Down Towns: What the media is saying about KAT

As their number two behind Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns is central to the Knicks’ plans. Lately, though, he hasn’t been central to how games are ending. Over the past week, a new strategy has emerged from New York’s coaching staff. When the screws tighten, their most effective lineups have often come with Towns watching from the bench.

James L. Edwards III of The Athletic lays out the case. During New York’s recent three-game win streak, the Knicks have played their best late-game basketball Towns off the floor. Coach Mike Brown has leaned on defense-heavy closing groups built around Brunson and Mitchell Robinson, as evidenced in last night’s win over Sacramento. After a three-quarter slog, a KAT-free lineup finally created separation down the stretch. Karl did hit two three-pointers to start the final frame, but those were only brief glimmers in what was a muddy performance.

Edwards notes that the early lineup data backs up what we have seen on the court. Brunson lineups surrounded by four strong defenders have been effective in limited minutes, while combinations featuring both Brunson and Towns continue to expose their defensive inadequacies. The sample sizes are small, but the consistency of the trend has raised real questions about fit. And, don’t forget the trade deadline is a week from tomorrow. (Read Edwards’ piece here.)

Jared Schwartz of the New York Post picked up on the same theme. He focuses on how familiar Towns sitting late has become. Against Sacramento, Towns didn’t play the final 6:51 as Brown again closed with Brunson, Miles McBride, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Robinson. Can you blame Mike? That lineup clearly balances offensive and defensive strengths.

“He saw what he saw. We got a win, that’s the most important thing,” Towns said about his early exit.

Brown described the decision as situational. On a number of occasions he has made clear that he’s comfortable riding whichever lineup is working, even if it means putting extremely well compensated starters on the bench.

“At the end of the game, we had a group out on the floor that was playing well. It was a tight ballgame, so I just rode that group to the end of the game,” Brown said. “During the flow of the game, you find a group of players that you feel are playing well together, and you roll with it as long as you can.”

To that point: in a separate Post piece, Schwartz examined how different the Knicks really look under Brown. As he explains, the changes are more subtle than sweeping. Three-point volume is up, but improvements in pace, ball movement, and bench production—all areas identified as weak spots last offseason—have been modest. To the surprise of some, the team is a lot closer to last season stylistically than expected, with Brown turning more often to Thibsian lineups.

In Schwartz’s article, ESPN analyst Tim Legler points to Towns’ offensive regression as the most noticeable shift. “For me, the biggest difference right now is actually the fact that I don’t feel as good about Karl-Anthony Towns most nights,” says Legs.

He also frames Towns’ usage as a signal of offensive health. “I was hoping to see more nights this year where Karl-Anthony Towns is your leading scorer. That would tell me that [Jalen] Brunson has got a lower usage rate… that would be a good thing for them offensively.”

Towns has played 11 seasons between Minnesota and New York, with career averages of 22.9 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 688 regular-season games. He was selected to five All-Star games, and won the Rookie of the Year award. This season, his first under coach Mike Brown, KAT has averaged 20.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, while posting the worst shooting percentages of his career.

With owner James Dolan declaring his championship expectations . . . and KAT and Brunson still not gelling . . . and KAT and Coach Brown apparently at odds . . . all that has fueled nationwide speculation about whether New York will (or can) move their expensive big man by the trade deadline. This season he will earn $53 M. Next year’s salary is $57 M. In 2027, when he has a player option, it rises to $61 M. That’s a lot of money for a team to bring onto their books.

Michael Pina of The Ringer sees the trade deadline as a pressure point for New York. Working within the constraints of the league’s restrictive CBA, Pina frames Towns as the clearest source of tension on the roster, citing his efficiency dip, hefty contract, and uneven adjustment to Brown’s system. (The piece also mentions Brunson’s paradoxical impact as an offensive engine whose defensive limitations complicate postseason aspirations. But ain’t no way Leon Rose trades Cap, or he’ll get tossed off the nearest bridge.)

Pina stops short of calling for drastic action, but outlines an odd trade proposal. His idea is to send KAT to Milwaukee for Myles Turner, Kyle (bleech) Kuzma, and a top-five pick . . . in 2031. Start scouting JV squads now! And shouldn’t we be focusing on a different Buck?

Writes Pina:

If your first reaction to this was “That makes no sense,” you are 100 percent correct. A blockbuster trade between New York and Milwaukee that doesn’t include an increasingly melodramatic Giannis Antetokounmpo would belie rational thought. The Bucks should absolutely not do this. But the Bucks should absolutely not have done a bunch of other stuff they thought was a good idea, so let’s operate in that reality for a minute.  

He describes KAT as “an increasingly problematic defender who will turn 30 in August and seems to be walking off an ankle injury once a week.” However, he also points out that the Knicks are better defensively when Kat is on the floor without Brunson.

The article argues that the need for change isn’t about talent. No one will argue that Karl has a prodigious scoring ability for a big man, after all. But the fit just isn’t it in New York. Read Pina here.

For now, New York’s brass remains typically mum. You can be sure their phones are hot, though, and the prospect of superstar trades has the league excited. Superagent Rich Paul couldn’t help inserting himself into the mix, too. TrueHoop’s Henry Abbott chatted with Dexter Henry about it on the New York Post Sports YouTube channel.

“All four people I talked to didn’t agree on whether Rich Paul would represent Giannis,” said Henry, “but all four agreed that the mission is to get Giannis out of Milwaukee.”

Given their similarities in contract and star power, it is conceivable that Towns would be included in a trade. Giannis Antetokounmpo is due $54 M this season, $58 M next year, and $62 M in 2027-28. Last offseason, Antetokounmpo expressed interest in coming to New York. According to Abbott, that interest persists. “One person told me Giannis’s preferred list is three teams: the Heat, the Wolves, and the Knicks.”

The Knicks head to Toronto tonight for a SEGABABA, with sole possession of third place on the line. If Towns is serious about working things out in New York, he has a chance to prove it in one of the season’s biggest games. If Mike Brown again decides he can’t trust Towns in crunch time, however, it may be what ultimately triggers a trade. Stay tuned.

