36 of the first. The Nets closed the first frame with a 30-22 advantage after scoring 18 points in the paint and shooting 57.9 percent (11-for-19) from the field in the first. Grand Rapids went on a 17-7 run from 11:19 to 5:45 in the second quarter to close the gap, but Long Island entered the break with a 55-51 lead. Johnson led all scorers with 16 points in the first half, shooting 83.3 percent (5-for-6) from the field and 100 percent (2-for-2) from deep before halftime, and the Nets held the Gold to just 27.3 percent (3-for-11) shooting from long range in the first half.

Long Island entered tonight’s game with a +19.5 net rating in third quarters, the best differential by an NBA G League team in any quarter this season, and the Nets continued that success by limiting the Gold to 38.5 percent (10-for-26) shooting from the field and 11.1 percent (1-for-9) shooting from deep in the third. After Grand Rapids started the fourth on a 15-7 run from 11:48 to 9:21 to regain the lead, both teams traded the lead over the final nine minutes. Johnson hit a layup to tie the game at 116 with 5.1 seconds left in regulation, but Grand Rapids made three free throws to secure the 119-116 victory. Long Island scored 60 points in the paint for the second consecutive game and dished out 31 assists.

Next Up

The Long Island Nets (15-11) return to the court on Sunday for a game against the Westchester Knicks at the Nassau Coliseum. The game tips off at 3:00 p.m. EST and can be watched on the NBA G League website and the Gotham Sports app.

• Boxscore: Grand Rapids Gold 119, Long Island Nets 116 – G League
• Game Highlights: Grand Rapids Gold 119, Long Island Nets 116 (Video) – G League

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Both the NBA and college basketball seasons are winding down, which means 2026 NBA Draft odds are becoming a major topic of discussion. 

The NBA has come under fire for almost one-third of the league seemingly tanking — but with one of the deepest draft classes in years (including the "Big Three" prospects of Darryn Peterson, A.J. Dybansta, and Cam Boozer), the NBA's cellar dwellers have a lot to gain... by losing.

The NBA Draft Lottery is scheduled for May 10, where we'll find out which team selects first, but for now, here are the latest odds for which player will go No. 1-overall at the NBA Draft on June 24.

2026 NBA Draft odds to go No. 1

Odds from bet365, one of our best betting apps. Sign up with our bet365 promo code, or get one of our other sportsbook promos.

Player
Darryn Peterson	-125
AJ Dybantsa	+130
Cameron Boozer	+700
Caleb Wilson	+10000
Kingston Flemings	+10000
Keaton Wagler	+15000
Chris Cenac Jr.	+20000
Jayden Quaintance	+20000
Karim Lopez	+20000
Koa Peat	+20000
Mikel Brown Jr.	+20000
Nate Ament	+20000
Tounde Yessoufou	+20000

2026 NBA Mock Draft: Top 5 Scouting Reports

The 2026 class is defined by a "Big Three" at the top, followed by high-upside versatile wings. Here is how the top of the board looks as we head toward March Madness.

1. Darryn Peterson | G | Kansas

2025-26 stats: 19.5 ppg, 47.4 3PT%

Bill Self has called Peterson the best recruit he’s ever landed at Kansas, as the 6-foot-5 combo guard has elite body control and a methodical scoring pace. He has dealt with minor hamstring and ankle issues this season, but remains the draft's best pure scorer as he can bully smaller guards in the post or pull up from 30 feet with ease.

2. AJ Dybantsa | SF | BYU

2025-26 stats: 25.1 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 52.8 FG%

Dybantsa is the most "pro-ready" scorer in the class. Standing 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan, he currently leads the nation in scoring — including an absurd 30 ppg in February. He is explosive in driving to the paint, and getting to the free-throw line a lot, and he has a strong mid-range game... plus he has greatly improved as a playmaker and ball handler as the season has progressed.

