Feb 9, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (middle) watches a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
At least four of their biggest stars won’t play when they host the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night. Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
James’ absence was his 18th of the season, preventing him from reaching the NBA’s 65-game threshold for end-of-season award considerations, meaning his All-NBA honors streak will end at a record 21 consecutive seasons. He was listed on the injury report with left foot arthritis.
“LeBron, obviously, dealing with the history of injuries he’s had and to start the year,” Coach JJ Redick said. “Just depends on how he wakes up the next day and as he goes through his treatment in the morning.”
Doncic was sidelined for the third consecutive game because of a strained left hamstring. Redick reiterated that Doncic’s status is day-to-day before adding that the six-time All-Star “continues to progress.” The Lakers host the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday in their final game before the All-Star break.
Reaves was ruled out because of left calf injury management. Redick said the plan was for Reaves to play in either Monday or Tuesday’s game after he missed 19 consecutive games because of a strained left calf before he made his return in the Feb. 3 road win over the Brooklyn Nets.
Deandre Ayton (right knee soreness) and Marcus Smart (right ankle soreness) also weren’t available. Smart hurt his ankle during the fourth quarter of Monday’s loss, according to Redick, while Ayton was sidelined for the second time in the last three games because of a right knee ailment.
The Los Angeles Clippers made a surprising overhaul of their roster at the trade deadline, and that shake-up alone leaves them at a clear disadvantage against the Houston Rockets tonight.
My Clippers vs. Rockets predictions lean on Los Angeles’s lone mainstay, one of many NBA picks on Tuesday, February 10.
Clippers vs Rockets prediction
Clippers vs Rockets best bet: Kawhi Leonard Over 28.5 points (-115)
But in trading both James Harden and Ivica Zubac, L.A. put far too much of an onus on Leonard. Since Zubac was moved, Leonard has taken at least 19 shots in every game and averaged 32.3 points.
L.A. found quality in exchange for Harden and Zubac, but Darius Garland is not healthy, and Bennedict Mathurin overlaps with Leonard more than Zubac does, to Mathurin’s expense.
Even against the Houston Rockets’ quality defense, Leonard should shoot in bulk.
Clippers vs Rockets same-game parlay
Houston has come to depend on its defense; its offense has been undone by the lack of a quality point guard.
Clippers vs Rockets SGP
Kawhi Leonard Over 28.5 points
Rockets -7.5
Under 213
Our "from downtown" SGP: Kawhi Only
Mathurin’s Clippers debut comes with low stakes, and he should not be expected to produce at volume while Leonard feels such a weight on his shoulders.
Seven of Houston’s last nine games have gone Under their totals, falling short of bookmakers’ expectations by an average of 7.3 points per game. Find more NBA betting trends for Clippers vs. Rockets.
How to watch Clippers vs Rockets
Location
Toyota Center, Houston, TX
Date
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Tip-off
8:00 p.m. ET
TV
NBA TV
Clippers vs Rockets latest injuries
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Could Mark Cuban once again own the Dallas Mavericks?
An unidentified investor group wants to partner with Cuban and do exactly that, reports Marc Stein at The Stein Line. He reports that a group of investors — who are unnamed — "registered tangible interest in partnering with former majority owner Mark Cuban to try to buy the franchise back from the Dumont and Adelson families." Cuban declined to comment on the report.
There are a couple of reasons this feels like not just a long shot but a non-story.
First, Miriam Adelson and her family (including team governor Patrick Dumont) have given zero indication that they want or plan to sell the team. Stein himself reports "the family remains excited about the future of the franchise and the Cooper Flagg era." Even Cuban and other billionaires cannot buy what is not for sale.
Second is the real estate question.
When Cuban sold the franchise he was honest, saying that the NBA had become more of a real estate investment tool than the technology business it was when he bought in. Owners can now leverage the team to build a new arena, then use that anchor of people and activity to build mixed-use retail around it (or other developments). That was rumored to be the plan for the Adelsons — owners of the Las Vegas Sands corporation — who are said to want to build a resort complex with an arena part of it (and a casino, although gambling is not legal in Texas; and while Adelson has pumped money into a campaign to get gambling legalized in the state it is nowwhere close to happening).
Could the Adelson family realize the Dallas casino idea is nowhere close to happening and decide to get out of the Mavericks business? Nothing is impossible, but that seems like the kind of impatient decision that the billionaire owners tend not to make, they can be patient and play a longer game. They can wait and decide whether to build something else around a new arena. It's not like the Mavericks' value is going down (especially with Flagg on the roster).
Cuban still owns 27% of the Mavericks, although the Adelsons can buy 20% of that later this year, according to reports. Either way, it sounds more like Cuban will remain in his role as advisor rather than return to the role of owner.
While Father Time has been unable to stop LeBron James, the NBA rules have found a way to do it.
LeBron James has been ruled out for LA’s upcoming game against the Spurs, meaning he will not reach the 65-game threshold needed to be eligible for NBA awards.