And Go Knicks.

Lakers expected to have interest in Peyton Watson this offseason

It’s no secret that the Lakers want better wing options. They’ve been connected to players like Donte DiVincenzo and Keon Ellis as potential targets as the trade deadline fast approaches.

While this season is the primary focus for Lakers fans, the front office has to look at the big picture, including this summer, as they focus on creating a roster that best fits Luka Dončić.

So, maybe these trading block players aren’t the wings they are seeking, and the person they truly want will be available in the offseason.

In a recent “The Stein Line” newsletter, Jake Fischer writes that Peyton Watson of the Denver Nuggets is a player the Lakers are reportedly preparing to have interest in.

It must be said, though, that rival executives are increasingly curious about Denver’s likely struggles to retain Peyton Watson this summer given the fourth-year swingman’s recent breakout play amid all of the Nuggets’ healthwoes. We’ll certainly be tracking this situation over the coming months, since Watson’s restricted free agency is already shaping up to become a major domino of the offseason. Sources say teams that are projected to have cap space — notably such as the Lakers — are already preparing interest.

Watson has improved every year and is currently averaging 14.4 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, all career highs for the four-year player.

He is precisely the kind of player who can thrive playing with Luka. He is a sniper, making 41% of his 3-pointers. Watson is an elite catch-and-shoot guy, converting on 47.5% of those shots. That’s the best percentage of any player on Denver’s roster.

The Nuggets could have given Watson a contract extension last summer, but they didn’t. Watson told the Denver Post he understood the decision but would “operate as a business” in the offseason.

That decision could end up being Denver’s loss and LA’s gain.

With the majority of the Lakers’ roster not on the books for next year, they should have plenty of cap space this summer to make an intriguing offer to the restricted free agent.

They still have to pay Austin Reaves, and what LeBron James will do next year is still a mystery, but even with those contracts being unknown, LA should be able to make a respectable offer for Watson if he wants to make a move.

Waiting until the summer for LA to upgrade their wing depth might not be what fans want, but it could be the best option.

No deal is better than a bad deal, and ultimately, the Lakers have to find the best long-term solutions as they attempt to build a sustainable title-contending roster.

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

Caitlin Clark to serve as analyst ahead of Lakers-Knicks game on NBC's 'Basketball Night in America' debut

Left, Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic on Jan. 24, 2026, in Dallas. Right, Caitlin Clark on April 15, 2024 in New York.
Left, Lakers guard Luka Doncic on Jan. 24. Right, WNBA star Caitlin Clark on April 15, 2024. (Associated Press)

Wonder what Caitlin Clark thinks about the confusion surrounding Austin Reaves' imminent return to the Lakers lineup? Or whether Jeanie Buss has turned on LeBron James? Or if she has nothing but praise for Luka Doncic?

Tune in to the Lakers' matchup against the New York Knicks on the NBC Sports debut of “Basketball Night in America” on Sunday night to find out. Clark, the uber-popular WNBA star, will serve an analyst on the pregame show, beginning at 3 p.m. PT, one hour before tipoff.

Should Reaves return Friday or Sunday after missing a month with a left calf strain, it would mark only the seventh time the guard has played together with James and Doncic. That might be the first topic addressed by Clark, who will join the studio team of Maria Taylor and three former NBA stars: Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady.

Expectations that Reaves would take the floor Wednesday in a nationally televised game against the Cleveland Cavaliers were heightened Tuesday when ESPN insider Shams Charania posted on X that the Lakers guard would be “available to return to the lineup on Wednesday.”

A few moments later, however, the post was deleted with no explanation and the Lakers' injury report lists Reaves as out.

Read more:NBA trade deadline: What moves might the Lakers or Clippers make?

Clark might stick to lauding Doncic, considering that the superstar NBA guard complimented her game in 2024, saying "that’s the women’s Steph Curry. She can shoot it better than me.”

Clark, who attended Iowa, is the all-time leading scorer in NCAA history. In two seasons with the Indiana Fever, she was named WNBA Rookie of the Year and is a two-time All-Star despite missing much of the 2025 season with a severe groin injury.

“Caitlin is one of the most captivating players and dynamic scorers in basketball,” NBC Sports Executive Producer Sam Flood said in a statement. “We’re excited to have Caitlin join Hall of Famers Melo, Vince, Tracy and Reggie in New York for the launch of Sunday Night Basketball.”

The Lakers-Knicks game will begin a doubleheader that also includes the Oklahoma City Thunder facing the Denver Nuggets.

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

5 Sixers thoughts: Doc Rivers’ comments on Joel Embiid, the trade deadline and more

Are we having fun yet? The Sixers had a rock-solid victory on Wednesday night to carry an otherwise barren Philadelphia sports slate. Let’s talk some ball in my latest “5 Sixers thoughts” column…

Is Joel Embiid truly the most talented player Doc Rivers has ever coached?

Rivers, the Bucks’ head coach now after formerly holding that position in Philadelphia for several seasons, made this eyebrow-raising comment before Tuesday evening matchup with Milwaukee, per PhillyVoice’s Adam Aaronson:

Embiid’s talent is undeniable even as injuries have defined his career. Is Rivers’ statement true though?

The immediate thought would be that this is a subtle jab at Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time NBA MVP who won a championship with Milwaukee in 2021. Antetokounmpo has one foot out the door, so that may be a part of it, but is Embiid more talented than Antetokounmpo? How about Kevin Garnett or even Tracy McGrady or Grant Hill from Rivers’ previous stops on his coaching journey?

Let’s just look at Embiid, Antetokounmpo and Garnett. Even putting my Philadelphia bias aside for a brief moment, Embiid has done things, when he’s actually been on the court, that have been rarely, if ever, seen on an NBA court. His scoring prowess as a big man rivals that of Wilt Chamberlain. That’s not hyperbole.

Embiid’s health and lack of championship success, however, knock him down when discussing any all-time greats.