3. Cameron Boozer | PF | Duke

2025-26 stats: 22.7 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 58.3 FG%

The son of former NBA player Carlos Boozer, Cam is the most productive player in college basketball. He's not as flashy (or may not have quite as high a ceiling) as the flashy wings above him, but Boozer has the highest floor of any player in the draft to turn out as a highly productive player. He is an elite short-roll passer, a solid defender, and can also hit jumpers from a distance.

4. Caleb Wilson | F | North Carolina

2025-26 stats: 19.8 ppg, 9.4 rpg, 57.8 FG%

Possibly the most athletic player in the draft, has major hops and a relentless motor, which combine well with his elite speed at 6-foot-10. He's a raw player: He struggles to finish at the rim, is not a 3-point threat at all right now, and has issues in off-ball defense, but his potential is as high as any player in the draft.

5. Kingston Flemings | G | Houston

2025-26 stats: 16.8 ppg, 5.1 apg, 85.7 FT%

Flemings has been the biggest draft riser throughout the season. A true point guard, he is a skilled passer, and his incredible speed sees him wreak havoc by getting in the paint and he shines in the open court. His improved jump shot has helped him move from a projected late-lottery pick to the Top-5 conversation over the last few months.

NBA mock draft comparison table

Current 2026 NBA Draft Lottery odds

The three teams finishing with the worst record in the NBA all have equal odds of winning the first-overall pick. while the fourth and fifth-worst teams also have odds better than 10% to land No. 1.

*New Orleans traded its unprotected 2026 first-round pick to Atlanta for Derik Queen at the 2025 draft.

NBA Draft betting trends

Here are some recent trends you'll want to keep in mind when betting on NBA Draft odds:

• Positions have been reasonably well-distributed among the No. 1 picks. Over the past 21 NBA Drafts, nine have been forwards, seven guards, and five centers.
  
  
• "One-and-done" college freshmen make up the overwhelming majority of recent top picks, being selected No. 1 in 16 of the past 19 seasons since high schoolers were ruled ineligible.
  
  
• Among NCAA schools, Duke leads the all-time count with five No. 1-overall picks, including Paolo Banchero in 2022.

Popular NBA futures markets

• NBA championship odds
• NBA MVP odds
• NBA Rookie of the Year odds

History of first overall NBA Draft picks

Cooper Flagg's selection last year ended a two-year stretch of international players taken No. 1 — after just one such player (Andrea Bargnani, 2006) was selected in the previous 17 years. 

Year	Player	Position
2025	Cooper Flagg	SF
2024	Zaccharie Riscacher	SF
2023	Victor Wembanyama	C
2022	Paolo Banchero	PF
2021	Cade Cunningham	PG
2020	Anthony Edwards	SG
2019	Zion Williamson	PF
2018	Deandre Ayton	C
2017	Markelle Fultz	PG
2016	Ben Simmons	PG/F
2015	Karl-Anthony Towns	C
2014	Andrew Wiggins	G/F
2013	Anthony Bennett	PF
2012	Anthony Davis	PF
2011	Kyrie Irving	PG
2010	John Wall	PG
2009	Blake Griffin	PF
2008	Derrick Rose	PG
2007	Greg Oden	C
2006	Andrea Bargnani	F/C
2005	Andrew Bogut	C
2004	Dwight Howard	C
2003	LeBron James	SF/PF
2002	Yao Ming	C
2001	Kwame Brown	C
2000	Kenyon Martin	PF

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A pair of tanking teams face off in the Lone Star State tonight, where the Dallas Mavericks host the Memphis Grizzlies.

Both teams are decimated by injuries, which is why my Grizzlies vs. Mavericks predictions expect Memphis forward Taylor Hendricks to continue shining in an increased role.

Here are my best free NBA picks for Friday, February 27.

Grizzlies vs Mavericks prediction

Grizzlies vs Mavericks best bet: Taylor Hendricks Over 9.5 points (-120)

The Memphis Grizzlies have been without leading scorer Ja Morant (19.5 ppg) since mid-January, and standout rookie Cedric Coward (13.3 ppg) is also sidelined.

