WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 2: Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets dunks the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards on March 2, 2026 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. 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 Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
With Houston playing good ball out of the All-Star break this a reminder that yes, you are still allowed to be mad at the Jared McCain trade.
The Rockets seem to have gotten their act together since this blog started tracking their progress and the 2026 first-round pick they owe to the Sixers. They went 3-1 over their last week of action, dropping only a matinee game in Miami to the Heat.
That’s kept their pick at 25th overall, just where it was a week ago. Houston’s schedule remains fairly easy, at least in the short term. They’ll host a banged up Golden State Warriors team this week as well as the Portland Trail Blazers before heading to San Antonio to take on the Spurs.
Anyone rooting for losses can at least take solace in the fact that those two home games are a back-to-back, and that Spurs matchup projects to be quite a battle.
Last week the tracker briefly touched on some of the draft prospects that have been mocked in that range, and this week’s will serve as somewhat as a channel guide to watch some of these guys with the college regular season winding down.
Amari Allen from Alabama remains Tankathon’s mock pick for the Sixers here. The Crimson Tide’s last two regular season games are March 3 against Georgia at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPNNEWS and Auburn at 8:30 on March 7 on ESPN.
Joshua Jefferson and Iowa State have only one remaining regular season game, that will also be March 7 at 2 p.m. ET against Arizona State.
It doesn’t feel likely that Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg would fall to them in this range, but their center Aday Mara has been mocked closer to where the Sixers might be picking. The Wolverines last two games are on March 5 at 8 p.m. ET against Iowa and on March 7 at 4:30 p.m. ET. You can catch that one on CBS.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 02: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers is guarded by Nate Williams #19 of the Golden State Warriors during the second half at Chase Center on March 02, 2026 in San Francisco, California. 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 Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It hasn’t been an easy stretch for the Golden State Warriors. With injuries piling up to their biggest names, wins have been hard to come by. But if there’s been one clear positive, it’s been watching the rest of the roster embrace the opportunity in front of them.
With Jimmy Butler out for the season and both Steph Curry and Kristaps Porzingis sidelined in recent games, Golden State has had no choice but to lean on its depth. Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, Gui Santos, and even rookie Will Richard have gone from rotation pieces to key contributors during this stretch.
On Monday night, in the Warriors’ 114-101 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, another name stepped into that spotlight. Two-way wing Nate Williams delivered a strong all-around performance, finishing with 18 points on 5-of-8 shooting, along with two rebounds, two assists, and a steal in 22 minutes on the floor.
Williams didn’t just produce offensively — he also embraced one of the toughest defensive assignments in the league, spending key possessions guarding Clippers small forward Kawhi Leonard. After the game, Williams made it clear he wasn’t intimidated by the matchup.
“[Kawhi Leonard] is a great player, but he bleeds just like I bleed,” Williams said. “I don’t fear no challenge.”
That mindset translated. He held his ground against a former two-time Finals MVP, and for a 27-year-old undrafted wing still trying to carve out a consistent role in the NBA, those are the kinds of minutes that matter.
Head coach Steve Kerr praised Williams’ energy and competitiveness afterward, reinforcing that that’s what it will take for the Warriors to survive this difficult stretch of games.
Kerr credited the second-half defense of the Clippers — who slowed the pace after a brisker first half — and highlighted the play of Nate Williams.
“It’s fun watching him. Young player. Live body. Can make a shot. … Nate is a very impressive player.”
It capped what had been a hectic last four days for Williams, who, according to Kerr, also recently became a father.
He played 36 minutes Friday in Santa Cruz and scored 26 points for the Warriors’ G League team against San Diego.
Then he made the commute up the coast and the most of his 15 minutes against the Lakers on Saturday, scoring seven points and dishing out two assists.
Williams turned around just 18 hours later and put in 10 points in 10 minutes on Sunday afternoon, facing the G League Clippers again at Chase Center as part of the SeaDubs’ yearly showcase in San Francisco.
Finally, he played 18 more minutes in Monday’s loss as one of the few bright spots for Golden State.
“He’s still one of the great defenders in the league,” Kerr said of Green. “And he set the tone in that first half, and we were able to sustain the lead for much of the third. But they went on a run late in the third quarter, and cut it to two going into the fourth. They had a lot of momentum.
“But we had to get him out. He can’t play the whole game. And he played 31 minutes, which is a lot for him at this stage. But that was the key stretch.”
Green, who turns 36 on Wednesday, averages 26.6 minutes per game and has topped 31 in only 11 of the 50 games in which he has played this season. No doubt he was stretched.
Uncertain whether Kristaps Porzingis will join road trip. He was in the facility today. Out again with general illness.
Steve Kerr: “It’s a little mysterious. We’re working with him hoping he can get some clarity and breakthrough and get to a point he’s consistently healthy.” pic.twitter.com/7SBFwj904Z
Antetokounmpo racked up 19 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists in the defeat.
“I’m just happy that I’m on the court,” he said after Monday’s game. “It doesn’t matter if I play 18 minutes, 20 minutes, 22, whatever, I’m just happy that I’m out there. Obviously did not play well tonight, but at the end of the day, I’m just happy that I’m out there being able to help my teammates in any way that I can and just do what I love, which is play basketball.”
Well hello there, Nate Williams! After making his Warriors debut on Saturday, Williams played a critical role on Monday, and was one of the team’s best players, despite it being just the 49th game of his career. He was Golden State’s best shooter, and most aggressive offensive option. I certainly did not see that coming, but it was awesome.
