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Milwaukee Bucks to hire Taylor Jenkins as head coach. Grading the move

The Milwaukee Bucks have a new coach, and it's a familiar face for Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The Bucks are finalizing a deal to hire former Memphis Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins to replace Doc Rivers, according to multiple reports on Thursday, April 23. Jenkins will be returning to Milwaukee, where he spent one season as an assistant coach under former coach Mike Budenholzer.

Questions about Antetokounmpo's future with the franchise loom large over the team's offseason plans after compiling a disappointing 32-50 record this past season. Antetokounmpo continues to be the subject of trade speculation, and how Milwaukee proceeds with its star player will dictate Jenkins' initial challenges as coach.

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Grading Milwaukee Bucks hire of Taylor Jenkins

A solid B, and it's not higher partially for reasons out of Jenkins' control.

Not only is Jenkins perhaps the best available coaching candidate with experience after leading the Grizzlies to the NBA playoffs three times and becoming the franchise's all-time leader in wins during his six-season tenure in Memphis, he's also uniquely positioned to serve the Bucks as they confront their Antetokounmpo-related crossroads.

If Antetokounmpo is playing for the Bucks again next season, Jenkins has experience working with him under Budenholzer during the 2018-19 NBA campaign when Antetokounmpo won his first MVP award and the Bucks lost in the Eastern Conference Finals to the Toronto Raptors. If Antetokounmpo gets traded elsewhere and the Bucks go into rebuilding mode, Jenkins has a strong reputation setting a culture and developing young players from his time with the Grizzlies.

Jenkins, however, struggled to get the Grizzlies over the hump as contenders with the core of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane succumbing to bad injury luck, immaturity and poor half-court offense in the postseason. Jenkins still must prove he's a championship-caliber coach in Milwaukee.

But like with so many things related to the Bucks at the moment, the trajectory of this hire will depend on the immediate decision facing the front office and Antetokounmpo.

Why was Taylor Jenkins fired by Memphis Grizzlies?

Grizzlies General Manager Zach Kleiman stunned the NBA when he fired Jenkins on March 28, 2025 with just nine games remaining in the regular season. Memphis struggled to a 9-13 record over his final 22 games, a stretch in which it did not defeat a team with a record above .500. It came on the heels of Jenkins instituting a staff overhaul the previous offseason at the behest of the Grizzlies' front office.

Kleiman called the firing of Jenkins "a difficult decision" at the time and said he did not consult with players. "This decision is mine and mine only," Kleiman told reporters, but declined to discuss his exact reasoning for firing Jenkins.

Tuomas Iisalo was named interim coach in Jenkins' place and eventually became the franchise's permanent choice as head coach for this past season.

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Taylor Jenkins coaching record

Jenkins, 41, compiled a 250-214 overall record over six seasons as the Grizzlies coach. He made the NBA playoffs three times and advanced to the conference semifinals once in 2022, when he also finished second in NBA coach of the year voting.

He was previously an assistant for Budenholzer with the Atlanta Hawks for five seasons and got his start within the San Antonio Spurs organization, including one season as the head coach of its NBA Development League team (2012-13).

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bucks to hire Taylor Jenkins as head coach: Grades, reaction, analysis

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Celtics vs 76ers Prediction, Picks & Odds for NBA Playoffs Game 3 Tonight

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If Joe Mazzulla is searching for a remedy, it won’t be more cowbell—it’ll be more threes.

Even after the Boston Celtics came up short in a high-scoring clash with the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday, don’t expect their head coach to ease up from deep heading into Game 3.

My Celtics vs. 76ers predictions are backing Derrick White to rediscover his stroke from beyond the arc.

Find out more in my NBA picks for Friday, April 24.

  • UPDATE: Added prediction for who will win.

Celtics vs 76ers prediction

Who will win Celtics vs 76ers Game 3?

Celtics: There were a lot of quirks to the Boston Celtics’ loss to the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 2, but it basically boils down to Boston going cold from deep and Philadelphia getting hot.

