Category: NBA

Who: Orlando Magic (29-25) vs. Phoenix Suns (32-24)

When: 3:00pm Arizona Time

Where: Mortgage Matchup Center— Phoenix, Arizona

Watch: Arizona’s Family 3TV, Arizona’s Family Sports

Listen: KMVP 98.7

The Phoenix Suns look to dust the rust off heading back home after a disappointing loss to the San Antonio Spurs the other day. Both teams coming into this contest have injuries to consider: in the previous contest, Devin Booker exited the game and did not return due to hip soreness.

For the Magic, they have seen an abundance of injuries this year, similarly to Phoenix, and this time, Franz Wagner is out.

This leaves both teams fighting for a must-win, one for the Suns to start this nice home stretch, and for the Magic, a win would aid their efforts to climb out of the play-in race out east. With them both meeting for the first time and being physical defensive teams, expect a fun afternoon game that you certainly do not want to miss. Dillon Brooks is also back from serving his one-game suspension, benefiting this team on the defensive end.

Probable Starters

Injury Report

Suns

• Grayson Allen — QUESTIONABLE (Right Ankle Sprain)
• Devin Booker — OUT (Right Hip Strain)
• Haywood Highsmith — OUT ( Right Knee Injury)
• Cole Anthony — OUT (Not With Team)

Magic

• Jalen Suggs — QUESTIONABLE (Back Spasms)
• Franz Wagner — OUT (Left High Ankle Sprain)
• Alex Morales — OUT (G-League Assignment)
• Colin Castleton — OUT (G-League Assignment)

What to Watch For

I mentioned this earlier, but the physicality and defense will be worth keeping an eye on. Both teams are very physical on that end and love to get under their opponents’ skin, playing with toughness and aggression on every play. With recent games in Phoenix leading to lengthy reviews of physical play, altercations, and ridiculous foul calls, I expect this to happen again this afternoon.

If the Suns get blessed with a subpar officiating crew (a hard ask in Adam Silver’s NBA), then we could see a classic. With Brooks also coming back, he will have some juice he wants to expend early on both ends. Therefore, I do expect him to be that relentless pest on defense and to take a big load offensively with no Booker.

Oh, I also cannot forget that the Magic just signed former Phoenix Sun Jevon Carter after the Bulls bought him out. This will be cool for him to return to the Valley (in an actual role) and for all his old fans to show out for him too!

Key to a Suns Win

The Suns are making their threes and taking command in that regard. The Magic are in the bottom third of the league for shooting threes as a team. Even with the addition of Desmond Bane, it was not enough to help them completely change their biggest weakness from last year, which still lingers.

Yes, the Suns have struggled from beyond the arc as of late, but I do think that the shooting will eventually even out, hopefully, with a necessary avalanche of threes in this game. With some three-point scorers out, big games from Gillespie and Brooks will be needed, but also Jalen Green, who looked comfortable in his latest contest.

Prediction Time

The Suns shake off the rust from Texas and come home to represent the home crowd the right way, with a hard-fought win.

Suns 112, Magic 104

It was a mixed day Friday, as it often is, in the development game as the Long Island Nets lost at the buzzer to the Squadron in Birmingham, 104-102. With 0.6 seconds remaining Trey Alexander’s game-winner sent the Nets back to Long Island.

Neither of the two Brooklyn players assigned to the G League affiliate played that much of a role, particularly after they had looked so good Thursday. The three two-ways played solid ball as they often do and Grant Nelson, on a G League contract, registered his first double-double of the season adding to the intrigue around his future.

Beyond his 14 points and 12 rebounds in 25 minutes, there was another milestone. This was also his 14th straight start, matching the number of games he missed to a knee injury since resolved. The 25 minutes was most he’s played on a minutes restriction since his return. In those 14, he’s played 288 minutes or 20.6 per game. On a per-36 basis, he’s averaged 24.2 points and 11.6 rebounds while shooting better than 60% from the floor.

How long will the restrictions last? Nelson said recently that he doesn’t know, but there has been progress from 16 to 18 minutes early on to 22 to 25 now. Also unresolved is who, if anyone, will fill the 15th and final roster spot in Brooklyn. That will likely have after-effects on Long Island.

His 14 points were tied for second on the team. While he only connected on three of his seven shots from the field, he was perfect from the foul stripe, going five-for-five. He missed on his only try from 3-point land. This is something that he’s been trying to integrate more into his game. He’s shot 2-of-13 from three this season.

Perhaps Nelson’s best trait was his ability to rebound the ball. Nelson hauled in 12, which led the team and was tied for the game-best. It also marked a career-high. Nelson brought in seven boards offensively. On top of his rebounds, Nelson also had three assists and one block. Nelson’s one Achilles heel in this one was his turnovers, in which he had four.

As for the Brooklyn rookie, Ben Saraf, he was one of the stars in Thursday’s Long Island win. His performance looked to be one he could build on and get back on the right path. Unfortunately, that was not the case. Saraf finished the game with just seven points. To make matters worse, he shot an abysmal 25%, connecting on just three of his 12 tries, only making one of his five tries from deep.

As for Josh Minott, he too shone Thursday in Long Island’s win, making a statement debut with Long Island. Sadly, in this one, Minott also proved to be a non-factor. Minott also connected on just three of his 12 shot attempts, including going two-for-seven from deep. He finished this one with nine points.

Minott also had four rebounds and two assists. One aspect of the game where Minott continued to do very well is shot blocking. The 6’8” finished Friday’s game with three blocks. His three blocks not only led the team, but were the most in the game.

EJ Liddell flirted with a double-double, connecting on five of his 12 tries, for 14 points, and brought in eight rebounds. Liddell also had one assist, one steal, and two blocks.

As for Tyson Etienne,he tallied 10 points in this one, connecting on just three of his seven tries. He went two-for-four from deep and also went two-for-three from the foul stripe. From the onset of this game, Etienne’s shots just weren’t looking as sharp as normal, which caused him to take substantially less than normal. Etienne also had four rebounds and three assists.

The Long Island bench looked better than the starters for almost the whole game. The third and final two-way player on hand for Long Island in this one, Chaney Johnson, scored 10 points off the bench. Johnson also hauled in 10 rebounds, giving him him a double-double. Malachi Smith led the team in scoring, tallying 17 points in his 30 minutes, as Hunter Cattoor came alive in the fourth quarter, finishing with 12 points.