Grade: A+
Follow@unstoppablebaby on X for all the latest news on the Golden State Warriors.
LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are using a softer stretch of schedule to build momentum in the Western Conference.
Los Angeles has won two in a row and hosts the New Orleans Pelicans for an extended stay in La-La Land on Tuesday.
James’ offensive outputs have been tempered since the All-Star break, with Los Angeles running into some stronger defensive foes before two blowout wins.
New Orleans is way down the NBA’s defensive metrics, so my Pelicans vs. Lakers predictions and NBA picks call for a return to form for “King James”, most notably when it comes to his playmaking.
Pelicans vs Lakers prediction
Pelicans vs Lakers best bet: LeBron James Over 5.5 assists (-150)
This prop bounces between 5.5 and 6.5 assists from LeBron James. And while the lower end of that number carries a hefty -150 ask, projections for the Los Angeles Lakers’ veteran are too good to ignore.
James has dished out six or more dimes just twice in the six post-break outings, with his potential assists slipping from 12.0 pre-break to 8.7 in this current span. That said, the New Orleans Pelicans' defense is dreadful and allows an average of 28 assists.
LeBron’s forecasts range from 6.2 to 7.5 assists, and he handed out eight the last time he faced NOLA.
Pelicans vs Lakers same-game parlay
The Lakers are actually healthy for once and have a chance to build momentum with a third straight victory. The Pelicans are playing their fourth straight road game and third game in four days.
James’ potential assists took a hit against some tougher defenses post-break (Boston, Orlando, Phoenix), but NOLA is among the worst defensive clubs, and LeBron is pegged for more than seven dimes tonight.
Rui Hachimura is at his best when the L.A. stars are on the floor and drawing extra attention from the defense. He’s forecast for as many as 12 points tonight.
Pelicans vs Lakers SGP
Lakers moneyline
James Over 5.5 assists
Hachimura Over 8.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: The James gang
LeBron went for eight rebounds and eight assists in his last run-in with the Pelicans, and game projections call for “King James” to top those props while powering L.A. to a win and cover in a low-scoring finish (237 points).
Pelicans vs Lakers SGP
Lakers -8.5
Under 242.5
James Over 5.5 assists
James Over 5.5 rebounds
Pelicans vs Lakers odds
Spread: Pelicans +8.5 | Lakers -8.5
Moneyline: Pelicans +280 | Lakers -360
Over/Under: Over 242.5 | Under 242.5
Pelicans vs Lakers betting trend to know
The L.A. Lakers are 10-1 SU and 8-3 ATS versus the New Orleans Pelicans over the last three seasons. Find more NBA betting trends for Pelicans vs. Lakers.
How to watch Pelicans vs Lakers
Location
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Date
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Tip-off
10:30 p.m. ET
TV
GCSEN, Spectrum SportsNet
Pelicans 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.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - FEBRUARY 26: Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat dribbles the ball during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on February 26, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
A brief stop at home before getting back on the road. The Brooklyn Nets came home for an afternoon matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday afternoon. The Nets put up a heck of a fight, but ultimately fell short. The losing streak is at eight.
The opponent tonight is in the all too comfortable position of the play-in tournament. The Miami Heat are firmly in the middle of the pack and hope that they do enough to get back to the postseason and go on a miracle run. They helped their cause with an impressive home win against the Houston Rockets on Saturday afternoon.
Where to follow the game
YES Network on TV. WFAN on radio. Gotham Sports on streaming. Tip after 7:30 PM.
🤕 Injuries
Egor Demin is out. The three two-ways are still with Long Island and both Ben Saraf and Grant Nelson remain with the big club.
Norm Powell is out. Andrew Wiggins is probable. Terry Rozier… yeah he’s got a whole bigger problem to worry about.
These teams do it again on Thursday to wrap up the season. Bam does a touch of everything well on the court and that versatility allows him to fill a variety of roles for Erik Spoelstra’s club. With Nic Claxton back in action, the Nets frontcourt will get some reinforcements to contest the former All Star and Gold Medalist.
This sentiment from Bam after a Heat loss to the Utah Jazz certainly applies to the next two games:
“We’ve got to find a way to win even against teams trying to lose.”
Not that Jordi Fernandez is trying lose, but… you know.
With Demin out for the time being, Nolan Traore gets even more minutes to get comfortable. He’ll get the lion’s share of the minutes at point with Ben Saraf serving as the backup. Nolan has done well in his time as a starter while Ben is struggling off the bench.
The key to any great defense is to defend without fouling, and the Heat are one of the best in the league at it. Miami has the third lowest opponent’s free throw rate and is fourth in defensive efficiency. You can always survive with a good defense, so that gives the Heat a leg up as they try to escape the play-in vortex.
👀 Player to watch: Tyler Herro
The Heat must see something in Herro that I don’t. This is year seven for the Heat two guard and he’s… ok? Like he’s not actively bad or anything like that, but I doubt he can be the lead perimeter scorer on a team that has serious playoff aspirations. Either way, he’ll be out there tonight and looking to poke holes in the Nets defense. Brooklyn has the worst 3-point defense in the league while Herro has been a good three point shooter throughout his career. It’s a recipe for a big night if things break in Herro’s favor.
Terrance Mann figures to start once again as Demin is out with injury. Brooklyn will count on him for some playmaking, but mostly, his job will be to chase Herro around the court and limit any easy opportunities for him. A two game set is a great chance for Mann and the Nets to see what’s working against the Heat offense and adjust for the rematch on Thursday.
