Category: NBA

The 2026 NBA Playoffs are finally set, and they won’t include the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors won their first game in the play-in tournament, but they failed in their bid to grab the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference on Friday night in a defeat to the Phoenix Suns. Golden State now has to pray for lottery luck after finishing 37-45 overall. The organization enters the lottery in 11th place with a 9.4 percent chance at a top-4 pick and a two percent chance at the No. 1 pick.

The Warriors’ loss forces a lot of uncomfortable questions on the franchise. Will Steve Kerr be the coach next season? Can they actually build a good team around Stephen Curry at age-38? Every player on the roster will have to be evaluated, and you can bet the Warriors will at least be mentioned as a possible trade suitor for Giannis Antetokounmpo.

As some things about the Warriors may start to change, at least Golden State has a constant in Draymond Green. The play-in tournament showed everything Green has always been made of: he locked down Kawhi Leonard in a virtuoso defensive performance in game one, then crashed out and a caused a ruckus at the end of game two with an unhinged on-court action and animated exit after an ejection.

With about a minute left in the game and the Suns’ win already decided, Green sprinted at Devin Booker and punched him in the chest really hard for no reason. Watch the play here:

First of all, what the hell? Secondarily, WHY?

Green fouled out on this play, but he kept barking at Booker from the bench. Eventually, referee Scott Foster had enough and ejected both players. Draymond definitely deserved his ejection. Did Booker?

Draymond is literally a professional wrestler who moonlights on the side as one of the greatest defensive geniuses of al-time. This is incredible stuff.

This tweet put it perfectly:

The Warriors’ season is over. Things are about to change, but Draymond will always be Draymond.

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Did you know that you can make Raptors vs. Cavaliers predictions for today's game at prediction markets like Kalshi?

Well, you can, and we have NBA picks ahead of this Saturday, April 18 clash to help you make the most informed selections possible.

Who will win Raptors vs Cavaliers?

Raptors win probability:24% (+317)
Cavaliers win probability:77% (-335)

The Toronto Raptors are given just a 24% chance to win at Kalshi, while the Cleveland Cavaliers clock in with a 77% chance to protect home-court advantage.

Our prediction:Cavaliers to win

Our NBA expert is going with the home team in Game 1.

"Cleveland has great inside-out scoring and finished the season among the better offenses. Defense has been the biggest blemish for the Cavs. That said, the team seems to find another gear on that end of the floor against top-tier offenses and will be able to lock up a limited Raptors attack."

Read more in Jason Logan's full Raptors vs. Cavaliers predictions.

More Raptors vs Cavaliers prediction markets

You're certainly not limited to the main game outcome for Raptors vs. Cavaliers at Kalshi; you also have options to trade on the spread, total, and more, among other NBA odds markets.

You can buy either side of a market — for example, "Yes" on the Cavaliers -9.5 spread means the Cavaliers will cover, while "No" means the Raptors will cover — with each side priced based on the implied probability (which can be converted to American, Decimal, or Fraction odds using the Covers odds converter).

Raptors vs Cavaliers spread and total at prediction markets

Our predictions:Cavaliers -9.5 — No and Over 219.5 points — No

The Cavs were not a great bet ATS this season (33-48-1), and the Raptors won all three head-to-heads outright. Toronto was a terrific Under bet (33-49-0) all year and have gone south of the total in four of this last six.

Other Raptors vs Cavaliers prediction markets available

• James Harden 20+ points (Yes: 61¢)
• Jarrett Allen 10+ rebounds (Yes: 61¢)
• Scottie Barnes 7+ assists (Yes: 49¢)

What is Kalshi and how does it work?

Kalshi is a federally regulated U.S. exchange where you trade directly on the outcome of real-world future events. Instead of traditional bets, you trade "Event Contracts" which are simple Yes/No questions like "Will the Cavaliers win tonight?" These events are priced between $0.01 and $0.99, and the prices reflect the market’s estimated probability of that event occurring. For instance, $0.55 equals a 55% chance. If your prediction is correct, the contract pays out exactly $1.00; if not, it settles at $0. Kalshi is essentially a stock market for reality.

How does Kalshi differ from sportsbooks?

In a sportsbook, you bet against the bookmaker, who sets fixed odds and takes a "vig," which is a kind of commission. On Kalshi, you trade against other users. This peer-to-peer model means prices are driven by supply and demand, often resulting in fairer odds. Additionally, because these are financial derivatives, you can exit your position early. If your team takes a 14-point lead, the contract price will rise, allowing you to sell your "Yes" shares for a profit before the final whistle even blows.