Next Up

The Long Island Nets (14-10) return to the court on Monday, February 23rd, for a showdown with their former friend, Kendall Brown, and the Maine Celtics. This marks Long Island’s first of four straight home games as they make their return to the Nassau Coliseum. The game tips off at 7:00 p.m. EST and can be watched on the NBA G League website, as well as on the Gotham Sports app.

• Boxscore: Birmingham Squadron 104, Long Island Nets 102 – G League
• Game Highlights: Birmingham Squadron 104, Long Island Nets 102 (Video) – G League

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Polar opposites take the court Saturday as the 12-win Sacramento Kings travel to Texas to face the No. 2 seed San Antonio Spurs.

The end of the season can’t come fast enough for the visitors, and my Kings vs. Spurs predictions expect a blowout of epic proportions in favor of San Antonio.

Here are my best free NBA picks for this one-sided matchup on Saturday, February 21.

Kings vs Spurs prediction

Kings vs Spurs best bet: Spurs -18.5 (-110)

The 18.5-point spread is one of the highest I’ve seen for any game all season, but the lopsided lean is warranted.

The Sacramento Kings have struggled to play competitively with a healthy roster, but the losses of Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and De’Andre Hunter will make it even tougher for the Kings to compete.

The San Antonio Spurshave won seven straight and covered in six of them, while Sacramento has lost three straight by an average margin of 30.3 points while scoring no more than 94 points. The Spurs are 15-10-1 ATS at home, and the Kings are 9-19 on the road.

Kings vs Spurs same-game parlay

San Antonio’s defense is one of the best in the Association, and Sacramento’s offense is bereft of quality scoring options due to recent trades and season-ending injuries. Sacramento ranks 29th in scoring offense (109.9), while San Antonio ranks fifth in scoring defense (111.8).

Maxime Raynaud can hold his own, but the rookie will have very little support while trying to nab rebounds from Victor Wembanyama. Domantas Sabonis and Dylan Cardwell are out, and Wemby should have his way with the shorthanded Kings’ frontcourt.

Kings vs Spurs SGP

• Spurs -18.5
• Under 228.5
• Victor Wembanyama Over 11.5 rebounds

Our "from downtown" SGP: Harper Heats Up

Dylan Harper has scored 12+ in six of his last eight while averaging 14.6 points.

San Antonio should cruise to victory in this one, allowing Harper to see some extra run off the bench and easily clear this scoring line.

Kings vs Spurs SGP

• Spurs -18.5
• Under 228.5
• Victor Wembanyama Over 11.5 rebounds
• Dylan Harper Over 11.5 points

Kings vs Spurs odds

• Spread: Kings +18.5 (-110) | Spurs -18.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Kings +1000 | Spurs -2000
• Over/Under: Over 228.5 (-115) | Under 228.5 (-105)

Kings vs Spurs betting trend to know

The Sacramento Kings have hit the team total Under in 32 of their last 50 games (+11.50 Units / 20% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Kings vs. Spurs.

How to watch Kings vs Spurs

Kings vs Spurs latest injuries

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Tyrese Maxey and the Philadelphia 76ers head to The Big Easy tonight to take on the struggling New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center.

My 76ers vs. Pelicans predictions are eyeing Maxey to get hot from deep against a poor NOLA perimeter defense.

Read more in my NBA picks for Saturday, February 21.

76ers vs Pelicans prediction

76ers vs Pelicans best bet: Tyrese Maxey Over 3.5 threes (+110)

Tyrese Maxey is knocking down 3.4 three-pointers per game on 8.9 attempts, and he returned from the All-Star break by hitting 4 of 11 from beyond the arc. Although that marked his first Over in five games, there are signs he’s poised to heat up again.

The Philadelphia 76ers face the struggling New Orleans Pelicans, a team surrendering 3.55 made threes per game to opposing point guards.

Maxey has also been far more efficient on the road, shooting 40.2 percent from deep while averaging 3.5 makes per contest, making this matchup a favorable spot for another strong perimeter performance.

76ers vs Pelicans same-game parlay

Quentin Grimes is shooting 34.4% from three-point range this season, averaging 1.8 makes on 5.3 attempts per contest.

He’s cashed the Over in three of his last five games, going 2-for-4 on Thursday against Atlanta. Each of those appearances where he hit the Over was on the road.

While the Sixers lost their first game after the ASG break, they did beat the Pelicans by 10 points on January 31. New Orleans is also a horrendous 6-21 at home this season, while Philly has actually played well on the road, compiling a 15-10 record.

76ers vs Pelicans SGP

• Tyrese Maxey Over 3.5 threes
• Quentin Grimes Over 1.5 threes
• 76ers moneyline

Our "from downtown" SGP: Drummond in rhythm

Andre Drummond has cashed the Over in points in three of his last four appearances, finishing in double digits in each game.

76ers vs Pelicans SGP

• Tyrese Maxey Over 3.5 threes
• Quentin Grimes Over 1.5 threes
• 76ers moneyline
• Andre Drummond Over 8.5 points

76ers vs Pelicans odds

• Spread: Philadelphia -3.5 (-115) | New Orleans +3.5 (-105)
• Moneyline: Philadelphia -165 | New Orleans +140
• Over/Under: Over 232 (-110) | Under 232 (-110)

76ers vs Pelicans betting trend to know

The Philadelphia 76ers have covered the Spread in 17 of their last 25 away games (+9.30 Units / 34% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for 76ers vs. Pelicans.

How to watch 76ers vs Pelicans

76ers vs Pelicans latest injuries

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.

LONDON (AP) — The rumors of Ireland's demise have been exaggerated.

Ireland revived its Six Nations title hopes and killed off England's after a shocking 42-21 blowout win at Twickenham on Saturday.

The script was expected to go the other way. England had not lost at home since autumn 2024, and a fiery retort after losing to Scotland at Murrayfield last weekend was expected to celebrate captain Maro Itoje's 100th England cap.

But England was flat and sloppy while Ireland looked and played like the No. 1-ranked team from 2023; energetic, efficient and fearless. Having slipped to No. 5, the Irish beat a team ranked higher than themselves for the first time since July 2024.

And it was historic: Ireland's highest score and biggest margin against England at Twickenham with a bonus point from scoring five tries to three.

Ireland shot to 22-0, led 22-7 at halftime, scored straight after the break and piled on. Jack Crowley booted seven from 10 for a personal 17 points in his second Six Nations start in two tournaments.