Embiid, given the injuries, has probably had the worst “career” of the three, all things considered. I view Antetokounmpo as a top-25 guy and Garnett is not too far beyond him. Let’s say he’s a top-35 or a top-40 player at worst. The general NBA public isn’t going to view Embiid that way unfortunately given the time he’s missed and the way rings are valued.

Speaking of Antetokounmpo…

A report from ESPN’s Shams Charania surfaced late Wednesday morning about Antetokounmpo, indicating that he is “ready for a new home” ahead of the Feb. 5 NBA Trade Deadline:

There has been chatter among fans and talking heads whether the Sixers could get in the mix for Antetokounmpo, who is under contract for next season and then has a player option after that. A trade between the Sixers and Bucks centered around Antetokounmpo would need to begin with parting ways with rookie VJ Edgecombe. I wrote just last week that dealing out Edgecombe would be a non-starter for me.

Will Edgecombe ever be as good of a player as Antetokounmpo has been? Given what I’ve already said about him in this column, clearly not. Given age, contracts and the trajectory of this Sixers team, however, it just does not feel like the right move for this franchise right now.

I’m just hoping he winds up in Golden State rather than New York at least.

25 years ago today…

On Jan. 28, 2001, the Sixers traveled to Indiana to face the Pacers. In a win that improved the team’s record to 34-10, Allen Iverson had 27 points to go with eight assists. It was a rough shooting day from the field for Iverson, who went just 6-for-25, but he lived at the line, sinking 14 of his 17 free-throw attempts.

The Sixers would go on to face Indiana in the first round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs that year, taking care of business in four games in the best-of-five series on the way to an NBA Finals berth.

Jared McCain displays signs of life

Dropping 16 points and nailing four threes in mega-garbage time during a brutal loss in Charlotte on Monday afternoon, McCain looked like an NBA player again. Seemingly nailed to the bench sometimes by Sixers head coach Nick Nurse, McCain, at least briefly, resembled the player he was during his brief, but red-hot rookie campaign.

McCain had the goods again in Tuesday night’s victory over Milwaukee as well, totaling 17 points while drilling five of his six shots from deep. That type of scoring punch and sweet shooting from a reserve has been sorely missed, especially with Quentin Grimes’ long-standing frigid stretch.

The Sixers went from having too many intriguing pieces in the backcourt to seemingly having too few while McCain was struggling. McCain needs to be a legitimate part of Nurse’s rotation.

Sixers tickets are dirt cheap right now

I understand it from multiple perspectives. Weeknights are tough to begin with. People aren’t fully sold on this team after years of second-round exits. The current weather situation looms large over everything as well with snow piled up throughout the city and another storm potentially coming this week, making commuting a bit of a hazard.

Still, if public transportation’s easily accessible for you, which is obviously not always the case in this region, you can see the Sixers host the Kings on Thursday for as low as $9 on the secondary market. There are worse ways to spend a cold, dark winter evening!

Cavs reportedly clarify stance on possible LeBron James reunion

The Cleveland Cavaliers host LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers for their annual trip to Cleveland on Wednesday. These games are always spectacles, given the history between James and the organization. This iteration will likely be no different, as the Cavs will be wearing the throwback jerseys James made famous during his first run in Cleveland.

There’s also an additional wrinkle to this season’s meeting.

James’s current contract with the Lakers runs out at the end of this season. And maybe for the first time in his career, James’s team might be okay with letting him walk in free agency so they can build around Luka Doncic. Recent reports of a rift between James’s camp and the Buss family could indicate that is the direction both parties go.

We don’t know what James will do at the end of the season. Retirement is also a possibility and something that James has floated in years past. But according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, a reunion with his former team is on the table for next season.

McMenamin wrote:

Multiple team and league sources told ESPN the Cavaliers would gladly welcome James back this summer if he wanted to return to Cleveland for his 24th NBA season and third stint with the team.

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The Cavs would need to make multiple roster moves this summer to make a reunion happen, unless James is willing to play for a minimum contract, which doesn’t seem likely. Cleveland is currently the only team over the second apron. That makes reshaping the roster incredibly difficult. As such, they would likely need to get below the second apron before they could make a sign-and-trade or another type of deal with James that exceeds the minimum.

Still, the team’s reported willingness to welcome James back is noteworthy. Not everyone wants to be in the LeBron business at this stage of his career. His presence comes with an increased microscope and national expectations that this group currently doesn’t have. This time would be no different despite his age.

James — even at the 42 years old he would be next December — would help the Cavs in some of the areas they need assistance the most. His playmaking is still as good as it ever was, and his game has evolved well with his loss of athleticism.

This season, James is averaging 22.4 points, 6.7 assists, and six rebounds per game on .507/.328/.745 shooting splits.

We’ll see what direction James and the Cavs go this offseason. As of now, it seems that a reunion is on the table from at least one of the necessary parties.

Fantasy Basketball Week 15 Injury Report: Cavs lose Evan Mobley

While the Cleveland Cavaliers picked up a valuable two-game sweep over the Orlando Magic, Monday's comeback victory came at a high cost. Evan Mobley, who tallied 20 points, nine rebounds, two assists, two blocks and one three-pointer in 35 minutes, suffered a strained left calf. This is the second time this season that the 6-foot-11 forward/center has strained the calf, with the first instance sidelining him for five games in mid-December. According to the Cavaliers, Mobley will be sidelined for one to three weeks.

At the time, the resulting vacancy in the starting lineup was filled by Dean Wade (one percent rostered, Yahoo!), who averaged 8.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 2.0 three-pointers in 27.0 minutes during that five-game stretch. That production wasn't good enough to make him a worthwhile streamer, and there isn't a great need to add Wade (who is already in the starting lineup) in the aftermath of Mobley's most recent injury.

Second-year wing Jaylon Tyson (30 percent) becomes even more appealing to standard-league managers, as he is already offering top-100 per-game value. While Sam Merrill (eight percent), De'Andre Hunter (15 percent) and Nae'Qwan Tomlin (less than one percent) may all see their opportunities increase, the fantasy upside is limited. Lastly, those who have Jarrett Allen (92 percent) rostered will hope that Mobley's absence gives him the room needed to be more impactful on both ends of the floor.