That means plenty of shots for Taylor Hendricks, who was acquired in the Jaren Jackson trade, while Santi Aldama and Zach Edey are injured. Hendricks has stepped up, dropping 10+ points in four of his last six games.

The Dallas Mavericks' defense has collapsed with the departure of Anthony Davis and injuries to Cooper Flagg and P.J. Washington. Dallas ranks 28th in the NBA in defensive rating while playing at the sixth-fastest pace over the last month.

Grizzlies vs Mavericks same-game parlay

Rookie guard Walter Clayton Jr. also came over in that Jaren Jackson trade, and he has also thrived in a bigger role. Clayton has dropped 6+ assists in three of four games with Memphis.

The Griz have lost seven of their last eight games, but the Mavs have dropped 11 of their previous 13. I'll take the points with the visitors against a Dallas squad on the tail end of a back-to-back.

Grizzlies vs Mavericks SGP

• Taylor Hendricks Over 9.5 points
• Walter Clayton Jr. Over 4.5 assists
• Grizzlies +4.5

Our "from downtown" SGP: Grizz!

There's plenty of volatility in these late-season games between teams that aren't trying to win.

Since we're betting on a couple of hungry young players on the Grizzlies, let's also back them to lead at half and pull off the minor upset. 

Grizzlies vs Mavericks SGP

• Taylor Hendricks Over 9.5 points
• Walter Clayton Jr. Over 4.5 assists
• Grizzlies moneyline
• Grizzlies 1H moneyline

Grizzlies vs Mavericks odds

• Spread: Grizzlies +4.5 (-110) | Mavericks -4.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Grizzlies +165 | Mavericks -200
• Over/Under: Over 239 (-110) | Under 239 (-110)

Grizzlies vs Mavericks betting trend to know

The Grizzlies have covered the first half spread in their last 10 games on the road (+10.00 Units / 88% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Grizzlies vs. Mavericks.

How to watch Grizzlies vs Mavericks

Grizzlies vs Mavericks latest injuries

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Steph Curry reportedly suffered a setback in his recovery from the knee issue that has sidelined the Warriors superstar since the end of January.

Curry, who has missed Golden State’s past nine games, pushed too hard in an attempt to race back and ended up doing more harm than good, according to ESPN’s Marc Spears.

The setback occurred around the NBA All-Star break two weeks ago, Spears told Bay Area radio station 95.7 FM on Thursday.

“He was trying to work out, trying to get back and it pushed him back,” Spears said. “I’m not sure when he’ll be back, but I do know he wants to come back.”

Curry, 37, is set to be reevaluated by the Warriors training staff on Saturday. Golden State hosts the Lakers later that night, when Curry will miss his 10th game with patella-femoral pain syndrome, commonly known as runner’s knee, as well as a bone bruise in his right knee.

The diagnosis means that Curry is dealing with irritation around the front of the knee, according to UCSF orthopedic surgeon Dr. Nirav Pandya. The best method of treatment is rest, but the tricky part, Pandya said, is that there is no defined timetable.

“Sometimes it can be a couple days, sometimes a couple weeks, sometimes several months,” Pandya said on X. “Essentially it’s about getting that rest, getting that inflammation down, so that the player can be effective on the court without causing more aggravation.”

Curry expressed frustration about the nebulous nature of the injury in an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle last week. “It’s frustrating not being out there, especially with an injury that doesn’t necessarily have a specific timeline you can trust,” he said.

Curry’s desire to hurry back is fueled in part by the Warriors’ position in the standings. Golden State’s veteran-laden roster would benefit from all the rest it can get by avoiding the play-in tournament.

With 23 games to go, however, the Warriors are fairly comfortably locked in to the No. 7-8 matchup in the Western Conference. The Trail Blazers and Clippers aren’t giving them much chase from the ninth and 10th spots, while the Warriors remain 3.5 games back of the Lakers and the No. 6 seed.