Tonight will be LeBron James’ 18th missed game, which will stop him from reaching the 65-game threshold to be eligible for season awards. His All-NBA streak will end at 21 seasons. https://t.co/0DudWfcZNO
This means that LeBron’s All-NBA streak will be coming to an end. LeBron holds the NBA record for most All-NBA selections at 21, but he won’t make a 22nd team this season, regardless of his production, due to missing too many games.
Since that extended absence, LeBron has been relatively healthy. However, given his age and recent injury history, he’s only played both legs of a back-to-back once and with no wiggle room left, it was inevitable that he’d ultimately become ineligible for end-of-season awards due to this restriction.
LeBron is having a season that certainly warrants All-NBA consideration. He is averaging 21.8 points, 5.7 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game.
The NBA began this 65-game rule for NBA awards began during the 2023-24 season. How fair it is that players who are worthy of such accolades miss it due to injuries has always been a point of contention for fans and media alike.
This season, with superstars like Nikola Jokić set to miss significant time and now LeBron being ineligible, the rule has come under even more scrutiny.
We’ll see if the NBA makes another change in the future, but for this season, James will not be eligible and his potential spot will go to someone who played in enough games, regardless of whether they had a better year than LeBron or not, which is definitely the point of these awards.
TORONTO, CANADA - FEBRUARY 5: Brandon Ingram #3 of the Toronto Raptors walks to the dressing room after their NBA game against the Chicago Bulls at Scotiabank Arena on February 5, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Brandon Ingram, the Toronto Raptors’ leading scorer this season, has been named an injury replacement in the 2026 All-Star Game. With Stephen Curry out for Team USA, Ingram has been called up to take his spot, and will be playing for the “Stripes” squad , adding some valuable length to the notably centre-absent roster.
The newly minted two-time All-Star has season averages of 22 points per game, 5.8 rebounds per game, and 3.7 assists per game in this bounce-back year from him, after playing only 18 games in the 2024-25 campaign. The Raptors are currently 5th in the Eastern Conference, seemingly destined for the playoffs, sitting 3 games above the 6th seeded Philadelphia 76ers. The Raptors have already surpassed the 30-win mark they achieved last season, when they finished well outside of the postseason, in large part thanks to Ingram’s efforts.
His prowess has elevated the Raptors’ offence, bringing tough shotmaking and consistent scoring to the fold, while allowing his fellow All-Star teammate Scottie Barnes to focus on defence and playmaking. This split of responsibilities has raised Toronto to heights that have not been reached since the early 2020s, and has begun the ushering in of a new identity to replace the last remnants of the championship squad.
Sharing the floor with other scorers like RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley has resulted in a slight dip in production for the Notorious B.I.3, but he still stands head and shoulders above the rest of the Raptors squad. Sharing those responsibilities has come hand-in-hand with fantastic team chemistry. William Lou of the Hello and Welcome Podcast posted footage of the team’s joyous celebration upon learning of Ingram’s award.
Ingram’s last All-Star season was in 2020, where he made the roster, as well as being named Most Improved Player in his first year with the New Orleans Pelicans. Ingram was 22 that season, and six years later, approaching 30, he is having a renaissance outside of the Big Easy. What Ingram has done to dig the Raptors out of a seemingly hopeless pit following the Raptors’ collapse in 2024 has already made him a part of Toronto history, but he has truly cemented himself as a team legend by being just the 10th Raptor named to an All-Star Roster.
The tandem of Ingram and Barnes look poised to lead the Raptors for years to come, and the duo ending up as All-Stars this season is a solid foundation for those ambitions.
Sep 23, 2025; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets guards Egor Demin (8) and Nolan Traore (88) speak at Media Day. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images | Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
Back when they were drafted and even into the season, there were doubts — a lot of them — about the Nets top two picks: Egor Demin, the 19-year-0ld Russian guard selected with Brooklyn’s first lottery pick in 15 years, and Nolan Traore, an even younger French guard, selected with a mid-first round pick. Both were seen as stretchs.
Many — how about most — pundits thought both were taken too high or worse. Demin couldn’t shoot, the narrative went, and he was coming off a plantar fascia issue that had put him a wheelchair for a while. Traore was seen as a long-term project at best who needed a lot of time in the G League. There were concerns about whether he was even an NBA player. Oh yeah, he couldn’t shoot either, said the pundits.
Fast forward to this week and a lot of those concerns now seem to have been exaggerated or maybe even foolish. After all., they were very young — the 11th and sixth youngest of 540 NBA players — and needed time to develop. Bottom line, as Tom Cruise told Renee Zellwegger in “Jerry Maguire”, it’s about making each other better.
“Yes, we complete each other, and we play great [together],” Traore told Brian Lewis of The Post. “He is a good shooter, and it is always good for me to play with good shooters.”