Get set for a key Atlantic Division showdown with our Knicks vs. Raptors computer picks!
Our data-driven system has crunched the numbers so you don't have to, delivering six NBA picks — three NBA player prop projections for each side — for Tuesday, March 3.
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Knicks computer picks
Karl-Anthony Towns Over 17.5 points (-115)
Projection: 19.3
Our projections are calling for Karl-Anthony Towns to beat this line by nearly two full points for a +17.49% EV edge. Our computer believes rebounding ability will give Towns the help he needs.
"Offensive rebounds continue possession and produce more chances for scoring and assists, and the New York Knicks rank 4th-best in in the league with 13.1 offensive rebounds per game this year."
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Josh Hart Under 5.5 assists (-155)
Projection: 4.5
Our system's second four-star play for the New York Knicks has Josh Hart finishing one full assist Under his current betting line. Tempo, or a lack thereof, will tell the story of this wager.
"The Knicks have played at the 6th-slowest pace-of-play in the NBA over the last 25 games. The Toronto Raptors have played at the 9th-most lethargic tempo in the league over the last 5 games in their home city, which ought to decrease possessions for the Knicks."
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OG Anunoby Over 4.5 rebounds (-115)
Projection: 5.2
As alluded to in the Towns bet, the Knicks are a terrific rebounding team. OG Anunoby has been helpful in that area all year long, pulling down 5.3 boards per game.
The Toronto Raptors are 12th-worst in the NBA in defensive rebound percentage.
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Raptors computer picks
Brandon Ingram Over 1.5 threes (-105)
Projection: 1.9
This is a four-star play carrying a +13.66 EV edge. Here's why our computer is calling for Brandon Ingram to hit two or more triples tonight:
"The matchup against New York is a favorable one for three-pointers; when the New York Knicks are the visiting squad, opposing starting SFs have posted the highest three percentage in the NBA this year (48.0%)."
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Immanuel Quickley Over 5.5 assists (+115)
Projection: 5.8
Not only is Immanuel Quickley averaging 6.0 assists per game this season, but you're getting plus-money for him to match or better his season average tonight.
Our system calculates a 10.09% EV edge.
span style="font-size: 14px;"🔥/span spanBet Quickley Now at bet365!/span
RJ Barrett Over 1.5 threes (-112)
Projection: 1.8
Our computer is targeting another Raptors 3-pointer prop, this time with former Knick RJ Barrett. New York's defense has been vulnerable to the deep shot, surrendering an 11th-worst 13.7 per game, with shooting guards making hay, in particular.
"This year, the other team's starting SGs have shot 44.7% on threes (best in the league) vs. the New York Knicks."
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How to watch Knicks vs Raptors tonight
Location
Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON
Date
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Tip-off
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
MSG, Sportsnet
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.
TORONTO — Mitchell Robinson isn’t going to shoot his free throws underhand. In his view, form isn’t the problem and granny style “is silly as hell.”
The issue, as Robinson laid out Tuesday, is the lack of outside shooting opportunities in practice, which negatively impacts his foul-shooting rhythm.
“I don’t get shots up like that [in practice]. I just do a lot of layups, hook shots, stuff like that,” Robinson, who is down to 39 percent from the charity stripe this season, said. “If you don’t get shots, you don’t know how it is. You’re not comfortable with it. So it’s just like — you’ve got to get some shots up. I do it in the summertime, and I’m straight. And I just get away from it.”
Knicks center Mitchell Robinson shoots free throws at practice on Jan. 6, 2026. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST
Robinson pointed at the proof of his rookie season, when he shot a career-best 60 percent and apparently there was more of an emphasis on his outside shot. His free-throw efficiency has been declining ever since.
“Like I said before, when I was getting up shots, rookie year, I was 60 percent,” Robinson said. “So if I get shots up, everything will be all right. Until then, it is what it is.”
To be clear, Robinson isn’t talking about practicing free throws. He does that plenty. He also slightly altered his shooting form before this season, believing that dribbling once before the shot instead of three would help with the mental aspect.
But the foul shots still aren’t falling — and Robinson believes it’s related to his offensive responsibilities being limited to rebounding, setting screens or putbacks.
The 27-year-old hasn’t attempted a field goal outside of the paint since the 2022-23 season. Almost all of his attempts are inside the restricted area. His workouts with the Knicks are geared toward that style, which isn’t the case when Robinson is training in the summer.
“If you’re not shooting shots — even if you’re not going to shoot them in the game, it’s still good to have that muscle memory like that,” Robinson said. “And also confidence [comes] with it, too. It goes hand in hand.”
Heading into Tuesday’s game against the Raptors, Robinson owned the lowest free-throw percentage, by far, among players with at least 80 attempts. Rudy Gobert was next at 50.2 percent. Robinson also spoke out in a recent Facebook post.
“If you ain’t comfortable with your shot you know what the result is gonna be,” Robinson posted recently. “When I’m not in New York in my offseason I get up shots not just layups all day. I make 10 in a row sometimes even 20 in a row but that’s after I get done running and shooting. It’s a big difference from just doing layups and also let’s face the fact usually it takes maybe 11-16 [times up and down the court] before I touch the ball. I’m not complaining about it. I expected it for what it is.”
The foul shooting became a hot-button topic in last year’s playoffs, when the Celtics and Pistons began intentionally hacking Robinson with regularity. Robinson becomes a liability if he’s not hitting his foul shots, especially in a playoff setting, so it could also limit his minutes.