Why should I wager on Raptors vs Cavaliers at Kalshi?

Kalshi offers four unique advantages over traditional sportsbooks:

1. Flexibility: Unlike a "locked-in" bet, you can sell your contract at any time.
   
   
2. Transparency: You trade against other users, which can allow you to find better value.
   
   
3. Federal regulation: As a CFTC-regulated exchange, your funds are held in a secure, transparent environment.
   
   
4. Availability: Kalshi is available in 49 states (excluding Nevada) and D.C., including many regions where traditional sportsbooks aren't yet legal.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

PHOENIX — The knee injury that sidelined Steph Curry for a large chunk of this season isn’t going to end his career. Not anytime soon, anyway.

Curry, 38, was asked after the Warriors’ 111-96 play-in loss to the Suns on Friday whether he still hoped to play “multiple” seasons.

“Multiple, for sure,” he said. “That’s more than one?”

It was, perhaps, an obvious answer to a nevertheless worthwhile question after Curry slogged through one of the most injury-plagued of his 17 seasons in the NBA. Most troublesome being the bout of runner’s knee that he has said will require a “new normal” to manage while remaining on the court.

Curry worked his way back from a two-month absence to play 36 minutes in both of the Warriors’ play-in games. But after a 35-point explosion in their comeback against the Clippers, he suffered a bit of a letdown with 17 points on 4-of-16 shooting in their season-ending loss to the Suns.

“For us to have that moment we did in LA, the highs of that and the lows of tonight, it’s just what basketball — what sports — is about,” Curry said. “For us to have had these last three, four days and the whole play-in situation, I’m proud of the way we finished it. Because it could’ve been very sleepy. Like I [don’t] come back and we get blown out in the first game and everybody kind of just goes into the summer with no real direction. It was a fun ride these last four days.”

In all, Curry appeared in only 43 games, the third fewest of his career. He could only watch as the Warriors went 9-18 over a 27-game stretch he missed with the knee issue in January and February.

The Warriors also lost Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody to season-ending knee injuries, shipped out Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield, and welcomed Kristaps Porzingis into the fold.

“It was a roller coaster ride, to say the least,” he said. “You see just momentum slipping away. But there was still this underlying belief that when it comes to the Warriors, you’re always talking about championships. That’s what we’ve established as a goal. But we had to reshape that, like can we just make something out of this year? Get a playoff experience and a playoff berth. That felt like the right goal and why I forced my way to try to get back.”

Going forward, Curry said he didn’t expect the injury to be a long-term issue. However, it will have to be carefully managed. Runner’s knee is an overuse injury, and Curry runs more miles per game than anybody in the NBA.

“Steph’s still got it. It’s just harder for him to be healthy and out there game after game,” coach Steve Kerr said. “He’s gonna be 39 next year. This is just how it works.”

Curry said he wasn’t considering surgical options over the offseason. The No. 1 treatment is rest. And, Curry joked, “they say a lot of golf helps my knee.”

“I think big picture, you have to be mindful of how it showed itself this year, knowing there was a clear [difference] how I prepared pre-injury and post-injury,” Curry said. “It is kind of touch and go, just knowing hopefully rest will get me right, go into training camp feeling good and be able to manage it early in the year and kind of see where I’m at. That’s kind of the idea. But I don’t feel there’s going to be any kind of real long-term symptoms or anything.”

As far as his future is concerned, Curry is signed through next season, along with Draymond Green and Butler. Kerr’s contract, up for renewal, is considered to be the Warriors’ top priority.

But if Curry wants to commit to his age-39 season or beyond, add one item to their checklist.

Curry was asked if he was interested in an extension.

“For sure,” he said. “But none of those conversations have happened. Be a busy summer for the Warriors.”

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PHOENIX — Steve Kerr doesn’t know if he’ll be back for a 13th season with the Warriors.

“It may still go on,” Kerr said Friday night, after his 12th season at the helm ended in a 111-96 play-in loss to the Suns. “It may not.”

The uncertainty and potential finality of the situation had been bubbling under the surface ever since Kerr made the decision to coach this season on an expiring contract. It left open the door that it could be his last with the only team he’s coached, where he won four championships.

And where he still has Steph Curry.

“It’s part of the equation,” Kerr said. “I don’t want to walk away from Steph.”