The clash of British and Irish Lions — 13 on Ireland's side and nine on England's — was a reminder of why Ireland dominated the successful squad in Australia last year.

Two consecutive losses have knocked out England from contending for the title. England finishes at Italy and, on the final weekend, defending champion France. Ireland goes home to welcome Wales and Scotland and hoping unbeaten France has an off-day somewhere.

An opening night hammering from France followed by an unconvincing win over Italy plunged Ireland into despair that a generational team was on the wane. But coach Andy Farrell's decision to give starts to Jamison Gibson-Park, Tadhg Beirne, Tadhg Furlong, Josh van der Flier and Crowley came up trumps.

Ireland was relieved early by England errors, highlighted by George Ford twice missing touch-finders into the left corner.

Injured winger James Lowe was replaced by Tommy O'Brien, whose first touch was to support a long break by fellow wing Robert Baloucoune. Gibson-Park quick-tapped, caught England sleeping and dashed over for the opening try that Crowley converted from the touchline.

England was suddenly full of holes. Ireland center Stuart McCloskey slipped off opposite Ollie Lawrence and Baloucoune was scoring. In a double blow for England, fullback Freddie Steward was yellow-carded for illegally trying to slow Gibson-Park.

Referee Andrea Piardi hurt his left leg and had to be replaced by Pierre Brousset, then Baloucoune was scoring off an O’Brien break for 22-0 after 30 minutes.

England coach Steve Borthwick pulled off Luke Cowan-Dickie and Steward for a spark from Jamie George and Marcus Smith and they finally pierced Ireland's magnificent scrambling defense a minute into injury time through Fraser Dingwall.

But the boost was short-lived.

Ireland used a yellow card to Henry Pollock in his first England start to get hooker Dan Sheehan over and Farrell was all smiles.

Pollock returned from the sin-bin to help Lawrence score a try and Ireland fullback Jamie Osborne was yellow-carded.

Itoje usually goes 80 minutes but in his milestone match he was replaced in the 55th.

Crowley added two penalties and a conversion to a try by Osborne straight out of the sin-bin. Ireland's hunger was relentless: McCloskey chased down Marcus Smith from behind to save a try in the 73rd. That earned a fist-pump by Farrell in the coaches' box.

Sam Underhill claimed England's third converted try but moments later Ireland was doing a lap of honor at Twickenham, celebrating a sixth win at England's home in the Six Nations era. No other Six Nations team since 2000 has more than two wins.

___

AP rugby: https://apnews.com/hub/rugby

TURIN, Italy (AP) — Juventus’ damaging week continued in Serie A on Saturday with a 2-0 loss at home to Como that dents the Italian power’s hopes of Champions League qualification.

The defeat comes days after the Bianconeri’s 5-2 loss at Galatasaray in the first leg of the playoffs in this season’s Champions League. Juventus welcomes the Turkish team for the second leg on Wednesday.

Mërgim Vojvoda scored early for Como with a shot that Michele Di Gregorio should have saved after getting his arm to ball. The chance came about after Juventus’ Weston McKennie lost the ball in midfield.

There were whistles from frustrated Juve fans at the break, and it didn’t get any better for their team after the restart.

Lucas da Cunha broke through to set up Maxence Caqueret for Como’s second in the 61st.

It's Juventus' third straight defeat across all competitions and its fifth game in a row without a win.

Luciano Spalletti's team remained fifth, a point behind Roma before the capital club hosts Cremonese on Sunday. Como stayed sixth, a point behind Juve. Only the top four qualify for Europe’s premier competition.

League leader Inter Milan could open a 10-point gap with a win at Lecce later, before Lazio was to visit Cagliari for the late game.

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

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We have just six games on the schedule across the Association this evening, but I’ve found some value in my NBA player props.

Tyrese Maxey, Cade Cunningham, and Kevin Durant will be included.

Read more in my NBA picks for Saturday, February 21.

Best NBA player props today

Player	Pick
Tyrese Maxey	Over 3.5 threes	+102
Cade Cunningham	Over 25.5 points	-105
Kevin Durant	Over 24.5 points	-105

Prop #1: Tyrese Maxey Over 3.5 threes

+102 at bet365

Tyrese Maxey has been the main man for the Philadelphia 76ers this season, putting up career numbers. The guard is averaging a career-high 28.9 points, and he’s also shooting an impressive 37.9% from downtown.

The Kentucky product is averaging 3.4 makes on 8.9 attempts per night, and Maxey just went 4-for-11 from deep in his first game back from the All-Star break. While that’s the first time he’s cashed the Over in triples in five appearances, there’s reason to believe Maxey will get hot from deep.

The Sixers take on the lowly New Orleans Pelicans tonight, who are allowing point guards to average 3.55 threes per game. Maxey is also shooting 40.2% from downtown on the road, averaging 3.5 makes.

• Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: NBCSP, GCSEN

Prop #2: Cade Cunningham Over 25.5 points

-105 at bet365

Cade Cunningham is the main driving force behind the Detroit Pistons’ miraculous season, and he didn’t miss a beat in his return from the All-Star festivities. Cade proceeded to drop 42 against the New York Knicks on Thursday in a huge win at Madison Square Garden.

The guard is averaging 25.7 PPG in 2025-26, and he’s cashed the Over in five of his last six outings. During that span, Cunningham has scored 30+ points three times. The 24-year-old is averaging 27.6 points on the road, and Detroit is in Chicago this evening.

He’ll cook in The Windy City.

• Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: FanDuel Sports Network-Detroit, CHSN

Prop #3: Kevin Durant Over 24.5 points

-105 at bet365

Kevin Durant is a walking bucket, and he’s lived up to expectations in his first season with the Houston Rockets. KD is averaging 26 PPG, which ranks 11th in the league. He erupted for 35 points on Thursday against the Charlotte Hornets.

The veteran has hit the Over in points in just three of his last six, but Durant is averaging 27.3 points per game on the road this season, and the Rockets head to MSG tonight to face the New York Knicks.

There’s always an added pressure playing at The Garden, and I have no doubts Durant will rise to the occasion and make this one competitive.

• Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: ABC

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 Atlanta Hawks returned to State Farm Arena to begin a significant stretch of home games but fell to a disappointing 128-97 defeat to the Miami Heat on Friday night. Onyeka Okongwu led the scoring with 22 points, with CJ McCollum and Nickeil Alexander-Walker added 20 points. For the Heat, Tyler Herro played his first game since mid-January, scoring 24 points. Bam Adebayo added 17 points as seven Miami players hit double-figure scoring efforts.

