Tyrese Maxey earns first All-NBA honors with 2025-26 third team selection

Boston, MA - May 2: Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey reacts in the second quarter. The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers played in the first round of the NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on May 2, 2026. (Photo by Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) | Boston Globe via Getty Images

From the 21st pick in the draft to one of the 15 best players in the league.

The NBA has announced their All-NBA teams for the 2025-26 season, revealing that Tyrese Maxey has been selected for the first time in his career. He joins Jalen Duren, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Johnson, and Jamal Murray for those honors.

Leading the league in minutes per game, Maxey averaged 28.3 points, 6.6 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.9 steals a night. He did so on 46.2/36.7/89.2% shooting splits, earning his second All-Star selection back in February. Maxey becomes the first Sixer to make an All-NBA team since Joel Embiid’s MVP year back in 2023 and the first non-Embiid Sixer to earn the honors since Ben Simmons in 2019-20.

Maxey’s spot on an All-NBA started to be penciled in at the very start of the season when Maxey came out of the gates hot, averaging 32 points per game over the first month and a half of the season. His production tailed off a bit as his workload caught up with him, and suffered a finger injury in March that put him in danger of missing the 65-game threshold for awards.

He returned a week early, clearing that benchmark by five games and navigating his team through the Play-In tournament as the Sixers again lost Embiid to a freak injury right before the playoffs.

Had his production been able to withstand his heavy workload, he only averaged a measly 26.5 points per game since the calendar flipped to 2026, there was definitely an argument for him to make second team. He was the leading third-team vote getter and received 36 votes for second-team.

This is also the first step in another leap Maxey can make, this one being financial. ESPN’s Bobby Marks has already run the numbers as Maxey will be eligible for the Super-Max extension in the 2027 offseason should he make an All-NBA team again next year.

Draymond Green threatens Knicks supporter with ‘smashing kids’ post as Warriors star keeps beefing with fan base

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) drives to the basket against Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (4) during the second half in the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, Image 2 shows Draymond Green gets in a feud with a fan on social media

Draymond Green is certainly known to have his opinions, but a social media beef has caught everyone off guard. 

The Warriors star and NBA analyst for “Inside the NBA”bizarrely told a Knicks fan to “Watch your mouth before I crush those dirty ass kids in your banner” in response to a remark she made on X. 

The user, @HanaHoops, has an old photo featuring two young girls in her X profile banner.

It’s unclear if it’s an old photo of herself or others. 

The social media user had originally posted, “COME OUTSIDE BITCH” and tagged Green, in a likely chirp related to his commentary on “Inside the NBA.” 

Draymond Green gets in a feud with a Knicks fan on social media.

The reply didn’t seem to bother @HanaHoops, who replied to Green’s comment on Sunday, asking if he was “hacked or something?” 

“Im actually crying bruh why would he say that,” she also wrote on X. 

She also posted about it on TikTok, where she screenshotted and shared the exchange and captioned it, “When you get in a random Twitter beef with Draymond Green.” 

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green looks on in the first half of the game between the Detroit Pistons and the Cleveland Cavaliers during game two of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Green seemed plenty busy on social media Sunday, also taking aim at a fan who had said that the hooper could get on the Knicks bandwagon. 

That offer was not met with much appreciation. 

“Why would I? I got more rings than y’all. I don’t need to be on anyone’s bandwagon,” Green wrote on X. 

Green has been complimentary of the way the team has played through the playoffs and even said that three was “no one playing better than the New York Knicks.” 

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) drives to the basket against Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (4) during the second half in the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

They’ve been consistently good on both sides of the basketball. They’re really connecting the game, they’re using their defense to fuel their offense,” Green said about the Knicks. 

The Knicks are one win away from reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.

Wembanyama scores 33 and Spurs trounce Thunder 103-82 to even the NBA West final

Wembanyama scores 33 and Spurs trounce Thunder 103-82 to even the NBA West final originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Victor Wembanyama had 33 points, eight rebounds, five assists and three blocks and the San Antonio Spurs held Oklahoma City to its second-lowest postseason total, beating the Thunder 103-82 in Game 4 on Sunday night to tie the NBA Western Conference finals.

De’Aaron Fox had 12 points, 10 rebounds and five assists for San Antonio, which has not lost three consecutive games all season. Stephon Castle and Devin Vassell added 13 points each.

Game 5 is Tuesday in Oklahoma City, followed by Game 6 on Thursday in San Antonio.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had 19 points on 6-for-15 shooting for the Thunder.

Wembanyama took Oklahoma City’s 123-108 victory Friday in Game 3 personally. The 7-foot-4 star from France said he needed to be better to make his teammates better. He was monumentally better Sunday night — and so was San Antonio.

The Spurs limited the Thunder to 33% shooting from the field, including 6 for 33 on 3-pointers (18%).

After being outscored 76-23 in bench points in Game 3, San Antonio’s reserves scored 30 points while limiting Oklahoma City to 34.

The Spurs had another hot start in Game 4 after opening the previous game on a 15-0 run. Unlike Friday’s lopsided loss, the Spurs never relinquished that lead.

After blocking Jared McCain’s layup under the rim, Vassell tossed an alley-oop pass to Wembanyama for a dunk as part of 16-0 run that gave the Spurs a 23-8 lead with 4:19 remaining.