“This team is kind of in a no man’s land. They’re probably too bad for a playoff lock, a top-six spot. But they’re too good to not be in the play-in,” Spears said. “So Steph expects to be in the play-in. He wants to be in the play-in. He wants the chance to be in the playoffs.”

In this week’s Tuesday Tracker and our SB Nation Reacts survey, we asked you about Pete Nance’s two-way contract and the Bucks’ projected playoff seeding. Here are the highlights:

• 77% of respondents want the Bucks to convert Pete Nance to a standard deal, and if that’s the route the team chooses, 57% feel that Andre Jackson Jr. should be cut from the 15-man roster to make room.
• 84% of voters believe Milwaukee will rise into the play-in, though 66% of them think they’ll be no higher than the 9th spot, meaning they’d have to win two games to make the actual playoffs.
• If they miss the playoffs, they’ll have a lottery pick in June’s draft, and 60% of fans polled think the Bucks should keep that pick, no matter where it ends up.
• Of those who disagree, 65% of them would trade the pick if it falls outside the top ten, which is the most likely scenario: factoring in the pick swap with the Pelicans, the two teams’ current positions give the Bucks only a 15.9% chance of drafting better than ten.
• Fans also recognize that Milwaukee’s improved play, plus clear tanking by Chicago, Memphis, and Dallas, means that they won’t sink lower than their current spot in the lottery standings (10th).

Thanks again for voting! Check back on Tuesday for another slate of questions.

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There’s no better way to kick off the weekend than with some winning bets.

I’ve combed through the latest NBA odds and singled out my three favorites for today, including points props for two role players capitalizing on extra opportunities.

Check out all of my NBA picks for Friday, February 27.

Best NBA player props today

Player	Pick
Kyle Kuzma	Over 1.5 threes	+150
GG Jackson Jr.	Over 16.5 points	-112
Julian Strawther	Over 9.5 points	-115

Prop #1: Kyle Kuzma Over 1.5 threes

+150 at bet365

It’s been an unusual season for the Milwaukee Bucks. With Giannis Antetokounmpo missing significant time, they’ve still managed to win eight of their last 10 games heading into tonight's matchup with the New York Knicks.

Kyle Kuzma has stepped up for Milwaukee, averaging 14.6 points over his last 12 contests and shooting 40% from 3-point range over his last five.

The Knicks' perimeter defense has been shaky this season, ranking 20th in opponent made threes per game. Kuzma has made 2+ threes in four of his last five starts, and he’s likely to do it again tonight.

• Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: MSG, FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin

Prop #2: GG Jackson Jr. Over 16.5 points

-112 at bet365

The Memphis Grizzlies’ injury list reads like a horror story, and they desperately need scoring.

G.G. Jackson Jr. is averaging 17.4 points with a .667 eFG% over his last nine games, and tonight he faces a Dallas Mavericks team that’s nearly as depleted as the Grizzlies.

With the Mavs playing their second match in as many nights, I like Jackson to eclipse 16.5 points for the fifth time in six games.

• Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: FanDuel Sports Network Southeast-Memphis, KFAA

Prop #3: Julian Strawther Over 9.5 points

-115 at bet365

The game of the night features the Denver Nuggets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is back after missing nine games, but in a matchup loaded with NBA stars, I'm focusing on a prop for a lesser-known role player.

Julian Strawther has capitalized on his increased opportunities. The Nuggets guard is averaging 15.6 points and shooting 37% from three over his eight starts, and he’s expected back in the starting lineup tonight.

OKC allows the fourth-most made threes per game, and Strawther has reached double digits in scoring in seven of his eight games while in an elevated role.

• Time: 9:30 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: ESPN

These props are available now at bet365, one of our best betting sites.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

The party rolls on. The Brooklyn Nets hosted the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night at Barclays Center. The Nets put up a fight, but the Spurs were too much to handle and gave the Nets their sixth consecutive loss.

