We are here — NBA trade deadline week. Before things potentially get wild, we examined what’s transpired with some individual players of late and whether their play is a sign of good or bad things to come.
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Remember Ty Jerome? 2024-25 NBA Sixth Man of the Year candidate, Ty Jerome? Well, he just played his first couple of games of the season for Memphis, and immediately, he gets the “stock up” classification. Jerome being immediately thrown into the Grizzlies’ starting lineup in his first game back from injury is quite indicative of what the organization thinks of him and how they plan on showcasing him, if you ask me. And, of course, going for 20 points and six assists in his season debut, and then following with a 19/6/8 line two days later, is important. The sample size needs to grow, and the productivity probably needs to sustain longer for any real take to generate from me. However, it seems as though two successful performances are enough to at least warrant some optimism about the heights Jerome could reach the rest of the season.
Of everything that’s formulated over in New Orleans this season, Saddiq Bey being one of the Pelicans’ most reliable players isn’t something I necessarily had on my Bingo card. Yet, here we are, as the 26-year-old wing out of Vilanova is averaging a career-high in points and just recently finished January with averages of 21.2 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.4 three-pointers per game on 48.5/44.4/89.2 shooting splits. And while Monday’s eight-point performance on poor shooting in a loss to the Hornets isn’t the way he would have liked to start February, it shouldn’t be an indicator of things to come. Bey has been good throughout the season and has turned himself into a consistent scorer. More good things could be on the way.
Dillon Brooks — SF/PF, Suns
Here’s an appreciation post to Dillon Brooks, whose game continues to ascend in his first season as a Phoenix Sun. While shouldering a heavier offensive load in Devin Booker’s absence (ankle injury), Brooks has notched five 20-point games in all five of Booker’s recent missed games, with a 40-piece sprinkled in there during the Suns’ win over the Pistons toward the end of January. The veteran forward also has at least two three-pointers in these games, while averaging 1.0 steals over that time. There’s no need to speculate whether Brooks will keep this aggressive approach while Phoenix is undermanned; in reality, fantasy managers shouldn’t expect him to dial things back once Booker, and to a lesser extent, Jalen Green, are back in the lineup.
It seems like I add a different Pelicans player to this part of the column every other week, which is totally unintentional. Nonetheless, it’s been almost two weeks now since Jones’ return from injury and, despite logging heavy minutes, he hasn’t seemed to find his fit or rhythm with this group in his six appearances over that time. Fortunately, the defensive stats have protected him from sinking even farther in fantasy leagues. Yet, the offensive numbers since January 23rd haven’t been great. Whether there’s roster movement at the deadline for New Orleans or not, it’s not easy to see a path for Jones to find fantasy basketball relevance. But, hey, maybe that changes as he gets more games under his belt.
Deni Avdija — SG/SF/PF, Trail Blazers
The Trail Blazers are in a slump — a five-game losing streak, to be precise — and their best player either hasn’t been available or his production during that time has paled in comparison to what he showed consistently for most of the season en route to becoming a first-time NBA All-Star. Avdija, over his last three appearances (two during the losing streak), has averaged 12.6 points, 8.0 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 41.0 percent from the floor. To be fair, there’s a recent back injury he’s continuing to work through, and once healthy, he’ll likely return to form and become a near-30-point triple-double threat again on a nightly basis. But for the sake of this exercise, Stock Down.
Karl-Anthony Towns — PF/C, Knicks
Stock…down? If rebounding is a priority, then Anthony-Towns has been a productive piece for those specific fantasy managers in need — he’s collected double-digit rebounds four times during the New York’s current six-game winning streak, twice reaching at least 20 boards. Yet, his offensive output, part of what has made him an impactful and high-upside center in fantasy leagues, has been mostly absent. The veteran center is 12.3 points on 10.1 shot attempts per game, and has totaled just 17 assists and seven three-pointers during the win streak. To his credit, Towns’ approach and apparent sacrifice on that end of the floor seems to be working out fine for the surging Knicks. But from a fantasy basketball perspective, there is certainly a lot of meat left on the bone.
Cooper Flagg and the Dallas Mavericks (19-30) look to snap their four-game losing streak tonight on NBC and Peacock when they take the court against Jaylen Brown and the surprising Boston Celtics (31-18) at American Airlines Center.
No question the Celtics are one of the bigger surprises in the entire NBA this season. Winners of seven of their last ten, Boston is tied for first in the Atlantic Division despite losing Jayson Tatum (Achilles) last May, and trading/not resigning Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday,and Al Horford in the offseason. Yet here they sit challenging the Pistons and Knicks for the top spot in the Eastern Conference.
Led by the rookie Flagg, the Mavericks won more games in January (7) than in any previous month this season. The rookie out of Duke has been the complete player he was advertised as heading into the Draft. In just his last two games, Flagg scored 83 points, pulled down 22 rebounds, and picked up eight assists. Oh, and he has blocked one shot in each game.
This is the first of two regular season meetings between these teams. They will meet in Boston on March 6.
Lets take a closer look at the matchup and take into consideration lineups, injuries, and other factors affecting the line and total.
