There's an impending three-team trade, as reported by ESPN, which sends Pistons guard Jaden Ivey and Timberwolves veteran Mike Conley to Chicago, while guard Kevin Huerter and forward Dario Saric of the Bulls are re-routed back to Detroit.
Detroit also gets a 2026 first-round pick swap. The trade moves Minnesota under the first apron of the league's salary cap, with speculation that it's a contender to potentially land Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo ahead of Thursday's trade deadline.
Ivey, 23, was the No. 5 overall pick by the Pistons in the 2022 NBA Draft out of Purdue, but was limited by injuries last season. He was logging a career-low 16.8 minutes per game this season as Detroit emerged atop the Eastern Conference standings.
Ivey, the son of Notre Dame women's basketball coach Niele Ivey, will be a restricted free agent this offseason. Conley, Huerter and Saric are each on expiring contracts.
Bulls, Timberwolves, Pistons trade details
Bulls get: Jaden Ivey, Mike Conley
Pistons get: Kevin Huerter, Dario Saric
Timberwolves get: 2026 first-round pick swap
Bulls and Pistons have desires met here in a young and veteran guards to Chicago and a sharpshooter goes to Detroit. Minnesota creates significant tax savings and roster space as they pursue a Milwaukee star this week. https://t.co/u9FiTn4wTD
In 2022, the Memphis Grizzlies looked like a team on the rise, falling to the eventual champion Warriors behind an impressive young core of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane and Dillon Brooks. That turned out to be the peak of that core group, which due to injuries, suspensions and drama, never lived up to the hype.
Tuesday, that era officially came to an end in Memphis — and it may start a new era in Utah.
The Memphis Grizzlies are trading former Defensive Player of the Year and All-Star Jackson Jr., as well as John Konchar, Jock Landale and Vince Williams Jr. to the Utah Jazz for three first-round picks, Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks and Georges Niang, a trade broken by Shams Charania of ESPN.
This makes a Ja Morant trade inevitable, although, because of the lack of a market for him, it remains more likely to happen in the offseason than the summer. League sources told NBC Sports that, in the wake of this deal, the Grizzlies are still looking for a potential Morant trade before the deadline . This trade also signals the start of a major rebuild in Memphis, which now controls 12 first-round picks in the next seven years (which includes their pick this year — you can bet they are tanking the rest of the way). Those three first-round picks in this trade are good ones: Utah's best 2027 first-round pick (between Cleveland/Minnesota/Utah), the Lakers' 2027 first-round pick, and Phoenix's 2031 first-round pick, reports Jake Fischer.
Memphis also creates a $28.8 million trade exception with this deal, the largest trade exception in NBA history (they will have one year to use it).
Utah had signaled to anyone who would listen that this was going to be the final season that they were thinking lottery and rebuilding, they wanted to start winning next season.
Now they have an impressive front line when healthy: Jackson Jr. and Lauri Markkanen (who they refused to trade despite plenty of interest and calls from other teams). Utah also has Walker Kessler (who is out injured for the season), who could start at the five and form a massive front line, or back them up off the bench. Keyonte George has emerged as an All-Star-level point guard who can run the show for this team, and they have No. 5 pick Ace Bailey on the wing, who has started to find his footing. That can be an impressive starting core that will win some games.
The big question now: How many games will Jackson play the rest of this season? The Jazz may want to keep this potentially impressive new starting five under wraps the rest of this season and continue its tanking mission. The Jazz owe their 2026 first-round pick to the Knicks, but it's top-eight protected. The Jazz would currently enter the NBA Draft Lottery with the sixth-worst record in the league and a better-than-75 % chance of keeping their pick, but if this team starts winning more, those numbers change in the Knicks' favor.
If Utah can add a high lottery pick to pair with this group and develop that player, they're pretty far down the road to becoming a dangerous team in the West.
The wildest stat in all of this: Every lottery pick except one from the impressive 2018 draft class has been traded: Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Trae Young, Jackson Jr., Deandre Ayton, Mikal Bridges, and Michael Porter Jr. included (the only one who hasn't is Charlotte's Miles Bridges).
Draymond Green (23) defends against Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in the second half as the Golden State Warriors played the Milwaukee Bucks at Chase Center in San Francisco, on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. (Photo by Carlos Avila Gonzalez/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)
In today’s Dub Hub:
According to The Athletic, there is a “very real” chance Draymond Green could be included in a potential Giannis Antetokounmpo trade to the Warriors.