The Hawks were in a rest-disadvantaged situation heading into this contest. Having been on the road and captured an impressive win in Philadelphia on Thursday night, they would have returned late to Atlanta that night, while the Heat were already waiting for the Hawks. This was Miami’s first game after the break, and they opened the game like a team who were playing with a rest advantage, running out to an 11-3 start before quickly establishing a double-digit lead in the first quarter.

The Hawks missed a number of shots that could have easily swung the other way (such as three-point attempts from Zaccharie Risacher and Okongwu), but what was a common theme throughout the night was Atlanta’s poor defense in the paint, where Miami scored 72 points.

A few instances from the first quarter: Adebayo is easily able to beat Okongwu on the drive and beats him to the rim:

As if often the case this season, if Okongwu is forced to rotate or step up, it leaves a gaping hole at the rim where teams can exploit the Hawks’ lack of size at the rim. Risacher is easily beaten on the perimeter, forcing Okongwu to step up, which allows Norman Powell to toss a lob to Kel’el Ware, who is easily able to finish with Okongwu out of the picture:

Really, really poor from Risacher here to put the Hawks in a vulnerable position. I have no idea what resistance he thinks this is, but Powell just gets by him as if he wasn’t there (which he may as well have not been on this possession).

A poor defensive sequence from the normally positive Alexander-Walker, who falls behind too easily on the give-and-go exchange from Herro and Kasparas Jakučionis. Herro easily getting by as Alexander-Walker gets caught trying to reach in, and Herro recognizes the opportunity to get ahead of Alexander-Walker, who tries a desperate slap-down to try and salvage the possession as Herro hits the runner:

The Hawks fell behind by 15 points in the early stages of the second quarter before the Hawks were ignited by an 11-point McCollum quarter that saw the Hawks actually tie this game. McCollum hit three three-pointers, as the Hawks hit seven threes in the second quarter alone to reign in the Heat. However, a disappointing end to the quarter saw the Hawks fall behind by six points heading into the locker room as Adebayo gets the better of Okongwu again at the rim for the basket:

The third quarter played out similarly to the first quarter: the Hawks missing shots while offering little resistance to prevent Miami from scoring. This play just over two minutes into the second half sums it up, as Davion Mitchell strolls by Jalen Johnson for the score at the rim, leading to a timeout:

This was only the Heat’s second basket of the quarter, but after a poor, off-balance shot by Okongwu in the lane followed by…I don’t even know how to kindly describe Jalen Johnson’s defense/effort on that possession. The Hawks are on the second night of a back-to-back, but you cannot use that excuse for that type of defense coming out after halftime in a game/against a team the Hawks actually need to win more than others.

This is a team the Hawks are competing with for a play-in spot, and that kind of defense from Johnson — the team’s leading player — is absolutely unacceptable, especially from a player who is more than capable of being an excellent defender. However, since his growth in offensive responsibilities/capabilities, his on-ball defense has taken an absolute nosedive, and that play really sums up the drop-off.

The Heat re-established their double-digit lead, and while a quick run brought that back down to six points, the Heat didn’t take long to push their lead back out to double digits. The Hawks continued to struggle offensively, shooting 9-of-27 from the field, including 1-of-7 from Johnson in the third quarter alone.

The Hawks tried to go to McCollum in hopes of another spark, and while he did score seven points in the third, it was not enough for the Hawks as the Heat eased their way into the fourth with a double-digit lead. The same recipe repeated in the fourth quarter as the Hawks offered little resistance in the paint.

Another example shown in this play, as Risacher gets drawn to the middle and loses sight of Jaime Jaquez Jr., who makes the cut behind Risacher and finishes at the rim:

In the end, the Heat shot 68% around the rim, making a total of 34 made baskets around the rim, which is a lot of baskets to concede at the rim:

The Heat eased away from the Hawks, and the game became a rout, a 128-97 loss at home as the chants of ‘Let’s go Heat’ sounded at State Farm Arena. A disappointing return to State Farm Arena after the All-Star break.

In contrast, the Hawks shot 45% around the rim (well below the 60% league average number), and Hawks head coach Quin Snyder was left to reflect on the Hawks’ percentage at the rim, including keeping the Hawks’ awareness on drives and creating better shots and the process of players continuing to learn with the Hawks’ preferred tendencies offensively.

“We talk a lot about having your eyes out,” said Snyder postgame. “Whatever those shots are, not all shots at the rim are created equal, and there’s times when we’re in a crowd, or we’re trying to finish over somebody, we need to make better decisions in that area. We need each other on offense, and the possessions where that happens, you can feel them. We can generate better shots. When we’re not doing that, that’s not our strength, and it’s going to show with our shot quality. That’s something that we just need to internalize, there’s no shame in that. But we have to generate offense together, whether that means running or movement, passing, and that’s gonna be key for us. We’re at a point now where there’s some guys that are learning that, guys are learning new roles. The end game is the same: that’s what it needs to look like. When you see that, there’s some really good possessions where we get good looks and good things happen and then when we’re not that connected, the result isn’t good enough to win a game.”

Jalen Johnson, similarly, highlighted that when the Hawks are at their best when they execute their gameplan, and admitted the Hawks did not do this last night.

“I think when we’re consistent with the game plan and we come out executing the gameplan, that’s when we’re at our best,” said Johnson. “I don’t think we did a good job of executing the gameplan tonight.”

Snyder alluded to the Hawks’ lack of defensive consistency when the ball wasn’t falling for them on the offensive end, when Snyder wasn’t unhappy with how the Hawks were playing.

“In the first quarter we started out, and even though we weren’t scoring, we had a hard time seeing the ball go in,” said Snyder. “I didn’t think we were playing poorly, offensively. We hung in there with our defense, and there’s a point when the toughness that’s required to kind of keep your focus and continue to sustain defensively when you’re not getting… It’s different, missing shots is different than not getting quality possessions. When you don’t get quality possessions, it becomes much harder to defend, and we teetered with that for a while, and then it slipped. Suddenly, it went from six, eight, ten, and bubbled up to high double digits.”