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: Celtics at Mavericks
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Game Odds: Celtics at Mavericks
The latest odds as of Tuesday courtesy of DraftKings:
Moneyline: Boston Celtics (-270), Dallas Mavericks (+220)
Spread: Celtics -6.5
Total: 222.5 points
This game opened Celtics -7.5 with the Total set at 223.5.
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: Celtics at Mavericks
Boston Celtics
PG Payton Pritchard
SG Derrick White
SF Jaylen Brown
PF Sam Hauser
C Neemias Queta
Dallas Mavericks
PG Cooper Flagg
SG Max Christie
SF Naji Marshall
PF Caleb Martin
C Daniel Gafford
Injury Report: Celtics at Mavericks
Boston Celtics
Jayson Tatum (Achilles) remains OUT for the Celtics
Dallas Mavericks
Anthony Davis (finger) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Dereck Lively II (foot) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
P.J. Washington (head) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Kyrie Irving (knee) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Brandon Williams (leg) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
Important stats, trends and insights: Celtics at Mavericks
The Mavericks are 14-14 at home this season
The Celtics are 15-10 on the road this season
The Mavericks are 23-26 ATS this season
The Celtics are 27-22 ATS this season
The OVER has cashed in 21 of the Mavericks’ 49 games this season (21-28)
The OVER has cashed in 19 of the Celtics’ 49 games this season (19-30)
Jaylen Brown is on pace for career highs in scoring (29.4 ppg – 4th in NBA), assists (4.8 apg) and FGM/gm (10.8)
Brown has 26 games this season with 30+ points, tied for 3rd most in the NBA (in 63 games last regular season, Brown had a total of 9 games with 30+ points)
Boston is 2nd in the NBA in both three pointers made per game (15.6) and three pointers attempted per game (42.4)
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 Celtics and Mavericks’ game:
Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is staying away from a play on the Moneyline
Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Mavericks +6.5 ATS
Total: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Game Total OVER 221.5
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DENVER, CO - JANUARY 30: James Harden #1 of the Los Angeles Clippers dribbles the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets on January 30, 2026 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. 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 Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Los Angeles Clippers have been the hottest team in the Western Conference coming into the NBA trade deadline. After a horrible 6-21 start, the Clippers rallied to win 17 of their next 22 games to give them a legit shot at making the Western Conference playoffs. Just when it seemed like the Clippers were headed in the right direction, star point guard James Harden decided to throw their season off course.
There’s already a clubhouse leader to land Harden at the deadline, but no deal is done yet. With the trade deadline looming on Thursday, Feb. 5, here’s three potential fake trades for Harden.
Cleveland Cavaliers’ James Harden trade idea
Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Darius Garland is the biggest rumor out there right now. This deal gets it done. The Cavs reportedly want a pick swap included, but LA is rightfully resisting. It’s hard to figure out who should be getting draft compensation in this deal, and in this offer I threw Cleveland a future second-round pick for their trouble. Garland is only 26 years old, making him 10 years younger than Harden, but he’s dealt with constant injury issues over the last few years. His big toe injury doomed Cleveland’s playoff run last season after a 64-win regular season, and he hasn’t been able to get healthy this year. You never trade young for old in the NBA, but if Garland can’t stay healthy, does that guideline really need to be followed? This trade would infringe on the Clippers’ 2027 cap space as Garland is locked up through 2028, but he’s good enough and young enough when healthy to make it worth it for LA.
Houston Rockets’ James Harden trade idea
This is my favorite fake Harden trade, one that returns him to Houston where he spent the best years of his career. The Rockets need a lead guard at the deadline, and there still aren’t many better than Harden. Fred VanVleet is out for the season, and Dorian Finney-Smith has barely played after signing in Houston this summer as a free agent. The Clippers include a 2028 first-round pick — they can haggle about the protections — which would be great for such a pick-deprived organization. Harden and Kevin Durant would put the Rockets into immediate win-now mode, but that pairing looked electric last time we saw it in Brooklyn. Add in Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard, and this team looks legit for a playoff run this year.
Atlanta Hawks’ James Harden trade idea
This deal sending Harden to the Atlanta Hawks would essentially be a salary dump for the Clippers, which is disappointing given how well they’ve been playing lately. Kristaps Porzingis has been awesome when he’s healthy for the Hawks, but he’s never healthy, and he’s currently sidelined with an Achilles strain in addition to the illness he’s been battling for more than a year. This trade would keep the Clippers’ 2027 cap space clean, and give Atlanta a new lead guard after they traded Trae Young earlier in the year.
What’s your favorite fake James Harden trade?
I tried to get him to the Minnesota Timberwolves, but the salaries don’t work out. Would you even want Harden as a GM given his legendary playoff failures? Is anyone giving him an $80 million contract at his age? Leave your suggests in the comments.
HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 31: Alperen Sengun #28 of the Houston Rockets stands for the National Anthem before the game against the Dallas Mavericks on January 31, 2026 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. 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 Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Heading into the 2025-26 NBA season, there was chatter that the Houston Rockets could have a trio of All-Stars, comprised of Amen Thompson, the newly-acquired Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun.
The first half of the season is over and the All-Star rosters are set.
It’s official.
Unless a player declines, due to injury, which we see all the time.
The Rockets have one All-Star. Just Durant.
His placement isn’t a debate.