San Antonio had an assist on all 10 field goals in the first quarter.

San Antonio held Oklahoma City to 38 points in the first half, tied for its second-lowest half in the past four regular and postseasons. The Thunder are 2-9 when they score less than 40 points in any half over the last five seasons.

Oklahoma City’s franchise low is 65 points in a playoff loss to Memphis on May 3, 2014, and its second-fewest points had been 85 against San Antonio on May 21, 2014.

Wembanyama scores 33 and Spurs trounce Thunder 103-82 to even the NBA West final

Wembanyama scores 33 and Spurs trounce Thunder 103-82 to even the NBA West final originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

Victor Wembanyama had 33 points, eight rebounds, five assists and three blocks and the San Antonio Spurs held Oklahoma City to its second-lowest postseason total, beating the Thunder 103-82 in Game 4 on Sunday night to tie the NBA Western Conference finals.

De’Aaron Fox had 12 points, 10 rebounds and five assists for San Antonio, which has not lost three consecutive games all season. Stephon Castle and Devin Vassell added 13 points each.

Game 5 is Tuesday in Oklahoma City, followed by Game 6 on Thursday in San Antonio.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had 19 points on 6-for-15 shooting for the Thunder.

Wembanyama took Oklahoma City’s 123-108 victory Friday in Game 3 personally. The 7-foot-4 star from France said he needed to be better to make his teammates better. He was monumentally better Sunday night — and so was San Antonio.

The Spurs limited the Thunder to 33% shooting from the field, including 6 for 33 on 3-pointers (18%).

After being outscored 76-23 in bench points in Game 3, San Antonio’s reserves scored 30 points while limiting Oklahoma City to 34.

The Spurs had another hot start in Game 4 after opening the previous game on a 15-0 run. Unlike Friday’s lopsided loss, the Spurs never relinquished that lead.

After blocking Jared McCain’s layup under the rim, Vassell tossed an alley-oop pass to Wembanyama for a dunk as part of 16-0 run that gave the Spurs a 23-8 lead with 4:19 remaining.

San Antonio had an assist on all 10 field goals in the first quarter.

San Antonio held Oklahoma City to 38 points in the first half, tied for its second-lowest half in the past four regular and postseasons. The Thunder are 2-9 when they score less than 40 points in any half over the last five seasons.

Oklahoma City’s franchise low is 65 points in a playoff loss to Memphis on May 3, 2014, and its second-fewest points had been 85 against San Antonio on May 21, 2014.

Luka Dončić named to First Team All-NBA, earning sixth All-NBA selection

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 14: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the first half of a game against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena on March 14, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) | Getty Images

While Luka Dončić’s Extraordinary Circumstances Challenge was approved by the NBA, making him eligible for end-of-season awards, the voters still left him off their MVP ballots. However, Luka will not go empty-handed regarding NBA accolades this year as he was named First Team All-NBA on Sunday.

This is his sixth All-NBA selection, but his first in a purple and gold uniform.

Luka is joined by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, Victor Wembanyama and Cade Cunningham on the First Team.

Jaylen Brown, Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant, Donovan Mitchell and Jalen Brunson made the Second Team. Jalen Duren, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Johnson, Tyrese Maxey and Jamal Murray were on the Third Team.

Luka received 91 First Team votes and nine Second Team votes.

With LeBron James and Austin Reaves both failing to reach the 65-game threshold to be eligible, no other Lakers received All-NBA honors. Last year, the roles were reversed as LeBron was an All-NBA player and Luka was ineligible due to injury.

Luka had an incredible season that deserves to be celebrated. He made the All-Star team, representing the Lakers in the game for the first time in his career. He was the NBA’s scoring champion, averaging 33.5 points per game. He was also the only player to earn Western Conference Player of the Month honors multiple times this season, those coming in Januaryand March.

In March, he was particularly impressive. He scored 60 points on the road against the Heat, led the Lakers to a 15-2 record, and had 600 points in the month.

Only 10 players in NBA history have accomplished that feat. And that list includes players such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain, Michael Jordan and Jerry West.

Now, Luka adds another All-NBA selection to his resume, making him just one of the 50-plus players to make the team six or more times.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.

Lakers’ Luka Doncic named to All-NBA team, receiving first-team honors

Luka Doncic was once again formally recognized as one of the NBA’s best players.

The Lakers superstar guard was named to a 2025-26 All-NBA team on Sunday, receiving first-team honors.

Lakers superstar Luka Doncic made the All-NBA team Sunday, earning a spot on the first team. Corey Sipkin for NY Post

The recognition marked the sixth time in Doncic’s eight-year career that he was named to an All-NBA team.

He was named All-NBA First Team in five consecutive seasons (2020-24).

The 2025-26 All-NBA teams are:

  • First Team: Doncic, Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, Spurs center Victor Wembanyama and Pistons guard Cade Cunningham;
  • Second Team: Celtics wing Jaylen Brown, Clippers wing Kawhi Leonard, Rockets forward Kevin Durant, Knicks guard Jalen Brunson and Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell;
  • Third Team: 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey, Nuggets guard Jamal Murray, Hawks forward Jalen Johnson, Pistons center Jalen Duren and Thunder center Chet Holmgren.

Doncic received 91 first-team and nine second-team All-NBA votes, landing on all 100 of the media ballots.

Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic, Wembanyama, Doncic and Brown were the lone players to be on every ballot.

Doncic is the fifth player in league history to earn six All-NBA first-team honors by age 27 or younger, according to the Lakers. He and Jokic were the 22nd and 23rd players in NBA history to receive six or more career first-team selections.

The lone seasons Doncic hasn’t been named to an All-NBA team were his first season in the league, when he was named the 2019 Rookie of the Year, and after the 2024-25 season, when he was limited to 50 regular-season games. 

Doncic, 27, won the scoring title for the second time in the last three seasons. 

He led the league with a scoring average of 33.5 points to go with 8.3 assists, 7.7 rebounds and 1.6 steals. His 254 made 3-pointers were the most in Lakers history for a season and the third most in the league for 2025-26.

Doncic was the lone player to be named the Western Conference Player of the Month twice in 2025-26, receiving the honor for his play in January and March

Despite falling short of the 65 games-played threshold, Doncic was eligible for the league’s end-of-season awards voting, including All-NBA, after the NBA and NBPA announced last month that his Extraordinary Circumstances Challenge for the 65-game award rule was honored. He finished fourth in the voting for league MVP, which Gilgeous-Alexander won for the second consecutive season.

Lakers stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic are no strangers to All-NBA teams. Doncic made his sixth, and James has earned the honor 21 times. AP

Doncic played in 64 qualified games before suffering a regular-season-ending Grade 2 left hamstring strain during the Lakers’ loss to the Thunder on April 2. He missed two games in December because of the birth of his daughter in Europe, which qualified as an extraordinary circumstance according to the announcement. 

His 2025-26 regular season was filled with historic achievements and accolades, as he reestablished himself as one of the league’s best players after a 2024-25 season that featured a lengthy absence because of a calf injury and the shocking trade to the Lakers in February 2025.

Doncic scored at least 40 points in the first three games he played to start the season. Wilt Chamberlain is the only other player in league history to reach the 40-point mark in their first three games of a season. 

Despite LeBron James being sidelined for the first 14 games of the season because of sciatica, Doncic, along with fellow star guard Austin Reaves, led the Lakers to a 15-4 record through the season’s first six weeks. Doncic averaged a league-high 35.1 points in that stretch.

Doncic’s best stretch of the season came after he returned from a left hamstring injury after the All-Star break.

He averaged 35.8 points, 7.8 assists and 7.7 rebounds in the 21 games he played from Feb. 20-March 31. The Lakers went 16-5 in the games Doncic played during that stretch, including 14-2 in March.

It’s time for Playoff Basketball: San Antonio Spurs at Oklahoma Thunder, Game 4

SAN ANTONIO, TX - MAY 22: An overall photo of the Frost Bank Center during the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder against the San Antonio Spurs during Game Three of the 2026 NBA Western Conference Finals on MAY 22, 2026 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, 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 (Photos by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Welcome to the Game Thread. Veterans of the Game Thread know how we do things around here, but for all you newbies we have a few rules. Our community guidelines apply and basically say be cool, no personal attacks, don’t troll and don’t swear too much. The rule against trolling also applies to members of this site that visit other fan sites.

Tonight’s game is almost a must-win game for the Silver and Black, as they need a victory tonight to avoid a trip to Oklahoma City on Tuesday night with elimination on the line. If anyone would have told me early in the season that the Spurs would be in the conference finals at the end of may with a chance to even up the series 2-2, I would have been ecstatic. But after watching the playoff run so far with the Spurs, I don’t want this to end yet. The Spurs need to keep extending the series until they can take it all the way to the Finals to meet a well-rested Knicks squad, who are murderizing the Cavs on the other side of the bracket.

Game 3 started out well for the home team, as the Spurs rushed out to a 15-0 lead, but unfortunately for the home team, the game isn’t over after the first 5 minutes, and they were thoroughly outplayed after the initial run and lost the game by 15. It was the first game where the Spurs weren’t just outschemed by a more experienced coach, but were neutralized by superior play of the opponent. I have been pretty critical of the physical play style of OKC, but that was not the reason the Spurs lost Game 3. The Thunder played with more energy and got an excellent effort up and down the roster as every player who hit the court made a significant contribution. For the Spurs, Wembanyama had a good but not great game, and the Spurs elite guard trio, struggling with injuries, couldn’t be dominant enough to make up for the lack of production from the San Antonio bench, who were bleeding points every minute they were on the court. If the Spurs want to avoid facing elimination on Tuesday, players like Keldon Johnson, Luke Kornet, and Carter Bryant will need to step up, and Julian Champagnie will need to hit some shots to relieve some of the defensive pressure on Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox.

The Spurs aren’t listing any players on the injury report, but both Fox and Harper have been dinged up, and won’t be at full speed tonight. They are going to go, and maybe that will inspire some of their teammates to help them to a win. Ajay Mitchell is out tonight, and Jalen Williams (hamstring) is listed as questionable. I doubt that JDub will play tonight, but if he does, he won’t be at full speed. With all that’s gone wrong in this series, the Silver and Black have a great opportunity for a win tonight to even up the series, and guarantee at another home game on Thursday in the Frost Arena. Let’s see the Spurs conquer adversity tonight, and give the fans another chance to cheer on their team. The Spurs have not lost three games in a row all season, and you definitely don’t want that to happen for the first time in the playoffs. LETS GO SPURS!