The opponent tonight has a solid hold on the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Against all odds, the Boston Celtics have exceeded all sorts of expectations this season and will have homecourt advantage in the first round, at the very least. They didn’t help the cause after losing on the road to the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night.

Where to follow the game

YES Network on TV. WFAN on radio. Gotham Sports on streaming. Tip after 7:30 p.m. ET.

Injuries

Night two of a back-to-back you’d expect some players would sit but nope. For the fourth time in nine games, everyone is healthy. Drake Powell is on assignment with Long Island as are the three two-ways. Expect Ben Saraf (called up from Long Island) and Grant Nelson (on a two-way) to be available, but both are coming off a G League back-to-back.

Amazingly, Jayson Tatum is expected back soon. You should remember, dear reader, that Tatum tore his Achilles about nine months in the playoffs against the Knicks. He’s not playing tonight, but don’t be surprised if he’s back within the next month or so. Holy heck.

The game

Boston won games one and three while Brooklyn took game two. This is the last meeting between the two teams this year.

Can I admit something? I’m all in on the Jaylen Brown MVP candidacy! Yes yes I see the efficiency numbers aren’t the greatest especially considering how high his usage rate. And yeah, Nikola Jokic still walks this Earth. But ya know what? I don’t care! Brown’s got the Celtics contending and is the focal point of their attack. From Gio Rivera at Celtics Blog:

“Brown is proving himself as both an elite scorer and an elite playmaker. He’s opened the floor for teammates, veterans and newcomers alike, to excel in their roles while everyone embraces the next-man-up approach Mazzulla and the coaching staff have crafted. Without Tatum and offseason departures Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet, the Celtics have competed at a remarkable level, keeping them in the hunt for the No. 1 seed.“

Sounds like someone who should get a vote or two!

Boston is back home after a four game road trip that ended in Denver and the Nets are on the second leg of a back-to-back. Don’t be surprised if this one starts off slowly.

Three point variance is the name of this game. Both teams are top ten in attempts per game, but the Nets are 28th in percentage while the Celtics are 13th. A quick 12-2 run by Boston would get the crowd on tilt and have Brooklyn reeling in a hurry. Ball possession will be essential tonight as the Nets can’t afford to let possessions go to waste against a team this good.

Player to watch: Nikola Vucevic

An old face in a new place. Vucevic came over from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Anfernee Simons at the trade deadline. So far, his presence has been a welcome addition to the club.

“It’s been huge,” Neemias Queta recently said. “I’m trying to pick his brain every day, trying to figure out how I can get better with my game as well. Credit to him — I think he’s been a great addition in terms of spacing the floor, being able to be a threat down low. He’s going to rebound for sure, too. He’s going to be key for us late in the season, and we’re still trying to figure out a couple of things with him — how to get him in his best spots, and he’s trying to get loose too.”

Vucci Mane is back to doing his usual stuff on offense. He’s been in a bit of a rut in the past two games as he’s shot 5-18 from the field and 0-7 from three point range, but his ability to hit elbow jumpers, find open cutters, etc. will prove handy this spring. Having a post player like Vucevic should make life easy for everyone on the team.

For the first time in a while, the Nets won the rebound battle last night. They’re going to need a total team effort again as the C’s are fourth in the NBA in rebound rate. Assuming Nic Claxton plays, he’ll be responsible for battling with old foe Vucevic on the inside while also controlling the boards. He, Day’ron Sharpe, and Noah Clowney will look to help the Nets on the interior and prevent Boston from getting second and third opportunities on offense.

From the Vault

The Elimination Chamber is tomorrow night, and we are officially on the Road to WrestleMania!