“Nah,” Robinson said when asked if he’s ever tried underhand free throws. “I feel like that’s silly as hell.”
Mitchell Robinson prepares to shoot a free throw during the Knicks’ game against the Cavaliers on Feb. 24, 2026. NBAE via Getty Images
Other than his foul-shooting woes, Robinson has been a success story this season. He’s again leading the East in offensive rebounds per game despite averaging just 19.4 minutes. That presence under the glass has changed results into victories for the Knicks, like Robinson’s strong performance Sunday over the Spurs.
“That’s like my job. That’s my job on this team. Bring energy off the bench,” Robinson said. “That’s what I try to do every night when I play. So continue to do that.”
He’s also remained healthy for the first time in three years while adhering to a load management program. Robinson doesn’t play back-to-backs, which is why the center isn’t expected to play Wednesday’s home game against the mighty Thunder after Tuesday’s contest in Toronto.
Coach Mike Brown determines which of the two back-to-back games Robinson will play.
“It wasn’t my choice,” Robinson said. “I let coaches decide which game they want me to play.”
The Toronto Raptors have taken care of business this season, winning the games they’re supposed to, positioning themselves well in the East.
However, things have been a little less smooth against tougher competition. On top of that, tonight’s opponent, the New York Knicks, has owned them.
My Knicks vs. Raptors predictions break down why it could be a tough night in The Six for the home team.
That and more NBA picks for this Eastern Conference clash, which is set to tip off at 7:30 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on Tuesday, March 3.
Knicks vs Raptors prediction
Knicks vs Raptors best bet: Knicks -2.5 (-112)
The Toronto Raptors sit in fifth place in the East, but are just 15-18 when facing teams above .500 this season.
They’ve also made a habit of going up by double-digits against good teams before blowing the lead late in games.
The New York Knicks are a good team. Not only that, but the Knicks have owned the Raptors. New York has beaten Toronto in 11 consecutive meetings dating back to 2023, covering the spread all but once.
Both teams are Top 10 defensively, but the Raps can’t match the Knicks offensively. New York’s dominance over Toronto continues.
Knicks vs Raptors same-game parlay
The Knicks blew out the Raptors when they last met back on January 28, 119-92.
Former Raptor OG Anunoby put up 26 points in that game, and has found his shooting rhythm again in the last two games. Take OG to burn his old team once again.
Another place the Knicks have an edge over the Raptors is on the glass. New York ranks fifth in rebounding rate, Toronto is 15th.
Take Mikal Bridges to go Over his rebounding prop of 3.5. It's a number he’s topped in eight of his last 12 games.
Jalen Brunson, averaging 26.7 ppg, is capable of going off at any time, like he did with 35 points vs. Toronto on Dec. 9 in the NBA Cup quarterfinals.
Knicks vs Raptors SGP
RJ Barrett Over 17.5 points
Immanuel Quickley Over 17.5 points
OG Anunoby Over 15.5 points
Jalen Brunson Over 25.5 points
Knicks vs Raptors odds
Spread: Knicks -2.5 | Raptors +2.5
Moneyline: Knicks -120 | Raptors +140
Over/Under: Over 222 | Under 222
Knicks vs Raptors betting trend to know
The Knicks are 10-1 against the spread in their last 11 meetings against the Raptors. Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. Raptors.
How to watch Knicks vs Raptors
Location
Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON
Date
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Tip-off
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
MSG, Sportsnet
Knicks vs Raptors 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.
DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 29: Kon Knueppel #7 of the Charlotte Hornets and Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks waits for the rebound on January 29, 2026 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, 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 Cooper Neill/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The careers of Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel will be inexorably linked throughout their time in the NBA. That’s bound to happen when you have two teammates who are close friends, college roommates, Top 5 picks, and both on the precipice of revolutionizing the NBA. Perception of these two players couldn’t have been more different when they were selected in the 2026 NBA Draft, but as we sit here in March it’s shaping up to be one of the the tightest NBA Rookie of the Year races in history.
Anointed for brilliance from the jump, Flagg was the most highly-touted U.S.-born prospect since LeBron James. A can’t-miss, generational talent, poised to transform a franchise, and there’s very little argument that he hasn’t lived up to the billing. The Mavericks are a mediocre team, still reeling from their disastrous Luka Doncic trade —but Flagg has been a bright spot. Dallas’ goal this season isn’t the playoffs, but rather having coach Jason Kidd throw so much usage at Flagg to get him the reps to be an even more complete player in the future.
Flagg would run away with the Rookie of the Year award without much resistance if this were any normal season, but the call is coming from inside the house. Kon Knueppel has been the NBA’s most surprising player, on the league’s most surprising team, changing the face of the Charlotte Hornets franchise in a way nobody expected. Instead of being the sidekick, a glue guy, or a plug-and-play shooter who would be additive, but not transformative, Knueppel has instead become a tone setter and culture changer for a Hornets team surging in the standings to find themselves in a play-in sport, with aspirations they could finish even higher and land a legitimate playoff series.
Kon Knueppel should be the NBA’s rookie of the year by every tangible metric. The only thing standing in his way is the weight of expectation placed on Flagg, and an unwavering belief that Flagg has to win the award as a building block of his eventual legacy. The reality is that while Flagg has been great, Kon has been better.
The raw numbers
If we remove all context from both players’ performances, it would be easy for a casual box score watcher to assume that Flagg has been ahead of Knueppel this season.