Clippers’ star point guard James Harden exploring trades out of Los Angeles, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Trade season is officially underway ahead of Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, and in a league where franchise players can be moved at a moment’s notice, no one is completely untouchable. That reality now extends to Golden State Warriors’ Draymond Green, who, according to The Athletic, understands there is a “very real” chance he could be on the move amid the team’s pursuit of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
To that point, league sources say Green and his camp are well aware that the prospect of him being sent to Milwaukee is very real. As our Nick Friedell reported on Monday, Jimmy Butler has been given strong indications that the Warriors plan to “stick by him as he begins a year-long rehab” from his recently torn ACL. And if Butler isn’t in the proposed deal — based on the economics and league rules — then Green is.
Golden State has long held interest in Antetokounmpo, and with recent reports suggesting that the former NBA champion and two-time league MVP may be ready for a new chapter away from Milwaukee, conversations about bringing him to the Bay — and pairing him with Stephen Curry — have intensified.
From a salary-matching standpoint, the Warriors have limited options. In addition to surrendering most of their remaining draft capital, they would either need to include Jimmy Butler’s $54.1 million salary in a near one-for-one deal for Antetokounmpo or construct a multi-player package centered around Green’s $25.8 million salary and Jonathan Kuminga’s $22.5 million contract. With The Athletic reporting that Golden State is reluctant to trade Butler following his season-ending ACL injury — and with Milwaukee prioritizing healthy players who can help immediately — a Green-led package appears to be the most realistic path to completing a deal.
Beyond the numbers, there is an undeniable human element at play. Green has spent his entire 14-year career with the Warriors, and the organization has long prided itself on how it treats its players. Green recently spoke about the personal toll of the trade deadline on an episode of The Draymond Green Show, touching on how life-altering these moments can be for players and their families.
The other side of the trade deadline: the significant others, kids, and community around athletes prepare to uproot their whole lives. #NBATradeDeadlinepic.twitter.com/x3SMngdiOa
It’s also no secret that Curry wants Green to remain in Golden State. Moving him would signal the definitive end of an era — one that already saw Klay Thompson depart two years ago. Whether the Warriors are truly willing to take that step as they chase another championship remains to be seen, but much will be revealed by how they navigate Thursday’s deadline.
For more on this and other news around the NBA, here is our latest news round-up for Tuesday, February 3rd:
One rival executive who has dealt with the Warriors before in trade talks spoke with ClutchPoints on Sunday and brought up the interesting scenario where Green himself could be on board with such a maneuver, where he could be traded and return next season alongside Curry, Butler, and Antetokounmpo, since he owns a $27.6 million player option.
“Look, without Jimmy, the Warriors aren’t getting to the NBA Finals, even if they added Giannis right now,” the executive told ClutchPoints. “If you leverage Draymond and get more assets, you can pull off the biggest blockbuster and leave these other teams wanting Giannis scrambling for answers. There is no doubt in my mind there are those who would immediately offer a first-round pick for Draymond to make a title push right now.
“You’re going to be surprised when I tell you the No. 1 thing you can do to negate another team’s speed,” Kerr said, resorting to sarcasm. “I know this is going to shock you. If we take care of the ball, that will be very helpful, too. I don’t think I’ve ever said that before.”
The Warriors, with no idea when Curry will return, have five games remaining before the All-Star break. Going 3-2 would be a triumph. Doing so without Curry would be extraordinary.
Officially listed as patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner's knee) for Steph Curry. Out tomorrow vs Sixers. Getting persistent treatment on that right knee.
The LA Clippers and guard James Harden are working through whether the sides can find a deal by Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania on Monday night.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are one of the teams expressing serious interest in Harden, with the sides discussing a Harden for Darius Garland swap, sources told Charania. The 26-year-old Garland, a two-time All-Star averaging 18.0 points and 6.9 assists in 26 games this season, is dealing with a right foot injury and has not played since Jan. 14.
BREAKING: The Memphis Grizzlies are trading star forward Jaren Jackson Jr., John Konchar, Jock Landale and Vince Williams Jr. to the Utah Jazz for Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang and three future first-round picks, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/ax6oQpZx0S
Per the Golden State Warriors’ official PR account on X (formerly Twitter), Seth Curry, brother of Stephen Curry, is making good progress in his rehabilitation from what is deemed as a “Sciatic nerve-related injury. Seth has missed the last 18 games. His last appearance was on December 4, 2025, during the Warriors’ game against the 76ers in Philadelphia.
Seth has progressed to various on-court workouts in addition to his rehab work, and will be re-evaluated again in two weeks.
Follow@unstoppablebaby on X for all the latest news on the Golden State Warriors.
It was a bumpy January for the Oklahoma City Thunder, but that’s in the rearview mirror now, and the defending champs are big favorites to pick up their 40th win of the season tonight as they host the Orlando Magic.