Yet, Kerr seemed at least at ease with the concept of his coaching mortality as their season came to a close Friday night. He did his best to keep the team’s focus on the court all year. In the waning moments, Kerr huddled with the two players there with him from the beginning and said the quiet part out loud.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen, but if it is the last time, I just want to share this moment,” Curry recalled Kerr telling him and Draymond Green. “That was kind of a jolt of a message.”

“Just appreciating this year, all years we’ve been together,” Green said. “Maybe the last time.”

“But,” Curry added, “he left the door open.”

Speaking to reporters shortly after sharing the moment with Curry and Green, Kerr didn’t commit one way or another but seemed open to the idea of it being their last one together.

“I still love coaching. But I get it: These jobs have an expiration date,” Kerr said. “There’s a run that happens, and when the run ends, sometimes it’s time for new blood and new ideas and all that.”

Kerr, 60, offered no definitive answer in the immediate aftermath of the loss. He said he planned to take “a week or two” to think things over, then sit down with general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. and owner Joe Lacob and come to a “collaborative decision.”

“We’ve always had a great partnership and collaboration,” Kerr said. “Just see where they are. And I’ll tell them where I am. And we’ll talk about what’s next for the Warriors. What the plan is this offseason. … If [they part ways], I will be nothing but grateful for the most amazing opportunity any person could have, to coach this franchise in front of our fans in the Bay and to coach Steph Curry, to coach Dray, the whole group.”

In 12 seasons, Kerr has coached the Warriors to a 604-353 regular-season record, overseeing a dynasty that made six trips to the NBA Finals and hung four banners.

Green, who was still coming off the bench entering his third season when Kerr was hired, was asked if he could imagine playing for anybody besides him.

“No,” he said. “I couldn’t.”

Green said he “didn’t make much” out of Kerr not signing an extension before the season. It reflected “his comfort level in who he is and what he is and what he has to offer.” At the same time, he couldn’t help but worry that the unresolved situation could lead to Kerr’s departure.

“I think it’d be pretty crazy not to think that’s a possibility,” he said. “I hope not.”

Curry seemed to be taken by surprise by Kerr’s frank acknowledgment in private and to reporters shortly thereafter. He said he hadn’t talked to Kerr about his future, “but it sounds like he’s put a lot of thought into it.” He hopes the Warriors “approach it differently” next season, but he believes Kerr is the man for the job.

“I want Coach to be happy. I want him to be excited about the job. I want him to believe he’s the right guy for the job,” Curry said. “I want him to have an opportunity to enjoy what he does. Whatever that means for him, everybody’s plan is their own, and I’m not gonna tell anybody what to do. He knows how I feel about him. That shouldn’t even need to be said.”

The Warriors’ 37-45 record was their second-worst season and only the second time they have finished with a losing record under Kerr. Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody suffered knee injuries that will bleed into next season, Curry missed a chunk of time and the team had to readjust from its expectations from competing for a championship to competing in the play-in.

If this was it, that at least won’t be the reason.

“I enjoyed it, believe it or not,” Kerr said. “Because I love coaching. I love being with all the staff and the players. I love being in the fight. … So despite the injuries, despite the adversity, despite the struggles, I still enjoyed it. I enjoyed it every day. Things didn’t go our way, obviously. That’s part of it, too. Some years go your way. Some years don’t. This year didn’t.”

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The Toronto Raptors kick off the 2025-2026 NBA Playoffs, drawing the matinee matchup in their best-of-seven series against the four-seed Cleveland Cavaliers. This will be Toronto’s first postseason appearance since 2022.

In regular season games, Toronto swept Cleveland 3-0. While this is promising, all of those matchups were in a four week span in late October/early November making this the first time they’ve seen each other in almost five months. Both teams have changed since then.

Cleveland has had a rough couple of years in the playoffs. A gentleman’s sweep in each of the last three years was not the outcome they were looking for, especially since last year they were the top seed in the East. Now, they have retooled their roster to try and address their weaknesses and finally make the final push. This could really be a make or break year for them.

All season the Cavs have had their strengths, being a top-four scoring team at a rate of 120 points per game. Mobley and Allen are big and physical and help protect the paint on the defensive end. They are also both lob threats who can draw defenders when they dive into the paint to open up the rest of the floor for kickouts. Merrill, Harden, and Mitchell all excel as shooters, spacing the floor for bigs but also knocking down shots when open. This is a tough recipe to stop. Of course, both Mitchell and Harden will have to overcome the years of frustration they’ve both experienced in the playoffs throughout their careers.