For his part, Demin has said that Traore’s ability to fly past defenders and open things up on the perimeter is a big help to his shooting. And while they haven’t played a lot minutes together — including Monday night when Demin rested and Traore had his best game: 13 points and an equal number of assists — the numbers are catching up to the eye test. We’re no longer in small sample theater.
Look at the six games that Demin and Traore have started since January 29. Demin has averaged 11.7 points on 43/38/83 in those games while Traore has put up 11.0 points on 49/37/78. Those are not huge numbers but for teenagers, they’re more than solid.
Indeed, they go a long way to justifying the Nets decision-making back in June. Within that stretch, Demin has twice broken his career highs in points with games of 25 and 26 plus once in rebounds at 10 and registered his first NBA double double. Traore also notched his first double-double within that stretch and had career highs in points — 21 twice — and assists at 13. Moreover, Demin set an NBA rookie record for 3-pointers in consecutive games and Traore became the youngest player in Nets history to register 10 assists in a game. Together they became the two youngest rookies in franchise history to register 20 points in the same game vs. the Magic.
For Traore, it has to be particularly encouraging considering his slow start.
“Each time you improve, and when you go out and improve a level it shows progress. It’s hard in the beginning, and then it becomes easier,” Traore told Lewis, adding of his improved finishing, “I think it’s just the work; the work I put in every day. And then I’m just getting used to the speed of the game.”
Their coach is also encouraged by how they’re progressed as individuals and teammates.
“I like the creation,” coach Jordi Fernández said. “Nolan is able to get into the paint early in possessions, whether it’s to finish or spray it out. We’re starting to see us play earlier, which is good.
“He and Egor can both create. … The next step is the level of physicality. Them being rookies will never be an excuse. They’ve got to use those minutes to improve their technique and learn how to play with more physicality right now.”
That said, he told Lewis he sees the potential.
“I don’t see it as one guy covering for the other: I like the shooting from both of them. Nolan’s not shy when he’s open. We’ve seen Egor shoot at a very high level. Nolan’s speed, his paint touches and pick-and-roll playmaking, same with Egor. … They have clear goals, short-term things they need to do on both ends. As long as they keep taking those steps they’re doing a great job and that’s what matters.”
What also will matter in June, as Lewis notes, is how the Nets will see the 2026 Draft with its plethora of guards. Darryn Peterson, Kingston Flemings and Mikel Brown Jr. all are “on-ball dynamos.” With a little luck, the Nets could have their choice and Sean Marks & co. always professes that it’s about best pick available. We shall see.
BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 8: The sneakers worn by Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the New York Knicks on February 8, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) — New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor is being evaluated for a stress reaction in his left hand.
Lindor experienced some soreness in the area around his left hand and wrist over the past couple days. David Stearns, the president of baseball operations for New York, said Lindor is going to visit a hand specialist on Wednesday to check his hamate bone.
“It is possible this will result in hamate surgery. If it does, that's a six-week recovery, which puts us right at opening day,” Stearns said. “So at this point, even if it does require surgery, we would remain optimistic that Francisco would be back for opening day.”
Lindor, 32, hit .267 with 31 homers, 86 RBIs and 31 steals in 160 games with New York last year. The five-time All-Star was left off Puerto Rico's roster for the upcoming World Baseball Classic over insurance coverage.
Stearns also announced that Juan Soto is going to shift from right to left field. The change was finalized after discussions between the slugger and manager Carlos Mendoza.
Soto also is going to play left for the Dominican Republic in the WBC.
“Over the last month or so, as Mendy and Juan were talking about the season, Juan was working out in left field because he's going to play left field for the D.R. in the WBC,” Stearns said. "As they had their conversations, he felt really comfortable there.
“It made sense for us from a roster perspective, so we're going to go forward with it and everyone's on board with it.”
New York's pitchers and catchers are scheduled to have their first spring training workout Wednesday. The team’s first full-squad workout is Monday.
Soto, 27, agreed to a record $765 million, 15-year contract with New York in December 2024. The four-time All-Star batted .263 with 43 homers, 105 RBIs and 38 steals in his first season with the Mets.
Soto also played left field at the beginning of his career with the Washington Nationals. Mendoza said the conversations about moving to left started in late December.
“I just asked him, ‘How would you feel to play left field for us?’” Mendoza said Tuesday. “And he was like ‘I’m willing to do whatever, you know. If you want me to pitch, Mendy, I’ll pitch.’ Kind of like with that smile, right? And then I was like, ‘Now seriously speaking here, is that something you will consider, if it makes sense for both?’ He's like, 'Absolutely.'"
The Lakers continue to struggle containing quick guards, and that’s a problem against De'Aaron Fox’s downhill game. His usage and shot volume remain consistent, and with a projection of 18.9 points, the Over at plus money is simply priced too low.
Julian Champagnie continues to benefit from consistent minutes and a clearly defined catch-and-shoot role, especially against defenses that collapse inside. With the Lakers allowing clean perimeter looks and his projection pushing close to double digits, 8.5 feels a step behind his current usage.