The Celtics aren’t going to switch up their game plan on offense, but they will look to slow down the Sixers' speedy backcourt. The spread has Boston winning, and the C’s are 20-6 SU and 18-8 ATS coming off a loss this season.

Celtics vs 76ers best bet: Derrick White Over 2.5 threes (+102)

The Boston Celtics went just 19-for-50 from 3-point land in Game 2, but it wasn’t like the Philadelphia 76ers were playing lockdown defense on the perimeter.

In fact, 24 of those 3-point attempts qualified as “wide open”, with no defender within six feet of the shooter. However, the Celtics cashed in only six of those opportunities from outside.

Although Derrick White is a collective 4-for-17 from beyond the arc against the Sixers, including a 4-for-14 count on 3-point attempts with a defender at least four feet away, he has no intention of shooting less.

“You got to have that confidence the next one’s going to go in and got to have that belief,” White told reporters ahead of Game 3. “I think if you get a good look or if it’s an open look, you’re hurting the team if you don’t take it. If you’re out there and you get a good look, you got to take it and knock it down.”

Given the way Philadelphia’s guards exploited Boston’s drop coverage on high screens in Game 2 (Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe were a combined 11-for-22 on 3-pointers), Friday’s game could see a surplus of triples from both sides.

That means ample opportunities for White to get right from deep, and his player projections for Game 3 all lean toward 3+ makes from downtown.

Celtics vs 76ers same-game parlay

Over the last three years, Boston boasts a 6-1 SU record following a loss in the playoffs. The Celtics’ shooting is set to get right, while the Sixers will come back to earth as Boston adjusts on defense.

Jaylen Brown registered 13.0 potential assists in Game 2, but the Celtics’ piss-poor shooting converted only four of those passes into assists. Brown finished with six dimes in Game 1, and since Jayson Tatum returned in late March, he’s averaged 5.5 assists on 9.7 potential assists per contest.

Celtics vs 76ers SGP

  • Celtics moneyline
  • Derrick White Over 2.5 threes
  • Jaylen Brown Over 4.5 assists

Our "from downtown" SGP: Weapons of "Mass" Destruction

Joe Mazzula will give his guys the green light from beyond the arc. The 76ers dodged several bullets in Game 2, with Boston unable to cash in on wide-open looks from long range. 

The Celtics won’t let those go to waste in Game 3, which could turn into a 3-point shootout given the 76ers' preferred approach.

Celtics vs 76ers SGP

  • Celtics -6.5
  • Over 215.5
  • Jayson Tatum Over 2.5 threes
  • Jaylen Brown Over 1.5 threes
  • Derrick White Over 2.5 threes

Celtics vs 76ers odds for Game 3

  • Spread: Celtics -6.5 (-110) | 76ers +6.5 (-110)
  • Moneyline: Celtics -300 | 76ers +240
  • Over/Under: Over 215.5 (-110) | Under 215.5 (-110)

Celtics vs 76ers betting trend to know

Boston is 59-13 SU and 51-21 ATS coming off a loss since the 2023-24 season, including 6-1 SU and ATS in the playoffs during that span. Find more NBA betting trends for Celtics vs. 76ers.

How to watch Celtics vs 76ers Game 3

LocationXfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA
DateFriday, April 24, 2026
Tip-off7:00 p.m. ET
TVPrime Video

Celtics vs 76ers latest injuries

Not intended for use in MA.
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Fantasy Basketball: Luka Dončić, James Harden among preseason rankings ‘hits’

Earlier this week, we took a look back on some of the players whose preseason rankings missed the mark, with some being more egregious than others. This column focuses on the "hits," with some making good on high expectations and others proving the skeptics correct. Rankings are an inexact science, to say the least, but they are fun to look back on. Leading the way are two ball-dominant guards who began the 2025-26 season in Los Angeles County.

NBA: Washington Wizards at Los Angeles Lakers
Fantasy Basketball: Anthony Davis, Giannis among preseason rankings ‘misses’
A look back at some of the players whose placement in our 2025-26 preseason Top-200 rankings missed the mark.