If by ‘hung in with our defense’ he means give up 70+ points in the paint, allow 34 baskets around the rim, many of them with ease, then, sure, you could say the Hawks hung in there. I’d argue that were it not for the second quarter, and that run where Alexander-Walker and McCollum were hitting shots and brought the Hawks to tie the game, this game would’ve been close to a 40-point blowout. On the balance of the first, third, and fourth quarters, this margin of victory I think reflects the game as a whole. The second quarter was, ultimately, the outlier.

“I think the first quarter, we were kind of getting our sea legs back,” said McCollum. “We didn’t get out and run, didn’t get stops, a little sluggish. Second quarter, we got out and ran, Corey got a dunk, got a transition three, got some rim pressure, got some kick out threes from eyes-out. I think that was the difference. We got a little bit of defensive momentum, obviously 29 points in the first, 28 in the second, so got a couple more stops and tried to prevent second chance opportunities. We tried to ride the wave of momentum but couldn’t sustain it.”

McCollum, generally, held a more realistic assessment of the Hawks’ shortcoming last night.

“Defensively, I think we could have been better with our communication, could have been better in pick-and-rolls,” said McCollum. “I think they went to zone to start that fourth quarter, I think that changed the game and they took advantage of some turnovers, some missed shots … and I don’t think we did enough to win. Herro got off, he got too much freedom, too much space in his pick-and-rolls, too much space in his pull-ups. We’ve got to do a better job of getting the ball in. I think a lot of guys hurt us tonight, and I think we didn’t deserve to win this game.”

In a question alluding to the back-to-back situation the Hawks found themselves in, McCollum maintained that despite a lack of rest, the Heat were able to impose themselves easily in this game to take a deserved victory.

 “I would like to go to sleep before 3 A.M. last night, but they beat us, it is what it is,” said McCollum. “They came out, they played better than us. They got off to a good start; it was up 8-0. They executed better than us, they got points in transition, they got threes, they got rim pressure, they did whatever they wanted tonight. So back-to-back or not, they did enough to win, we didn’t do enough to win.”

Individually, there were some solid offensive games from Okongwu (22 points on 8-of-12 shooting from the field, and 4-of-5 from three), Alexander-Walker (20 points on 8-of-18 shooting), and McCollum (20 points on 8-of-16 from the field). However, struggles from Dyson Daniels (four points on 2-of-7 shooting), and Zaccharie Risacher had a particularly rough game on both sides of the ball (and shot 1-of-8 from the field) which was far from ideal. However, Jalen Johnson shot a woeful 6-of-22 from the field, attempting often to get inside and draw contact and fouls/free throws, but didn’t receive a lot of the calls he wanted.

While Johnson registered a triple-double (16 points, 16 rebounds, 11 assists), he was very much aware of his poor game.

“I don’t really care for no triple-double, I played terrible tonight,” said Johnson. “I just got to be better, and I just got to be better for my teammates, but we have another chance on Sunday to regroup and hopefully string together some wins. We’re home for quite, quite a long stretch, so, the chances are right in front of us. We just got to go out there and get it.”

Johnson registered just two free throw attempts in this game, a stark contrast to the 16 attempts he took against the Sixers on Thursday night.

“Those are two physical teams,” said Johnson when asked about the free throw disparity. “So last night it was just, it’s kind of different with the whistle. Tonight I just try to keep that same mentality and trying to be aggressive. I didn’t draw as many fouls as I would like and get some easy ones going early … this is something you got to adjust to and more importantly, just continue to play through. They’re going to see what they see and they’re human too and they make mistakes. I just got to continue to play through all that.”

Johnson didn’t have a great offensive game, obviously, and while he took some tough shots in traffic, nights like this can happen. While the offense for the Hawks obviously not great (shooting 38% from the field), the defense was of greater concern as they conceded 128 points on 52% shooting. Not to beat a dead horse, it’s the defensive side of the ball you want to see more from Johnson, and where’s so much more capable than he has shown. Johnson’s offense will be fine, and while I think a triple-double isn’t reflective of a good game but instead says a lot to say how impactful he can be despite playing poorly offensively.

All in all, a tough loss for the Hawks. On paper, probably not an unexpected loss on the second night of a back-to-back, but when you watch it unfold, I think it becomes a lot more disappointing.

The defensive effort was really poor and was difficult to watch at times. Miami is good at driving the ball and getting out in transition — a nightmare if, for example, the opposition is shooting poorly, like the Hawks did last night — but against a team that the Hawks are actually looking to compete with and jostle for seeding, the urgency required was absent. It’s one thing to compete and come up short, but the lack of urgency was of greater concern.

The Heat now lead the season-series 2-1, with the last matchup coming on the last day of the regular season. The Hawks, however, may not get close enough for that matter after that loss, now 3.5 games adrift of the Heat for the 8-seed. Not impossible to turnaround, but certainly a challenge.

Good news for the Hawks (27-31), however, is that they’ve got plenty of home games that aren’t back-to-backs, and beginning with the Brooklyn Nets (15-40) at State Farm Arena on Sunday afternoon. A good opportunity for a bounce back at the very least for the hosts.

Until next time!

So, yeah.

Uhh…

This is awkward.

A burner. In a group chat full of “stan” accounts. Speaking poorly of his teammates.

What?

Well, it’s a testament to your poor judgment if you expect emotional maturity from NBA superstars. This man has been exalted for 20 years. Shame is likely less of a variable in his life than it is in yours or mine.

That said, it is imperative (potentially for legal reasons, and if not certainly for journalistic integrity) to note that we do not know if it was Durant.

It does feel like it was Durant, though, doesn’t it?

He had every opportunity to deny it. Deflection without denial is suspect at best. If you suspect your partner of cheating, and when confronted, they tell you, “I’m not here to talk about all that cheating nonsense”…

I have got bad news for you.

Still, speculation is speculative in nature. Maybe it was, maybe it wasn’t. Here’s the rub:

The Rockets may have to make a choice this summer anyway.

Rockets might reach an inflection point

Theoretically, there are three options:

1. Do nothing.
2. Win-now moves
3. Future-focused moves

If the Rockets win a playoff series, option 1 will likely appeal. The theory that re-inserting Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams into the equation will yield sufficient improvement will carry some weight.

What if they don’t?

I just spilled ample ink on how important Fred VanVleet is. So much as I stand by that, it would be a bit hard to accept that a first-round exit team would be vaulted into serious title contention by his low assist-to-turnover ratio. If the Rockets can’t win one playoff series, it’s hard decision time.

In essence, that means either Antetokounmpo season, or sending Durant to the Hornets team he (allegedly) so openly admires.