Cooper Flagg: 20.4 pts, 6.6 reb, 4.1 ast Kon Knueppel: 19.3 pts, 5.5 reb, 3.5 ast
Its close, but Flagg’s numbers are higher, there’s no arguing that. There is a chance that Knueppel sees his overall totals rise further, but an even greater chance that Flagg pulls ahead even more — unless he’s sidelined due to injury, which is a real concern. The difference between these two players really shines when we get inside these basic numbers to contextualize each player’s performance.
What advanced stats say
It’s here that Knueppel blows Flagg out of the water, and they’re barely comparable as a result. Knueppel is shooting better in every area, with a 48.9 FG%, 44.0 3P%, and 87.8 FT% to Flagg’s 48.2/30.2/80.4 — but even more pronounced are the advanced metrics.
When it comes to true shooting percentage (TS%), which weighs threes, twos, and three throws to give an overall picture of shooting efficiency, there’s nobody like Kon Knueppel in the NBA this season. He is 14th in the NBA in TS% at 65.1. Cooper Flagg, for comparison, sits at 140th in the league at 51.5%.
In addition, Knueppel leads the NBA in 3P% among the 23 players who have attempted over 400 shots from beyond the arc this season. Only two other players in the league have shot over 40% on 400+ attempts: Collin Gillespie of the Suns (42.3%) and Tim Hardaway Jr. of the Pistons (40.3%). To put this in context Stephen Curry, the greatest three-point shooter in NBA history, has only shot above 44% from three on over 400 attempts four times in his career — Knueppel is doing it as a rookie.
The three-point shooting is a mammoth part of Knueppel’s resume, because he broke the single-season record for threes made by a rookie and did in 59 games. At this point it’s his record to stretch until the end. The trap is to assume that the shooting is all there is to Knueppel’s game, which is painfully far from the truth. Not only is he putting up elite numbers, but he’s dramatically helping the Hornets win games.
Knueppel ranks 21st in the NBA in win share with a +6.1, having a profound impact that’s almost equal to Victor Wembanyama with the Spurs (+6.2), and above Anthony Edwards (+5.8). While Flagg is still having an impactful year, his +3.2 win share ranks 111th.
You can go down the list of advanced metrics and Knueppel is lapping Flagg this season. Flagg is getting far more touches per game as the Mavericks make him the focal point of their entire offense, but Knueppel is having much more of an impact on the game with the opportunities he’s given.
Player
TS%
WS
OFF +/-
DEF +/-
EPM
Efficiency Rank
Cooper Flagg
56%
3.2
0.1
-0.5
-0.4
198
Kon Knueppel
65.20%
6.1
3.1
0
3
30
What’s the argument against Knueppel?
The core argument on putting Flagg as Rookie of the Year over Knueppel circles back to the expectations entering this season. The Mavericks are routing their entire offense through Flagg, and while that’s giving him a lot of experience being “the guy” in the NBA, it’s also hurting his efficiency. Meanwhile, Knueppel is a piece is a larger puzzle in Charlotte. On any given night he’s the second or third scoring option behind Brandon Miller, and sometimes LaMelo Ball. It’s certainly true that the biggest difference between Hornets wins and losses is having Knueppel as that ancillary offensive option, but he’s still not being asked to carry the load.
That has an impact on perception, which is impossible to ignore. It’s part of the eye test when it comes to watching both players on the court without digging into the stats. Every advanced metric might prove that Knueppel has been the better player, but turn on a game and Flagg looks like the centerpiece of a team, while Kon appears to be a piece in the puzzle.
The race for the NBA rookie of the year is coming down to the wire. A midfoot injury has sidelined Flagg and could be the difference maker in the race, but when the dust settles the arguments for rookie of the year are tantamount to bragging rights for fans, and little more. The holistic view is that both former Duke teammates could be taking over the NBA in different ways very, very soon — one as the all-encompassing, do-everything superstar, while the other is laying the groundwork for a potential run at Steph Curry’s three-point record. We can appreciate the individual brilliance of both, and just be happy we get to see two young stard shine, without trying to pit them against each other or diminish either’s accomplishments.
As a writer in the offseason, one of my jobs is to look at this roster and make predictions. That means sometimes we can be right on those and look like geniuses. Other times, you can predict something and look like an utter fool. That is what comes with the job, and looking back at my predictions from this offseason made me realize I was right on two of my main ones but completely wrong on one.
As someone who works in this media space, it is correct to ride that high horse when you predict something correctly, but it is even MORE important to recognize when you are wrong. To take that step back and admit that you can make a mistake evaluating something, and that is what we will do in this piece.
Now you may be wondering what that take may be? Well, it would be one that I have preached since writing here, that being the Suns should have traded Royce O’Neale and Grayson Allen last offseason.
Yeah, I know, fire those boos at me, but this is how I truly felt in the summer months leading up to this year. With the team switching directions and pivoting to this youth movement, I expected them to be in the lottery this year. With this in mind, Royce and Grayson are not getting any younger, so move off them to fully reset into a soft rebuild.
I can confidently say I was one hundred percent wrong. Both of these veterans have been exactly what this team needs in role players. They step up when the team needs them most (especially late with injuries) and have both grown on the court this season, fitting this culture perfectly.
That is the best thing about bringing in Brian Gregory as the GM. From the beginning, with his press conferences, he always pushed the narrative of fit over talent for this new style of Suns team, and it has worked better than we all anticipated.
So, how have these guys truly shone this season and set themselves up to be great leaders for this new regime of Phoenix Suns basketball?