G Luka Dončić, Los Angeles Lakers

Preseason rank: 4

Dončić being as productive as he was this season certainly wasn't a surprise, given the career track record. However, he finished as the league's scoring champion for the second time in his NBA career, averaging 33.5 points along with 7.7 rebounds, 8.3 assists, 1.6 steals and 4.0 three-pointers per game. Also leading the league in field goal, three-point and free throw attempts, and three-pointers per game, Dončić shot nearly 48 percent from the field.

Even with an average of four turnovers per game, the Lakers' star provided top-5 value in 8-cat and points leagues. Depending on what happens with LeBron James in free agency this summer, it's fair to ask if Dončić can crack the trio of Nikola Jokić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama atop the 9-cat rankings in 2026-27.

G James Harden, Cleveland Cavaliers

Preseason rank: 17

Of course, the preseason rankings were compiled when Harden was still with the LA Clippers. Although his scoring average decreased by nearly five points after the trade from the Clippers to the Cavaliers, his efficiency improved. Harden shot 46.6 percent from the field post-trade, and his turnover average decreased.

As a result, Harden's offensive rating improved, which factored into him finishing the regular season as a top-25 player in 8-cat, 9-cat and points league formats. A productive run in the postseason may be all that's needed for Harden to solidify his future in Cleveland, with the front office potentially being willing to offer him an extension that did not appear to be coming from the Clippers.

F Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks

Preseason rank: 49

We thought highly of Flagg's fantasy potential going into the season, and the rookie forward did not disappoint. Appearing in 70 games, the Rookie of the Year favorite averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.9 blocks and 1.0 three-pointers while shooting 46.8 percent from the field and 82.7 percent from the foul line.

Head coach Jason Kidd's decision to start Flagg at point guard paid dividends for fantasy managers, especially with Kyrie Irving (knee) not playing and multiple other rotation players being limited due to injuries of their own. Even with Irving back in the fold next season, Flagg has top-25 fantasy potential.

F Michael Porter Jr., Brooklyn Nets

Preseason rank: 57

Like many, we expected Porter's fantasy value to receive a boost with his move to Brooklyn, even if it meant that he had no chance of playing in the postseason. The lone negative for fantasy managers was the veteran forward's availability, or lack thereof, after the All-Star break. However, that does not erase what Porter did when available. In 52 appearances, he averaged 24.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.1 steals and 3.4 three-pointers while shooting 46.3 percent from the field and 85.9 percent from the foul line.

Porter finished with career-best averages in points, assists and three-pointers. Hopefully, the Nets are in a position next season where the front office is willing to compete throughout the season instead of prioritizing its draft position, as Porter can be incredibly valuable to fantasy managers.

F Brandon Ingram, Toronto Raptors

Preseason rank: 76

The move from New Orleans to Toronto paid dividends for Ingram and those who had faith in him, as availability was no longer an issue. The 77 games were the most in a season for him since his rookie campaign, and the Raptors' wing earned his second All-Star Game appearance. Ingram averaged 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.7 blocks and 1.8 three-pointers per game while shooting 47.7 percent from the field and 82.0 percent from the foul line. Providing sixth-round value in 8-cat formats, Ingram was a top-50 player in points leagues.

G Payton Pritchard, Boston Celtics

Preseason rank: 82

Coming off a season in which he won NBA Sixth Man of the Year honors, Pritchard was well-positioned to offer greater value this season. Jayson Tatum (Achilles) was unavailable, and the Celtics bid farewell to multiple veterans in free agency or via trade. Pritchard began the season as a starter, but would return to a reserve role in early February, and his production never suffered.

He finished the regular season with career-high averages in points, rebounds and assists, and Pritchard has appeared in at least 79 games in each of his last three seasons. With Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Derrick White all under contract for next season, Pritchard's ADP is unlikely to crack the top-50, but he's proven himself capable of making good on top-75 expectations.

G/F RJ Barrett, Toronto Raptors

Preseason rank: 159

Barrett has long been a superior option for points leagues than category leagues, and our preseason rankings were based on the latter. While the Raptors wing finished the season as a top-100 option in points leagues, he once again failed to crack the top-150 in category formats. Barrett's points, rebounds and assists decreased in comparison to his 2024-25 averages, which was too much for improvements in field-goal and free-throw percentage numbers to overcome.