Let's look at some of the other key injury updates affecting Week 15 in fantasy basketball.

G/F Zaccharie Risacher and F/C Kristaps Porziņǵis, Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks provided updates on Risacher and Porziņǵis on Monday, with the former appearing to be closer to a return. Risacher, who has missed nine games with a left knee bone contusion, was sent to the G League on Sunday and is now considered day-to-day. He won't be available for Wednesday's game against the Celtics, but a return to action may not be far off.

While Corey Kispert (one percent) has been the replacement in the starting lineup recently, his production has not been enough to merit streaming. There aren't any good options for managers in deep leagues, but shallow-league managers should check to make sure Nickeil Alexander-Walker (53 percent) and CJ McCollum (60 percent) aren't sitting on the waiver wire, with the former being the priority.

Porziņǵis has also missed the last nine games, sitting out due to left Achilles tendinitis. Having resumed basketball activities on Monday, he'll be re-evaluated in one week. Mouhamed Gueye (less than one percent) hasn't done much to merit being rostered in fantasy leagues, with Christian Koloko (less than one percent) hopping into the rotation after the Hawks signed him to a two-way deal on January 16. In Monday's win over the Pacers, he accounted for 12 points, four rebounds and three blocked shots in 17 minutes. Koloko isn't an "add" yet, but he's worth watching.

F/C Noah Clowney, Brooklyn Nets

Clowney has missed the last two games due to a sore back, with Terance Mann (two percent) replacing him in the starting lineup. In losses to the Clippers and Suns, Mann totaled 15 points, six rebounds, four assists, two steals and two three-pointers. He played 30 minutes in Tuesday's loss to Phoenix but did not record any steals or blocks. Instead of considering Mann for the short term, fantasy managers would be better served to focus on the "silly season" when evaluating potential Nets pickups. Day'Ron Sharpe (10 percent) and Egor Dëmin (nine percent) are at the top of that list.

G Tre Jones, Chicago Bulls

A strained left hamstring has sidelined Jones, and Wednesday's game against the Pacers will be the third he's missed. His absence has not affected the starting lineup, as Jalen Smith (26 percent) moved into the lineup before Jones' injury. Sitting just outside the top-50 over the past two weeks, Smith is worth picking up while he remains a starter. However, his status is affected by Josh Giddey's (99 percent) minutes restriction, as the Bulls have been bringing the point guard off the bench. Ayo Dosunmu (25 percent) has also been an effective fantasy option recently, and he's a solid option for fantasy managers while Jones is out.

NBA: Phoenix Suns at Brooklyn Nets
Allen is among a group of players getting a chance to shine amid a wave of high-profile injuries in the league.

F Aaron Gordon, Denver Nuggets

Gordon had to leave Friday's win over the Bucks with a strained right hamstring, which is the same injury that sidelined him for 19 games earlier this season. Jonas Valančiūnas (17 percent) served as the starting center in Tuesday's loss to the Pistons, while Spencer Jones (two percent) remained in the lineup due to Gordon's absence. Valančiūnas is worth picking up, especially with the Nuggets still awaiting Nikola Jokić's return from a left knee injury. The former MVP is now ramping up towards a return and will be re-evaluated in one week.

G Ja Morant and G Ty Jerome, Memphis Grizzlies

Morant has suffered another injury that will result in an extended absence, having sprained the UCL in his left elbow during a January 21 loss to the Hawks. On Saturday, the Grizzlies announced that the point guard will be re-evaluated in three weeks. Cam Spencer (30 percent) returned to the starting lineup, and in Monday's loss to the Rockets, he dished out 13 assists. While the scoring isn't always there, the second-year guard has performed well overall and is worth rostering while Morant sits.

Also, there's been some progress made regarding Jerome's availability. As of Friday, the guard was doing 5-on-5 work in practice as he closes in on a return from a strained right calf. Jerome has yet to make his Grizzlies' debut, so it's difficult to project where he'll fit into the rotation. With Memphis two games in the loss column out of the final play-in spot, Jerome is someone who could have added value during the silly season, especially if the team were to shut down Morant.

G Davion Mitchell, Miami Heat

Having missed five of Miami's last seven games with a sprained left shoulder, Mitchell is questionable for Wednesday's matchup with the Magic. With Tyler Herro (94 percent) out due to a rib injury, the Heat have relied on Kasparas Jakučionis (one percent) to fill the resulting void. The rookie guard has been good in spots, but he's played 17 minutes or less in four of his last five appearances. Even with the opportunity to start, Jakučionis is more valuable in dynasty leagues than redraft formats.

F Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

For the second time this season, the Bucks have lost Antetokounmpo to a strained right calf. However, while he provided a timeline of four to six weeks following Friday's loss to the Nuggets, the Bucks have yet to offer anything official. So, fantasy managers should consider Antetokounmpo to be out indefinitely until the Bucks make an announcement. Add in the persistent trade rumors, and there's a lot for Antetokounmpo managers to sift through.

Bobby Portis (37 percent) moved into the starting lineup on Tuesday, tallying 17 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists and one steal in 36 minutes. Also having a productive night were Myles Turner (93 percent) and Ryan Rollins (57 percent). Turner is rostered in a high percentage of leagues, but there are still some standard-league holdouts when it comes to Portis and Rollins. As the Bucks continue to play without Giannis and Kevin Porter Jr., Portis and Rollins are worth the risk in fantasy leagues.

G Cason Wallace and C Ajay Mitchell, Oklahoma City Thunder

Already without Isaiah Hartenstein and Jalen Williams, the Thunder have not had the services of guards Wallace (18 percent) and Mitchell (25 percent) recently. A sore left hip sidelined the former for Tuesday's win over the Pelicans, while the latter has missed Oklahoma City's last three games with an abdominal strain. Mitchell has not been given a return timeline, but core muscle strains require significant caution.