Well, first off, they both fit the culture perfectly. Truly, this team, top to bottom, represents an identity of hardworking effort and giving a damn on both ends of the basketball court, and it shows out there on the court. Regardless of whether it’s a close game, you can never count on this team, and a large part of that comes from these two veterans.
Regardless of whether it’s fighting through hard screens, pushing for aggressive steals, making last-ditch efforts to try and get a hand up to contest the shot, making plays on loose balls, or trying to create a play off one, they have embraced that. I can never count them out of doing the little things that do not get noticed on the stat sheet, but definitely impact games.
For example, take the game the other night against the Los Angeles Lakers. A late-game comeback at home that had every fan on their feet from the Royce O’Neale game-winner, but what about their offensive possession before that?
Well, after Austin Reaves tied the game at 108, the Suns had a minute left and had Grayson Allen trying to drive to the basket. Looking for a play where they could use some of their ball movement to free up a shooter, he continued to try to drive with attempts from Ryan Dunn to set a screen on his man. After Dunn got Jake LaRavia off Allen and switched Luka Doncic onto him, he drove, getting by Luka and forcing LaRavia to help. This allowed Allen to pass to Dunn, who then swung it back to Allen for the three. Yet while all this was going on, Royce O’Neale was at the three-point line, just waiting for a shot or an opportunity to crash the glass. With Allen taking the three and missing, O’Neale recognizes this and immediately runs to the basket with no rim protectors in sight. This gives him the easiest give-me rebound and points to give the Suns the lead once again. These types of plays, of just making smart winning basketball moves and knowing where to be or when to time the crash, are key with his veteran presence this year.
I also mentioned their steals and aggressiveness on that end, too. That comes into play with how they like to disrupt the opponent’s tempo and try to push it to their liking. Multiple times over the last few games, we have seen swings of 7 or 8-0 from the Suns generated from these turnovers created by both of these players. They both are also averaging career highs in steals, with Allen averaging 1.4 and O’Neale tying his best at 1.1 per game.
Then you look at the offensive side of the ball, where they have embraced the great three-point shooting that the team excels in. At the start of the year, both players were in the top 5 in 3pt% across the league. Even though they may not be in there at this moment, both have gotten hot at big times for the team this year and have won games single-handedly because of the big shots hit late. Let’s not all forget the game where Grayson Allen beat the record for most threes made in a game with ten. That game was electric, as he dropped 42 points, his career high, and broke not only a personal but also a team high.
A new Suns franchise record in 3PM ✅ A new career-high ✅
Grayson Allen (42 PTS, 10 3PM) shot LIGHTS OUT from deep in Phoenix's victory tonight! pic.twitter.com/YK9xZiH1W6
Allen’s ability to take command of the offense alongside O’Neale and Collin GIllepsie as of late, with no Dillon Brooks or Devin Booker, is also key to his improvement. One of his struggles heading into this year was his ball handling, but Allen has polished that with more on-ball reps throughout the year. His 3.9 assists per game are his career high, showing that with those reps, he has developed as a playmaker, too. The big key, though, is his driving ability and how much attention he draws on those plays.
One of the Phoenix Suns media members and employees for PHNX, Stephen PridGeon-Garner, has harped on this all offseason and heading into the year. This is where I learned about the impact of Allen’s driving capability and what it brings to this Suns offense. After listening to his takes and watching more and more games, you can see the analysis is spot on. Having these different perspectives and understandings of the game sheds light on areas you might not naturally think about or pay attention to, leading to better basketball discussion. I appreciate Stephen for highlighting this specific part of Allen’s game and breaking it down to raise more awareness of the parts of basketball that are not always mentioned.
I've tapped the sign on the Grayson Allen drives being not just really good but impactful for the Suns, as well as his decisions off them, all season.
Gets the Doncic switch, gets the paint touch & the correct decisions made from there & it +1's to Royce O'Neale for what seals… pic.twitter.com/jTlIqj0Vfm
So in totality, I was completely wrong about Royce and Grayson heading into the year. I am willing to admit that, and I hope you realize how valuable these two can truly be for the roster this season and heading into the playoffs. I am happy that the Suns kept them post-deadline and did not make a massive switch to pivot this year. Ride this year out with this squad as it surpassed expectations, and evaluate in the offseason when the playing field is open.
Mar 2, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) comes out of the game near the end of the second quarter and walks past Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers as they compete against the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images | Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
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Giannis returned to the Bucks’ lineup last night, but it wasn’t enough to take down the East’s current second seed. Monday’s defeat caps off a three-game losing streak that has them eight games under .500 with 22 games remaining, exactly where they were when Giannis’ most recent injury occurred on January 23rd. They’re 3.5 games back of Charlotte (with whom they hold a tiebreaker) for 10th and four games behind Atlanta (who the Bucks could gain the tiebreaker over with a victory tomorrow) for ninth. Orlando and Miami (season series with each is tied 1-1) are 5.5 games ahead.
Not impossible hills to climb, but ones that only get harder the further back they slip as the season gets closer to its conclusion. This all begs the question: do we, as fans, even want a play-in/playoff spot at this point? Unfortunately, losing/tanking doesn’t really help Milwaukee, as they’re pretty certain to finish no ”better” than 10th in the lotto standings, especially with a healthy Giannis. Chicago, Memphis, and Dallas are “ahead” of them because they leaned into tanking post-deadline while Giannis-less Milwaukee was surprisingly thriving. So… what are they playing for here?