There was a lot to like about OKC’s statement win in Denver over the weekend, and my Magic vs. Thunder predictions expect another full-force effort here against an Orlando team still missing Franz Wagner.
Take a closer look at this February 3 battle with my free NBA picks.
Magic vs Thunder prediction
Magic vs Thunder best bet: Thunder -8 (-110)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made his MVP case on Sunday as the Oklahoma City Thunder out-dueled Nikola Jokic’s Nuggets, and I’m riding with a banged-up OKC team as long as SGA can shake off a finger issue to keep running the show.
It could be a solo act at times tonight against the Orlando Magic, but the Thunder have beaten the Magic in four straight meetings and they’re 21-4 SU at home this season. That’s enough for me to lay the points.
The hosts relish the kind of physicality that comes when these two teams collide, and OKC’s perimeter hounds are a nightmare for an Orlando team that ranks 27th in the NBA in 3-point percentage.
While Chet Holmgren’s back spasms are a concern for this pick, we’ve seen the Thunder depth step up time and again this year, and Mark Daigneault has become an expert in piecing together rotations on the fly. It’s also worth noting that each of the hosts’ last six wins have come by a margin of 9+ points.
I can’t trust an erratic Magic squad that’s 2-5 ATS in its past seven contests and 8-15 ATS on the road this season. OKC is allowing just 108 ppg, the best mark in the league, so look for the champs’ defensive intensity to gradually wear down the visitors.
Magic vs Thunder same-game parlay
Cason Wallace is coming off a career-high 27 points in Denver, and there will be ample scoring opportunities again here with all the Thunder’s injury concerns. He’s nailed this Over in three of his last four games.
If any Magic player is going to crack the OKC defensive code, it’s Desmond Bane, who’s been on a tear lately. He drilled seven three-pointers to sink the Toronto Raptors on Friday, and he’s dropped in 2+ triples in four of his past five outings.
Magic vs Thunder SGP
Thunder -8
Cason Wallace Over 9.5 points
Desmond Bane Over 1.5 three-pointers
Our "from downtown" SGP: Black the playmaker
Anthony Black’s breakout has been one of the few real highlights for Orlando this season, and his playmaking will be key against the swarming Thunder. He’s dished 5+ dimes in four of his last five contests.
Magic vs Thunder SGP
Thunder -8
Cason Wallace Over 9.5 points
Desmond Bane Over 1.5 three-pointers
Anthony Black Over 4.5 assists
Magic vs Thunder odds
Spread: Orlando +8 (-110) | Oklahoma City -8 (-110)
Moneyline: Orlando +240 | Oklahoma City -300
Over/Under: Over 220.5 (-110) | Under 220.5 (-110)
Magic vs Thunder betting trend to know
The Thunder are 7-1-1 ATS in the last nine meetings between these teams. Find more NBA betting trends for Magic vs. Thunder.
How to watch Magic vs Thunder
Location
Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Date
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Tip-off
8:00 p.m. ET
TV
FDSN Florida, FDSN Oklahoma
Magic vs Thunder latest injuries
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 03: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Mohamed Diawara #51 of the New York Knicks in action against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden on November 03, 2025 in New York City. The Knicks defeated the Wizards 119-102. 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 Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Tonight the Knicks (31*-18) are away on business, facing the Wizards (13-35) in Washington, D.C. A win tonight would extend New York’s winning streak to seven games, preserve their grip on second place, and avoid the embarrassment of losing to the Wizards.
When these teams last met on Nov. 3, 2025, the Knicks won 119-102. Karl-Anthony Towns led the victors with 33 points and 13 rebounds, Jalen Brunson added 16 points and nine assists, and OG Anunoby scored 16. For the ‘Zards, Alex Sarr scored 19.
Washington’s season has turned the Capital One Arena into a hall of sadness. Most nights, the answer to What’s in your wallet? is A big fat L. The cellar dwellers score 112.3 points per game (26th) and allow 122.5 (29th). Perhaps things are looking up, though; after nine straight losses, they’ve won three of their last four. Prepare the parade floats.
Sophomore Alex Sarr (17.6 PPG) is their primary weapon, but the boy from Bordeaux is more like a slingshot than a FAMAS. In their backcourt, Kyshawn George (15.7 PPG, 5 APG) has become a high-usage playmaker. Bilal Coulibaly (9.9 PPG) shoots a dreadful 26% from deep, and veteran Khris Middleton (10.3 PPG) is making plans for retirement, logging career-lows for shooting and scoring. That lovable scamp Bub Carrington (10 PPG, 4.7 APG) and Marvin Bagley II (10.1 PPG, 5.7 RPG) are the team’s biggest threats from range. Any one of these fellas could be a Sacramento King by Thursday night.