Devin Vassell’s scoring floor remains intact thanks to steady shot volume and a usage rate that doesn’t fluctuate much game to game. This is a modest number for a player projected north of 13 points, and in a matchup where points are expected, the Over makes sense before this line creeps higher.
Marcus Smart’s offensive role has expanded, and the projection reflects a noticeable bump in shot volume and production compared to where this line is set. At just 10.5 points, this number doesn’t fully account for his usage or minutes, making the Over playable as long as his role stays intact.
Deandre Ayton continues to benefit from reliable minutes and easy scoring opportunities around the rim, especially against teams that struggle with interior coverage. With a projection north of 12 points, 10.5 feels light for a player whose role doesn’t depend on hot shooting.
Rui Hachimura's offensive role is largely finish-oriented, not playmaking, and his assist chances remain limited within the Lakers’ half-court sets. With usage skewed toward spot-up looks and cuts rather than initiation, the projection landing near one assist makes the under appealing at plus money.
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The New York Knicks (34–19) host the Indiana Pacers (13–40) tonight at Madison Square Garden. While this is a rematch of the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals, these two teams are trending in opposite directions; the Knicks have won nine of their last ten games, while the injury-depleted Pacers have the league's second-worst record and have lost four straight to begin the month of February.
The Knicks currently tied for second place in the Eastern Conference standings with the Boston Celtics. The Knicks have been nearly unbeatable at home winning 21 of 27 games at the Garden. Meanwhile, Indiana’s injuries have crushed this team’s offense which currently ranks last in the NBA averaging just 109.4 points per game.
Key Player to Watch: Karl-Anthony Towns
Towns has been a force for New York, recording double-doubles in five consecutive games. Often criticized for not mixing it up in the paint, Towns may not face much resistance tonight as he faces a Pacers’ defense that ranks 29th in points allowed in the paint (54.2 per game).
We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on how to catch tipoff, odds courtesy of DraftKings recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.
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Game Details and How to Watch Live: Pacers at Knicks
Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Time: 7:30PM EST
Site: Madison Square Garden
City: New York, NY
Network/Streaming: FDSN Indiana, MSG
Rotoworld has you covered with all the latest NBA Player News for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!
Game Odds: Pacers at Knicks
The latest odds as of Tuesday courtesy of DraftKings:
Moneyline: Indiana Pacers (+440), New York Knicks (-600)
Spread: Knicks -12.5
Total: 225.5 points
This game opened Knicks -11.5 with the Total set at 224.5.
Be sure to check out DraftKings for all the latest game odds & player props for every matchup this week on the NBA schedule!
Expected Starting Lineups: Pacers at Knicks
Indiana Pacers
PG Andrew Nembhard
SG Aaron Nesmith
SF Jarace Walker
PF Pascal Siakam
C Jay Huff
New York Knicks
PG Jalen Brunson
SG Josh Hart
SF Mikal Bridges
PF OG Anunoby
C Karl-Anthony Towns
Injury Report: Pacers at Knicks
Indiana Pacers
T.J. McConnell (hamstring) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
Aaron Nesmith (hand) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
Micah Potter (hip) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
Ethan Thompson (thumb) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
Obi Toppin (foot) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Ivica Zubac (ankle) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles) remains sidelined for the Pacers
Johnny Furphy (knee) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
New York Knicks
OG Anunoby (toe) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
Miles McBride (core) has been declared OUT of tonight’s game
Mitchell Robinson (ankle) has been declared OUT of tonight’s game
Important stats, trends and insights: Pacers at Knicks
The Pacers are 3-22 on the road this season
The Knicks are 21-6 at home this season
The Knicks are 30-24 ATS this season
The Pacers are 26-27 ATS this season
The OVER has cashed in 26 of the Knicks’ 54 games this season (26-28)
The OVER has cashed in just 21 of the Pacers’ 53 games this season (21-32)
Pascal Siakam has not grabbed more than 6 rebounds in any of his last 5 games
Aaron Nesmith has grabbed 1 rebound and tallied 1 assist in each of his last 2 games
Jalen Brunson is averaging 7.6 assists in February
Mikal Bridges is averaging 1.5 3-pointers over his last 6 games
Rotoworld Best Bet
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Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the NBA calendar based on data points like recent performance, head-to-head player matchups, trends information and projected game totals.
Once the model is finished running, we put its projections next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.
Here are the best bets our model is projecting for tonight’s Pacers and Knicks’ game:
Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is staying away from a play on the Moneyline
Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Knicks -12.5 ATS
Total: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Game Total OVER 225.5
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Only one team in the West postseason picture has gone better than 6-4 outright in its last 10 games: the San Antonio Spurs. And San Antonio should continue that surge against the Los Angeles Lakers tonight.
My Spurs vs. Lakers predictions believe in the young team that may be becoming the best team in the West, one of many NBA picks on Tuesday, February 10.