Despite Cleveland’s strength, Toronto has already proven that not only are they capable of beating the Cavaliers, but they might be the best team for it. Let’s take a look at why:

1. Matching size

Mamu and Poeltl both have the height to take care of Allen defensively. Paired with CMB, Barnes, and Ingram to guard Mobley, the Raptors have the size advantage in most matchups across the board, even guards. There won’t be bully ball or a size advantage that Cleveland will be able to exploit, something they did frequently throughout the season.

2. Top-5 Defence

Even better than a good offence is a good defence. Finishing the season with the fifth-best defence in the league, the best way to slow down Cleveland is to stifle their offence. The Cavs won games through their opponent’s inability to keep up with their offence. Toronto has shown throughout the season that when they want to, their help defence and strong performances from Scottie, CMB, and Shead proved they can be really difficult to score on. Additionally, their defence forces a lot of turnovers that allow Toronto to get ahead. Scoring 20 points per game on turnovers (fourth in the league) and almost 19 points per game on fast breaks (first in the league), their defence generates a ton of offence for them. Their defence-to-offence strategy has been successful before

3. Ball Movement

There’s no shortage of highlights from this season of guys making the extra pass to find a better shot. A good shot becomes a great shot, and keeps their offence flowing. Their unselfishness on the court makes them challenging to guard, as help defence is scrambling, mismatches form, and then Ingram or Barnes can take advantage. Even passes under the basket lead to higher percentage shots, limiting the times they’re blocked as well. The potential is their for them, if they can tap back into that energy they’ve had at times this year.

4. The Bench

It should be no surprise to anyone that Toronto has the arguably better bench in this matchup. CMB has had a season that should earn him a spot on an all-rookie team, Mamu has made a case for sixth-man, Ja’Kobe has blossomed into a multi-level scorer that doesn’t shy away from big moments, and Shead’s defence looks unbelievably frustrating to play against. Gradey and Jamison have made good shots in the past, and if they can also contribute in this series, this is almost a second coming of the bench mob. Toronto should be able to win the bench minutes, which could be another difference maker in this series.

Ultimately, Toronto has all the tools they need to be successful against Cleveland, as long as the right version of them shows up. At times, frustrations over calls, injuries, and stooping to their opponent have all led to losses by the Raptors in very winnable games. If they can keep their composure and execute in tight situations as well, sticking to all of the things they do well, they have the ability to overcome the cavs and move on to the next round.

Where to Watch

Tune in at 1pm ET on Sportsnet

Probable Starters

Toronto: Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, Jakob Poeltl, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley

Cleveland: Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen, Dean Wade

Injury Report

Toronto: Immanuel Quickley (Questionable: Hamstring strain)

Cleveland: Thomas Bryant (Out: Calf strain), Tristan Enaruna (Out: Two-way), Riley Minix (Out: Two-way), Olivier Sarr (Out: Two-way).

The NBA playoffs are never short on surprises, and this year’s bracket is setting up to be an entertaining one so here are five bold predictions for the Knicks and contenders at large.

Minnesota upsets Denver

This lowkey postseason rivalry finds these two teams at a crossroads: Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets trying to maintain the vestiges of their 2023 championship mettle, Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves facing potential big changes if this core fails to build on its previous successes. 

Denver is favored heavily, with about a 70 percent implied win probability, despite a mixed year and tough foe.

There are more questions facing the favorites than the underdogs, though. 

Cameron Johnson has been an underwhelming addition, their rotation beyond the starting five is shaky, and they've lost to this team in a series before. Minnesota has a rising young star and the tougher supporting cast while the biggest knock on them has been their lack of effort at times -- not an issue likely to resurface in the playoffs. 

They’re pulling off the big first-round upset out of the West.

Philadelphia upsets Boston

Remember Tyrese Maxey’s last postseason appearance? It was against the Knicks, and he averaged 30 points, five rebounds and seven assists on 53 percent shooting from two and 40 percent shooting from three.

They’ll likely be without Joel Embiid this series, but with Maxey, the 76ers have a real shot at upsetting the Celtics. 

Much like the Knicks last season, they have their unstoppable lead scoring guard, the wing defenders to handle Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, and are a bothersome offensive rebounding team. Boston’s had less than a month to integrate a post-Achilles Tatum and is relying on a bunch of young, unproven guys in their rotation. 