The injury report lists Mitchell Robinson (ankle), Miles McBride (ankle), and Kevin McCullar Jr. (calf) as OUT for the visitors. For Washington, Anthony Gill (hand) is GTD while Tre Johnson (ankle), Tristan Vukcevic (hamstring), and Trae Young (knee) are all OUT.
Prediction
ESPN.com gives New York an 86% chance to win. You betcha! New York just needs to take it nice and steady, own the glass, make some shots, and limit the silly stuff, like those pesky turnovers and stupid fouls that bedevil them on occasion. A wise plan would be to pile up a huge lead by intermission, then let Kolek and Diawara handle the second half en route to an easy peasy win while Jalen and the starters sneak out of the stadium and take an early flight back to NYC.
Coulibaly is our pick to have the game of his life, as rando players are wont to do. Usually rims and nets are safe as babies when he’s around, but tonight he’ll drill 6-of-7 because it’s the Knicks. Or maybe we’ll see the spirit once again move Justin Champagnie, who shot 13-of-15 in a late December 2024 game against New York for a career-high 31 points because it’s the Knicks. Regardless, this should be a glorified scrimmage that our heroes win by 15. Seven in a row, can you imagine?
Game Details
Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2026 Time: 7 PM ET Place: Capital One Arena, Washington D.C. TV: MSG Follow: @ptknicksblog and bsky
* Should be one more, but the Cup final doesn’t count.
HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 26: Jaren Jackson Jr. #8 of the Memphis Grizzlies celebrates after the game against the Houston Rockets on January 26, 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
The Memphis Grizzlies are officially rebuilding even as Ja Morant remains on the roster for now. After trading Desmond Bane to Orlando Magic over the summer, the Grizzlies sold high on Jaren Jackson Jr. two days before the trade deadline for a huge haul for picks and players to a surprising buyer.
The Utah Jazz have acquired Jackson Jr. along with three other players from Memphis in exchange for a package headlined by three first-round picks and four players. Here’s how it breaks down, via Shams Charania.
Jazz get: Jaren Jackson Jr., John Konchar, Jock Landale, and Vince Williams Jr
Grizzlies get: 3 first-round picks, Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang
The picks going to Memphis are their most favorable 2027 first-round pick between Cleveland, Minnesota, and Utah, the Lakers’ 2027 first-round pick, and the Suns 2031 first-round pick, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer.
You can’t tank forever, and with a weaker 2027 draft looming, Utah decided it was time to accelerate their rebuild. The Jazz’s first-round pick is top-8 protected to OKC this year, so I’d expect the Jazz lose a lot of games to end this season to ensure they have one more bite at lottery luck in the draft. Landing Jackson is a long-term move to add another versatile big man to a core that already includes Lauri Markkanen, Keyonte George, Walker Kessler, and Ace Bailey. If the Jazz hit the lottery for a top-four pick in the loaded 2026 NBA Draft, they will suddenly have one of the best young cores in basketball.
Jackson is in his prime right now at age-26. A 6’10 forward/center, Jackson can shoot and handle like a wing while also being a stout rim protector. He struggles to rebound for a big man, and that will have to be something Utah works around. Jackson is averaging 19.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game this season on 57.4 percent true shooting and 36 percent shooting from three on 7.7 attempts per 100 possessions.
Jackson’s scoring efficiency is middling and his defense feels like it’s slipped from his 2023 Defensive Player of the Year season, but he’s still one of the better two-way bigs in the game. Utah has five-out spacing with Jackson and Markkanen, which gives George more room to operate as a driver and playmaker. Imagine if Utah adds Darryn Peterson or Cameron Boozer to this mix. The Jazz could be scary very quickly. Williams Jr. is a nice addition in this trade, too.
This is a ton to give up for Jackson, but I like the move for Utah. The Jazz have been trash since they traded Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert in the same offseason, and it was time to get serious. Utah has one more bite at the apple in the 2026 draft, then it’s time to start trying to win.
Grade: B+
Grizzlies grade for Jaren Jackson Jr. deal with Utah
Memphis is honest about its place in the Western Conference. Morant, Bane, and Jackson were once one of the most promising young cores in the NBA, but their rivals passed them by. This is the Grizzlies selling very high on Jackson just when his play started declining.