Spurs vs Lakers prediction
Spurs vs Lakers best bet: Spurs -9 (-110)
The schedules alone give too much of an edge to the San Antonio Spurs. The Los Angeles Lakers lost to the Thunder last night, and this will be the Lakers’ sixth game in 10 days, including their third in four nights. San Antonio’s two days off seem luxurious by comparison.
The L.A. nightlife could trouble the Spurs, but more likely, their youth should run the Lakers ragged. Victor Wembanyama gets the headlines, but San Antonio also plays at a top-half pace.
Spurs vs Lakers same-game parlay
LeBron James has fallen short of this modest prop in three straight games and in six of his last seven. Father Time may finally be winning. A springy James may be Los Angeles’s best defense against Wembanyama, but without that, the Lakers have no proper height to slow the French phenom.
Spurs vs Lakers SGP
Spurs -9
LeBron James Under 22.5 points
Victor Wembanyama Over 22.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Lakers Run Dry
The thought here is pretty simple: Expect Los Angeles to show its exhaustion throughout.
Spurs vs Lakers SGP
Spurs -9
LeBron James Under 22.5 points
Victor Wembanyama Over 22.5 points
Luka Doncic Under 3.5 made threes
Under 227.5
Spurs vs Lakers odds
Spread: Spurs -9.5 (-105) | Lakers +9.5 (-115)
Moneyline: Spurs -350 | Lakers +275
Over/Under: Over 227 (-110) | Under 226 (-110)
Spurs vs Lakers betting trend to know
San Antonio is 3-0-1 against the spread this month. Find more NBA betting trends for Spurs vs. Lakers.
How to watch Spurs vs Lakers
Location
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Date
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Tip-off
10:30 p.m. ET
TV
NBA TV
Spurs vs Lakers latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
Two slumping Western Conference foes do battle when the Phoenix Suns host the Dallas Mavericks.
The Suns have lost five of nine, going 3-6 against the spread, while the Mavs have dropped seven straight with a 2-5 ATS record.
So, who will snap out of their funk? Well, my Mavericks vs. Suns predictions explain that it may be neither, and bring you an NBA pick on the total.
Mavericks vs Suns prediction
Mavericks vs Suns best bet: Under 229 (-110)
The Dallas Mavericks have had the perfect recipe for Unders. They have a young offense that's trying to find its way with Cooper Flagg, and a defense that gives high effort.
The Mavs enter this matchup with the fourth-worst offensive rating, while ranking a solid 12th in defensive rating.
With Dillon Brooks back, the Phoenix Suns look like the team that ranks eighth in defensive rating. And the Suns' offense has slowed recently, ranking 21st in offensive rating over the last 10 games.
It will be a battle for buckets, so I’m on the Under.
Mavericks vs Suns same-game parlay
The one place where the Mavs struggle to defend is in the interior. Dallas ranks dead last in the NBA in opponent points in the paint per game.
Suns center Mark Williams is averaging 13.4 points over his last eight games. Over 12.5 looks like a great add to this SGP.
And the Mavs’ offensive issues mean rebounds up for grabs, so give me Royce O’Neale Over 4.5 rebounds, a number he’s topped in three of his last five games.
Mavericks vs Suns SGP
Under 229
Mark Williams Over 12.5 points
Royce O'Neale Over 4.5 rebounds
Our "from downtown" SGP: Rising up for rebounds!
Defense means tough shots and, in turn, rebounds. Both teams will be all over the glass.
Mavericks vs Suns SGP
Royce O'Neale Over 4.5 rebounds
Mark Williams Over 9.5 rebounds
Daniel Gafford Over 7.5 rebounds
PJ Washington Over 5.5 rebounds
Mavericks vs Suns odds
Spread: Mavericks +8 | Suns -8
Moneyline: Mavericks +260 | Suns -320
Over/Under: Over 229 | Under 229
Mavericks vs Suns betting trend to know
The Suns have cashed the Under in 18 of their last 25 home games for +10.30 units and a 37% ROI. Find more NBA betting trends for Mavericks vs. Suns.
How to watch Mavericks vs Suns
Location
Mortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix, AZ
Date
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Tip-off
9:00 p.m. ET
TV
KFAA, KTVK
Mavericks vs Suns latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
Boston, MA - January 28 - Atlanta Hawks forward Onyeka Okongwu (17) lets the ball get loose as Boston Celtics guards Jordan Walsh (27), Hugo Gonzalez (28) and Baylor Scheierman (55) surround during the second half of a NBA game at the Garden. (Photo By Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images). | MediaNews Group via Getty Images
If you’re tired of only experiencing NBA expansion in GM Mode on 2K, you might not have to wait much longer for the real thing.
During the NBA Cup earlier this season, Silver made it clear expansion was on his mind, with Seattle and Las Vegas widely viewed as the next two markets in line. Now, The NBA Board of Governors is poised to vote on expansion this summer, as reported by the Dallas Morning News.