Game Prediction:

Carter Bryant has a breakout game and hits six three point shots as the Thunder are busy triple teaming Wembanyama.

San Antonio Spurs at Oklahoma Thunder, Conference Championship Round, Game 4
May 24, 2026 | 7:00 PM CT
Streaming: Peacock
TV: NBC
Reminder: It is against site policy to post links to illegal streams in the comments.

Knicks stand one win away from fulfilling season’s mandate — and from a historic moment

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown reacting at an NBA game, Image 2 shows Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks dribbles the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Game Three of the 2026 Eastern Conference Finals on May 23, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio.

CLEVELAND — Jalen Brunson needed just three words to answer.

How long has he thought about reaching the Finals with the Knicks?

“Since,” he said Sunday, “I signed.”

It went from a thought to a mandate.

This year, it was always the requirement.

Anything else would have been considered a failure.

From the moment the Knicks fired Tom Thibodeau, despite reaching the conference finals, going one step further and reaching the Finals became the unambiguous expectation.

It became solidified when owner James Dolan said in January that “getting to the Finals, we absolutely got to do.”

A few weeks before that, the Knicks set that standard by refusing to raise a banner for their NBA Cup triumph, preferring to hold out for more meaningful ones.

Jalen Brunson (11) dribbles the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Game 3 of the 2026 Eastern Conference Finals on May 23, 2026 at Rocket Arena. NBAE via Getty Images

But that doesn’t make this moment any less special.

The Knicks are in the midst of a magical and historic run.

With a win in Game 4 of these Eastern Conference finals Monday, they can secure back-to-back overpowering series sweeps.

It would extend their incredible winning streak to 11 games.

And it would fulfill that Finals-or-bust mandate.

“Going through this process, one of the things that I’m trying really hard to do and trying really hard to make sure our team does from the top down is to stay present,” coach Mike Brown said Sunday. “And what I mean by that is, we don’t wanna get ahead of ourselves, because as soon as we start getting ahead of ourselves, that’s when disaster always occurs, it seems.

“So for us, starting with me, making sure everybody in the organization on down understands it’s about the next game. And really, it’s about the next possession. And I try to block out everything else as best I can and not think about ‘what ifs,’ because I know for me, it would distract me 100 percent at this time of the year.”

New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown reacts during Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals for the 2026 NBA playoffs at Rocket Arena. David Richard-Imagn Images

From an outside perspective, though, it’s hard not to let the mind wander and think about what is now possible for these Knicks.

They are within touching distance of their first Finals berth since 1999, a feat that would surely whip New York City into an even wilder frenzy than it’s been in the last few weeks.

And with the way they are playing — setting more and more records with each passing game — it feels entirely within their capability to topple whichever team comes out of the West and bring home a championship.

Knicks Merch Shop
  • SOAR wireless speaker and bottle opener
  • Customizable jersey
  • Hydrapeak 30-ounce stainless steel tumbler
  • ZHATS adjustable cap
  • Pro Standard double knit full zip hoodie
  • Ultra Game team crew socks (3-pack)
New York Post receives revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and when you make a purchase.

Their nightly dominance is eliciting the best types of dreams.

“I don’t want to consider us peaking at this moment,” Brunson said. “I still think we have a lot of work to do. Us as a team, I’ve said this all year, we just want to get better every single day. That includes the times that we’re in the playoffs because there’s still time to learn, still time to get better. That’s how I’ve always thought about it. I haven’t really had the time to really kind of wonder where we are as a team. All I focus on is how can we get better from the day before?”

That focus is entirely forward-looking.

Thinking of Knicks history and how long it’s been since they reached the Finals “doesn’t really cross my mind at all right now,” Brunson said.

The drought is a recurring topic in media and fan discourse.

But it doesn’t mean much to this group.

“I don’t think we’re stuck on it,” OG Anunoby said Sunday. “Our goal is just to win each and every game. However long it was, six years or two years or 20 years, it doesn’t matter.”

A Finals berth, a second straight sweep, a winning streak and a place in Knicks history are all attainable for the Knicks on Monday.

For them, it’s just Game 4.

“No matter what is at stake, it’s a chance for us to come together, be better than we were the game before, continue to learn,” Brunson said. “And try to be the best team we can be.”

Player Grades: Lakers 2025-26 season

HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 24: Rui Hachimura #28 and Deandre Ayton #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrate during the game against the Houston Rockets during Round One Game Three of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

This week, we’ll be kicking off our season recap series with each player on the roster. To set things off right, and because everyone loves discussing player grades so much, let’s give some grades based on the season as a whole.

In many ways, this felt like multiple seasons packed into one. The Lakers not only endured being without LeBron James at the start of the season, but excelled. His return, and an injury to Austin Reaves, led to some growing pains in the ensuing months but the Lakers figured everything out in March, leading to one of the best stretches of basketball the franchise has seen in multiple seasons.

The ending was bittersweet as a shorthanded team did all they could in the postseason before succumbing to the defending champions in the second round. It was a season full of brilliance, surprises and disappointments.

So, let’s look back on the season. Similar to the regular season version, grades will be based on the player’s expectations coming into the year. A “B” grade represents the average performance, or meeting expectations, for that player.