This trade is all about the picks for Memphis. While the 2027 draft might look weaker right now, getting the best pick of Utah, Cleveland, and Minnesota could be highly valuable. The 2031 Suns pick is an awesome future pick, and the 2027 Lakers’ pick could be juicy with an injury to Luka Doncic. Clayton is a nice flier to take during his rookie season, and maybe Taylor Hendricks can get healthy and finally give up to his lottery billing. Hendricks sounded like a poor man’s Jackson Jr. as a draft prospect, but his constant injury issues have derailed his development to this point.
The Grizzlies made this deal while being 19-29 on the season. Expect a Morant trade soon. This front office is one of the game’s best in the draft, and now they have tons of ammo to rebuild from the ground up.
The Memphis Grizzlies continued to dismantle their once-promising roster with another major move involving the team's core. But it doesn't involve the star the NBA thought might be traded this week.
The Utah Jazz have acquired Jaren Jackson Jr. in a significant trade that will involve the Memphis Grizzlies receiving three future first-round draft picks and several players, according to a report from ESPN on Tuesday, Feb. 3. The deal comes two days before the NBA's trade deadline and represents a significant swerve after weeks of rumors surrounding Ja Morant's future with the franchise.
The trade, once finalized, would send Jackson, center Jock Landale and forward Vince Williams, Jr. to the Jazz, with rookie Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang and three future first-round draft picks going back to the Grizzlies.
Jackson joins a rebuilding Utah roster that features Lauri Markannen, promising second-year guard Keyonte George and top-five 2025 NBA draft pick Ace Bailey.
He was the longest-tenured member of the Grizzlies franchise after being selected with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft. The 2023 NBA defensive player of the year is averaging 19.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game this season.
Jackson, 26, is under contract through the 2029-30 season after signing a 5-year, $240-million extension this past offseason. He has a cap hit of $35 million this season that then increases to $49 million during the 2026-27 season. There is a player option for the 2029-30 season.
The Detroit Pistons may be the most surprising team in the NBA this year, but the Denver Nuggets are the most impressive as they play through injury after injury.
My Nuggets vs. Pistons predictions appreciate Denver’s best player and his impressive return to health.
Nuggets vs Pistons best bet: Nikola Jokic Over 24.5 points (-110)
Nikola Jokic may be on a minutes restriction, but he has shot 14-of-20 in his two games back from a December knee injury.
Coming back from a 16-game absence in that kind of rhythm is absurd and serves as yet another testament to Jokic’s unique talents.
That kind of shooting should allow the three-time MVP to clear this modest prop against a Detroit Pistons defense that lacks the post presence to challenge the Denver Nuggets superstar.
Jalen Duren has a promising future, but he simply isn’t experienced enough to slow Jokic down.
Nuggets vs Pistons same-game parlay
Aaron Gordon’s absence cuts into Jokic’s playmaking. The two have developed great familiarity in their years together.
However, Denver should still cover this spread simply because of Jokic’s sheer abilities.
Nuggets vs Pistons SGP
Nikola Jokic Over 24.5 points
Nikola Jokic Under 8.5 assists
Nuggets +4.5
Our "from downtown" SGP: Feeling a Mile High
With Jokic back alongside Jamal Murray, who’s playing the best basketball of his career, the Nuggets remain an undervalued team until further notice.
Nuggets vs Pistons SGP
Nikola Jokic Over 24.5 points
Nikola Jokic Under 8.5 assists
Nuggets moneyline
Nuggets vs Pistons odds
Spread: Nuggets +4.5 (-110) | Pistons -4.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Nuggets +160 | Pistons -190
Over/Under: Over 229 (-110) | Under 229 (-110)
Nuggets vs Pistons betting trend to know
Four straight Nuggets’ games have cashed their Overs, with only two of those relying on Jokic’s efficient shooting. Find more NBA betting trends for Nuggets vs. Pistons.
How to watch Nuggets vs Pistons
Location
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
Date
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
ALT, FDSN Detroit
Nuggets vs Pistons latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
Harden is averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game in his 17th season in the NBA. Yet, even though the Clippers have drastically improved their play recently, they entered this season with the oldest roster in NBA history, so an eventual youth movement makes sense.
There is one team, however, that has clearly emerged as a likely destination.
Here are potential landing spots in a trade for James Harden:
This is the destination that has the most momentum. Both Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports identified Cleveland as being in serious talks with the Clippers over Harden. The fit is actually pretty smooth.
The Cavaliers have been waiting for Darius Garland, who also plays point guard, to return to full health. Garland is 10 years younger, so the Cavaliers might be wanting Los Angeles to attach some form of draft capital — be it a first-round selection or a future pick swap — to finalize the deal.
The salaries are practically identical, which matters most for Cleveland as a second-apron team. And it makes sense for Los Angeles, which entered the season with the oldest roster in NBA history. The Cavs appear to be the clear frontrunner here.