Most Rockets fans will prefer the latter route. It’s understandable. There is a prevalent parasocial attachment to the “young core.” It’s human.

The fact that I’m impervious to it may be a subject for therapy.

Here’s a harsh reality check: That young core is getting older. Life comes at you fast. Statistically speaking, NBA players tend to level off, improvement-wise, around year 5, or age 25. Here’s a whole academic study if you need something*

*I only read the abstract, but the information is there.

Alperen Sengun is 23, and over halfway to 24. Amen Thompson is the same age. By now, the Rockets’ front office should at least be considering the possibility that Sengun just won’t ever be as efficient around the rim as his best-case comparisons are. They have to be entertaining the idea that Thompson will never have a workable jump shot.

Ergo, they have to be considering the possibility that they didn’t draft “the guy”.

None of which is to say this choice is easy. This team is still talented. Houston could trade Durant for rotational guys and a first-round pick. They could forge ahead as a perennial first or second-round exit, hoping to strike gold in the draft. It’s legitimately not a bad plan.

Here’s the only strong conclusion I’m looking to draw here: If the Rockets don’t win a playoff series, Option 1 should not be attractive to them. It’s a waste of everyone’s time. If they can’t get that far in 2025-26, something substantive should change this summer.

Even if it makes for some awkward conversations.

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) — Pakistan and New Zealand's opening Super Eights match at the T20 World Cup was abandoned on Saturday because of rain without a ball being bowled.

The rain started at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium as soon as Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and chose to bat first.

The persistent rain eventually led to the umpires calling off the Group 2 game with the teams awarded a point each.

Tournament co-host India plays South Africa in Ahmedabad in the first Group 1 match on Sunday, when co-host Sri Lanka and England meet in Group 2 in Pallekele.

___

AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

Fresh of the All-Star break, the Milwaukee Bucks continued their resurgence, running away with it against the New Orleans Pelicans. It was the Bucks’ triumvirate at guard that led the way, with Ryan Rollins, Kevin Porter Jr., and Cam Thomas each going for 25-plus points in a game that offered strong performances across the board. Read our full summary of the game here and catch a six-minute audio recap on the Bucks+ podcast, Bucks In Six Minutes, below.

Player Grades

Ryan Rollins

35 minutes, 27 points, 2 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals, 2 blocks, 10/15 FG, 7/10 3PT, +14

Rollins was phenomenal all night but set the tone early, calming the Bucks with his first of seven threes after the team had two poor possessions to open the game. He was aggressive but played within the flow of the offence, and his work as a student over the past two years has clearly paid off—his Lillard-esque step-back game was on full display. Want more? Without Myles Turner, Rollins turned rim protector too, coming up with two huge swats at the rim, and hounded New Orleans’ ball handlers all night, finishing with four takeaways. He’s become so reliable his glow-up is probably under appreciated.

Grade: A

AJ Green

30 minutes, 0 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 0/4 FG, 0/4 3PT,+22

Green wasn’t able to trouble the scorers, but it wasn’t as if he had a bad game—his game-high +22 is a testament to that. As has been documented, his passing game has really improved this season and he dropped an absolute dime to a cutting Nance after curling around a screen and rising up into his shooting motion. As we know, Green will find the bottom of the net more often than not, but if he can continue to add to his peripheral skill set, he’ll be that much more valuable a player.

Grade: C

Kyle Kuzma

25 minutes, 14 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 6/11 FG, 2/5 3PT, +15

Kuzma got the start at power forward and had quite a nice game overall. He finished explosively at the rim early and looked good on the short roll too, catching and making decisions in traffic. On one instance, he had a nice dump-off to Sims for a dunk. Like most of the Bucks, though, he offered little deterrence to New Orleans’ rim assault.

Grade: B

Kevin Porter Jr.

32 minutes, 25 points, 2 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, 1 block, 10/15 FG, 0/1 3PT, 5/6 FT, +12

With Rollins and then Thomas cooking, Porter looked content to let the game come to him for much of the night. More often than not, he made the right pass and took the right shot. In the fourth, however, he took over, scoring 13 points and dishing two assists to put the game out of reach. In all, this was close to an ideal game from Porter—plenty of highs and very few lows—and he finished with just one turnover.

Grade: A

Jericho Sims

19 minutes, 4 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 blocks, 2/2 FG, +21

Sims continued his yeoman’s work on the boards in the first half and even had a beautiful touch pass to Rollins for three. Early in the third, however, he picked up his fourth foul while setting a hard screen at half court, which forced him to the bench with 8:56 left in the quarter. Still, he made his minutes count, posting a plus/minus of +21, which tells you the sort of impact he was having—even if he wasn’t quite the Zion stopper he was last time.

Grade: B

Cam Thomas

21 minutes, 27 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 11/17 FG, 1/6 3PT, 4/6 FT, +2

Thomas is just such a weapon to have off the bench and is perfectly suited to the role of microwave scorer. He absolutely dominated the second quarter—four paint buckets, two from midrange, and his lone three (to go along with three free throws). His ability to draw fouls and get to the free throw line is such a positive, especially on this team. He won’t ever fill it up with boards or assists, but that’s not what he’s on the court for. Really, you can’t ask for more than over a point per minute on 65% shooting.

Grade: A

Ousmane Dieng

22 minutes, 10 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block, 3/6 FG, 1/1 3PT, 3/4 FT, +8

His opening dunk aside, it took a little while for the Ous to truly get loose in this one, but he got there. Dieng’s game is just silky and his versatility continued to shine. His quick feet defensively forced a travelling violation. He had a great grab-and-go then find of Nance, which should have resulted in a bucket. He hit a nasty step-back from midrange in the fourth and followed that up by getting into the paint and kicking it to Nance in the corner for three. He got to the line too. Overall, it wasn’t the explosion he had against the Thunder, but it was another quality outing. He’s a baller.

Grade: B

Bobby Portis

27 minutes, 17 points, 11 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block, 8/12 FG, 1/3 3PT, 2/2 FT, +0

If a game encapsulated the Bobby Portis experience, this was it: offence giveth, defence taketh away. He was efficient, hit the glass, and even showed some explosiveness with a dunk and a block at the rim. But his limitations as a defensive presence also stood out against a Pelicans teams that lives in the paint. Still, in a win as convincing as this one, it’s hard to knock him too much.