On Tuesday, Aaron Wiggins (10 percent) and Jaylin Williams (one percent) were part of the starting lineup, and there were positives to take from both performances. Shooting 2-of-4 from beyond the arc, Wiggins tallied 13 points, five rebounds, one assist and three steals in 34 minutes. As for JayWill, he didn't offer much scoring in his 27 minutes, but he did record 10 rebounds, five assists and four blocked shots.

F Franz Wagner, Orlando Magic

Wagner returned from a high left ankle sprain during Orlando's European trip, playing 27 and 26 minutes in two games against the Grizzlies. Unfortunately, he hasn't played since the team returned stateside, and Wednesday's game against the Heat will be the fourth that he's missed due to what the team has described as injury management. Jalen Suggs (83 percent) has been back in the lineup for the last two, but the production has been underwhelming outside of the assists.

Wagner's absence also means that Anthony Black (47 percent) remains in the starting five, and he's provided top-50 per-game value over the past month. He's the obvious choice for 12-team league managers seeking production with Wagner out, and Black may also have value in 10-team formats, given his current role.

G Devin Booker and G Jalen Green, Phoenix Suns

Booker sprained his right ankle during Friday's loss to the Hawks and has missed the Suns' last two games. At the time of his injuries, the Suns said the guard would be re-evaluated in one week, so Booker is off the board for Week 15. Green's situation may be a bit more complicated. Returning from a second hamstring strain of the season on January 20, he played 20 minutes in his first game back. Green was pulled from the second, Friday's loss in Atlanta, after logging four minutes and has not played since. The Suns have listed his injury as right hamstring injury management.

Those absences keep the door open for Grayson Allen (38 percent) and Collin Gillespie (36 percent) to provide additional fantasy value. The latter did not play in Tuesday's win over the Nets, so Jordan Goodwin (five percent) moved into the starting lineup. While Allen and Gillespie should be rostered in 12-team leagues, Goodwin is a worthwhile streamer when one of those two is out.

G/F Zach LaVine, Sacramento Kings

LaVine has missed Sacramento's last two games with lower back soreness, and the team was also without Malik Monk for Tuesday's loss to the Knicks due to a sore right ankle. The former's absences have led to rookie Nique Clifford (one percent) moving into the starting lineup. While his production hasn't moved the needle in fantasy basketball, now would be the time to consider adding Clifford. The Kings are 12-36, 12 games in the loss column out of the final play-in spot. The focus between now and the February 5 trade deadline will likely be on clearing space for players like Clifford and Maxime Raynaud (five percent) to play more, or at least it should be.

With Monk out, there was more playing available for Keon Ellis (two percent), who logged 22 minutes on Tuesday. His name has come up in trade rumors, and it may be easier for the Kings to move him than their high-priced veterans. When given consistent playing time, Ellis can offer some fantasy value. There's no need to add him now, but that changes if he lands in a spot where his role and playing time will be consistent.

C Jakob Poeltl, Toronto Raptors

Poeltl, whose lower back first became an issue during training camp, has not appeared in a game since leaving a December 21 loss to the Nets after logging seven minutes. He returned home early from the Raptors' west coast trip to receive "targeted pain relief treatment" last weekend and does not have a return timeline. Add in Collin Murray-Boyles (20 percent), missing the previous four games with a left thumb contusion, and the Raptors have been severely shorthanded in the post.

Murray-Boyles, who should be rostered in 12-team leagues when healthy, is questionable for Wednesday's game against the Knicks. Sandro Mamukelashvili (27 percent) has been solid for most of the season, and he's been a top-100 player over the past two weeks. Both will be worth having on fantasy rosters due to the uncertainty surrounding Poeltl.

Yankees acquire reliever Angel Chivilli in a trade with the Rockies

NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Yankees added to their bullpen Wednesday by acquiring right-handed reliever Angel Chivilli in a trade with the Colorado Rockies.

They sent minor league infielder T.J. Rumfield to Colorado for Chivilli, a 23-year-old from the Dominican Republic with two seasons of major league experience. He had a 7.06 ERA in 43 relief appearances for the Rockies last year and a 4.55 ERA in 30 appearances with them in 2024.

Chivilli in his career has struck out 71 batters, walked 33 and allowed 20 home runs in 90 1/3 innings. To make room on the 40-man roster for Chivilli, the team designated outfielder Michael Siani for assignment.

The move is the Yankees’ latest in an offseason that also included them getting lefty starter Ryan Weathers from Miami in exchange for four prospects. Coming off making the AL Division Series, they also brought back pitchers Ryan Yarbrough, Paul Blackburn and Tim Hill.

Rumfield, 25, is a Richmond, Virginia, native who has played in the minors in the Philadelphia Phillies' and Yankees' organizations since 2021.

The Rockies separately acquired infielder Edouard Julien and reliever Pierson Ohl in a trade with Minnesota, sending minor league pitcher Jace Kaminska to the Twins.

Julien finished seventh in American League Rookie of the Year award voting in 2023 after posting an .839 OPS with 16 home runs in 109 games for the Twins while taking over as the regular second baseman for the AL Central champions. The native of Quebec wasn't able to maintain his offensive production after that and went up and down from the Twins to Triple-A over the last two seasons. Julien hit .220 in 64 games last year.

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AP MLB: https://apnews.com/MLB

Judge in Charles Bediako Alabama basketball eligibility case recuses himself

The college basketball soap opera that’s taking place on a very different kind of court has taken yet another twist.

Tuscaloosa County (Alabama) Circuit Court Judge James H. Roberts Jr. has recused himself from the eligibility case surrounding Alabama center Charles Bediako, according to court documents.

The move comes one day after the NCAA filed a motion for Roberts, an Alabama donor, to recuse himself. Roberts is listed by the Crimson Tide Foundation as an active “circle” donor, meaning he gives anywhere between $100,000 to $249,999 to the university.

The NCAA said in court documents that it filed the motion pertaining to Roberts because of "external circumstances that could give the appearance of partiality."

Roberts had granted Bediako a temporary restraining order against the NCAA on Jan. 21 that made him immediately eligible for the Crimson Tide, who he played for from 2021-23 before declaring for the NBA Draft. Though he never suited up in the NBA, Bediako played 82 games in the G League over three seasons. He played for the Motor City Cruise, the Detroit Pistons’ G League affiliate, as recently as Jan. 17.