Maxey is ready to solidify his stardom in primetime, and can do so against a susceptible Celtics team. 

Jalen Brunson shines in the playoffs again

Maybe this isn’t so bold, but it’s now four consecutive postseasons of Brunson turning into Michael Jordan incarnate, and five straight of bloviators questioning his ability to lead a team on this stage. Spoiler alert: he has and can.

For those that need reminding of his resume: 72 points in two games taking over for Luka Doncic in 2022, 79 points in two elimination games trying to come back against the Finals-bound Heat in 2023, 42 points and 10 assists a game for four straight to beat the Sixers in 2024, and 29 points per game in New York's Conference Finals run last season. 

He’ll now have the benefit of a familiar roster, diversified offense and the best spacing of his Knicks career.

It may take a couple games to get going like in postseasons past, but expect more of the same once he turns it on.

San Antonio makes the Finals

Oklahoma City has been the league’s unimpeded juggernaut for close to two full seasons, but we may have found their kryptonite. It’s a 7-foot-4 Frenchman from outer space and his band of talented guards and heady role players. 

In fact, the Spurs are 4-1 in their season series against the Thunder, including their massive matchup in the NBA Cup. Inexperienced teams don’t often jump right into the playoffs and make a run, but this one is built to break that trend.

Knicks make the Finals

The oddsmakers, national media and fans are not banking on this outcome, but that locker room sure is. They’ve been preparing for this run since the early days of training camp, and all that work comes to fruition now.

It won’t be an easy path, and they’ll provide plenty of opportunities for doubt. But the advanced stats rate them as one of the best teams in the league, and the eye test follows suit.

They’ve been great outside of a bad 2-9 stretch coming off the Cup Championship, have beaten every contender between them and their goals, and are the hungriest team in the East. 

This is the Knicks' time, and they’re going to take advantage.

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Our NBA player prop projections are locked in for Saturday's highly anticipated first-round playoff opener between the Atlanta Hawks and the New York Knicks, with the model flagging some good opportunities to exploit.

These Hawks vs. Knicks NBA player prop projections aren't based on anything other than the numbers, and we've found the strongest edges and value.

Here are the model's top NBA picks for Saturday, April 18.

Hawks vs Knicks computer picks for Game 1

Hawks	Knicks
Alexander-Walker u20.5 points  -105	Anunoby o15.5 points -112
McCollum o3.5 assists -105	Towns o11.5 rebounds -105
Kuminga o9.5 points -120	Anunoby o4.5 rebounds -150

Hawks Game 1 computer picks

Nickeil Alexander-Walker Under 20.5 points (-105)

Projection: 18.63 points

Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker is a volume-dependent scorer stepping into a brutal playoff environment at Madison Square Garden. 

The New York Knicks' defense ranks among the league's best, and while NAW might land a few triples, he hasn't shown the consistency to regularly crack 20 points. 

At 18.63 projected, the cushion here is real, and it's a good idea to play the Under.

span style="font-size: 14px;"🔥/span spanBet Alexander-Walker Now at bet365!/span

CJ McCollum Over 3.5 assists (-105)

Projection: 4.25 assists

CJ McCollum is a natural playmaker who thrives in pick-and-roll situations, consistently making plays to cutters and kick-outs to three-point snipers.

At 3.5 assists, this line underestimates his playmaking ceiling, which is projected at 4.25 with an 80% hit rate.

The value is clear for something McCollum has done in six of his previous seven games. 

span style="font-size: 14px;"🔥/span spanBet McCollum Now at bet365!/span

Jonathan Kuminga Over 9.5 points (-120)

Projection: 10.69 points

Jonathan Kuminga brings explosive athleticism and finishing ability that make scoring at least 10 points a modest ask.

Projected at 10.69 points, he's shown throughout his career a capability to attack the paint and generate easy buckets in transition.

With an 80% hit rate and -120 juice, this is one of the sharpest Overs on the board tonight for a player who's scored at least 10 points in five of his previous six games.

span style="font-size: 14px;"🔥/span spanBet Kuminga Now at bet365!/span

Knicks Game 1 computer picks

OG Anunoby Over 15.5 points (-112)

Projection: 16.86 points

OG Anunoby is built for playoff basketball with his relentless off-ball movement, elite finishing at the rim, and a mid-range game that's quietly become reliable.

The Knicks need him to produce, and 15.5 points is a number he's more than capable of eclipsing.