Sengun not making the team has prompted a bit of buzz. To many, he was snubbed.
Particularly when comparing Sengun to Oklahoma City Thunder big man Chet Holmgren.
Statistically speaking, there’s a pretty viable argument in Sengun’s favor. (Especially if you throw out efficiency).
He’s averaging 21 points, 9.2 rebounds, 6.4 assists, while Holmgren is averaging 17.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 2.1 blocks.
Holgren is shooting 56.6 percent from the field, 36.6 percent from three and 77.8 percent from the foul line, while Sengun is shooting 50 percent from the field, 30 percent from deep and 68.4 percent from the foul line.
The Thunder big man is shooting 62.3 percent effective shooting, while Sengun is posting 51.8 percent chops.
Holmgren is also shooting 65.7 percent true shooting, whereas Sengun is shooting 55.4 percent true shooting.
Again, it’s close, in totality.
The real snubs belong to the LA Clippers, as Kawhi Leonard is having a career season and didn’t make the cut, while James Harden is averaging 25.4 points and 8.1 assists.
They certainly are more belonging than Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, based on this season.
The reality is that this benefits Sengun, for a multitude of reasons. Let’s hone in on two.
For one, he’ll have a chip on his shoulder for the rest of the way, as he’ll be out to prove that he is indeed one of the stars of today’s league.
But more importantly, Sengun can use the break to get healthy. It’s clear that he’s still trying to grind through a fairly recent ankle injury.
Credit to him for trying to push through it, but the playoffs are around the corner.
That’s what’s most important. Then, he’ll really be able to prove his star status.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 23: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks walks off the court after a game against the Denver Nuggets at Fiserv Forum on January 23, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images
I don’t know if you’ve heard, but there’s a possibility that Giannis Antetokounmpo could be traded from the Milwaukee Bucks. Of course you’ve heard about it because it is all anyone has talked about for the last 3 months and off and on for the last several years. Insert your own dating/breakup analogy here because I don’t have the patience to come up with anything original.
Still, you have to admit it is a topic that is interesting and pretty relevant to the Celtics in both the near and long term future. So let’s talk about it.
Where do you think he’ll end up? When do you think he’ll get traded? Who has the best trade package to offer? What are those impacts to the Celtics? Could the Celtics get (indirectly) involved? Will the trade (if/when it finally happens or completely falls through) open things up for the Celtics to make other moves?
In case you haven’t been following along closely, at the moment it seems like a few teams are discussed most often (and they tend to read as a Usual Suspects lineup).
Golden State Warriors – Offering up picks, Jonathan Kuminga, and salary filler to help extend Steph Curry’s window. Do you think they’ll include Draymond?
Minnesota Timberwolves – Apparently Giannis wants to play with Anthony Edwards. Who wouldn’t? They have a number of moveable contracts.
Miami Heat – Tyler Herro (perhaps to a 3rd team), young players, and picks? Everyone wants to play in South Beach but can they offer the best trade package?
New York Knicks – They were the rumored desired location for Giannis in the offseason. But I would imagine they’ll need a 3rd team to take KAT. They might have more picks available to trade in the offseason as well.
Are there any other team’s I’m forgetting? Sixers? Magic? Any dark horse candidates you could see getting in the bidding?
There are a lot of different directions this could go. So let’s talk about it.
The Dallas Mavericks aim to end a three-game home losing streak when the Boston Celtics come to the American Airlines Center tonight.
With Jaylen Brown consistently dominating the boards, our Celtics vs. Mavericks predictions anticipate another strong rebounding performance from the star forward.
Here are my best free NBA picks for this cross-conference tilt on Tuesday, February 3.
Celtics vs Mavericks prediction
Celtics vs Mavericks best bet: Jaylen Brown Over 7.5 rebounds (-105)
Jaylen Brown’s 6.9 rebounds per game tie a career-high mark, and he’s the Boston Celtics' second-leading rebounder. His work on the glass has been even more prolific over the last two weeks.
Boston’s superstar has pulled down 9.6 boards across his last seven games, reaching 8+ six times in that span, including three straight on the road.
The Dallas Mavericks have allowed the fourth-most rebounds per game this season at 46.9 and the second-most offensive rebounds at 12.4. Leading rebounder Anthony Davis (11.1) remains out, and second-leading rebounder P.J. Washington (7.3) will be sidelined tonight.
An already-favorable matchup gets a boost with Washington out, and I expect Brown to crash the glass with authority.
Celtics vs Mavericks same-game parlay
The Mavs have lost three straight at home, but have covered the spread in seven of 10, and are 12-5 ATS as the home underdog. The Celtics are 9-7 ATS as the road favorite, but Boston has failed to cover in two straight road games.
The Mavs are 5-5 to the Under across their last 10, and the Celtics are 2-8 in that span. Dallas is 13-15 to the Under at home, and Boston is 10-15 on the road. Boston has hit the Under in five straight, and Dallas has done so in three of its last four.
Celtics vs Mavericks SGP
Jaylen Brown Over 7.5 rebounds
Mavericks +7.5
Under 222
Our "from downtown" SGP: Plant Your Flagg
Cooper Flagg is averaging just below 20 points per game, scoring 22+ in 17 of 45 appearances. He's on a major heater, however, having scored 34 and a historic 49 across his last two games. Since December 23, he's averaged 21.8 points and hit the Over on this scoring line in seven of 16 outings.