“Not a secret, we’re looking at this market in Las Vegas,” said Silver, speaking from the NBA Cup host city. “We are looking at Seattle. We’ve looked at other markets as well. I’d say I want to be sensitive there about this notion that we’re somehow teasing these markets, because I know we’ve been talking about it for a while.”
Expansion carries ripple effects for every franchise in the league, but those effects don’t feel evenly distributed. Top-heavy teams built on star power alone may have an easier time parting ways with their deep-bench pieces, while teams built on depth, internal development, and cost-controlled contributors may face more difficult decisions.
You can probably see where I’m going with this.
The Celtics arguably fall more into the latter category, which is where the conversation can start to get uncomfortable. Before we go there, let’s first take a closer look at what NBA expansion entails, and consider the roster decisions Boston must face as soon as next summer.
February 13, 2011; Oakland, CA, USA; Seattle Sonics fans stand between plays during the second quarter between the Golden State Warriors and the Oklahoma City Thunder at ORACLE Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
How the NBA expansion draft works
If the league follows precedent from previous expansions (most recently in 2004), the framework would look something like this:
Each existing NBA team can protect up to eight players
Only players under contract, restricted free agents, or players with options can be protected
Unrestricted free agents cannot be protected
Each expansion team can select one player from each existing franchise
Once a player is selected from a team, no additional players from that team are eligible
Teams that lose a contracted player while over the cap receive a trade exception equal to that salary
Regardless of the year, the expansion draft would likely take place between the NBA Finals and the Draft, with protected lists submitted privately ahead of time. Expansion teams (assuming Seattle and Las Vegas are both approved) would then alternate selections, with each existing franchise eligible to lose no more than one unprotected player.
This process might be manageable for rebuilding teams. It’s far more complicated for deep, ever-competitive ones.
Why expansion will hit the Celtics differently
The Celtics don’t have a problem finding eight players they like. On the contrary, having to choose which player they’re willing to expose, especially after spending decades getting to this point, will be among the tougher decisions Brad Stevens faces as President of Basketball Operations.
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – FEBRUARY 06: General Manager Brad Stevens of the Boston Celtics watches warmups before a game against the Dallas Mavericks at the TD Garden on February 06, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Let’s look more closely at who will (likely) be safe and who could be at risk.
The near-locks
If expansion were happening in the next couple of seasons, Boston’s protected list would almost certainly start here:
Jayson Tatum (4-years, $259.8 million)
Jaylen Brown (3-years, $183 million)
Derrick White (3-years, $97.8 million)
Payton Pritchard (2-years, $16.1 million)
Sam Hauser (3-years, $34.9 million)
Neemias Queta (1-year, $2.7 million team option)
These six occupy different lanes, but they all arrive at the same place. Losing any of them would either compromise the Celtics’ competitive ceiling or remove contract value that far exceeds its cost.
Tatum and Brown anchor the franchise’s timeline and salary structure. Everything is built around them. White functions as connective tissue across lineups, giving the Celtics flexibility that becomes more valuable in the postseason. Pritchard’s contract sits among the league’s better value deals for the league’s reigning Sixth Man of the Year. Hauser’s shooting gravity solves a specific problem Boston would otherwise need to pay significantly more to address. And Queta’s appeal lies in role clarity and cost efficiency at a position where those traits are rarely found together.
This means six of the eight protected slots are already spoken for, without much debate.
The tough calls
That leaves two protection spots for a group of more than two players the Celtics would very much like to keep developing:
Gonzalez represents long-term upside tied to size and skill development. Scheierman has already translated improvement into rotation trust, which matters when projecting real NBA usefulness rather than abstract potential. Walsh brings defensive range and physical tools that typically take years to cultivate and rarely hit the open market at a low cost. Garza offers reliable depth at a minimum salary, and Williams profiles as another cost-controlled developmental piece at a position where teams cycle through options quickly.
From Boston’s perspective, these players serve different roles at different points along the same competitive window.
The question expansion forces into the open is how the Celtics define that window right now.
While the 25/26 season was widely framed as a transitional year for Boston, the results suggest something closer to real contention, especially with Jayson Tatum set to return. That creates a tension between prioritizing the best available contributors around the Jays and continuing to invest in younger players who could peak alongside them. Expansion doesn’t allow for a hedged answer. It requires Boston to decide how much future value it’s willing to expose in order to maximize the present.
Expansion will inevitably change the Celtics
There’s also a human side to this that’s hard to ignore. Seattle is long past owed an NBA team, full stop. What happened to the Sonics still hangs over the league, and bringing basketball back to that city feels less like expansion and more like course correction. If the NBA is serious about adding teams, Seattle shouldn’t be a debate.
Las Vegas brings its own appeal, but the optics of placing a franchise at the center of legalized gambling while the league is actively trying to rein in betting-related fallout aren’t the best.