You need a long memory to remember the last time the Charlotte Hornets were this fun, and they’ll look to keep building the buzz against the Dallas Mavericks tonight.
Charlotte has rattled off four straight wins to stay within reach of the Top 6 in the East, and my Mavericks vs. Hornets predictions expect Brandon Miller to cash in, with his sharpshooting tormenting Dallas’ undermanned defense.
Cooper Flagg’s foot injury means we likely won’t see him go head-to-head with Kon Knueppel in a rookie-of-the-year showdown, but my NBA picks look at other storylines for this March 3 clash.
Mavericks vs Hornets prediction
Mavericks vs Hornets best bet: Brandon Miller Over 22.5 points (-115)
With this Charlotte Hornets offense now ranking just outside the Top 10 in points per game, the hype around the Brandom Miller, Kon Knueppel, and LaMelo Ball trio feels justified.
Miller, in particular, has been on a heater lately. He’s gone past this O/U number in his past three outings — and he’s 17-for-32 from downtown in that span. Going back further, Miller's averaging 24.3 ppg across his last eight contests.
The Hornets dropped 123 points on the Dallas Mavericks in a late-January matchup, and Miller finished with 23 points that night. Sign me up for a repeat performance.
Mavericks vs Hornets same-game parlay
Miller’s 3-point shooting has helped him post big point totals despite playing fewer than 30 minutes in four of his last five games — largely because of Charlotte's big fourth-quarter leads. He’s knocked down 4+ triples in five straight outings.
Charlotte enters as a big favorite, and I’m undeterred by the double-digit spread. The hosts are 9-1 ATS in their past 10 contests, while a depleted Dallas squad has lost eight of its last 10 games.
Mavericks vs Hornets SGP
Brandon Miller Over 22.5 points
Brandon Miller Over 3.5 threes
Hornets -13
Our "from downtown" SGP: Moose on the loose
There’s never any doubt about whether Moussa Diabate is on the court. The man they call “Moose” gives the Hornets a spark on both ends of the floor, and he’s coming off a 13-11-5 effort against the Trail Blazers.
Diabate has logged 11+ rebounds in four of his last six games, and his assist numbers have spiked with 14 dimes across his past three contests.
Mavericks vs Hornets SGP
Moussa Diabate Over 9.5 points
Moussa Diabate Over 9.5 rebounds
Moussa Diabate Over 2.5 assists
Hornets -13
Mavericks vs Hornets odds
Spread: Mavericks +13 | Hornets -13
Moneyline: Mavericks +500 | Hornets -700
Over/Under: Over 230 | Under 230
Mavericks vs Hornets betting trend to know
The Mavericks are just 10-16 ATS on the road this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Mavericks vs. Hornets.
How to watch Mavericks vs Hornets
Location
Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC
Date
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
KFAA, FDSN SE-Charlotte
Mavericks vs Hornets latest injuries
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There are a whopping 10 games on tonight’s NBA schedule, so the player prop markets are packed with options.
My top plays include Ty Jerome, the Memphis Grizzlies’ best (and arguably only) scoring option, and locking in Dejounte Murray’s point totals before sportsbooks fully catch on to his form.
Carter is averaging 9.2 rebounds over his last 10 games and has pulled down nine or more boards in five of his last seven outings.
Meanwhile, the Wizards struggle on the glass, ranking dead last in both rebounding rate and opponent rebounds per game.
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Where to watch: Monumental, FanDuel Sports Network Florida
Prop #2: Ty Jerome Over 17.5 points
-112 at bet365
The Memphis Grizzlies are short on scorers right now, and Ty Jerome has stepped up as the last man standing.
Since returning from injury at the end of January, the Grizzlies shooting guard has played eight games, averaging 19.6 points while hitting 41.2% of his shots from beyond the arc.
Tonight, he faces the Minnesota Timberwolves, who rank 16th in opponent 3-point percentage and might ease off in a game with a 14.5-point spread.
As long as sportsbooks offer reasonable lines on Jerome, betting the Over remains a solid play.
Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
Where to watch: FanDuel Sports Network Southeast-Memphis, FanDuel Sports Network North
Prop #3: Dejounte Murray Over 13.5 points
-120 at bet365
I wouldn’t blame you if you forgot that Dejounte Murray now plays for the New Orleans Pelicans, having spent over a year sidelined recovering from an Achilles injury.
But in his three games back, Murray's already starting to look like the player we remember, putting up 15.6 points per game with a .545 effective field goal percentage. It won’t be long before sportsbooks fully adjust to his form.
His point total against the Los Angeles Lakers is set at 13.5. The Lakers rank 22nd in defensive rating and 27th in opponent eFG%.
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The two-time NBA All-Star is calling for help in locating a friend, 23-year-old Elijah Hoard, who was reported missing over the weekend in Chicago after his family stated he did not board a flight back to France.
“Our friend Elijah has been missing from Chicago O’Hare since February 27. If you have any information please reach out to local authorities,” Wembanayama wrote Monday on an Instagram Story, where he tagged notable Bulls stars such as Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah, as well as the Blackhawks’ Connor Bedard.
Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs looks on during the game against the New York Knicks on March 1, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NBAE via Getty Images
Hoard was last seen on Friday at O’Hare Airport, according to a missing person bulletin shared Sunday by Chicago police, which added he was dressed in a “brown hooded sweatshirt, black sweatpants, and cream colored shoes.” Authorities stated Hoard “may be in need of medical attention.”
Hoard’s father, Antwon, spoke about his son’s 10-day trip with a local outlet and how things shifted as the stay came to a close.