Bediako had an injunction hearing scheduled for Jan. 27, but it was pushed back after weather conditions in Tennessee prevented an NCAA lawyer from being able to make it to Alabama for the hearing. Because of that, Roberts extended Bediako’s restraining order another 10 days.

Following a three-year sabbatical from college basketball, Bediako has been immediately impactful for an Alabama team that’s No. 23 in the latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll. In two games — a loss to Tennessee and a win over Missouri — the 23-year-old Bediako is averaging 13.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals and one block in 21.5 minutes per game while shooting 81.8% from the field.

The Crimson Tide have games against No. 21 Florida on Feb. 1 and Texas A&M on Feb. 4 that are scheduled before the 10-day extension on Bediako’s restraining order is set to lapse.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Judge in Charles Bediako Alabama basketball eligibility case recuses himself

Hornets vs Grizzlies Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

Are the Charlotte Hornets good? Someone needs to ask. 

They have a worse winning percentage than the Memphis Grizzlies, but a better point differential, better postseason hopes, and also the best net rating in the NBA recently.

Charlotte might be good. My Hornets vs. Grizzlies predictions and NBA picks for Wednesday, January 28 certainly consider it.

Hornets vs Grizzlies prediction

Hornets vs Grizzlies best bet: Hornets -2 (-110)

As shocking as this is, the Charlotte Hornets may be playing better than anyone else in the NBA these days. The Hornets have the No. 1 net rating in the NBA over the last 10 games, +13.7 a full two points better per 100 possessions than No. 2.

Credit Charlotte’s offense, ranking No. 1 in rating at 122.9 in that stretch, and it should feast against the Memphis Grizzlies' struggling defense.

The Grizzlies’ defense falling off is an indictment on plenty of things there.

Losing Desmond Bane hurt. Overall locker room frustrations do not help. And thus, that defense has rated No. 19 in the last 10 games, giving up 114.6 points per 100 possessions.

Look at it this way; that is five points worse than Charlotte’s defense in the same stretch.

Hornets vs Grizzlies same-game parlay

Memphis’s defense has become a genuine liability, part of the Grizzlies cashing four Overs in their last five games. But doubt in LaMelo Ball still makes sense given his decreased workload in recent weeks.

He has fallen short of this modest prop in four of his last six games.

Hornets vs Grizzlies SGP

  • Hornets -2
  • Over 230.5
  • LaMelo Ball Under 21.5 points + rebounds

Our "from downtown" SGP: Bridges wastes no time

As much as Ball wants to be traded, Miles Bridges is that likely to be traded. He has thus been showcased a bit more lately.

Hornets vs Grizzlies SGP

  • Hornets -2
  • Over 230.5
  • LaMelo Ball Under 21.5 points + rebounds
  • Miles Bridges Over 3.5 points 1Q

Hornets vs Grizzlies odds

  • Spread: Hornets -2 | Grizzlies +2
  • Moneyline: Hornets -135 | Grizzlies +115
  • Over/Under: Over 230.5 | Under 230.5

Hornets vs Grizzlies betting trend to know

The Grizzlies are spiraling. They have lost three straight games outright, including two as favorites, and are just 2-6 outright in their last eight. Find more NBA betting trends for Hornets vs. Grizzlies.

How to watch Hornets vs Grizzlies

LocationFedExForum, Memphis, TN
DateWednesday, January 28, 2026
Tip-off8:00 p.m. ET
TVFDSN-Charlotte, FDSN-Memphis

Hornets vs Grizzlies latest injuries

Not intended for use in MA.
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This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here

Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors: Bucks listening on deals for star

The NBA trade deadline rumor mill is now officially in full swing.

A massive update related to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future with the Milwaukee Bucks came across Wednesday, Jan. 28, and it’s one that will have ripple effects across the entire trading market.

Several teams with the assets necessary to make a bid for Antetokounmpo have been waiting for him to become officially available in a trade, which has caused the overall market to lag some.

That means stars such as Anthony Davis, Ja Morant might have to wait for resolution in the Antetokounmpo case to see if they’ll have new homes.

The trading deadline is Thursday, Feb. 5, at 3 p.m. ET.

Here are the latest trade rumors surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo and his future with the Milwaukee Bucks:

Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors

According to an ESPN report that published Wednesday morning, Antetokounmpo has indicated he’s ready to move on from the Bucks, which is essentially a euphemism that he’s requesting a trade.

Antetokounmpo and the Bucks have been cautious about optics in this case, and neither side has wanted to appear – at least in the public eye – as the culprit for what is becoming an inevitability.

Per ESPN, the Bucks are now more open than ever to field offers for Antetokounmpo prior to the trading deadline, though Milwaukee is under no obligation to move the two-time MVP.

In fact, the Bucks are operating from a position of some leverage and can wait until the offseason to find resolution in this case. Teams are constrained by the salary cap and limited roster size during the season, and suitors will have far more draft capital available to ship to Milwaukee.

A trade like this also may require a third or fourth team, so the logistics of wrangling all moving parts together before next Thursday would be complicated.

ESPN also reported that potential suitors have gotten the sense that Milwaukee is willing to listen to offers. The question now becomes whether any team can present a deal enticing enough for the Bucks to maximize their return on Antetokounmpo, who has spent 12 ½ seasons in Milwaukee.

Antetokounmpo, 31, has averaged 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists through 30 games this season, though he recently suffered a right calf strain that will sideline him for at least the next month.

Giannis Antetokounmpo injury update

Another reason why this has been a frustrating season for Antetokounmpo has been injuries.

Antetokounmpo reaggravated a right calf strain Friday, Jan. 23 in a 102-100 loss against the Nuggets, and indicated that he would miss between four-to-six weeks. That sidelines him well beyond the Feb. 5 trading deadline, and could complicate any potential trade that would come before the deadline; essentially, any team acquiring him would need to feel that Antetokounmpo would be available and fully healthy for the back half of the season, into a push for the playoffs.