More reading: Celtics Blog, SB Nation NBA, New York Post, New York Daily News, Clutch Points, Nets Wire, Steve’s Newsletter

• Brooklyn Nets Game Notes – Brooklyn Nets
• Boston Celtics Game Notes – Boston Celtics
• San Antonio plays Brooklyn on 10-game win streak – AP
• Michael Porter Jr. finally showing signs of vintage self after ugly Nets funk – Brian Lewis – New York Post

Coming off a comeback win against the Toronto Raptors, the Spurs traveled to the Barclays Center to take on the Brooklyn Nets. From the start of the game, the Spurs started hot and did not slow down. They outscored the Nets 36-22 in the first quarter, and led by as much as 22 in the first half. The Nets would cut the deficit to single digits, but the Spurs’ defense, ball movement, and hot shooting overwhelmed this young Brooklyn team. After taking a 15-point lead into halftime, the Spurs kept their foot on the gas pedal in the third and took a 20-point lead into the fourth. The Spurs led by as much as 26, and ultimately defeated the Brooklyn Nets 126-110.

Julian Champagnie returned to his hometown of Brooklyn and scorched the Nets with 26 points (10-14 FG, 6-9 3PT), three steals, two blocks, two assists, and two rebounds. 19 of his 26 came in the first half, as he drained threes from the corners, wings, and even slashed his way to the cup. This performance is reminiscent of his career-high 36 points and 11 threes against the New York Knicks on New Year’s Eve; it just seemed like Julian could hardly miss. Guess who he plays next?

Rise up! Julian cuts to the basket and rises for a two-handed jam!

¡MUY CALIENTE! Julian catches the ball at the top of the key and lasers home his fourth trey of the game!

Don’t leave your feet! Julian fakes out Egor Demin and drives his way to the basket for the easy layup!

Stephon Castle dropped 18 points (10-12 FT), five assists, two rebounds, and two steals. Steph drew fouls and got himself to the line no matter who was in front of him. In the past, Steph usually has not gotten the benefit of the doubt when it comes to drawing contact, but the Nets could not guard him without fouling. Also, when they did not foul him, he drove right past and posterized multiple defenders!

On the board! Steph and Victor Wembanyama run the give-and-go as Steph cuts to the basket for the easy slam and the first points of the game!

POSTER #1: On the fastbreak, Steph leaks out and finishes through Nolan Traore’s contact for the and-one slam!

POSTER #2: Steph gets a full head of steam and posterizes Noah Clowney for the and-one!

De’Aaron Fox dropped 14 points (6-8 FG, 2-3 3PT), six assists, two steals, and a rebound. D-Fox played unselfishly and efficiently. He dished out six dimes and only missed two of his eight shots. For someone who is playing on a max contract, Fox has taken over the offense, usually if it is in the flow of the game. Playing with young star guards, efficient shooters, and lob threats (especially Wemby), it makes his job a bit easier.

CRAFTY! D-Fox spins off of Traore in transition and finishes off the backboard with a scoop layup!

Devin Vassell dropped 14 points (4-7 3PT), seven rebounds, five assists, and a steal. In his last three games, Dev is averaging 21 points per game, shooting 62% from the field and about 67% from three. In other words, Dev is on a hot streak. A consistent Dev for a team with many mouths to feed only raises this team’s ceiling.

DEV POSTER! Dev beats Demin on the backdoor cut and posterizes Drake Powell with one hand!

Keldon Johnson dropped 13 points (6-7 FG), four rebounds, and a steal. After having a couple of rough games and a shoulder injury, KJ bounced back in just 18 minutes. The instant spark plug took a bit to charge up, but he was fully charged on offense, missing only one of his seven shots. Look for him to continue to rehab his shoulder and get back to his 6MOTY form.

GET BIG! KJ posts up and spins off of Powell for a tough and-one finish over Day’Ron Sharpe!

SMOOTH CRIMINAL! KJ takes Ochai Agbaji to school by crossing him over and spinning off of him for the hook shot finish!