With the Raptors having the aforementioned Ingram and Scottie Barnes under lucrative contracts, it will be interesting to see how this affects Barrett's standing going into the final season of his contract.

F/C Kyle Filipowski, Utah Jazz

Preseason rank: 152

Given Utah's priorities heading into the season, even with the front office insisting that they wouldn't tank, it would have been easy for some fantasy managers to be seduced by Filipowski's potential. However, playing time proved more challenging to come by than some may have expected, even after Walker Kessler went down with a season-ending injury. Appearing in 77 games, Filipowski averaged 23.4 minutes per appearance and accounted for 11.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.5 blocks and 1.0 three-pointers.

And in March, Filipowski averaged 26.3 minutes per game, which was not a big enough boost for managers hoping to benefit from his inclusion into their lineups for the fantasy playoffs. Regardless of what happens with Kessler, who will be a restricted free agent this summer, the Jazz still have Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. under contract for next season. That does not bode well for Filipowski's fantasy outlook.

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Knicks at Hawks, Game 3: start time, TV, streaming, radio, game thread

Apr 20, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard CJ McCollum (3) controls the ball against New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) during the first quarter of game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Hawks (1-1) return home to defend home court against the New York Knicks.

Jock Landale (ankle sprain) has been ruled out.

Starting lineup:

  • G CJ McCollum
  • G Nickeil Alexander-Walker
  • F Dyson Daniels
  • F Jalen Johnson
  • C Onyeka Okongwu

Please join in the comments below as you follow along.

Where, When, and How to Watch and Listen

Location: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA

Start Time: 7:00 PM EDT

TV: N/A

Radio: Sports Radio 92.9 the Game (WZGC-FM)

Streaming: Prime Video

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Reports: Milwaukee Bucks to hire Taylor Jenkins as new head coach

In what will lead to a fairly dramatic change in style of play, the Milwaukee Bucks are finalizing a deal to make Taylor Jenkins their new head coach, news first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania and Ramona Shelburne.

Jenkins has Milwaukee ties, he spent a season as an assistant coach for the Bucks under Mike Budenholzer in 2018-19, before taking the Memphis head coaching job. Jenkins spent six years as the Grizzlies head coach, and based on what he did there was considered by many around the league as one of the best coaches available this summer.

He will replace Hall of Famer Doc Rivers, who agreed it was time for him to step away as the Bucks coach.

In Memphis, Jenkins had a 250-214 record and helped develop the Grizzlies into a team that went to the playoffs four times in his six years (although he did not coach the team in the fourth of those appearances because the Grizzlies fired him late in the regular season).

Milwaukee set its sights on Jenkins early, and general manager Jon Horst, as well as team owners Wes Edens and Jimmy Haslam, traveled to Memphis to talk to him, something The Athletic first reported several days ago.

While they had a star in Ja Morant, Jenkins' Memphis teams were built around defense and winning the possession battle (for example, going hard after offensive rebounds). That's a departure from how Doc Rivers viewed the game. Jenkins' teams had Jaren Jackson Jr. during his Defensive Player of the Year run, serving as a rim protector, but also focused on things like taking away corner 3s.

What the team that Jenkins will be coaching looks like is a good question. It appears Milwaukee and Giannis Antetokounmpo are on a path to part ways — how much a new coach or a major roster overhaul can change that is up for debate — which means Milwaukee will start a rebuilding process. In Memphis, Jenkins and his staff proved good at player development, which will be a key part of what comes next for the Bucks.

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Boston Celtics Daily Links 4/23/26

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 12: The sneakers worn by Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic during the game against the Boston Celtics on April 12, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

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Jamal Crawford being pursued by Kentucky Basketball

Feb 13, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; NBC Peacock analysts Reggie Miller (left) and Jamal Crawford (center) and play-by-play announcer Noah Eagle during an NBA All Star Rising Stars game at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Back when Kentucky Basketball lost assistant coaches Alvin Brooks III and Jason Hart, rumors began to circulate that Mark Pope was making a push for Jamal Crawford as a potential replacement.