Earlier in December, Antetokounmpo had also missed eight games with a previous right calf strain.

In fact, including a strained adductor sustained in mid-November, Antetokounmpo has missed 15 games this season because of injury.

Giannis has expressed frustrations recently

It has been a turbulent season for Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee.

It all started before the season, during Bucks media day on Sept. 29, when team owner Wes Edens said he and Antetokounmpo met in June, and that Antetokounmpo reaffirmed his commitment to Milwaukee.

“I had a great conversation with Giannis back in June out here, where he was very committed to Milwaukee,” Edens told reporters in September. “He likes being here. He likes his family being here.”

But when it was his turn to speak, Antetokounmpo said he could not recall that conversation and did not give any assurances that he’s committed to the Bucks beyond the present.

“I want to be on a team that allows me and gives me a chance to win a championship,” Antetokounmpo said. “It is never going to change. I want to be among the best.”

Then, on Dec. 2, Antetokounmpo scrubbed his social media accounts of almost every reference or photo from his time with the Bucks, sparking speculation about trade rumors.

Throughout the season, Antetokounmpo has repeatedly voiced his frustrations with the situation in Milwaukee – he most recently characterized the team’s play as “selfish” – and has maintained that he wants to compete for championships.

Interestingly, prior to Milwaukee’s 139-122 loss Tuesday, Jan. 27 against the 76ers, Bucks coach Doc Rivers told reporters that Philadelphia center Joel Embiid, the 2022-23 NBA Most Valuable Player, was “the most talented player I ever coached.” It raised eyebrows considering Rivers has coached Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP, for parts of three seasons.

Former Buck Jae Crowder weighs in

Forward Jae Crowder, who played for the Bucks for two seasons, took to social media Wednesday after news of Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee broke. Crowder was part of the 2023-24 team that eventually fired former coach Adrian Griffin and replaced him with Doc Rivers.

Sources: Giannis preps for Bucks exit amid offers

Giannis Antetokounmpo is ready for a new home ahead of the trade deadline as several teams have made aggressive offers to the Bucks, league sources told ESPN.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Giannis trade rumors heat up as Bucks starting to listen on offers

Giannis Antetokounmpo reportedly 'ready for a new home,' Milwaukee Bucks 'starting to listen' to trade offers

Giannis Antetokounmpo reportedly is "ready for a new home ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline" and the Milwaukee Bucks are now listening to offers, according to a report from Shams Charania of ESPN.

While there is clearly enough chatter that Charania reports the needle is starting to move, actually trading Antetokounmpo is much tougher to do on the ground in Milwaukee. The Bucks are asking for a massive haul in any trade — a high-level young player and a lot of draft picks to start — while, at the same time, Antetokounmpo has preferred destinations for his next team (most notably New York, which could not make that offer before next week's deadline).

The most likely outcome for any potential Antetokounmpo trade remains that it happens in the offseason if it's going to happen. Here is the key part of Charania’s report.

Multiple teams have received a sense that the Bucks are more open than ever on Antetokounmpo offers between now and the deadline, league sources said. However, Milwaukee has indicated to interested teams that the organization is not in a rush to complete a move and is willing to navigate Antetokounmpo's future in the offseason if its believed price point of a blue-chip young talent and/or a surplus of draft picks isn't met, sources said. By waiting until the summer, the Bucks could also see which teams are able to offer more appealing draft picks in June.

Sources said Antetokounmpo has informed the Bucks for months that he believes the moment has come to part ways after 12-plus years together, making a trade increasingly possible.

Antetokounmpo has emphatically denied requesting a trade, saying he would "never" do that and it's "not in his nature." That said, Antetokounmpo has been frustrated with the play of the 18-27 Bucks this season — a team that is 3-12 in the games he has missed — and has called out teammates for being selfish.

The expectation in league circles has been more that Antetokounmpo would tell the Bucks this summer he would not sign the four-year, $275 million supermax extension the team can offer (which he could not sign until Oct. 1), which would force the Bucks to trade him then or risk losing him for nothing in free agency in 2027.

Trading him at the deadline is difficult for a couple of key reasons. One is the tax aprons, which put hard caps and trade restrictions on potential trades. For example, the Knicks are hard-capped at the second apron and are currently less than $150,000 below that number, so they need to take back less money in a trade than they send out, and Antetokounmpo is making $54.1 million this season. That becomes a difficult math problem, and the Knicks don't have draft picks to send to Milwaukee in a deal anyway. Other teams known to be interested would face the same issues: The Warriors are hard-capped at the second apron (and the Bucks would not want just the injured Jimmy Butler in a deal), the Heat are hard-capped at the first apron, and the list goes on and on. Other teams linked in the past might rethink their interest: Do teams like the Spurs and Pistons want to blow things up to chase an aging star, or stick with their young cores that are winning big now?

The other factor is Antetokounmpo's injury — he is currently sidelined with a calf strain, and while the Bucks would not put a timeline on his return, Antetokounmpo himself said 4-6 weeks. Any team that trades for him is doing so in part to chase a ring this season, and Antetokounmpo has missed considerable time this season and in recent playoff runs because of similar leg injuries. Why would a team go all-in now if they can make a better offer this summer?

There are a lot of moving parts with an Antetokounmpo trade, and most likely it remains an offseason thing, but the Bucks are now listening to offers.

Black Knight becomes sole shareholder of Ligue 1 Lorient as part of multi-club ownership strategy

LORIENT, France (AP) — The French Ligue 1 club Lorient announced Wednesday that the Black Knight Football Club group had become its sole shareholder.

The Black Knight consortium fronted by American businessman Bill Foley, which owns the Vegas Golden Knights in the NHL, acquired a minority ownership interest in Lorient in January 2023 as part of its multi-club ownership strategy.

BKFC also owns Premier League side Bournemouth, Moreirense FC in Portugal and Auckland FC in New Zealand.

Lorient said in a statement that Wednesday's move follows “a strategic agreement aimed at strengthening the long-term development of FC Lorient in an increasingly competitive football environment.”