He's cleared his prop number in three of his past five games, averaged 16.7 ppg during the regular season, and we're getting a good price for Anunoby's NBA player prop.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

Meeting for the third time in four seasons on the NBA Playoff stage, the rivalry between the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves is reignited as they clash in the first round of the Western Conference.

Nikola Jokic has consistently had the upper hand against Anthony Edwards and the T-Wolves, and with prediction markets like Kalshi providing a sharper, real-time pulse on betting sentiment, we’re diving into the latest Timberwolves vs. Nuggets predictions along with our top NBA picks for an electric Game 1.

Who will win Timberwolves vs Nuggets Game 1?

Timberwolves win probability:30% (+233)
Nuggets win probability:71% (-245)

The Denver Nuggets open as heavy favorites at 70%, backed by their proven ability to defend home court—especially in the NBA Playoffs—while the Minnesota Timberwolves trail at 30%, facing an uphill climb heading into Game 1.

Our prediction:Nuggets to win

Covers NBA expert Zak Hanshew states that: "The Denver Nuggets went 28-13 straight up at home this season and finished with the seventh-best Net Rating (5.6). Denver went 3-1 against Minnesota and gets the advantage of the fans at Ball Arena tonight. With the best player in the world in Nikola Jokic and a strong supporting cast, I'll take the Nuggets in a close one."

Read more in Hanshew's full Timberwolves vs. Nuggets predictions.

More Timberwolves vs Nuggets prediction markets

You're certainly not limited to the main game outcome for Timberwolves vs. Nuggets at Kalshi; you also have options to trade on the spread, total, and more, among other NBA odds markets.

You can buy either side of a market — for example, "Yes" on the Nuggets -7.5 spread means the Nuggets will cover, while "No" means the Timberwolves will cover — with each side priced based on the implied probability (which can be converted to American, Decimal, or Fraction odds using the Covers odds converter).

Timberwolves vs Nuggets spread and total at prediction markets

Our predictions: Timberwolves +7.5 — Yes and Over 231.5 points — Yes

The Nuggets enter on a 10-game winning streak, though they’ve covered the spread just five times during that stretch. Meanwhile, Minnesota has either won or stayed within this spread in two of the last three meetings with Denver, setting the stage for another tight, competitive matchup between familiar rivals.

Minnesota closed the season strong, hitting the Over in four of its last five games, while Denver did the same in eight of its last ten. With both sides nearing full strength, this sets up for a high-scoring battle in Mile High.

Other Timberwolves vs Nuggets prediction markets available

• Nikola Jokic Triple-Double (Yes: 55¢)

What is Kalshi and how does it work?

Kalshi is a federally regulated U.S. exchange where you trade directly on the outcome of real-world future events. Instead of traditional bets, you trade "Event Contracts" which are simple Yes/No questions like "Will the Nuggets win tonight?" These events are priced between $0.01 and $0.99, and the prices reflect the market’s estimated probability of that event occurring. For instance, $0.55 equals a 55% chance. If your prediction is correct, the contract pays out exactly $1.00; if not, it settles at $0. Kalshi is essentially a stock market for reality.

How does Kalshi differ from sportsbooks?

In a sportsbook, you bet against the bookmaker, who sets fixed odds and takes a "vig," which is a kind of commission. On Kalshi, you trade against other users. This peer-to-peer model means prices are driven by supply and demand, often resulting in fairer odds. Additionally, because these are financial derivatives, you can exit your position early. If your team takes a 14-point lead, the contract price will rise, allowing you to sell your "Yes" shares for a profit before the final whistle even blows.

Why should I wager on Timberwolves vs Nuggets at Kalshi?

Kalshi offers four unique advantages over traditional sportsbooks:

1. Flexibility: Unlike a "locked-in" bet, you can sell your contract at any time.
   
   
2. Transparency: You trade against other users, which can allow you to find better value.
   
   
3. Federal regulation: As a CFTC-regulated exchange, your funds are held in a secure, transparent environment.
   
   
4. Availability: Kalshi is available in 49 states (excluding Nevada) and D.C., including many regions where traditional sportsbooks aren't yet legal.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

Our NBA player prop projections are locked in for tonight’s thrilling Game 1 between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Denver Nuggets, with the model flagging several high-value opportunities.

By breaking down the data and stacking it up against current market lines, we’ve identified where the strongest edges lie.

These Timberwolves vs. Nuggets predictions aren’t based on feel — they’re backed by the numbers.