However, nothing came of it, and it appeared that ship had sailed.

Now, KSR’s Jack Pilgrim and Matt Jones are reporting that there’s still a chance that Crawford could become an assistant coach at Kentucky, as a final decision has not yet been made by Crawford, and the Wildcats remain in pursuit.

Crawford, who is currently an assistant coach at his alma mater, Rainier Beach High School, is also an NBC broadcaster who is calling games in the NBA Playoffs. He’s a three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year (shoutout Keldon Johnson) and scored 19,419 career points across his 20-year NBA career.

Needless to say, Crawford is a major name in the world of basketball, and getting him would be a massive pull for any coaching staff.

Saying this, between Crawford coaching at his alma mater and the city he was born in while also calling NBA games, it feels like there’s about as much of an uphill climb for Kentucky to get him as there is for Tyran Stokes, if not bigger.

Oh, speaking of, Stokes is spending his final season of high school basketball at Rainier Beach. Safe to think that getting Crawford would be a major move toward getting Stokes.

But again, both of these feel like a long shot. Crawford has too good of a thing going for him in Seattle right now, where he’s also raising his family. He’d have to leave that and his NBC gig to take on a full-time coaching role at Kentucky.

It’s nice to think about, but this feels like a pipe dream for the time being, though one that Pope was right to shoot for.

One other thing to consider: Kentucky already landed former NBA standout Mo Williams this offseason. Perhaps he can help get Crawford to Lexington?

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Thunder's Jalen Williams diagnosed with Grade 1 left hamstring strain, listed as week-to-week

The Oklahoma City Thunder had to figure out how to win without Jalen Williams for most of the regular season, they are going to have to do it again, likely for at least the rest of their first-round series against the Phoenix Suns.

Jalen Williams has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain and "he will be re-evaluated on a weekly basis," the team announced Thursday.

On average, a Grade 1 hamstring strain keeps a player out 12 days, according to Jeff Stotts of In Street Clothes, who maintains a database tracking NBA injuries. That timeline would keep Williams out for the entire first round of the playoffs, even if the series goes seven games (the Thunder are up 2-0), and if it ends earlier, he might miss the start of the second round.

Williams has been plagued by injuries all season and appeared in just 33 games for the Thunder this season. Williams was out for the first 19 games of the season recovering from right wrist surgery, then missed 30 more games due to a right hamstring injury (the opposite of the leg he injured Wednesday).

With Williams out, expect Cason Wallace, Alex Caruso and Aaron Wiggins to get more run.

This latest injury occurred in the third quarter of Game 2 on Wednesday night. Williams missed a transition layup, and as soon as he landed, he grabbed the back of his leg. Williams quickly checked himself out of the game and did not return.

In the 33 games he did play this season, Williams averaged 17.1 points, 5.5 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game. In Game 1 of the series against the Suns, he had 22 points on 9-for-15 shooting. The Thunder won without Williams on Wednesday, 120-107, and took a 2-0 series lead as the series shifts to Phoenix for Game 3.

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JJ Redick says Jake LaRavia is day to day with ‘minor’ ankle sprain

April 7, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) moves the ball against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Aaron Wiggins (21) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Besides Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, the Lakers have had the rest of their roster available during the playoffs.

However, they might be playing without a member of their rotation for Friday’s Game 3. After Thursday’s practice, Lakers head coach JJ Redick said Jake LaRavia is dealing with an ankle sprain and is considered day-to-day moving forward.

LaRavia has been LA’s ironman this year. He played in all 82 regular-season games and both playoff matchups. If he misses, then that’s because it is an injury he simply can’t play through.

Considering that Redick stressed that this is a minor sprain and that the MRI came back clean, hopefully, he can play. Right now, we’ll have to wait until the injury report to see his official status.

LaRavia was clearly dealing with some discomfort in Game 2’s win against the Rockets. He airballed a corner 3-pointer in the fourth quarter and was visibly limping afterward. LaRavia was then taken out of the game and never returned.