BKFC is bringing more than $550 million in equity, Lorient said. It added that president Loïc Féry would retain his position and become a BKFC shareholder alongside Foley.

“We are delighted to take this next step with FC Lorient and to welcome Loïc to BKFC,” Foley said. “With Loïc, we will ensure FC Lorient continues to succeed and we will strive to maintain the enthusiasm of its supporters.”

Lorient is ninth in Ligue 1 after 19 matches.

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

Knicks vs Raptors Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

The New York Knicks have owned the Toronto Raptors, winning 10 straight matchups against their division rival. However, Toronto is a slight favorite for tonight’s game.

My Knicks vs. Raptors predictions explain why the 3-ball will be the key to Toronto potentially ending this skid, and my NBA picks bring you an outright winner, plus some juicy SGPs for this Atlantic Division clash on Wednesday, January 28. 

Knicks vs Raptors prediction

Knicks vs Raptors best bet: Raptors moneyline (-125)

The New York Knicks have dominated this matchup, but the Toronto Raptors are playing well, winning their last four games, and more importantly, they play a style of basketball that can frustrate New York.

The Knicks rely heavily on the 3-ball this season, ranking eighth in attempts and fourth in makes per game. The Raptors allow the second-lowest 3-point shooting percentage.

Meanwhile, New York is a middling 16th in defensive rating, while Toronto’s offense is starting to come around again, thanks to a healthy RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley playing his best basketball.

There’s value in the Raps to win this one outright.

Knicks vs Raptors same-game parlay

Let’s get back to Quickley. The Raps’ guard has looked like his best self for a while now, but sportsbooks are still undervaluing his ability to get buckets.

Quickley is averaging 19.4 points and 6.3 assists over his last 17 games. Yet we are still getting points and assists props at 16.5 and 5.5.

The Knicks allow the most points and assists per game in the NBA to opposing guards.

Let's bank on a big night for IQ vs. his former team.

Knicks vs Raptors SGP

  • Raptors moneyline
  • Immanuel Quickley Over 16.5 points
  • Immanuel Quickley Over 5.5 assists

Our "from downtown" SGP: Knicks die by the 3

The Knicks live by the three-ball, and tonight they could die by it with their 24th-ranked 3-point defense hurting them.

Knicks vs Raptors SGP

  • Immanuel Quickley Over 2.5 threes
  • RJ Barrett Over 1.5 threes
  • Brandon Ingram Over 1.5 threes 
  • Jamal Shead Over 1.5 threes 

Knicks vs Raptors odds

  • Spread: Knicks +1.5 | Raptors -1.5
  • Moneyline: Knicks -105 | Raptors -125
  • Over/Under: Over 221 | Under 221

Knicks vs Raptors betting trend to know

The Knicks have only hit the 1H Moneyline in 19 of their last 45 away games for -15.55 Units and a -23% ROI. Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. Raptors.

How to watch Knicks vs Raptors

LocationScotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON
DateWednesday, January 28, 2026
Tip-off7:30 p.m. ET
TVSportsnet, MSG

Knicks vs Raptors latest injuries

Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here

Knicks will be among teams making 'aggressive' trade offers for Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo

With the NBA tradeline rapidly approaching, Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo could be on the move, and the Knicks very well could be suitors. 

After Shams Charania of ESPN reported that the nine-time All-Star is “ready for a new home,” either ahead of the Feb. 5 deadline or in the offseason, SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley reported that the Knicks “will be among teams making aggressive offers” for him. 

Begley adds that the Miami Heat will also be involved. 

The Knicks have also been linked to Portland Trail Blazers point guard Jrue Holiday, and Begley reported that teams interested in Antetokounmpo are under the impression that he would like to reunite with Holiday, as the duo previously played together in Milwaukee. 

The Knicks’ interest in Giannis is nothing new at this point. Begley previously reported that the Knicks and Bucks had cursory talks about an Antetokounmpo deal in August. The talks did not reach an advanced level, however.

Winning a title in New York appeals to Antetokounmpo, per Begley, and would be one reason why he sees them as a destination.

A two-time MVP, Antetokounmpo is averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists this season, but he is expected to miss 4-6 weeks with a calf strain.

Rotation Trust Level: Finding solutions and getting healthy

One of the Lakers’ underlying issues throughout the season has been their paltry bench scoring. While their starting lineup has been great, their bench has left much to be desired.

Rui Hachimura’s emergence in recent games as a viable scoring option off the bench has been a huge boost in that regard. For really the first time since joining the Lakers, Rui is not in the starting lineup but he’s not letting that impact him, as evidenced by Monday’s showing in Chicago.

When Austin Reaves soon returns, the Lakers should be healthy for the first time in a long time. So, on the precipice of that, let’s look at the current rotation.

Starters: Luka Dončić, LeBron James, Marcus Smart, Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton

Rui Hachimura

It’s still early in this new role for Rui, but his willingness to come off the bench and the groove he’s in are all encouraging signs for what could be coming.

Jarred Vanderbilt

It feels long ago that Vando was out of the rotation entirely. Now, he’s a consistent piece and while he’s never going to be able to offer much offensively, he’s found ways to impact the game again defensively.

Jaxson Hayes

Hayes certainly has the trust of Redick, at least relative to Deandre Ayton. Redick has turned to Hayes in recent games to close the contest.

Ideally, this is a short-term trend, but Hayes has also done well in that span, too. His high motor in contrast to Ayton certainly stands out.

Gabe Vincent

It’s been quite the fall for Vincent this season. After being a stalwart in the rotation last year, Vincent’s spot seems as tenous as ever. With Reaves set to return, someone is going to fall out of the rotation. Right now, it seems like that will be either Vincent or Drew Timme and there isn’t much of an argument for the former to keep getting minutes.

Drew Timme

Could Timme be the newest two-way signing to make an impact for the Lakers? It’s only been a handful of games, but he’s given the Lakers something they haven’t had. And with him in the rotation, the Lakers have a new look they can go to with multiple bigs on the floor.

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