Luka Dončić

64 games, 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 8.3 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.5 blocks, 4 turnovers, 47.6% FG, 36.6% 3PT, 78% FT

After his first season featured flashes of his MVP form, a refocused Luka came into this year and returned to his top form. He carried the Lakers through so many games this year and, once the team got right, looked like the league’s best in March.

Injuries were the only downside, but those are hard to avoid and hard to knock him for given how much he focused on his body in the offseason.

Grade: A+

Austin Reaves

51 games, 23.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.4 blocks, 3 turnovers, 49% FG, 36% 3PT, 87.1% FT

Reaves’ constant ascension reached yet another level this season. We learned right away what kind of season he was going to have, as without Luka and LeBron, Austin showed he was up to the task of carrying a team.

Austin did well to ease many of the concerns about his viability alongside Luka. The biggest knock on him was how little the two shared the court. Hopefully, he spends the summer getting on the Luka plan for his body.

Grade: A

LeBron James

60 games, 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.6 blocks, 3 turnovers, 51.5% FG, 31.7% 3PT, 73.7% FT

It took a while for LeBron to get things going this season and find his groove. It was a new role with new expectations and LeBron had to adjust.

For portions of the season, it felt like the LeBron era in LA was going to come to an end. But his play in March changed the outlook on things and he showed in the playoffs that he can still carry a team when needed.

Grade: B+

Marcus Smart

62 games, 9.3 points, 2.8 assists, 3 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.4 blocks, 1.5 turnovers, 39.5% FG, 33.1% 3PT, 82.2% FT

After two injury-riddled seasons, Smart proved he could still be a reliable contributor on a contending team. When the team was at it’s best in March, Smart was a valuable member of the starting lineup, contributing on both ends of the court.

His ability and willingness to do the little things and the dirty work made him an important piece of the team and may have earned him a longer contract this summer.

Grade: B+

Rui Hachimura

68 games, 11.5 points, 2.7 assists, 3.3 rebounds, 0.8 steals, 0.3 blocks, 0.6 turnovers, 51.4% FG, 44.3% 3PT, 69.4% FT

In the delineation between 82-game and 16-game players, Rui definitely falls closer to the latter side of that spectrum. The regular season was solid as he jumped between roles, including moving to the bench once everyone was healthy.

But his postseason performance certainly made up for however underwhelming his regular season was.

Grade: B

Deandre Ayton

72 games, 12.5 points, 8 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.6 steals, 1 block, 1.2 turnovers, 67.1% FG, 64.5% 3PT

The Lakers signed Ayton with the hopes of him being a long-term solution to their center position.

He certainly was not that. In a different role than he’s had before in his career, Ayton’s production fluctuated throughout the year, including in the playoffs.

In the end, the only certainty about his season is he is not the long-term answer.

Grade: B-

Jake LaRavia

82 games, 8.2 points, 4 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.5 blocks, 1.1 turnovers, 45.9% FG, 32.1% 3PT, 76.3% FT

The only player to play more than 72 games, LaRavia featured in 82 games, indicating how important he was during the regular season as an innings eater.

His energy and length defensively were valuable, but his offensive shortcomings eventually made him unplayable when it mattered. Still, given how small his contract is, he still was productive this year.

Grade: B

Luke Kennard

32 games, 9 points, 2.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.1 blocks, 0.9 turnovers, 52.7% FG, 44.8% 3PT, 91.2% FT

Considering who he was replacing, the bar was on the floor for Kennard to be an improvement at the trade deadline. He was every bit of that and then more, including having an out-of-body experience in the postseason to help the team win a series.

Grade: A

Jaxson Hayes

66 games, 7.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.4 steals, 0.8 blocks, 0.5 turnovers, 75.6% FG, 65.3% FT

While it may have looked different in certain spots and at certain times, Hayes was ultimately still the same player he has always been. He had his most efficient season, but still was closer to unplayable than valuable in the playoffs.

Grade: B

Jarred Vanderbilt

65 games, 4.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.3 blocks, 0.9 turnovers, 47.1% FG, 29.3% 3PT, 58.9% FT

All those videos of Vando shooting corner threes last summer amounted to yet another poor shooting season. Vando was on the edge of the rotation most of the season and often made the decision relatively easy with how ineffective he was offensively.

Grade: C

Nick Smith Jr.

30 games, 6.2 points, 0.8 rebounds, 1 assist, 0.3 steals, 0.1 blocks, 0.7 turnovers, 43.5% FG, 39.5% 3PT, 73.3% FT

After spending most of the season on a two-way deal, Smith Jr. signed a standard deal late in the season. After helping the Lakers to a huge win in Portland early in the year, it was a relatively uneventful season with the parent Lakers.

Grade: B

Maxi Kleber

43 games, 2 points, 2 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.4 steals, 0.3 blocks, 0.4 turnovers, 45.2% FG, 23.1% 3PT, 53.8% FT

Whatever ideas there were of Kleber being a useful on-court option this season were extinguished. In spurts, he was valuable and was a notable contributor in a couple of wins. But he was never able to string together a run of games.