The Lakers are essentially playing with an eight-man rotation, so losing anyone makes winning that much harder.

During the regular season, LaRavia put up respectable numbers. He averaged 8.2 points, four rebounds and 1.8 assists per game.

In the playoffs, however, LaRavia has struggled. His numbers have dipped across all categories as his playing time has shrunk, and he hasn’t found ways to be impactful.

Still, it’s been a small sample size, and LaRavia being on the floor gives the Lakers some size, defensive versatility and a player Redick trusts. LaRavia is averaging 17 minutes per game, tied for sixth among Lakers.

If he can’t play, then other players will have to step up.

Unfortunately, Redick doesn’t have many options. Rui Hachimura is already starting and playing heavy minutes. Redick might have to increase Jarred Vanderbilt’s time or go with different looks completely to make up for the minutes LaRavia typically plays.

Still, he is not ruled out, so it’s just something to monitor as this series heads to Houston for Game 3.

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

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How MLB All-Star helped Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley squash their beef

Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan are on speaking terms again, and Barkley revealed there's a former Major League Baseball All-Star behind the thawing of the relationship.

Barkley initially said during an interview last week on SiriusXM's "Mad Dog Unleashed" that he and Jordan had a conversation recently and made plans to play golf together soon. It had been 14 years since the two had a falling out after Barkley criticized Jordan's performance as owner of the then-Charlotte Bobcats during an interview with ESPN 1000 in Chicago.

A turning point came last week when former MLB outfielder Vince Coleman called Barkley at his home, Barkley said on Wednesday, April 23 during his latest appearance on ESPN 1000's "Waddle and Silvy Show," which is also where he made the original comments that upset Jordan in 2012. Coleman informed Barkley over the phone that he was with Jordan at The Grove XXIII, Jordan's golf club in South Florida.

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"(Coleman) says, 'Yo, I'm down here at The Grove. I'm sick of you and MJ's BS. He's right here. Y'all need to talk. And we had a conversation," Barkley recounted to the show's hosts. "But Vince Coleman's the person who's responsible. We talked for a couple minutes. He's like, 'Man, let's get together and play golf,' and as soon as I get a break, I'm going to fly down there and we're going to spend a couple days playing golf."

Jordan and Barkley were rivals and superstars in the NBA and Olympic teammates with the original Dream Team in 1992. Jordan's Chicago Bulls beat Barkley's Phoenix Suns in the 1993 NBA Finals, the same year Barkley won his lone MVP award. Coleman played 13 MLB seasons (1985-97), with the majority of his career spent with the St. Louis Cardinals and New York Mets.

Jordan became the owner of the Charlotte Bobcats in 2006 and Barkley has been an outspoken mainstay on "Inside the NBA," providing commentary on the league since his retirement.

Vince Coleman of the New York Mets looks on during a game at Shea Stadium in Flushing, New York in 1992.

Barkley criticized Jordan in 2012 for not surrounding himself with enough people willing to disagree with his decisions as the owner of Charlotte's NBA franchise, noting that "I love Michael, but he just has not done a good job."

Jordan sold his majority stake in the now-Charlotte Hornets in 2023 and currently owns the 23XI Racing NASCAR Cup Series team along with longtime NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin.

Barkley said Wednesday the feud between he and Jordan isn't as bad as it may have seemed, simply because they hadn't spoken in so long.

"I tell people, it's not like we're like Prince Harry and Prince William who hate each other," Barkley said. "Honestly, I think we both missed each other because we've had this conversation with other friends and we were both too stubborn to pick up the phone."

"One thing we both said," Barkley added, "I got a lot of love for you and you got a lot of love for me. Like Vince said, this thing has been silly and stupid, but both of y'all are too damn stubborn to pick up the phone, and y'all need to get ... together and play golf and bury this thing."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vince Coleman ended Charles Barkley, Michael Jordan's long silence

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Where to watch Toronto Raptors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers Game 3 NBA playoffs: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Thursday, April 23

The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to take a commanding 3-0 lead over the Toronto Raptors in their first-round series. The Cavs won the first two games in Cleveland with the series now shifting to Toronto for Games 3 and 4. Cleveland is favored by 2.5 points, and the over/under for the matchup is set at 219.5.