Victor Wembanyama dropped 12 points (6-6 FT), eight rebounds, five assists, two steals, and two blocks. Offensively, Vic has looked sluggish these last two games, struggling from the field and forcing up tough shots. However, on the defensive side, he had himself a pair of blocks and got into the passing lanes for steals. Hopefully, this two-day rest will come in handy for the rematch against the Knicks.

Just throw it up there! Wemby cuts to the paint for an easy runway to catch the pass from Dev for the alley-oop jam!

Dylan Harper dropped 12 points, seven assists, three rebounds, and a steal. Dyl had himself a Fox-like game. He took shots when he needed to and dished out dimes. Despite a few turnovers, Dyl was able to make the most of his extended playing time (29 minutes). He even got to show off his athleticism by recovering the loose ball and slamming it home with one hand!

All in all, this was a fantastic bow to seal the month of February undefeated. From where this team was a year ago, this season has been beyond most fans’ wildest dreams. Also important to point out: this is the first team in NBA history to go undefeated in a month while scoring at least 110 points a game (min. 10 games). Some tough tests approach this young team in March, starting with the NBA Cup Champs at MSG.

Finally, here are the full game highlights.

The Spurs take on the New York Knicks this Sunday at 12:00 P.M. (CST) on ABC.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have run into some bad injury luck after their impressive win over the New York Knicks on Tuesday. In that game, star guard James Harden broke the top of his thumb. The following night, Dennis Schroder and Dean Wade seemed to have injured their ankles. And now it’s been revealed that Keon Ellis has also broken his finger.

The team announced on Friday morning that X-rays have revealed that Ellis has a non-displaced solar plate avulsion in his left index PIP joint. The injury happened during Wednesday’s loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.

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Despite the injury, Ellis could play in Friday’s game against the Detroit Pistons. Both he and Harden are listed as questionable.

Even though this isn’t an injury that is expected to keep Ellis out of the lineup for a long period of time — if at all — it isn’t exactly coming at the most opportune time.

Head coach Kenny Atkinson has the difficult job of trying to figure out lineup combinations that work before the playoffs. He’s running out of time to do so, considering there are just 22 games left, and they could be without several key players for a portion of those games, including Donovan Mitchell who will miss Friday’s contest with a groin strain.

Ellis has fit in nicely with the Cavs in the nine games he played. He scored 14 points on 4-8 shooting from deep in the loss to the Bucks. The defensive specialist has averaged 6.4 points, 1.9 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1 block per game since coming to Cleveland.

Depending on your investment in the NBA Draft Lottery — which, you’re here on this page, so — we’ve entered a very tense time in the Dallas Mavericks’ season. Every season there is hand-wringing about the state of tanking in the league. So much so that we’re getting mixed rumors of NBA officials attending player MRIs just to verify that the player is, in fact, injured.

If you’re catching up, Friday’s were reserved for scanning the media landscape in our NBA Power Rankings Watch. Now, the Mavericks are more focused on moving down than up, so last week we shifted our sights to the lottery. Ten or more teams are currently in a fight for their life, jockeying for position to have greater odds in the lottery pull for one of the deepest draft classes in recent years. Draft order will be determined May 10. And until the end of the Mavericks’ season on April 12, we’ll be keeping a close eye on this board for the final 24 games. Cooper Flagg’s future running mate is on the way.

Lottery standings

Last week we identified that Mavericks fans should watch closely on results from the Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies, the two teams clustered with Dallas in the tank standings. We’re now keeping casual watch on the New Orleans Pelicans (three game win streak) and the Chicago Bulls (11 [ELEVEN] game losing streak) as well. Don’t be surprised if the last six weeks of the season groups these teams closer together.

For now, no real shuffling to the standings themselves. The Mavericks went 2-2 last week, with the team facing several other lottery bound opponents there will be plenty of roster mischief in the days ahead. The Jazz went 0-3, creating some space between themselves and Dallas. The Grizzlies went 1-3, at one point tying the Mavericks by record. For all these teams, it might be worth taking into account remaining schedule strength: Mavericks (3rd toughest remaining schedule), Grizzlies (7th), Jazz (12th), Bulls (14th), Pelicans (19th).