Grade: C

Dalton Knecht

54 games, 4.2 points, 1.4 rebounds, 0.4 assists, 0.2 steals, 0.2 blocks, 0.4 turnovers, 45.5% FG, 34.2% 3PT, 72.7% FT

It’s incredible how far Knecht has fallen. After a rough summer, Knecht did not bounce back and Redick stopped giving him chances. And rightfully so. It wouldn’t be a surprise if this was his last year in LA.

Grade: F

Bronny James

42 games, 2.9 points, 0.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.1 blocks, 0.6 turnovers, 40.9% FG, 38.6% 3PT, 85.7% FT

Imagine telling someone in November of 2024, as Knecht was leading the Lakers to wins that, by the postseason in 2026, Bronny would be the rookie getting playoff minutes. It’s a testament to the work he’s done, mostly in the G League.

Grade: B+

Adou Thiero

25 games, 1.9 points, 1.1 rebounds, 0.4 assists, 0.3 steals, 0.1 blocks, 0.4 turnovers, 51.6% FG, 33.3% 3PT, 63.6% FT

Injuries largely upended Thiero’s rookie season. He got a late start to the campaign due to injury, then suffered another one midseason that lingered.

Still, he was able to show flashes of what he could be, including in the playoffs.

Grade: C-

Drew Timme, Chris Mañon

The pair of two-way players at season’s end had different kinds of seasons. Drew Timme briefly became a rotation player and had a case for the final standard contract at season’s end. Mañon, meanwhile, made next to no impact on the parent team.

JJ Redick

Redick’s 50-win rookie season felt hollow after a terrible showing in the playoffs. He cleared the 50-win benchmark again this season and followed it up with a much more encouraging postseason showing.

He again navigated injuries and kept adapting admirably to the circumstances. It looks set to be a fruitful future with Redick and Luka at the helm.

Grade: A

You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude or on Bluesky at @jacobrude.bsky.social.

Kenny Atkinson impressed by Knicks’ ability to avoid ‘a letdown’ during historic winning streak

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows New York Knicks players Josh Hart and OG Anunoby celebrate a win against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Image 2 shows Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson reacts during the second quarter
The Knicks have impressed Kenny Atkinson during their dominant playoff run.

CLEVELAND — These aren’t the regular-season Knicks — at least not since they trailed the Hawks in the first round of the playoffs.

They haven’t lost in a month, reeling off a franchise record 10 consecutive wins in the postseason, mostly in dominant fashion.

Take it from someone who would know.

“Teams that make that next step, it’s the balance that’s impressed me the most,” Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson said after practice Sunday, the eve of Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals series that could end Monday night at Rocket Arena with one more Knicks victory. “They have so many contributors right now, and I think that is what’s different from the regular season.

“We all know they had ups and downs, they had periods where they weren’t playing well. The sustainability of it, you’re expecting a letdown. We haven’t seen a letdown from them yet.”

During this 10-game winning streak, the Knicks have won by an average of 22.5 points.

Kenny Atkinson reacts during Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals May 23. Charles Wenzelberg

Only two games were really undecided late: The second game of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the 76ers, which the Knicks won by six, and Game 1 of this series, when they rallied from 22 points down in the fourth quarter.

Otherwise, it has been a parade of blowouts.

In the postseason, the Knicks are outscoring the opposition by 18.5 points per 100 possessions, by far the best in the league.

OG Anunoby and Josh Hart celebrate after the Knicks won Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals May 23. Charles Wenzelberg

They are second in offensive rating and first in defensive rating.

Knicks Merch Shop
  • SOAR wireless speaker and bottle opener
  • Customizable jersey
  • Hydrapeak 30-ounce stainless steel tumbler
  • ZHATS adjustable cap
  • Pro Standard double knit full zip hoodie
  • Ultra Game team crew socks (3-pack)
New York Post receives revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and when you make a purchase.

The entire starting five of Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby and Josh Hart are averaging double figures in the postseason, and Anunoby, Towns and Bridges are all shooting better than 55 percent from the field.

“It comes down to performing better, individually. Bridges is 27 of 38 [in this series]. [Landry] Shamet is 7-for-8 from 3 in this series. They’re getting stellar performances across the board,” Atkinson said. “Josh Hart in Game 2 had an incredible game. Jalen’s great and Towns is great, but we’ve kind of done a decent job on those guys, you can argue. … OG’s two wing 3s [in Game 3], like the jab, jab 3, are you kidding me? …

“The goal was to slow down their momentum, and that mojo they got, and we haven’t been able to do that. That’s the frustrating thing for me. Part of that is them playing great. We haven’t found a formula to slow their mojo down.”

Thunder vs Spurs Expert Picks & Game 4 Best Bets

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

The Oklahoma City Thunder will look to take a commanding 3-1 series lead when they face the San Antonio Spurs in Game 4.

Our NBA experts have you covered for when the action gets underway at Frost Bank Center tonight, with a trio of NBA picks for Sunday, May 24.

Thunder vs Spurs Expert Picks Tonight

PickOdds
Jon Metler Jon Metler: Spurs Spurs -2.5-110
Jason Logan Jason Logan: Thunder Luguentz Dort Over 1.5 assists+145
Joe Osborne Joe Osborne: Over 219.5-110

Odds courtesy of bet365.

Cash your ML bets quicker with bet365's early win payout!

Take advantage of the early win payout at bet365, where any pre-game NBA moneyline bet gets paid out as a winner if your team goes up by 20+ points!