  • Spread: Toronto Raptors +2.5

  • Moneyline: Toronto Raptors +125 (42.2%) / Cleveland Cavaliers -155 (57.8%)

  • Over/Under: 219.5

Game 1:Cavaliers 126, Raptors 113
Game 2:Cavaliers 115, Raptors 105
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

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Rui Hachimura, Luke Kennard praised Marcus Smart for setting tone for Lakers in Game 2

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 21:  Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets is double teamed by Rui Hachimura #28 and Marcus Smart #36 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half of Game Two of the NBA Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 21, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Lakers don’t win Game 2 against the Rockets without Marcus Smart’s efforts.

In the opening quarter, he was the most aggressive player on the court. He took seven shots and converted on five of them, including a trio of threes. Smart ended the quarter with 14 points, which was part of a 25-point performance.

Defensively, Smart was also at his best.

Smart had a game-high five steals and gave Kevin Durant plenty of trouble as he turned the ball over nine times, a season high for one of the best offensive players to ever play the game.

“I think we understand that kind of stuff and what he does on the floor, it doesn’t really show on the stats,” Hachimura said postgame. “But I think it gets us going as a team, especially the start of the game, he was guarding KD full court, and then he got the ball, and Bron almost got an and-one. Those kind of plays just set the tone. That’s really important for us. He always makes the plays.”

This game featured Durant’s return after missing Game 1, and Smart immediately set the physical tone this contest would take. Just minutes into the opening quarter, Smart was guarding Durant full court. He swiped the ball loose and dove onto the floor to guarantee the Lakers would gain possession.

With the Lakers shorthanded, players have to elevate their game to win these playoff matchups. Luke Kennard did this in Game 1, scoring 27 points, and Smart matched that energy for Game 2. Now LA is up 2-0 in this series.

“He set the tone for us, got us going,” Kennard said. “We know with those guys out, it could be anybody any given night right now. Again, we try to elevate each other and push each other and motivate one another to just be who we are and have fun out there and play hard. Marcus definitely got us going there in the first quarter. It’s good to see. We need him to continue to be aggressive for us.”

Smart has emerged as one of LA’s most important leaders. And as a leader, he has to do the walking along with the talking for everyone to buy in. He’s been doing that all season, and Game 2 was a prime example of this.

Every playoff team needs a Smart on its roster. He’s a selfless player, and one who can do the dirty work along with the tough defensive assignments few can handle. This was a bounce-back year for Smart, and he deserves all the adulation coming his way. He’s set the tone for the Lakers and is a big reason why they have yet to lose in the playoffs.

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

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Knicks, Hawks enter Game 3 tied 1-1 — Here’s how to watch for free

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An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Karl-Anthony Towns, wearing New York Knicks jersey #32, drives to the basket with the ball in his hand, contested by an Atlanta Hawks player, during an NBA playoff game

The Knicks vs. Hawks first-round playoff series is heading to Atlanta all tied up ahead of tonight’s Game 3.

The Knicks took Game 1, 113-102, while Game 2 went to Atlanta in a stunning 107–106 victory.

Despite trailing by 12 points entering the fourth quarter, the Hawks mounted a late comeback led by CJ McCollum, who finished with a game-high 32 points. The Knicks had a chance to win at the buzzer, but Mikal Bridges missed a final jumper as time expired.

It’s only the second time in franchise playoff history that the Knicks lost a game they were leading heading into the fourth quarter; they’re now 40-2 all-time.

Knicks vs. Hawks: what to know
  • What: NBA Playoffs First Round, Game 3
  • When: April 23, 7 p.m. ET
  • Where: State Farm Arena (Atlanta, Georgia)
  • Streaming: Prime Video (try it free)

The Knicks and Hawks will be back in action on Saturday for Game 4 of the series.

Knicks vs. Hawks start time:

Knicks vs. Hawks Game 3 is scheduled to begin tonight, April 23, at 7 p.m. ET.