If you’re building out your card, here are the model’s top NBA picks for Saturday, April 18.

Timberwolves vs Nuggets computer picks for April 18

Timberwolves	Nuggets
Edwards u26.5 points  -115	Murray u24.5 points  -105
Randle o6.5 rebounds  +110	Jokic o13.5 rebounds +105
DiVincenzo o2.5 3-pointers -130	Gordon o2.5 assists -120

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Timberwolves computer picks

Anthony Edwards Under 26.5 points (-115)

Projection: 25.4 points

As much as the Minnesota Timberwolves will rely on Anthony Edwards at his best, the Denver Nuggets have operated at the sixth-slowest pace in the league over their last five home games. That tempo should limit possessions for Minnesota and ultimately cut into scoring chances for their star.

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Julius Randle Over 6.5 rebounds (+110)

Projection: 6.9 rebounds

Grabbing rebounds against Nikola Jokic is no easy task, and Julius Randle will be leaned on to battle on the glass and limit second chances for Denver.

With the Timberwolves playing at the ninth-fastest pace in the NBA this season, he’ll look to capitalize on that tempo after going Over this 6.5 rebound line in four of his last ten outings.

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Donte DiVincenzo Over 2.5 3-pointers (-130)

Projection: 2.6 3-pointers

The Timberwolves rank as the sixth-most prolific three-point scoring team on the road this season, setting up Donte DiVincenzo for another strong showing from deep. He’s cleared this 2.5 made threes line in seven of his last 10 games and is well-positioned to do it again.

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Nuggets computer picks

Jamal Murray Under 24.5 points (-105)

Projection: 23.9 points

Opposing starting point guards have struggled mightily against Minnesota this season, shooting just 39.8% from the field — the lowest mark in the league — making this a tough spot for Jamal Murray.

Getting to the free-throw line won’t come easy either. Over the last 15 games, starting PGs facing the Timberwolves have averaged just 3.3 attempts per game, the fifth-fewest in the league, adding another layer of difficulty in generating offense.

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Nikola Jokic Over 13.5 rebounds (+105)

Projection: 14.08 rebounds

The Nuggets rank ninth in the NBA with 12.6 offensive rebounds per game over their last five outings, and Nikola Jokic continues to dominate the glass as their primary presence.

He’s gone Over this 13.5 rebound line in eight of his last 10 games and remains in a strong position to do so again.

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Aaron Gordon Over 2.5 assists (-120)

Projection: 2.9 assists

Aaron Gordon has quietly become a reliable secondary playmaker in Denver’s offense, clearing this 2.5 assists line in six of his last ten games by thriving within the flow of their half-court sets.

Against the Timberwolves, that role becomes even more important. Minnesota’s defense is built to pack the paint and crowd primary scorers, which should force the ball out of Jokic’s hands at times and into the hands of facilitators like Gordon operating in the short roll or along the baseline.

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How to watch Timberwolves vs Nuggets today

Location	Ball Arena, Denver, CO
Date	Saturday, April 18, 2026
Tip-off	3:30 p.m. ET
TV	Prime Video, TSN4

Not intended for use in MA.
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The Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets meet in the playoffs for the third time in the past four years. Denver won three of the teams’ four regular-season meetings, including a 142-138 classic on Christmas in which Nikola Jokić scored 18 points in the final three minutes.

How to watch Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Denver Nuggets

• Date: Saturday, April 18

• Time: 3:30 p.m. ET / 12:30 p.m. PT

• Where: Ball Arena, Denver, Colorado

• TV Channels: Amaz

• Live Stream:NBA League Pass | Follow on Yahoo Sports

Team records

• Minnesota Timberwolves: 49-33 (No. 6 West playoff seed)

• Denver Nuggets: 54-28 (No. 3 West playoff seed)

Odds

• Spread: Denver Nuggets -6.5

• Moneyline: Denver Nuggets -275 (70.1%) / Minnesota Timberwolves +220 (29.9%)

• Over/Under: 231.5

Series schedule

Game 1: Sat., April 18, at Denver (3:30 p.m., Prime Video)
Game 2: Mon., April 20, at Denver (10:30 p.m., NBC/Peacock)
Game 3: Thu., April 23, at Minnesota (9:30 p.m., Prime Video)
Game 4: Sat., April 25, at Minnesota (8:30 p.m., ABC)
*Game 5: Mon., April 27, at Denver (TBD)
*Game 6: Thu., April 30, at Minnesota (TBD)
*Game 7: Sat., May 2, at Denver (TBD)

*if necessary

The Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers open their first-round playoff series. The Lakers won two of the teams’ three regular-season meetings, but will be without Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves to start the postseason. Kevin Durant is making his playoff debut with the Rockets.