For the Celtics, none of that changes the immediate reality. Expansion applies pressure in places that rarely get discussed, and Boston is built in exactly those places. Years of smart drafting, patient development, and value hunting create real advantages (and real exposure) when the league grows.
That’s the cost of doing things the hard way and doing them well. If When expansion comes, it’s worth understanding now how much of the Celtics’ hard work can realistically be protected once the league decides it’s time to make room at the table.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JANUARY 17: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics reacts after their 132-106 win over the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on January 17, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images
BOSTON — Jayson Tatum practiced with the Maine Celtics on Monday afternoon, sparking excitement that his return was around the corner. But then, on Tuesday afternoon, the Celtics star addressed the media for the first time since October and delivered the message that his participation in the G League practice should not be read into too deeply.
“It doesn’t mean I’m coming back or not,” Tatum said matter-of-factly.
The Celtics star, who ruptured his Achilles tendon in a playoff game on May 12th, made clear in October that he was not ruling out a return this year.
As such, speculation regarding his potential return has ramped up as Tatum nears the 9-month mark in his recovery. In recent weeks, the likelihood of his potentially returning seems to have shifted multiple times.
Then, a few weeks later, he shared on an episode of the Pivot Podcast that he had begun to have doubts regarding whether he should return this season.
“That’s something I contemplate every day,” Tatum said. “More so about the team, if or when I do come back this season, they would have played 50-some odd games without me, so they have an identity this year or things they’ve felt that has clicked for them and it’s been successful…so there’s a thought in my head that is like, how does that work? How does that look with me integrating myself off an injury…and it is a thought like ‘damn, do I come back or should I wait?’ In the last two weeks or so, I contemplate every single day.”
A few days after that, ESPN’s Ramona Shelbourne confirmed that Tatum has not yet made a decision.
All the while, on the Celtics’ side, Brad Stevens confirmed that the team will not hold Tatum back if he is cleared and wants to play.
“When it’s right, then we’ll all sit down and talk about it,” Stevens said last week. “There’s still no force from us. There’s no pressure from us. But there’s also not gonna be any of us saying, ‘Well, why doesn’t he just take another week?’ When he’s ready, he’s ready.”
Derrick White, meanwhile, offered it’s simply been great to see Tatum’s progression.
“It’s been amazing to see, obviously, all the work he’s putting in,” White said last month. “You just kind of see him being around more, and being able to do more. So that’s exciting to see, as a friend. Every day he’s been working hard, and it’s good to see all that hard work add to some more movement and more opportunities.”
On February 10th, Tatum set to record straight, answering questions directly from the Boston press.
What Tatum had to say as he addressed Celtics media on Tuesday
Tatum didn’t drop any major news in his first full media availability since Media Day (he also spoke to SB Nation in October). But the Celtics star did shed some light on the G-League practice heard around the world, overall recovery, and thoughts on the Celtics’ success this season.
On practicing with the Maine Celtics: “I’m feeling good. It was good to be a part of practice yesterday with the Maine G-League guys. Today is 39 weeks, so it’s been a long journey.”
“Had a jersey on. Just felt good to be a part of a team, and practice, go through reps, stuff like that.”
Jayson Tatum:
“I’m feeling good. It was good to be a part of practice yesterday with the Maine G-League guys. Today is 39 weeks, so it’s been a long journey. And, it’s just like the progression of rehab… it doesn’t mean I’m coming back or not.” pic.twitter.com/ZgdrIY6N2x
On whether he’s trusting his Achilles more: “I feel a little bit better today than I did yesterday — the physical, conditioning, trusting it, every day I feel a little bit better.”
On the next steps in his recovery: “More conditioning, more live things. Getting acclimated to playing 5-on-5 and contact.”
My thoughts: Tatum has been playing 5-on-5, but there’s a difference between just getting cleared for 5-on-5 and actually playing NBA basketball at the level he was at pre-injury.)
On his communications with Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard, and DeJounte Murray — all stars who also suffered Achilles injuries last year: “Periodically, I talk to those guys… those kinds of guys are on a similar boat throughout this process, encouraging each other.”
My thoughts: Haliburton and Lillard both almost immediately ruled out returns this season, so there was a clear difference between Tatum’s journey and theirs from the jump. But, Haliburton in particular has spoken at length about how great it’s been to have camaraderie and support from fellow NBA stars throughout this process).
On what it’s been like to watch games on the sidelines: “It’s been tough not being able to play and compete. You know how much I love this game. I love being out there. But I’ve also grown an appreciation for the game, for my teammates, and just guys around the league, sitting back and being able to watch guys take their next step, it’s been kind of cool to see.”
“I sit next to the coaches, hear their commentary, see it through the lens of the coach.”
My thoughts: Tatum has been to nearly every shootaround, game, practice, and film session this season, and he’s been extremely engaged on the sidelines — cheering on his teammates, offering support, and even joining the team for preseason travel. He could have retreated, knowing that a lengthy recovery was ahead, but he didn’t. That’s likely to make his return a little bit more seamless.