Celtics vs Mavericks SGP
Jaylen Brown Over 7.5 rebounds
Mavericks +7.5
Under 222
Cooper Flagg Over 21.5 points
Celtics vs Mavericks odds
Spread: Celtics -7 (-110) | Mavericks +7 (-110)
Moneyline: Celtics -270 | Mavericks +220
Over/Under: Over 222 (-110) | Under 222 (-110)
Celtics vs Mavericks betting trend to know
The Dallas Mavericks have covered the 2H Spread in 32 of their last 50 games (+11.43 Units / 20% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Celtics vs. Mavericks.
How to watch Celtics vs Mavericks
Location
American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
Date
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Tip-off
8:00 p.m. ET
TV
NBC
Celtics vs Mavericks latest injuries
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Need a break from the Timberwolves rollercoaster? You got it! We’re bringing you our newest edition of Eyes on Iowa Wolves, where you get all the Iowa Wolves updates. You can show off to your coworkers, friends, or nieces/nephews that you know what Rocco Zikarsky’s true shooting percentage is.
Record: 6-2
Player of the Month: Zyon Pullin (27.7p, 3.3r, 6a, .667/.545/.903)
Recap: Iowa was in prime position for a spot in Winter Showcase tournament spot behind the strong play of their backcourt. Pullin, Tristen Newton, and Jules Bernard, all averaged over 20 points each, spearheading a league-best offense.
Record: 5-6
Player of the Month: Tristen Newton (26.4p, 4.6r, 4.9a, .506/.374/.830)
Recap: Iowa stumbled as they lost previous POTM, Zyon Pullin, to a wrist injury. They missed out on the Winter Showcase playoff tournament, but found their form to end the month thanks to Tristen Newton’s outstanding play.
Timberwolves rookie Joan Beringer also made his debut this month with some impressive performances of his own.
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January Overview
Overall Month Record: 8-5
Current Regular Season Record: 11-7 Current Standing: 4th in Western Conference
Just when it looked like the sails were adjusting back in the right direction, the Iowa roster was hit with another gut punch. On January 3rd, the Houston Rockets waived the 33rd pick of the 2024 NBA draft, Tyler Smith, and replaced his two-way spot by snagging Tristen Newton from the Wolves. In case you forgot, Newton was on a two-way contract with the Timberwolves last season and heading into the start of the 2025-2026 season, but Johnny Juzang won the preseason battle for that slot.
Just like that, Iowa lost it’s two leading (and most efficient) scorers who were also their primary ballhandlers (Pullin still out with injury). Not great. It was evident to start 2026, as they dropped two of their first three games in January.
Head Coach Mahmoud Abdelfattah was eventually going to get through the choppy waters though. Jules Bernard and Alize Johnson would adapt to their increased usage, helping Iowa win seven of their next ten games to end the month. Iowa also had a number of other players help fill the void in the backcourt. Nate Santos, a 3&D wing, and newly acquired guards Jalen Crutcher, a veteran G League point, and Dajuan Harris Jr, a defensive-minded guard, have all stepped up as well.
Iowa’s strong finish to January was important for their playoff chances. They rocketed back up to fourth in the Western Conference standings (Top eight make the postseason). The Wolves have failed to reach the playoffs in the past 11 seasons.
The drought could end soon if they keep riding this momentum.
The NBA recently announced the participants of the Castrol Rising Starstournament which included G League players for the fifth time. Former Timberwolves legend, Austin Rivers, was announced as the coach of Team G League, a collection of seven players that have played significant games in the G. Unfortunately, no Wolves made that team, unless you count Tristen Newton.
That said, January did not come and pass without any accolades for Iowa. Alize Johnson was named Player of the Week after averaging a whopping 33 points on 64% shooting from the field. Potential good news also soon followed, as it appears Zyon Pullin could be nearing a return. The Iowa broadcast mentioned during a January 27th game that Pullin’s wrist cast has come off so hopefully he’ll resume basketball activities soon.
Two-Way Wolves (And Joan) Update
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - JANUARY 06: Joan Beringer #19 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on against the Miami Heat in the fourth quarter at Target Center on January 06, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Heat 122-94. 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 David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The rookie played just the first two games of the month before being reassigned back with the Timberwolves. He made sure to get to work in those games though. In his last game with Iowa, his fellow rookie, Rocco Zikarsky, was unavailable due to an illness.
Beringer went on to have his best professional game of the season.
Going a perfect seven for seven from the field with loads of defensive highlights wasn’t too shabby. As Timberwolves fans have seen during recent stint with the main club, the game is certainly slowing down for the Frenchman. Minnesota Head Coach Chris Finch recently likened Beringer’s tendency to go after things like “a dog chasing a car” which is pretty apt, for better or worse.
Perhaps the most impressive development that Beringer has shown, other than increased game sense, is his touch around the rim. He’s been finishing more plays without needing to dunk the ball, hitting a few soft hooks and dinkers off the glass.
The ceiling remains the sky for Young Joan.