How to watch Knicks vs. Hawks for free:

Tonight’s Hawks vs. Knicks matchup is one of the NBA Playoffs games streaming exclusively on Prime Video, so you’ll need an Amazon Prime subscription to watch.

If you aren’t a Prime Video subscriber yet, you can get started with a 30-day Amazon Prime free trial, including Prime perks like the Prime Video streaming service, free two-day shipping, exclusive deals, and more. After the free trial, Amazon Prime costs $14.99/month or $139/year.

PRIME VIDEO PRIME FOR YOUNG ADULTS

All 18- to 24-year-olds, regardless of student status, are eligible for a discounted Prime for Young Adults membership as well, with age verification. After a six-month free trial, you’ll pay 50% off the standard Prime monthly price of $14.99/month — just $7.49/month — for up to six yearswith all the perks.

Knicks-Hawks first-round playoff schedule

  • Game 1:Knicks 113, Hawks 102
  • Game 2: Knicks 106, Hawks 107
  • Game 3: April 23, 7 p.m. ET (Prime Video)
  • Game 4: April 25, 6 p.m. ET (NBC)
  • Game 5: April 28 (time and channel TBD)
  • Game 6: April 30*
  • Game 7: May 2*

* if necessary

NBA Playoffs key dates:

  • April 18: NBA Playoffs First Round begins
  • June 3: Game 1 of the NBA Finals

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.

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Where to watch Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks Game 3 NBA playoffs: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Thursday, April 23

The New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks meet in Game 3 of their NBA first-round playoff series. The Hawks rallied from a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat the Knicks 107-106 on Monday and even the series. The next two games will be played in Atlanta.

  • Spread: Atlanta Hawks +1.5

  • Moneyline: Atlanta Hawks -102 (48.3%) / New York Knicks -118 (51.7%)

  • Over/Under: 216.5

Game 1:Knicks 113, Hawks 102
Game 2:Hawks 107, Knicks 106
Game 3: Thu., April 23, at Atlanta (7 p.m., Prime)
Game 4: Sat., April 25, at Atlanta (6 p.m., NBC)
*Game 5: Tue., April 28,at New York (TBD)
*Game 6: Thu., April 30, at Atlanta (TBD)
*Game 7: Sat., May 2, at New York (TBD)

*if necessary

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AJ Dybantsa declares for NBA draft: How does he project at the next level?

After a remarkable freshman season at BYU, 19-year-old forward AJ Dybantsa officially announced that he will declare for the 2026 NBA Draft.

Dybantsa will turn pro as an early entry candidate after a successful and impressive one-and-done collegiate campaign. The former McDonald's All-American forward averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.1 steals per game. He is currently projected at No. 1 overall to the Washington Wizards in USA TODAY's latest mock draft.

Dybantsa led the NCAA in scoring and was named a consensus first-team collegiate All-American, also earning Big 12 Freshman of the Year and the Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year Award.

During his sole appearance in March Madness, he scored 35 points with 10 rebounds. It was one of eight games in which he had at least 30 points, highlighted by a 43-point performance against in-rival Utah. Dybantsa also notched a 30-point triple double against Eastern Washington in December.

Dybantsa led the nation in unassisted points scored, per CBB Analytics, and is able to inject instant life in whichever NBA team selects him. While he is listed at 6-foot-9, the playmaking forward finished more of his possessions as the ball handler in pick and roll sets than any other play type.

He also scored efficiently as the ball handler in transition and one-on-one against his defender in isolation. All teams will have interest in such a talented offensive creator who also brings a solid frame.

No matter which team gets the pole position, it will highly consider Dybantsa when it is on the clock. Other candidates for No. 1 in this class include Duke forward Cameron Boozer and Kansas guard Darryn Peterson.

The NBA's draft lottery in Chicago is scheduled for May 10 with the Wizards, Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets and Utah Jazz as the most likely teams to get the No. 1 overall pick. The 2026 NBA Draft is scheduled for June 23 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: AJ Dybantsa NBA draft projection how his game translates to NBA