On what his acclimation to the new-look Celtics could look like: “It might look different. I haven’t played with these guys, with this group, but we have a lot of high-IQ guys out there, and I’d like to consider myself one of those types of players. So, if that did present itself, and I did come back, we’re professionals, we’d figure it out.”
My thoughts: This will not be an issue. Yes, it’ll be an adjustment to have a player like Tatum back on the floor playing extensive minutes. But, above anything, it’ll be a great thing — because Tatum is a great player who will almost immediately elevate the Celtics’ play on both ends of the floor.
On his stated doubts regarding potentially returning: “Over 39 weeks, you have a lot of time on your hands. You think about a lot of things. Just hyper aware of what’s going on. I think it would just stem from that. Obviously, I know what I bring to the table and bring to the team. But I’m also aware that these guys have been playing extremely well. And, not to say that I would come and mess it up or anything like that. It was just kind of being vulnerable, I guess, for a moment.”
My thoughts: I think we’ve talked about Tatum’s Pivot quote way too much. He said it best: for a moment, he was vulnerable. I don’t think he genuinely believes his return would hurt the Celtics, and I think he remains extremely confident. But, it’s an emotional journey back, and he simply opened up on a podcast appearance, probably not thinking it would become the news cycle for the next three weeks.
On reports he might not come back: “Still trying to figure it out. Still just going through the progressions of rehab. Not saying that I’m coming back or not. It’s all about being 100% healthy and going through the plan.”
My thoughts: Even if Tatum knows whether he is or isn’t coming back, he’s not going to tell us today. Why wouild he?
On the addition of Nikola Vucevic to the Celtics: “Vooch is a hell of a player. Obviously, I’ve competed against him for the last 8 years, and [I’m] excited about the things that he brings to this team, different dynamics. We’re all excited to have him.”
On Jaylen Brown’s big season: “It’s been great. Even before the season, there was no doubt in my mind that he, and P [Payton Pritchard] and D-White and all these guys, I knew what they were capable of. Whenever somebody that loves the game that much, and works as hard as they do, gain more opportunity, I’m not surprised [by] what they’ve been able to accomplish. It’s been really fun to see.”
Jayson Tatum on how Jaylen Brown has responded to shouldering more responsibility this season:
“It’s been great. Even before the season, there was no doubt in my mind that he, and P [Payton Pritchard] and D-White and all these guys, I knew what they were capable of. Whenever… pic.twitter.com/4awZixNoOH
On how he feels the Celtics stack up against the East’s best teams: “We’ve been one of the best teams all season. And we’ll continue being one of the best teams.”
LAKELAND, Fla. (AP) — For his 21st season in the majors, Justin Verlander is going back to the very beginning of his career.
All the way back to Motown.
Verlander returned to the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday, agreeing to a $13 million, one-year contract with his first big league team. The three-time AL Cy Young Award winner joins an improved rotation fronted by Tarik Skubal and Framber Valdez, who also signed with Detroit in free agency.
Verlander, who turns 43 on Feb. 20, went 183-114 with a 3.49 ERA while spending his first 13 seasons in Detroit. He won his first Cy Young Award and was AL MVP when he had a 24-5 record and a 2.40 ERA in 2011.
Verlander was traded to Houston in August 2017 and helped the Astros win the World Series that same year and again in 2022. Now he gets an opportunity to chase a third championship with the Tigers, who are looking for the franchise's first title since 1984.
Verlander's deal with Detroit includes $11 million in deferred payments starting in 2030. The Tigers' pitchers and catchers are scheduled to have their first spring training workout on Wednesday.
The right-hander is 266-158 with a 3.32 ERA in 555 starts, also playing for the New York Mets and San Francisco. He is tied with Bob Feller and Eppa Rixey for 34th in victories on baseball’s career list, while his 3,553 career strikeouts are eighth and closely trailing Don Sutton's 3,574.
Verlander is coming off a frustrating year with the Giants, going 4-11 with a 3.85 ERA in 29 starts. But his 2.60 ERA from July 23 through the remainder of the season ranked fourth in the National League with a minimum of 60 innings pitched.
Verlander returned June 18 after being sidelined for a month by a strained right pectoral muscle. He wants to keep pitching after a disappointing season in which he began 0-8 and was winless in his initial 16 outings before a win at Atlanta on July 23.
“First half, quite difficult. Happy I was able to find some mechanical fixes to kind of get back in the right direction and pitch well in the second half,” Verlander said following his final outing on Sept. 27. “I think obviously you’d always rather it go well, but it’s nice to be able to turn it around, especially after a few months it gets really draining and it’s tiresome. You’ve just got to come in every day and have a positive mindset and keep working hard.”
The second-half turnaround mattered to Verlander, who limited opponents to a .228 average over his final 13 appearances. He allowed two or fewer earned runs in 10 of his last 13 starts.
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