Minnesota Timberwolves
This is a team that has been in the market for a point guard for some time. Harden would instantly provide experience and playmaking — not to mention a scoring threat — at the position.
The Timberwolves have made consecutive conference finals appearances, but have come up short each time. Minnesota almost certainly is looking to bolster its roster and give star guard Anthony Edwards a little more firepower. Depending on the price it would take to swing a deal, Harden would represent a solid, win-now move.
Ever since veteran point guard Fred Van Vleet went down before the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, the Rockets have experimented with various solutions at point guard. None has been a long-term fix.
Harden, who played in Houston for a little more than eight seasons, would instantly bring a steady, playmaking presence on a Rockets team that is built to contend right now for a championship.
Atlanta Hawks
They have plenty of draft capital and do have a void left by Trae Young, whom the Hawks traded last month to the Wizards. Yet, Atlanta may not be the most seamless fit, given that the Hawks still appear a ways from contention and given that general manager Onsi Saleh has been calculated in stashing draft capital. The Hawks most likely favor financial flexibility over a pricey veteran.
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - JANUARY 31: Ty Jerome #2 of the Memphis Grizzlies brings the ball up court during the second half T at FedExForum on January 31, 2026 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Justin Ford/Getty Images) | Getty Images
After missing the first 46 games of the season due to a lingering calf strain, former Virginia Cavaliers star Ty Jerome is finally back in action and already winning over a new fanbase.
It was a disappointing start to the season for Jerome, who broke out last year with the Cleveland Cavaliers to the tune of 19.9 points and 7.0 assists per game, leading to a third-place finish in the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year Voting.
Jerome’s impressive campaign earned him a three-year, $27 million deal with the Memphis Grizzlies in July, but his Grind City debut was pushed back until the final day of January for the first of a pair of home games against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The 2019 National Champion has quickly made up for lost time, scoring a team-high 20 points in Saturday’s 131-114 loss before following it up with a 19-point, 8-assist, 6-rebound performance on Monday night in a 137-128 rematch win over the T-Wolves.
Despite playing just 20 minutes in each of his first two appearances for Memphis due to a minutes restriction, Jerome is already bringing stability to a Grizzlies backcourt that has dealt with injuries and inconsistency throughout the season. Jerome is shooting 54.5% from the field while showing off his trademark deliberate pace and elite decision-making as Memphis’s floor general.
“[Jerome] doesn’t look like the most explosive guy, but he gets to his spots on the floor because he reads so well the body language of not only his own defender but also the helping defenders,” said Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo to the media after Monday night’s win. “He’s actually so good that he can manipulate [defenders] to get out of the space that he wants to create or get into the space that he wants to create for someone else.”
With Jerome sidelined and several other key players (including 2x All-Star Ja Morant, who has missed 28 games this season) in and out of the lineup, the Grizzlies went just 18-28 in their first 46 games, leaving them currently three games out of the play-in equation in the Western Conference.
In other pro ’Hoos news, De’Andre Hunter made headlines over the weekend as he was dealt from the Cavaliers to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis ahead of February 5th’s NBA trade deadline.
BREAKING: The Cleveland Cavaliers are trading De'Andre Hunter to the Sacramento Kings for Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis, sources tell ESPN. The three-team deal includes the Chicago Bulls acquiring Kings forward Dario Saric and two future second-round picks. pic.twitter.com/Hoc6bP0hhj
It hasn’t been the season that many envisioned for Hunter, who averaged 14.0 points in 43 games this season with Cleveland on 42.3% shooting from the floor and a career-low 30.8% from beyond the arc. But a new home might be exactly what is needed for the 2019 fourth-overall pick. The Kings, which have a league-worst 12 wins this season, are in full-on tank mode, meaning we won’t be seeing Hunter back in the postseason this spring. However, Sacramento could be a perfect spot for the former ’Hoo to become an offensive focal point and once again show the league what he’s capable of in the right environment.
It’s a jam-packed night of hoops action with 10 games on the NBA schedule. That means a seemingly nonstop supply of NBA player props.
I’ve scoured the odds and found my best bets for today, which include Jalen Johnson cleaning the glass in a matchup vs. the Heat, and Desmond Bane staying hot against the Thunder.
Those and more NBA picks, for Tuesday, January 3, below.
Fading the Miami Heat on the glass has been profitable, so we’ll keep that up by backing one of the best rebounders in the NBA, Jalen Johnson.
The newly minted All-Star is hauling down 10.5 rebounds per game this season, and that’s up to 13.5 over his last six outings.
The matchup with the Heat is so enticing because of their high tempo. They lead the NBA in pace and field-goal attempts per game, which means a lot of boards. Miami also surrenders the second most rebounds per game.