DES MOINES, IA - JANUARY 3: Rocco Zikarsky #44 of the Iowa Wolves handles the ball during the game against the Sioux Falls Skyforce on January 3, 2026 at Casey's Center in Des Moines, Iowa. 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 Jasey Bradwell/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Coming into January, the other 19-year-old rookie was shooting a ridiculous 48.4% mark from beyond the arc. That number caught the eye of numerous observers. Unfortunately, Zikarsky’s three-point percentage has since dropped down to 38.5% after shooting 29.7% from perimeter in January.
There is still reason for optimism for the seven-footer’s shooting development though.
His three-point volume has increased from 1.6 attempts per game in November, to 2.0 in December, to 3.1 in January. His free throw percentage has increased from 64.3%, to 76.9%, to 88.5% on increasing volume each month as well. The Australian’s true shooting percentage (63.9%) is well above league average. In fact, Zikarsky’s 37.1% three-point percentage would rank eighth among all active NBA centers, above the likes of Karl-Anthony Towns, Lauri Markkanen, or Victor Wembanyama.
Zikarsky played in 12 of 14 games in January, averaging a double-double in just 26 minutes per game. If he was on the floor as much as the leaders on his team, his per 36 minutes numbers would include 21.2 points, 13.3 rebounds, 3.1 blocks.
There are still several areas of improvement that remain for the big man. He still gets pushed out of position far too often on both ends of the court. There are times he struggles to get up and down the court at an acceptable pace. Most importantly, he is far too careless with his high and loose handle. Zikarsky’s turnover issues also take shape in his tendency for throwing way too ambitious of passes on plays that just aren’t there.
DES MOINES, IA - JANUARY 3: Enrique Freeman #25 of the Iowa Wolves shoots the ball during the game against the Sioux Falls Skyforce on January 3, 2026 at Casey's Center in Des Moines, Iowa. 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 Jasey Bradwell/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Similar to Zikarsky, Enrique Freeman had a promising month shooting the ball in December. A crucial part of his development was going to be his ability to space the floor. Unlike Zikarsky, the promise has been dissipating. His three-point percentage has plummeted down to well under 30%. It seems that Freeman is falling further into the category of dirty work, garbage bucket getter, and less as a potential versatile stretch big.
It wasn’t all negative for Freeman in January though. His two-point percentage is up, notching his best scoring month of the season. He’s still rebounding at a strong rate and been a consistent force in the frontcourt for Iowa. At 25 years old, it’s reasonable to consider what his ceiling may be and if the use of a two-way contract on him will be wise for the rest of the season.
DES MOINES, IA - JANUARY 3: Jules Bernard #14 of the Iowa Wolves handles the ball during the game against the Sioux Falls Skyforce on January 3, 2026 at Casey's Center in Des Moines, Iowa. 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 Jasey Bradwell/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
One of the primary reasons for the Wolves hanging around in the playoff picture has been the improved play of Jules Bernard. The aforementioned losses of Pullin and Newton have thrust a ton of opportunity onto Bernard’s shoulders.
The most noticeable changes have been his huge scoring uptick and increased efficiency at all three levels. I was skeptical of his ability to be the lead guard due to his tendency to force up tough shots. However, he’s proven to be more than capable. His new found stroke from deep hasn’t stopped him from continuing to punish the paint with his physicality.
When looking at just the regular season, Bernard is second in the G League in total points scored behind just Tristen Newton (Fourth in points per game). The freshly turned 26-year-old has had a couple brief stints in the NBA before, but it looks like he is making quite the case for another shot if he keeps this play up.
DES MOINES, IA - JANUARY 3: Alize Johnson #24 of the Iowa Wolves handles the ball during the game against the Sioux Falls Skyforce on January 3, 2026 at Casey's Center in Des Moines, Iowa. 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 Jasey Bradwell/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Alize Johnson has continued to be a rock for this Iowa Wolves team. You would expect nothing less from the soon-to-be 30-year-old veteran. Often times when things bog down for Iowa, they turn to Johnson to get things going.
The results are usually good.
At this point, we know what Johnson excels at. He’s an aggressive rebounder. A plus passer playing in a point-forward role. An effective paint scorer despite lacking positional size. However, the one thing that should raise the eyebrows of scouts is his developing three-point shot. Johnson’s career history is littered with low to sub 30% seasons on low volume from perimeter.
This season?
November: 0.6 3PM / 2.4 3PA (26.3%)
December: 1.4 3PM / 3.6 3PA (37.5%)
January: 1.8 3PM / 4.3 3PA (42.3%)
Is someone developing a three-point shot like this at age 30 believable and sustainable? Maybe. Was his January numbers boosted by an anomalous eight for eight display? Sure. But this is certainly something to keep track of as Johnson looks to make one final run at landing a NBA contract.
DES MOINES, IA - JANUARY 18: Nate Santos #1 of the Iowa Wolves dribbles the ball during the game against the Long Island Nets on January 18, 2026 at Casey's Center in Des Moines, Iowa. 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 Jasey Bradwell/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
If the Wolves had a “little fish gets eaten by a big fish, eaten by a bigger fish” graphic, it would look something like Nate Santos gets eaten by Jules Bernard, who gets eaten by Zyon Pullin.