Weekly schedule

Until New Orleans falls further back or Chicago “jumps” forward, we’re focus in on the three teams from last week. You’ll notice some very key head-to-head matchups, mixed with some games against teams in the top four of the lottery standings. A pretty key week:

• Dallas Mavericks: vs. Memphis Grizzlies, vs. Oklahoma City Thunder, @ Charlotte Hornets, @ Orlando Magic
• Utah Jazz: vs. New Orleans Pelicans, vs. Denver Nuggets, @ Philadelphia 76ers, @ Washington Wizards
• Memphis Grizzlies: @ Dallas Mavericks, @ Indiana Pacers, @ Minnesota Timberwolves, vs. Portland Trail Blazers

One magic spin

Each week we’ll take one spin around the block at tankathon.com and see where the chips fall. As last week brought one large swing of chaos, this week’s chaos was of a different sort. Three teams, including the Mavericks, jumped into the top four of the draft.

You can’t ask for much more from the lottery in this moment.

When Deandre Ayton joined the Lakers, he said all the right things. He talked about proving his critics wrong and not taking this opportunity for granted.

For a while, it worked. In November, Ayton was the best version of himself, averaging 16.6 points and nine rebounds per game. Recently, though, his scoring has dropped, his defensive aggression has evaporated and he’s been benched during clutch games.

It seems Ayton isn’t thrilled with his role on the Lakers and was recently overheard in the locker room saying, “They’re trying to make me Clint Capela. I’m not no Clint Capela!” as reported by Dave McMenamin of ESPN.

What’s wild about Ayton’s quote, besides the fact that he’s dissing one of his peers, is that Capela is exactly the kind of big man the Lakers desire. He’s an important part of the Rockets’ rotation and does all the little things that impact winning.

Ayton’s words caused quite a buzz on social media, so much so that Capela went on Instagram and encouraged Ayton to lock in with his floor generals.

It feels like Ayton has been told by everyone who has ever cheered for him to lock in, but it hasn’t ever consistently come to fruition. If things keep trending negatively in LA, you can add this stop as another in his career where the sizzle was far more enjoyable than the steak.

To make this entire situation even worse for Ayton, Capela outplayed him on Thursday night. Capela was hustling hard, helping the Rockets beat the Magic 113-108.

Ayton, on the other hand, was rather pedestrian during his performance in LA’s loss to Phoenix.

The box score comparison between the two bigs matched the eye test. Capela ended the night with four points, six rebounds and two blocks in his 17 minutes off the bench. Ayton had two points and four rebounds in his 23 minutes as a starter.

Capela took the petty route with his response to Ayton, and considering who he was reacting to, most won’t have a problem with it.

Also, Capela’s right. Ayton does have to lock in, and playing more like Capela would be better for everyone involved.

As has been true for a lot of his career, Ayton just doesn’t seem to get it.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.

The Knicks have been without one of the key pieces on their bench for just under a month now, and it appears they won’t be getting him back in the mix anytime soon. 

Speaking for the first time since undergoing core muscle surgery, Miles McBridetold reporters Friday in Milwaukee that he remains without a timeline for a return. 

McBride hopes he'll be able to get back before the end of the regular season, but is unsure. 

League sources told SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley earlier this month that a potential timetable for a return post-surgery would be six-to-eight weeks. 

The guard underwent the procedure on Feb. 6, penciling him in for an earliest return in the first week of April. 

The NBA playoffs are scheduled to begin on April 18.

McBride said that it is a slow process back, but he has begun shooting without jumping. 

In his absence, head coach Mike Brown has been leaning on trade deadline acquisition Jose Alvarado, who was picked up from the Pelicans just before the news of the 25-year-old's injury broke.