Grade:B

Pete Nance

22 minutes, 10 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block, 4/8 FG, 2/4 3PT, +5

I’m not sure anyone on this team plays the game the right way more than Nance. He does the little things well, moves off ball, and keeps balls alive. But it’s his processing speed that’s most impressive—he doesn’t hesitate, making decisions so quickly (and they’re usually they’re the right ones) that it creates opportunities for himself and others. He might’ve had the game’s most important sequence too: up just six after a Zion basket, Nance helped force a turnover and then cashed a corner three on the other end. At this point, it’s clear as day—the Bucks need to find a way to make him a permanent part of the squad next year.

Grade: A-

Doc Rivers

Rivers’ toughest decision likely came pre-game when he determined who’d start. Given his recent performances, Dieng might’ve been unlucky, but the move was the right one—match-up wise and as a reminder that if Dieng wants it he has to take it. His decision to bring Thomas off the bench also deserved (and deserves) some praise, as does the way he’s managed the rotations at the guard spots (including cementing Gary Trent Jr. to the bench and giving Gary Harris a DNP, which can’t have been easy considering how valuable he’s been as a steadying force). He’s had his struggles this year, but tonight Doc got it right.

Grade: A

Garbage Time: Gary Trent Jr., Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Andre Jackson Jr.

DNP-CD: Gary Harris.

Inactive: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Myles Turner, Taurean Prince, Alex Antetokounmpo.

Bonus Bucks Bits

• The break must have treated the Bucks’ bigs well because not only did Kuzma have two early flushes, but Bobby Portis jammed a put-back—just his sixth dunk of the season.
• With three minutes to go in the first quarter, the Pelicans had doubled the Bucks’ points in the paint (20-10). It should come as no surprise—New Orleans leads the league in that category on the season.
• After a strong start by the Bucks, a 22-11 run gave the Pelicans the lead to end the first quarter.
• Jordan Poole stepped onto the court for first-quarter action after receiving DNPs over the previous nine games. He finished with just three points (1/6) in 25 minutes.
• Zion’s 14 points in the first quarter were a personal season high. Thomas took notice and dropped 18 in the second (a second-quarter career high). Yeah, he’s a bucket.
• Rollins looked smooth from long-range, hitting 4/7 triples in the first half on his way to a career-high 7/10. On the other end, the Pelicans struggled, shooting just 1/10 as a team in the first half and finishing a paltry 4/25.
• After a KPJ fast-break dunk late in the second, Wes Matthews said, “I remember when I was that athletic.” We love you, Wes, but come on now.
• The Bucks went 29/49 (59%) from the field in the first half, while the Pelicans went 29/47 (62%). Good shooting or bad defence? Considering they finished 55/92 (60%) and 47/87 (54%), it’s safe to say it was the latter.
• Portis started a perfect 7/7 from the field until finally missing one—a driving layup attempt—with about seven minutes to go in the third.
• The Bucks took the lead with 6:45 left in the second quarter and never gave it back.
• A seven-point game with eight minutes remaining in the fourth, Milwaukee went on an 20-8 run to put the game away.
• Despite playing in New Orleans, there was a distinguishable “Bucks in six” chant to end the game. I guess it is a city of culture.
• Thomas now has 77 points in 79 minutes of action with the Bucks. Let that sink in.
• Rollins, Porter, and Thomas combined for 79 points on 33/47 shooting (70%), while dishing out 15 assists and committing just five turnovers. They are 23, 25, and 24 years old. The Bucks picked up two of them after being waived and gave up just MarJon Beauchamp for the other. I won’t comment on CBS’s front office rankings. I just won’t.

Up Next

The Bucks are back in action Sunday, taking on the Toronto Raptors at home. You can find all the action on FanDual Sports Wisconsin—tip off is at 2:30 p.m. Central.

Before we get into the present day discussion, I want to start things off by paying homage. Going back generations at this point, Detroit has always been a top-tier sports town. From Hall of Famers like Detroit Lions running back Barry Sanders, to Stanley Cup Champion and current general manager of the Detroit Red Wings Steve Yzerman, there is no shortage of legends to choose from.

That’s part of what made that stretch several years ago so difficult for so many fans, myself included. When all four of the city’s teams—the Lions, Pistons, Tigers, and Red Wings—were seriously going through it at once (think back to the year 2020), it understandably became a tough pill to swallow.

However, six years now probably feels like a lifetime ago for those players who are still on the present-day rosters, and during that time, more than a few superstars have been born in Motown. With that in mind, it felt like a good time to revisit this topic—who is currently the biggest household name in Detroit sports?

My answer: I am going with Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham. Obviously, there are several bonafide options for the Lions, including players with national brand deals like running back Jahmyr Gibbs and defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. For the Tigers, Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal for the Tigers certainly has a case to be made, but baseball lacks the global appeal of basketball.

With some of the old guard of the NBA beginning to wind down their careers, it feels like Cunningham is aware of what is a bit of a unique opportunity, and is the biggest reason as to why the Pistons sit atop the NBA standings. On top of that, Cunningham’s new signature shoe with Nike should help cement his status as a global star. And yes, maybe there is a bit of recency bias in-play here after Cunningham’s dismantling of the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

What about you? Who do you think is the biggest star in Detroit sports today? Let us know in the comments below.

In Thursday’s loss to Detroit, every Knicks (35*-21) drive into the paint looked like a LaMelo Ball driver’s ed video. Tonight, they hope for better results when they host the Houston Rockets (34-20) at the Mecca.

This nationally televised tilt is a match-up of two third-place teams. The Knicks have gone 7-3 in their last ten games, while the Rockets have gone 6-4. When they last squared off, wayyy back on February 3, 2025, the Knicks beat Ho-Town 124-118. In that one, Jalen Brunson led New York with 42 points, while Amen Thompson paced Houston with 25 points.

The Rockets hold a defensive rating of 112.8, fifth in the league. Their offensive rating is 118, seventh overall. They average 114.6 points per game, which is just on the cusp of the league’s third tier. Ime Udoka’s club leads the league in rebounds at 48.6 per game and offensive rebounds at 15.8, but ranks 28th in pace and assists, and 29th in three-point attempts. (FWIW, Detroit attempted just 30 from downtown on Thursday, but made 40% of them—because defense.)

All-Star internet troll Kevin Durant averages 25.8 points per game and shoots 40% from three in his umpteenth season. Alperen Şengün averages 20.7 points and 9.4 rebounds. Thompson, whose twin Ausar helped to bruise up the Knicks on Thursday, averages 17.6 points and 7.6 rebounds. Jabari Smith, Jr. averages 15.2 points and shoots 36% from three, and sophomore Reed Sheppard averages 12.7 points and makes 39% from three.