They’re all stout, bulky guards who aren’t necessarily elite at any one skill, but can do a little of everything at a mediocre level.
There’s some different shades of skills they possess. On one end, you have Pullin who’s elite in the paint and not as much of a perimeter threat, then you have Santos who’s more of a perimeter threat and not as effective inside the arc.
The 24-year-old stands at six foot, seven inches (Don’t do it) so he has a bit of size to him. Santos was a four year college player for Pittsburgh and Dayton before going undrafted in 2025. He played for the Orlando Magic summer league squad before getting picked up by Iowa. The losses in the backcourt have thrust Santos into a larger role in 2026, and he’s responded.
The Puerto Rican native has been a much needed floor spacer for a Wolves team that is bottom five in the league in both three-point makes and attempts. He’s been in a little bit of a drought in the last three games, but prior to that, he was ripping nets at a crisp 45.6% mark from distance, on volume, in January.
He has potential to be a 3&D prospect to keep an eye on.
Tune in at the end of February for our next Eyes on Iowa update! If you don’t want to truly commit as a sicko by watching full Iowa Wolves games live, you can just follow me on BlueSky for occasional videos and updates.
NEW YORK (AP) — Speedskater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frank Del Duca have been chosen as the U.S. flagbearers for the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony on Friday.
Jackson, 33, is the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal at a Winter Games. Del Duca, a 34-year-old Army sergeant, is the first bobsledder in 70 years to carry the flag into an opening ceremony.
The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee announced the names on Tuesday. It's the third Olympics for Jackson, the second for Del Duca.
“Being chosen to represent the United States on the world stage is a tremendous honor,” Jackson said. “It’s a moment that reflects far more than one individual — it represents my family, my teammates, my hometown, and everyone across the country who believes in the power of sport. The Olympics remind us of the power of sport to connect and inspire, and I’m proud to carry that forward on the Olympic stage.”
Del Duca, with deep Italian roots, finds the opportunity especially meaningful as the games are in Italy. The opening ceremony will be unique, with events spread across several Italian cities.
U.S. bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor was picked to carry the American flag into the opening ceremony at the 2022 Beijing Olympics but tested positive for COVID-19 — forcing the postponement of her flag-carrying chance until the closing ceremony of those Winter Games. She was replaced at the Beijing opening by speedskater Brittany Bowe, and this time, it’s Jackson’s turn to have that moment.
AIROLO, Switzerland (AP) — Australian freestyle skier Laura Peel hurt her knee in a training camp ahead of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, raising doubts about her participation in a fourth Games.
The 36-year-old Peel is a two-time world champion and one of the favorites to win the women's aerials.
She sustained the injury in Switzerland on Monday, the Australian team said in a statement, and had a scan at a sports specialist clinic.
“She has returned to the training camp in Airolo, Switzerland where she’ll be treated by the team physio to determine next steps,” the team said Tuesday.
The women’s aerials qualification starts on Feb. 17.
Peel has never won an Olympic medal. She was one of the favorites in aerials in Beijing in 2022 but finished in fifth place, and was also at Pyeongchang in 2018 and Sochi in 2014.
The Indiana Hoosiers (15-7, 6-5 Big Ten) close out their two-game West Coast road trip with a visit to Galen Center to take on the USC Trojans (16-6, 5-6) on Tuesday night.
The Trojans have struggled in conference play, but are coming off a 78-75 win over Rutgers on Saturday. While the Hoosiers outlasted the UCLA Bruins in a 98-97 double overtime thriller for a much-needed win to stay on the bubble for March Madness.
The two teams are just one game apart in the Big Ten standings; Indiana currently sits in ninth place while USC is just outside the top ten at 11th place.
Here is everything you need to know about how to watch Tuesday night's matchup between the Trojans and Hoosiers:
How to watch USC vs. Indiana: TV channel, live stream
The USC Trojans will host the Indiana Hoosiers on Tuesday, Feb. 2 at 7 p.m. local time (10 p.m. ET) on Peacock. The game will be played at the Galen Center in Los Angeles, California.
Feb 2, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) holds the ball while Indiana Pacers forward Isaiah Jackson (22) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
The Houston Rockets played Monday night’s game without Kevin Durant. Add in the already missing Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams, and you have practically half of your rotation in street clothes. While Durant sat with an ankle sprain, it allowed NBA All-Star snub Alperen Sengun to state his case, as he went off for 39 points, 16 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the Rockets to a 118-114 road win over the Indiana Pacers.
Sengun also shot 13-for-25 from the field and helped the Rockets on a late 12-2 run in the fourth quarter that helped put the game away for Houston.
In addition, the Rockets also got 19 points and 4 rebounds from Jabari Smith Jr. He also added a steal and a block and shot 3-for-6 from beyond the arc. Amen Thompson finished with 16 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks on 6-for-15 shooting from the field, and Reed Sheppard, who drew the start with KD out and played 25 minutes, had 11 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and a block, but he only shot 1-for-7 from deep.
As for the Pacers, they were led by Pascal Siakam, who finished with 27 points, and Benedict Mathurin, who finished with 25 points.