All the rumors surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo potentially being traded still can’t distract from the product the Milwaukee Bucks are putting on the court.
They’ve lost eight of nine and have the fourth-worst defensive rating since the start of January. The Bucks also allow the fourth-most assists per possession during that period. That has me looking at Coby White.
The Chicago Bulls guard is averaging 5.4 assists per game over his last seven games, topping 4.5 four times over that stretch.
Bane is putting up 21.4 points while shooting 42.3% from three over the last 10 games, and I love him to keep firing tonight against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
OKC's defensive effort has been a little more inconsistent this season, and slowing down guards has been a problem. The Thunder surrender the third-most points and the fourth-highest opponent 3-point shooting percentage to opposing guards.
At even money, Bane’s a great bet to go Over a number he’s topped in six straight.
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The New York Knicks face off with the Washington Wizards in an Eastern Conference clash. The second-place Knicks have won six straight, covering all of them. Meanwhile, at the other end of the standings, Washington has won three of the last four.
However, the Wizards haven’t beaten a team with a winning record since Jan. 6, 13 games ago. They’ve covered just two of their last seven as double-digit dogs.
That’s why my Knicks vs. Wizards predictions & NBA picks call for New York to get a road cover on Tuesday, February 3.
Knicks vs Wizards prediction
Knicks vs Wizards best bet: Knicks -13.5 (-105)
The Washington Wizards have faced four lines this large in the last month and a half and lost all of them by double digits, going 1-3 ATS with losses by 25, 21 and 19 points.
Yes, Washington is enjoying its best run of the season — winning back-to-back games for just the third time and taking three of four for only the second time.
But those victories have come against struggling competition, as the Wizards knocked off three losing teams, including a sub-.400 Milwaukee squad and Sacramento, one of the few NBA teams with a worse record than their own.
The Wizards will also be shorthanded without Tre Johnson, as the team’s third-best perimeter shooter and 12.9-point scorer is set to miss his third straight game with a sprained ankle.
While Washington is expected to welcome center Alex Sarr back after he sat out Sunday with a calf issue, it likely won’t be enough to keep pace with the New York Knicks.
The Knicks have been favored by double-digits in their last six head-to-head meetings with the Wizards. They’ve won them all and covered four, including three straight.
Knicks vs Wizards same-game parlay
The Knicks have gone Under in nine of their last 10 games and play at the No. 24 pace in the league, while Washington prefers to push the tempo as the NBA’s ninth-fastest team.
Still, the Wizards have struggled to dictate terms against stronger opponents, forcing the Over just four times in their last 11 games against slower-paced teams favored by double digits.
Despite hitting six threes in a game twice during the six-game winning streak, there still doesn’t appear to be much trust in Landry Shamet.
He’s been boom-or-bust — scoring 23 against the Lakers and 18 versus Brooklyn but totaling just 26 points with seven made threes in the other four wins, with his big nights coming against two of the league’s five worst perimeter defenses.
Knicks vs Wizards SGP
Knicks -13.5
Under 228.5
Landry Shamet Under 8.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Can we interest you in KAT?
If insider buzz is accurate, the Knicks are pushing to make a move before the trade deadline, with New York eyeing Giannis Antetokounmpo and reportedly willing to include Karl-Anthony Towns in a potential package.
Towns, who previously struggled amid trade chatter, may be feeling it again after shooting just 18-for-49 (.367) over his last four games, well below his season average.
Knicks vs Wizards SGP
Knicks -13.5
Under 228.5
Landry Shamet Under 8.5 points
Karl-Anthony Towns Under 20.5 points
Knicks vs Wizards odds
Spread: New York -13.5 (-105) | Washington +13.5 (-115)
Moneyline: New York -700 | Washington +500
Over/Under: Over 227.5 (-110) | Under 227.5 (-110)
Knicks vs Wizards betting trend to know
The Knicks have won 10 straight over Washington, six by double figures, three by 20 or more. Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. Wizards.
How to watch Knicks vs Wizards
Location
Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
Date
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
MSG, MNMT
Knicks vs Wizards latest injuries
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This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JANUARY 30: Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the second half of an NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center on January 30, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 Kelsey Grant/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Cleveland Cavaliers are actively exploring all trade options for starting center Jarrett Allen, according to Sam Amick of The Athletic. Allen’s salary, over $90 million owed to him for the next three seasons, could be used to fill multiple holes on the roster or bring back several assets for a larger trade deal. And it appears the Cavs are in the market hunting for a big fish.