Learn more about this feature, and all of bet365's offerings, with our comprehensive bet365 review!

Sign Up Now atimg src="https://img.covers.com/betting/sportsbooks/2/bet365.svg" alt="bet365" width="100" height="28" style="vertical-align: middle;"

21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Jon Metler's expert pick: Spurs -2.5

Price: -110 at bet365

Give me the San Antonio Spurs -2.5 in Game 4 here against the Oklahoma City Thunder. I think they should be closer to a 4-point favorite in this spot.

I don’t think Jalen Williams will be playing, and it'll be De’Aaron Fox’s second game back, removing some injury friction in their starting lineup — which I also like for San Antonio.

The Thunder may be up 2-1, but they're living dangerously by heavily relying on their role players — such as Jared McCain, Alex Caruso, and even Jaylin Williams

The Spurs have the length and defensive pieces to make life miserable for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Oklahoma City's supporting cast is due for some serious regression.

Jason Logan's expert pick: Luguentz Dort Over 1.5 assists

Price: +145 at bet365

With Jalen Williams hurting and Ajay Mitchell out, OKC is running short on playmakers. Luguentz Dort hasn’t logged more than 23 minutes in the series, but he’s needed in a thinning OKC backcourt in Game 4. 

In the past two games, Dort has dished out six total dimes on 10 potential assists. His assist total has jumped from 0.5 to 1.5, but we’re seeing a solid return from a player with a likely uptick in minutes and involvement in the offense.

Joe Osborne's expert pick: Over 219.5

Price: -110 at bet365

After a slower opener, this series has completely shifted to a faster tempo, with Games 2 and 3 producing 235 and 231 combined points.

San Antonio naturally prefers to push the pace, but the up-and-down style has benefited Oklahoma City as well, with the Thunder erupting offensively over the last two games.

The Spurs have now gone Over the total in eight straight playoff games, while OKC enters tonight leading all postseason teams in both points per game and offensive rating.


More Thunder vs Spurs Game 4 picks


Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
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 and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Thunder vs Spurs Same-Game Parlay for Tonight's NBA Playoffs Game 4

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

The San Antonio Spurs’ dramatic double-OT win in Game 1 feels like a distant memory after dropping two straight.

Now trailing 2-1, San Antonio's lack of depth and heavy legs will be tested tonight.

Our top Thunder vs. Spurs predictions and same-game parlay jumps on the visiting team to capitalize on that fatigue and cruise to a third straight win on Sunday, May 24.

Our best Thunder vs Spurs SGP for Game 4

SGP leg #1: Thunder moneyline

The disparity in bench numbers has been jarring, as the Oklahoma City Thunder have gotten 61 points and 121.6 minutes per game from their reserves, compared to just 21.3 points and 60.4 minutes for the San Antonio Spurs.

Victor Wembanyama has averaged 41.7 minutes, and giving him a break isn’t viable. The Spurs are +21 with him on the floor and -38 when he’s on the bench.

With Dylan Harper and De’Aaron Fox nursing injuries, and Wemby forced into big minutes, fatigue will be critical. I priced this line at -140, so I’m thrilled to get it early at +110.

SGP leg #1: Victor Wembanyama Under 1.5 3-pointers

After an aggressive Game 1 performance where he logged 25 shots and just two three-pointers, Wemby has been pushed to the perimeter, settling for 31 total shots and 12 triples in Games 2 and 3.

To salvage the series, San Antonio must adjust their game plan to feed Wemby down low. Increasing his paint touches allows the Spurs to maximize his towering size, force defensive collapses, and open up clean kickout opportunities for their shooters.

Backing the Spurs to make this crucial tactical adjustment makes this prop a highly lucrative, high-value play at plus-money tonight.

SGP leg #1: Keldon Johnson Over 8.5 points

The newly crowned Sixth Man of the Year was highly efficient during the regular season, averaging an impressive 20.4 points per 36 minutes while stretching the floor at a 36.3% clip from beyond the arc.

With the Spurs needing a reliable offensive spark plug to take the pressure off their starters, expect Keldon Johnson to see an expanded role and a significant uptick in volume tonight. 

Given his proven scoring efficiency when he gets the opportunity, I will gladly bet this line all the way up to 9.5 points.


Covers NBA betting tools


See our full Thunder vs Spurs Game 4 preview

Get Zak Hanshew's full breakdown of this game, including his best bet, plus the latest NBA odds, injuries, and betting trends, in his Thunder vs. Spurs predictions for Game 4.

More Covers NBA Playoff content

NBA Championship odds

Stay up-to-date with the latest NBA Championship odds for each remaining team, as well as NBA title splits, betting trends, and the previous list of teams that have won the Larry O'Brien Trophy.

NBA Finals MVP odds

See what the current line movement and updates are in the NBA Finals MVP odds race, along with Finals MVP betting trends, favorite analysis, and recent superstars to receive this award.

Live NBA Playoff bracket

Never lose track of where each series sits with our live NBA Playoff bracket, as well as the updated prices for each team to win their respective series — round by round. 

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
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 and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

NBA Playoff Sunday discussion

May 22, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard De'aaron Fox (4) shoots over Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) in the second half during game three of the western conference finals for the 2026 NBA playoffs at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images | Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images

Today is Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals. The Oklahoma City Thunder are at San Antonio Spurs. 8:30 p.m. ET watch it on NBC (WRC-TV) or Peacock. OKC leads 2-1.