The Rockets move to 31-17 with the victory and move to an over .500 record (14-13) on the road. They still sit in fourth-place in the NBA’s Western Conference, one game behind the third-place Denver Nuggets, and 1.5 games ahead of the fifth-place Minnesota Timberwolves. The second-place San Antonio Spurs are just 1.5 games in front of the Rockets.
The Rockets are currently on a 52-win pace, which would give them the exact same record that they had last year. And while that looks like a successful season on paper, I don’t think anyone was hoping trading for KD would just be a linear move. Injuries have really depleted this team, including Tari Eason missing a bunch of games as well, but the Rockets seem to have also lost some of their identity from last year, and I think that’s probably the biggest issue with this year’s team. Last year, they were young, fast, and high-effort defenders. What is Houston’s strength this season? They still have a high defensive rating and good offensive one as well, but their strengths seem a little more nebulous this year. Tell us in the comments what you think is the Rockets identity in 2025-2026.
The Rockets will be back in action on Wednesday versus the Boston Celtics.
Defending national champion Florida and runner-up Houston are climbing in USA TODAY Sports’ latest men’s basketball bracketology update.
After a sluggish start that included non-conference losses to Arizona, TCU, Duke and Connecticut, the Gators have moved to a No. 3 seed and within a half-game of first place in the SEC.
Florida has lost just twice in nearly two months and now has a combined 10 Quad 1 and 2 wins. On Sunday, the Gators shot 51.3% from the field and had a plus-16 turnover margin in a 100-77 win against Alabama.
Meanwhile, Houston steps up to the No. 2 line after rebounding from a road loss to Texas Tech with wins against TCU and Cincinnati.
After playing just four true away games to date, the Cougars are set to face a daunting Big 12 road slate down the stretch, including dates at Brigham Young, Iowa State and Kansas.
Notable fallers in the bracket include No. 3 seed Nebraska, which has recently lost high-profile conference games against Michigan and Illinois, and No. 6 seed Arkansas, which drops a line after losing at home to Kentucky.
March Madness bracketology projection for NCAA Tournament
March Madness Last four in
UCLA, New Mexico, Ohio State, Santa Clara.
March Madness First four out
Miami (Fla.), Virginia Tech, Seton Hall, Missouri.
NCAA tournament bids conference breakdown
Multi-bid leagues: Big Ten (11), SEC (10), ACC (7) Big 12 (7), Big East (3), Mountain West (3), West Coast (3).
Though a team from outside of men’s college basketball’s five biggest conferences hasn’t won a national championship since UConn in 2014 — and even that feels like a bit of a technicality for a school that was one year removed from being in the Big East — several teams from those leagues have made their presence felt nationally this season.
As has been the case for much of this century, Gonzaga’s in the middle of the discussion in the sport, with a 22-1 record and a No. 5 ranking in the latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll. No. 20 Saint Louis has been equally impressive, with only a one-point loss to Stanford in late November separating coach Josh Schertz’s team from perfection. No. 24 Miami (Ohio) is one of only two undefeated teams remaining at the Division I level, along with No. 1 Arizona,
They’re hardly alone, either. In a sport that longs for Cinderellas, there are plenty of viable contenders outside the five largest conferences as the sport’s calendar turns to February.
Here’s a look at the latest power rankings of men’s basketball teams from outside the sport’s five majors leagues (the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Big East and SEC):
College basketball mid-major power rankings
1. Gonzaga (22-1)
In the latest installment of one of the sport’s best rivalries, the Bulldogs knocked off visiting Saint Mary’s 73-65 on January 30 behind 30 points from Graham Ike. The two sides will meet again on February 28 in Moraga, California. With Gonzaga off to the Pac-12 next season, let’s hope it finds a way to match up against the Gaels sooner rather than later.
The Billikens needed a 3-pointer from Robbie Avila with three seconds remaining to get past George Washington, but they looked much sharper in a 102-71 drubbing of Dayton three nights later. After the win, Schertz was at a campus bar serving and knocking back blue-colored shots with a bunch of patrons soaking in Saint Louis’ best season in at least a decade.
Coach Travis Steele’s team keeps on winning, with a narrow victory over UMass followed up by a 24-point rout of Northern Illinois. The win against the Huskies was played in front of 10,640 fans, the largest crowd ever at 57-year-old Millett Hall, the RedHawks’ home arena.
4. Utah State (18-3)
Since dropping back-to-back games to UNLV and Grand Canyon, the Aggies have won three in a row. The last of those victories came last Saturday against San Diego State, with forward Karson Templin coming off the bench for 18 points, seven rebounds, two steals and two blocks.
5. Santa Clara (19-5)
The Broncos have won 10 of their past 11 after a 9-4 start to the season, a run punctuated last Saturday with a 104-73 victory at Loyola Marymount. Senior guard Brenton Knapper had 22 points and five steals in the victory.
6. Saint Mary’s (19-4)
Even in a heated rivalry, there’s no shame in losing on the road to Gonzaga, especially for a Gaels team that has the chance to stack up some wins over the next few weeks before wrapping up the regular season with home games against Gonzaga and Santa Clara.
In a college basketball season dominated by superstar freshmen, the Lobos have a talented newcomer of their own. Freshman big man Tomislav Buljan has recorded a double-double in each of his team’s past five games, a stretch in which he’s averaging 15.6 points and 12 rebounds per game while shooting 58.5% from the field.