Their starting five is expected to feature Thompson, Tari Eason (12.2 PPG), Smith, Şengün, and Durant. Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet are sidelined for the season with surgeries. Aside from Miles McBride, the Knicks have a clean injury report.

Prediction

ESPN gives New York a 60% chance to win. Okie dokie. Unfortunately, the Knicks have as many personalities as KD has burner accounts—you never know which version of the team to expect, given their fluctuations of energy, effort, and discipline from night to night. Sure, a win against a top team might mitigate some of the malaise we feel after watching the Pistons (playing without key players) completely outmatch New York again. But another loss feels inevitable, no? We just saw one tall, physically imposing team manhandle the Knicks. Now here comes another. From what and where can we draw optimism?

Best case scenario, New York wins with authority, regains our confidence, and has a smooth flight to Chicago for tomorrow’s tilt with the Bulls. Worst case scenario? Imagine that and pull it back a few notches—that’s our prediction. Knicks lose by less than ten.

Game Details

Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
Time: 8:30 PM ET
Place: Madison Square Garden, NYC
TV: ABC
Follow: @ptknicksblog and bsky

* Should be one more, but the commish is a jerk.

The Dallas Mavericks and their star point guard Kyrie Irving recently made it official – Irving would be out for the remainder of the season, looking for a fresh start in 2026-2027. While talking with fellow Mavs Moneyball contributor David Trink about what we could expect from Irving upon his return, I stated “I’m irrationally confident Kyrie is going to come back very much the same [as his pre-injury form].” Although David didn’t quite share my inflated enthusiasm, we both thought the point/counterpoint was worthy of exploration.

To be clear, I freely acknowledge my belief is at least in part every bit as truly “irrational” as I said – I am not a doctor, nor do I have true insight on the severity of the injury or how the surgery went. That said, there are a few truths which inform my stance: There have been zero reports of any type of setback whatsoever; Irving is notoriously committed to his craft and has shared rehab videos via social media for months now; he is regularly seen on the practice floor (though not in five-on-five situations) putting in work; his return will come seven months after the high-end recovery period for an ACL injury, greatly maximizing his overall rehab. Irving’s intent to return when he is 150% better will only be aided by the extended time off.

While one may argue these rationales are anecdotal, there is proof-positive evidence that a given player has every reasonable expectation of a return to form. Here is a look at other NBA players that experienced an ACL injury, only to immediately return to their pre-injury level of play.

Zach Lavine

Pre-injury per game stats 2016-2017: 18.9 PTS / 3.4 REB / 3.0 AST

Post-injury per game stats 2018-2019: 23.7 PTS / 4.3 REB / 4.5 AST

Lavine was only 22-years old when he tore his left ACL, prematurely ending his 2016-2017 season. He returned the following year, but only played in 24 games, with significant absences book-ending that season. Using 2018-2019 as his true return shows he improved across the board. Lavine had youth on his side and his game was still developing, so some of the improvements are expected, but his ACL has not impacted him again to this point and his best years were post-injury.

Kawhi Leonard

Pre-injury per game stats 2020-2021: 24.8 PTS / 6.5 REB / 5.2 AST

Post-injury per game stats 2022-2023: 23.8 PTS / 6.5 REB / 3.9 AST

Leonard suffered his ACL injury at the age of 30 (technically just days shy), which cost him the remainder of that year’s Playoffs and entirety of the 2021-2022 season. His first season back saw him average a single point per game fewer than the season in which he was injured, the exact same rebounds per game, and a bit of a drop off in assists per game (though 2020-2021 was an outlier in its own right, as his career high in assists and the only season he averaged five or more).

Jamal Murray

Pre-injury per game stats 2020-2021: 21.2 PTS / 4.0 REB / 4.8 AST

Post-injury per game stats 2022-2023: 20.0 PTS / 4.0 REB / 6.2 AST

Murray suffered an ACL injury when he was 24 years old during the 2020-2021 NBA season. The injury caused him to miss the entirety of 2021-2022. Upon his return, Murray performed as though he did not miss a beat. He played in 65 total games that season and saw no appreciable change to his output, except for his assists, which actually increased by about 30%. The year he returned was also the year his Denver Nuggets won the NBA Championship.

Klay Thompson

Pre-injury per game stats 2018-2019: 21.5 PTS / 3.8 REB / 2.4 AST

Post-injury per game stats 2022-2023: 21.9 PTS / 4.1 REB / 2.4 AST

At 29 years old, Thompson suffered an ACL tear that cost him the following season in its entirety. Before he could spool back up, he then suffered an Achilles injury that kept him out yet another year-plus. Despite missing two-and-a-half seasons following two significant injuries, Thompson’s first full season back saw him play in 69 games with nearly identical stats as he put up before the injuries.

Closing thoughts

In fairness to the above examples, Irving is the oldest of the players discussed. However, I wanted to provide some range of examples in the assessment, including a player who experienced a near-unprecedented sequence of injuries to afford us a solid range. In all cases, the players were as good or better than they were pre-injury. For what it’s worth, a 30-year-old Kevin Durant suffered an Achilles injury (widely considered much more severe than an ACL injury) that cost him a season, and he too returned to almost identical form upon his return.

Modern treatments and rehab regimens are truly next level for high caliber athletes like those in the NBA. There you have the basis for my hopeful sense that when Irving takes the court again, it takes him no time to return to the player we knew prior to his ACL injury.

I invite you to follow me @_80MPH on X, and check back often at Mavs Moneyball for all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks.

Former Blue Devil Kon Knueppel passed Donovan Mitchell for the second-most threes made by a rookie in an NBA season with 185. Coincidentally, the three that pushed him past Donovan was made…over Donovan.

Keegan Murray holds the record with 206, set in 2023.

Charlotte has 25 regular season games left and Knueppel is averaging 3.4 threes per game. If he keeps that pace, he’ll shatter that record with 272-273 made threes.

He’s also averaging 18.8 points and 5.5 rebounds while shooting 43.2% on three-point attempts. The only players in NBA history to average at least 15 points and five rebounds per game while shooting over 40 percent from 3-point range were Larry Bird and Paul Pierce, which puts Knueppel in some pretty elite company – and he’s just a rookie!

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