Amick notes that league-wide chatter indicates that the Cavs indeed are seeking a star, such as Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, and moving Allen as well as Darius Garland is the pathway. While that possibility may be stomach-churning to Cavs fans, there may be external pressures on the organization to make something happen.
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Donovan Mitchell is extension-eligible this summer, and there appears to be real fear that he will decline that opportunity and ask for a trade or simply force Cleveland’s hand to push their chips in. This appears to be the latter, and moving Allen would give the Cavs assets and options to go get that game-changing stud.
Allen, fresh off a 40-point explosion against the Portland Trail Blazers, is averaging 14 points and eight rebounds per game on 60.5% shooting (which is a dramatic downturn from last season’s 70.6%). There have been many questions about Allen’s ability to play up against bigger centers and/or in stressful playoff moments, something that may finally be coming to a head. That being said, the Allen has been in trade rumor mills several seasons over for a reason. His contract is still pretty palatable compared to other centers, and he is only 27-years-old.
Pat Knight resigned as basketball coach at Marian University, an NAIA program in Indianapolis. Knight said he made the decision after "administration" told him to fire an employee.
"I quit today. They wanted me to fire a staff member, and I didn't want to," Knight told IndyStar on Monday evening. "When the administration starts trying to tell you what to do, nah, I've been there before."
Knight went out in style all-too-reminiscent of his late father, legendary Indiana coach Bob Knight. Knight was ejected from the Jan. 31 game against Goshen in the first half. He however, did not throw a chair.
It would be Knight's final game as Marian coach. The Knights lost 75-74, snapping Goshen's 54-game conference losing streak and a 19-game losing streak to Marian.
Knight declined to name the staff member administration wanted him to fire. IndyStar reached out to Marian athletic director Steve Downing for comment on Knight's resignation but did not immediately receive a response.
"I always wanted to go out on my own," Knight said. "I'm glad to be back home in Indianapolis. Hopefully, I'll get back into the NBA scouting. I'm too old. Life's too short to put up with that bull(crap)."
Knight was 16-34, 7-23 in the Crossroads League, after taking over in 2024.
Knight was 79-123 as a Division I coach, succeeding his father at Texas Tech during the 2007-08 season and posting one winning record — 19-16 in 2009-10 — in four seasons. He was at Lamar for three seasons, going 23-12 in 2011-12, winning the Southland Conference regular season and conference championships to make the NCAA tournament. But Knight then went 6-50 his final two seasons.
Knight also spent 10 years as a scout for the Indiana Pacers, was an assistant in the basketball operations staff for the Suns then served as an assistant in the Continental and International Basketball Associations, as well as Texas Tech, Akron and IU. Knight lettered for four seasons Indiana, and was a member of the 1992 Final Four team.
IndyStar sports director Nat Newell contributed to this story.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 28: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Rocket Arena on January 28, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 129-99. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s been a hectic 24 hours for the Cleveland Cavaliers. A swap featuring Darius Garland for James Harden is potentially on the way—and Cavs fans are scrambling to figure out how we got here.
According to multiple NBA insiders, it’s because the front office is concerned that this might be the last chance to convince Donovan Mitchell to sign a contract extension in the summer.
“The key here is that the Cavs are moving away from believing in the Core 4,” Brian Windhorst told ESPN Cleveland. “And I think the genesis of this is because they’re worried that Donovan is not going to re-sign this summer.”
Mitchell is in the middle of a stellar season. He’s averaging a career-high 28.8 points and has consistently translated his scoring to the playoffs. The argument here is that Mitchell is growing frustrated with Cleveland’s shortcomings in the postseason and could decline to sign an extension with the franchise.
ESPN’s Tim Bontemps shared the same sentiment, saying he believes an extension is unlikely if the Cavs fall short again in the playoffs this season.
Now let’s get some context out of the way.
Speculation is fair. Especially when that’s part of your job. But, with all due respect, Bontemps also said that the Cavs had ZERO chance of extending Mitchell two summers ago. In fact, numerous NBA media members were adamant about Mitchell refusing to stay in Cleveland.
Does that mean that everyone is wrong this time? Of course not. It would make sense if Mitchell felt frustrated and looked for a change of scenery if the Cavs collapsed in the playoffs again. That’s only natural. I’m just trying to provide context and temper the flames before they get out of hand on Twitter.
Things change fast in the NBA. Mitchell signed an extension in 2024 before he believed in the future of the franchise. Two disappointing seasons are more than enough to shift that perspective. Regardless of whether or not the Cavs make any blockbuster trades before the deadline, they certainly have pressure on them to compete in the playoffs and convince Mitchell that this ship isn’t sinking.
Jalen Johnson
Coby White
Desmond Bane