8. San Diego State (15-6)
The Aztecs have dropped two of their past four games after starting the season 13-4. It should only be so much of a cause for concern. The losses both came on the road and were decided by a combined six points against two of the Mountain West’s best teams (Utah State and Grand Canyon).
9. George Mason (20-2)
Guard Kory Mincy has been on fire of late for the Patriots, averaging 20 points per game over his team’s past three contests. In those games, he has made 10 of his 21 3-point attempts (47.6%).
George Mason guard Kory Mincy (@KoryMincy3) had himself a strong game in a win over St Bonaventure finishing with 22 points on 9-15 FG. Has led the Patriots to a 20-2 season so far 👀 pic.twitter.com/r9oeWcIQNl
The Zips got within two wins of their fifth-straight 20-win season in style. In a 17-point victory against rival Kent State, Akron got 16 points, nine rebounds and four assists from Tavari Johnson while the Golden Flashes misfired on all but one of their 23 attempts from 3.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 02: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans tries to knock the ball away from Miles Bridges #0 of the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on February 02, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Zion Williamson is back in form, which is great. His year at Duke remains iconic, but injuries have plagued his NBA career. When he’s healthy though, no one can stop him.
At 6-6 and 284, and with immense power and verticality, Williamson’s offensive game is pretty simple: he’s usually going to take you as close to basket as he can get. You’re welcome to try to stop him, but good luck with that. He’s like a runaway freight when he gets going.
In this game, he finished with 14 points, 11 rebounds and two assists.
For the Hornets, fellow Brotherhood member Kon Knueppel finished with 17 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists, while Sion James had 3 points and 5 rebounds.
The Hornets got the win and are on a 7-game win streak and as hot as any team in the league.
BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 1: Head coach Joe Mazzulla of the Boston Celtics, left, looks on as head coach Doc Rivers of the Milwaukee Bucks directs his players during the first quarter at TD Garden on February 1, 2026 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 Winslow Townson/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The record doesn’t exactly show it, but Boston has been improving all year. After starting 11-9 through October and November, they steamrolled through December at 9-3, and slogged through a road-heavy January 10-6.
Despite the travel, last month was supposed to be the soft part of the schedule with nine games against teams under .500. Nailbiting losses to the Pacers and Bulls notwithstanding, the Celtics have been fairly consistent and to the chagrin of the haters, actually been getting better.
Without the three-point differential to count on, that’s meant gaining an advantage in possessions and more so, quality possessions.
After the Celtics talked so much about playing fast in training camp and during the preseason, they stormed out of the gates as, well, the slowest playing team in the league. As the season went along, it was more about re-defining the term “pace.” It wasn’t necessarily about getting out in transition. As I wrote after boat-racing the Clippers in early January:
Paradoxically for the Celtics, the slower “pace” is a matter of utilizing their speed and athleticism. They grind teams in the halfcourt with ball and player movement and constantly putting teams in jeopardy and making them make decisions with every screen, cut, and misdirection.
After averaging 97.13 possessions per game in December, they cut that done even further to 94.89 in January. Against the Bucks on Sunday, they beat Milwaukee by 28 points in 86.5 possessions. What Mazzulla has been able to do is condense the game in order to limit mistakes in a perfect 48-minute game.
We’ve seen improvements across the board. The genesis of this article was Sports Illustrated’s John Karalis tweeting this out Monday morning about the Celtics rebounding:
Celtics month-by-month defensive rebounding (league rank in parentheses)
OCT 64.7% (28) NOV 67% (26) DEC 68.3% (18) JAN 71.7% (9)
They’ve turned one of the biggest perceived weaknesses to a strength at Game #50. Part of that is inserting Luka Garza into the rotation. Jaylen Brown has also made it a priority for him to hit the glass, too. Defensive rebounding and closing out possessions has played a large part in Boston knocking on the door of a top-10 defense.
Boston has also benefitted on the league-wide trend of allowing defenses to play a little more physical. Opponent free throws have trended down since the start of the regular season: 28.7 in October to 26.1 to 20.8 to 18.8 in January.
It’s not as if they’re generating more turnovers and easier buckets on fast breaks. Instead, the trend is further allowing them to grind teams in the halfcourt. Roughly half of NBA shots are taken with 15-7 seconds on the shot clock and Boston allows the fifth-lowest eFG% (52.3%).
Offensively, Mazzulla has found ways to win the margins, too. the Celtics turnover rate has remained fairly consistent at around 12.2% or just under twelve TO’s a game. However, what’s been improving has been their assists. They averaged two more assists in January than they did in October and much of that has been from the bench. The Celtics second unit has the second highest true shooting percentage (59.2%) in the NBA; Anfernee Simons, Baylor Scheierman, Jordan Walsh, Josh Minott, and Luka Garza all shoot about 39% from behind the arc with Hugo Gonzalez trailing behind at a respectable 36.8%.
Here’s the scary thing: we can assume that anything that happens ahead of Thursday’s trade deadline will only improve the team and, oh yeah, there’s the impending return of Jayson Tatum.
Kurt Helin
Raphielle Johnson