How to watch Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers

• Date: Saturday, April 18

• Time: 8:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. PT

• Where: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, California

• TV Channels: ABC

• Live Stream:NBA League Pass | Follow on Yahoo Sports

Team records

• Houston Rockets: 52-30 (No. 5 West playoff seed)

• Los Angeles Lakers: 53-29 (No. 4 West playoff seed)

Odds

• Spread: Rockets -5.5

• Moneyline: Rockets -220 / Lakers +180

• Over/Under: 207.5

Series schedule

Game 1: Sat., April 18 at Los Angeles (8:30 p.m., ABC)
Game 2: Tue., April 21 at Los Angeles (10:30 p.m., NBC)
Game 3: Fri., April 24 at Houston (8 p.m., Prime)
Game 4: Sun., April 26 at Houston (9:30 p.m., NBC)
Game 5: Wed., April 29 at Los Angeles (TBD)
Game 6: Fri., May 1 at Houston (TBD)
*Game 7: Sun., May 3 at Los Angeles (TBD)

*if necessary

The Toronto Raptors and Cleveland Cavaliers open their first-round series of the 2026 NBA playoffs. The Cavs enter as the Eastern Conference’s No. 4 playoff seed while the Raptors are fifth. Toronto won all three of the team’s regular-season meetings, all of which were played before the end of November.

How to watch Toronto Raptors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

• Date: Saturday, April 18

• Time: 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT

• Where: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, Ohio

• TV Channels: Amaz

• Live Stream:NBA League Pass | Follow on Yahoo Sports

Team records

• Toronto Raptors: 46-36 (No. 5 Eastern playoff seed)

• Cleveland Cavaliers: 52-30 (No. 4 Eastern playoff seed)

Odds

• Spread: Cavaliers -8.5

• Moneyline: Cavaliers -350 / Raptors +275

• Over/Under: 219.5

Series schedule

Game 1: Sat., April 18 at Cleveland (1 p.m., Prime)
Game 2: Mon., April 20 at Cleveland (7 p.m., Peacock)
Game 3: Thu., April 23 at Toronto (8 p.m., Prime)
Game 4: Sun., April 26 at Toronto (1 p.m., ESPN)
Game 5: Wed., April 29 at Cleveland (TBD)
Game 6: Fri., May 1 at Toronto (TBD)
*Game 7: Sun., May 3 at Cleveland (TBD)

*if necessary

Charlotte’s loss to Orlando ended one of the most fun NBA seasons for the franchise since the days of Alonzo Mourning, Larry Johnson, and Muggsy Bogues.

Kon Knueppel was responsible for a lot of the cultural change that the Hornets saw this year, and he smashed the rookie record for three-point shots with 273, which also led the entire NBA. No rookie had ever done this before.

It would have been fun to see Knueppel and his Duke teammate Sion James continue the lovefest, but Orlando knocked them out of the NBA’s play-in tournament, 121-90.

However, while Knueppel and James and the Hornets are out, Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter will move on to play Trajan Langdon’s Detroit Pistons.

And in the other play-in game, the Phoenix Suns, featuring Grayson Allen, Mark Williams, and Khaman Maluach, knocked out Mike Dunleavy’s Golden State Warriors, 111-96.

So now the playoffs begin, and the Brotherhood is well represented. How well represented?

In the East, five teams have former Blue Devils, and in the West, there are five as well, so with 16 teams in, the odds are reasonably good that a member (or members) of the Brotherhood will get a ring this June.

The odds get a bit better when you see that San Antonio, Oklahoma City, and Boston are included in the list below:

• Orlando: Paolo Banchero/Wendell Carter
• Phoenix: Grayson Allen/Mark Williams/Khaman Maluach
• Oklahoma City: Jared McCain
• Los Angeles Lakers: Luke Kennard/Coach JJ Redick
• Denver: Tyus Jones
• San Antonio: Mason Plumlee
• Detroit – GM Trajan Langdon
• Cleveland – Tyrese Proctor
• Toronto- RJ Barrett/Brendan Ingram
• Atlanta – Jalen Johnson
• Boston – Jayson Tatum
• Philadelphia: GM Elton Brand

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