“Everything seemed pretty normal the first eight days, but the last two days his whole mood had swung, and he was really adamant about not going back home, and he didn’t want to go home,” Antwon said.
Hoard never checked in for his flight, according to his father, who theorized, “He could possibly be floating around the airport or something.”
Wembanyama will not return to Chicago this season with the Spurs.
Victor Wembanyama’s friend Elijah Hoard, who went missing. Chicago Police DepartmentThe FAA air traffic control tower at O’Hare International Airport (ORD) in Chicago, Illinois, US, on Friday Oct. 10, 2025 Bloomberg via Getty Images
The team’s 11-game hot streak was ended by the Knicks Sunday with a 114-89 loss.
The Spurs’ first chance to get back on track comes Tuesday in Philadelphia against the Sixers.
San Antonio is second in the Western Conference at 43-17.
This Minnesota Timberwolves era started with a frustrating first-round loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, hinting at a budding rivalry.
Instead, Memphis has reshaped its roster, leaving Minnesota as a two-touchdown favorite tonight.
My Grizzlies vs. Timberwolves predictions expect Minnesota to excel at the rim, a conscious roster-building decision sparked by that playoff loss four years ago.
Find out more in my NBA picks for Tuesday, March 3.
Grizzlies vs Timberwolves prediction
Grizzlies vs Timberwolves best bet: Rudy Gobert Over 11.5 points (-112)
And more often than not, Gobert's rebounding leads to putback opportunities.
Against an undermanned and undersized Memphis Grizzlies’ lineup, the Timberwolves should feed Gobert early and often.
Grizzlies vs Timberwolves same-game parlay
Gobert has grabbed at least 13 rebounds in each of his last four games, and against such a depleted Grizzlies’ front line, more of the same should be anticipated.
Meanwhile, not much should be expected from the 7-foot Santi Aldama in his first game since Feb. 4.
Grizzlies vs Timberwolves SGP
Rudy Gobert Over 11.5 points
Rudy Gobert Over 12.5 rebounds
Santi Aldama Under 5.5 rebounds
Our "from downtown" SGP: Shooting Into Consistency
Jaden McDaniels’s shooting from deep has yo-yo’ed a bit lately, but he has still shot 44.3% from beyond the arc this season.
A looming blowout should be an opportunity for him to put up four or five 3-pointers to regain his rhythm.
Over/Under: Over 237.5 (-110) | Under 237.5 (-110)
Grizzlies vs Timberwolves betting trend to know
Minnesota is 20-11 SU at home this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Grizzlies vs. Timberwolves.
How to watch Grizzlies vs Timberwolves
Location
Target Center, Minneapolis, MN
Date
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Tip-off
8:00 p.m. ET
TV
FDSN SE-Memphis, FDSN North
Grizzlies vs Timberwolves 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.
DUNEDIN, Fla. (AP) — Max Scherzer says the note his daughter composed asking the Toronto Blue Jays to re-sign the three-time Cy Young Award winner arose as his kids were writing letters to Santa Claus in December.
After Scherzer agreed last week to a $3 million, one-year contract to return to the Blue Jays, his wife posted on Instagram the handwritten note from their 8-year-old daughter, Brooke.
“It’s the cutest thing you can possibly imagine when you read that, how much it meant to her to be in Toronto,” Scherzer told reporters Tuesday after his deal was finalized.
Scherzer said his kids were writing letters expressing what they wanted from Santa when Brooke approached him and his wife, Erica May-Scherzer. The 8-year-old asked for a stamp and then put it on a sealed envelope that she handed to her parents.
After Brooke went to bed, her parents opened the letter to see what she had written.
“Dear Blue Jays,” the note began, “I am so sorry that you didn’t win the World Series. I hope that you win next time. I hope my dad is back on the team. My whole family loves spending time in Toronto with our dad. We loved the aquarium, the (CN) Tower and of course the stadium. I am looking forward to come back next season. Love, Max Scherzer daughter."
Scherzer noted he and his wife didn’t send the letter to the Blue Jays.
“That’s a bad negotiating tactic,” Scherzer said with a laugh.
Scherzer, 41, wanted to return to Toronto after the Blue Jays came so close to winning the World Series last season. The Blue Jays led in the ninth inning of Game 7 before falling 5-4 to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 11th.
“Obviously we came as close as you possibly can to winning the whole thing - something you can never get over, forget or anything of that nature,” said Scherzer, who won World Series rings with Washington in 2019 and Texas in 2023. “That was a huge reason why I wanted to come back. This team can win. I wanted to be a part of it.”
Scherzer said he’s right on schedule for the start of the season after dealing with a thumb injury for much of last year.
“I feel healthy,” Scherzer said.
Scherzer went 5-5 with a 5.19 ERA in 17 regular-season starts last year. He also was the winning pitcher in Game 4 of the AL Championship Series with Seattle and made two starts in the World Series.
He wanted to return to Toronto but understood the uncertainty that comes with being a free agent. His deal with the Jays includes $10 million in available performance bonuses for innings,
“Free agency is a weird animal,” Scherzer said. “I’ve been through it many times. You think it’s going to go one way and it goes another way. I kind of knew not to get my hopes up, but like I said, I was going to be picky about where I went. I wasn’t just going to sign with anybody. There was only a couple of teams I’d sign with at this point in time, and obviously Toronto was one of them.”
Knicks
Raptors
Wendell Carter Jr.
Ty Jerome
Dejounte Murray