Enjoy the game!

Here’s how to watch Thunder vs. Spurs NBA Playoffs Game 4 for free

New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change.

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket against Carter Bryant #11 of the San Antonio Spurs during the third quarter in Game Three of the NBA Western Conference Finals at Frost Bank Center on May 22, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas

Heading into Game 4, the Oklahoma City Thunder hold a 2-1 lead over the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Western Conference Finals.

Despite being down early thanks to the Spurs racing out to a historic 15-0 lead in the opening three minutes, Oklahoma City’s bench ended up outscoring San Antonio’s bench 76–23, marking the highest reserve scoring output in a conference finals game in modern NBA history.

League MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 26 points and 12 assists to guide OKC out of their early 15-point hole. Despite the loss, Victor Wembanyama chipped in a team-high 26 points for the Spurs.

NBA Western conference finals: what to know
  • What: Oklahoma City Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs
  • When: May 24, 8 p.m. ET
  • Where: Frost Bank Center (San Antonio, Texas)
  • Channel: NBC
  • Streaming: DIRECTV (try it free)

The series continues on Tuesday, May 25, with Game 5 in Oklahoma City where, depending on the result of tonight’s game, a Western Conference champion could be crowned.

Thunder vs. Spurs start time:

Game 4 between the Spurs and the Thunder is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET tonight, May 24.

How to watch Thunder vs. Spurs for free:

If you don’t have cable, you’ll need a live TV streaming service to stream the game for free.

DIRECTV is our top pick for watching basketball live for free — its five-day free trial includes NBC (plus nearly every other channel you’ll need for the rest of the NBA postseason). When the trial is over, you’ll pay as low as $44.99/month and gain access to over 90 live channels.

TRY DIRECTV FOR FREE

Sling TV is another affordable way to watch TV live and stream NBA games; its Select plan includes NBC and starts at $19.99/month.

NBA Western Conference Finals schedule

  • Game 1: Spurs 122, Thunder 115 (OT2)
  • Game 2: Thunder 122, Spurs 113
  • Game 3: Thunder 123, Spurs 108
  • Game 4: Sunday, May 24 (8 ET, NBC/Peacock)
  • Game 5: Tuesday, May 26 (8:30 ET, NBC/Peacock)
  • Game 6: Thursday, May 28 (8:30 ET, NBC/Peacock)*
  • Game 7: Saturday, May 30 (8 ET, NBC/Peacock)*

* if necessary

TRY DIRECTV FOR FREE

Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

This article was written by Angela Tricarico, Commerce Streaming Reporter for Post Wanted Shopping, Page Six, and Decider.com. Angela keeps readers up to date with cord-cutter-friendly deals, and information on how to watch your favorite sports teams, TV shows, and movies on every streaming service. Not only does Angela test and compare the streaming services she writes about to ensure readers are getting the best prices, but she’s also a superfan specializing in the intersection of shopping, tech, sports, and pop culture. When she’s not writing about (or watching) TV, movies, and sports, she’s also keeping up on the underrated perfume dupes at Bath & Body Works and testing headphones. Prior to joining Decider and The New York Post in 2023, she wrote about streaming and consumer tech at Insider Reviews.


Wembanyama scores 33 and Spurs trounce Thunder 103-82 to even the NBA West final

Wembanyama scores 33 and Spurs trounce Thunder 103-82 to even the NBA West final originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Victor Wembanyama had 33 points, eight rebounds, five assists and three blocks and the San Antonio Spurs held Oklahoma City to its second-lowest postseason total, beating the Thunder 103-82 in Game 4 on Sunday night to tie the NBA Western Conference finals.

De’Aaron Fox had 12 points, 10 rebounds and five assists for San Antonio, which has not lost three consecutive games all season. Stephon Castle and Devin Vassell added 13 points each.

Game 5 is Tuesday in Oklahoma City, followed by Game 6 on Thursday in San Antonio.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had 19 points on 6-for-15 shooting for the Thunder.

Wembanyama took Oklahoma City’s 123-108 victory Friday in Game 3 personally. The 7-foot-4 star from France said he needed to be better to make his teammates better. He was monumentally better Sunday night — and so was San Antonio.

The Spurs limited the Thunder to 33% shooting from the field, including 6 for 33 on 3-pointers (18%).

After being outscored 76-23 in bench points in Game 3, San Antonio’s reserves scored 30 points while limiting Oklahoma City to 34.

The Spurs had another hot start in Game 4 after opening the previous game on a 15-0 run. Unlike Friday’s lopsided loss, the Spurs never relinquished that lead.

After blocking Jared McCain’s layup under the rim, Vassell tossed an alley-oop pass to Wembanyama for a dunk as part of 16-0 run that gave the Spurs a 23-8 lead with 4:19 remaining.

San Antonio had an assist on all 10 field goals in the first quarter.

San Antonio held Oklahoma City to 38 points in the first half, tied for its second-lowest half in the past four regular and postseasons. The Thunder are 2-9 when they score less than 40 points in any half over the last five seasons.

Oklahoma City’s franchise low is 65 points in a playoff loss to Memphis on May 3, 2014, and its second-fewest points had been 85 against San Antonio on May 21, 2014.