Category: NBA

Boston Celtics (3-2) at Philadelphia 76ers (2-3)
Thursday, April 30, 2026
8:00 PM ET
Round 1 Game #6  Road Game #3
TV: Peacock/NBCSN
Radio:  98.5 The Sports Hub, 97.5 The Fanatic, Sirius XM
Xfinity Mobile Arena 
Officials: Marc Davis, Nick Buchert, Ray Acosta

The Celtics look to close out their first round series once again as they visit the Philadelphia 76ers for Game 6. The Celtics lead the series 3 games to 2. The Celtics dominated Game 1 with a 123-91 win over the 76ers. The 76ers topped the Celtics 111-97 in Game 2 to tie the game at 1 game each. The series shifted to Philadelphia where the Celtics squeezed out a win in Game 3 108-100 and dominated the 76ers 113-97 in Game 4.

After the blow out win in Philadelphia, it seemed as though the Celtics were primed to finish the series at home in Game 5. It appeared that they would do just that as they led by 7 at the half and by 13 in the 3rd quarter. But they completely fell apart in the 4th quarter to lose the game 113-97. The Celtics scored just 11 points in the 4th quarter, shooting just 3-22. They didn’t hit a single field goal in the final 7 minutes. At the same time, their defense fell apart, allowing the 76ers to score 28 points. The Celtics have won 2 games by 32 points in this series, only to lose the next game at home.

In the Brown and Tatum era, the Celtics are 7-4 in close out games on the road. They are 4-1 since 2022 in close out games on the road. Teams that are up 3-2 in a best of 7 series wins the series 84% of the time. 357 teams have gone up 3-2 in a series and 300 of those teams won the series. Of those teams, 170 won Game 6 to close out the series while 130 lost game 6 and won Game 7.

Since 2003, 17 teams have either won their first round series in either 4 or 5 games (74%). Since 2015, every team that won the championship has gotten past the first round in 5 games or less. The Celtics in 2024 won their first round series over the Heat 4 games to 1. This might seem like a dire statistic, but there is a positive note to add from Celtics history. In the 2008 playoffs, it took 7 games for the Celtics to get past Atlanta in the first round and those playoffs worked out just fine for the Celtics.

If the Celtics had one flaw this season, it was becoming complacent and allowing lesser teams to play harder than them. Along with Games 2 and 5 of this series where they looked complacent and allowed the and lost to the 76ers, of the Celtics 26 losses this season, there were several losses that were to tanking teams they should have beaten. These include losses to the Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, Indiana Pacers and Chicago Bulls. Since 2023, The Celtics are 8-1 after a playoff loss. 6 of those wins were on the road.

One of the advantages that the Celtics have is their depth. In Game 1, the Celtics got 37 points from their bench while the 76ers got 27 points from theirs. Of course, there were about 6 minutes of garbage time in that game. In Game 2, the 76ers got 21 points from their bench while the Celtics got 20 from theirs. In Game 3, the Celtics’ bench put up 35 points while the 76ers got just 14 points from theirs. In Game 4, the Celtics bench put up 57 points while the 76ers got 24 from theirs.

In Game 5, bench scoring was 29-25 in favor of the Celtics. A game after putting up 32 points, Payton Pritchard played just 26 minutes in Game 5 and only 4 minutes in the 4th quarter when the Celtics were struggling to score. The Celtics out-scored the 76ers by eight points in his 26 minutes and has been the Celtics 3rd best player in this series. Baylor Scheierman played just 8:39 in Game 5. Scheierman is shooting 46% from 3 in the series. Hopefully if the starters show they don’t have it in this game again, Joe will give his bench more minutes.

The Celtics come into this game with a clean injury report. once again. Joel Embiid is once again listed as probable for this game. He returned from an appendix removal to play in Game 4. Recovery for an appendectomy is anywhere from 20 days to 5 weeks and Embiid returned just 17 days after having his appendix removed. He played very well for them in Game 5 and I expect he will start and play big minutes in this game as well.

Probable Starting Matchups
PG: Derrick White vs Tyrese Maxey

SG: Jaylen Brown vs VJ Edgecombe

SF: Sam Hauser vs Kelly Oubre, Jr

PF: Jayson Tatum vs Paul George

C: Neemias Queta vs Joel Embiid

Celtics Reserves
Payton Pritchard
Hugo Gonzalez
Luka Garza
Jordan Walsh
Amare Williams
Baylor Scheierman
Max Shulga
Nikola Vucevic
Ron Harper, Jr
Delano Banton
John Tonje

2-Way Players
None

Injuries/Out
None

Head Coach
Joe Mazzulla

76ers Reserves
Andre Drummond
Quentin Grimes
Kyle Lowry
Justin Edwards
Trendon Watford
Dalen Terry
Dominick Barlow
Jabari Walker

2-Way Players
MarJon Beauchamp
Tyrese Martin

Injuries/Out
Joel Embiid (Appendix) probable

Head Coach
Nick Nurse

Key Matchups
Derrick White vs Tyrese Maxey
In Game 1, the Celtics were able to hold Maxey to 21 points on 20 shots along with 1 rebound and 8 assists while shooting 40% from the field and 25% from beyond the arc. He pretty much had his way in Game 2 with 29 points, 4 rebounds, 9 assists, and 2 steals while shooting 39.3% from the field and 41.7% from beyond the arc. In Game 3, he scored 31 points but took 31 shots to get them. He finished with 31 points, 6 assists, 1 steal and 2 blocks while shooting 38.7% from the field and 38.5% from beyond the arc. With Embiid’s return, Maxey took just 14 shots in Game 4 and finished with 22 points, 2 rebounds, 6 assists and 1 block. In Game 5, he finished with 25 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and 1 block while shooting 55.6% from the field and 30.3% from beyond the arc. The Celtics need to continue to make it a priority to defend him.

Neemias Queta vs Joel Embiid
After missing the first 3 games of the series, Embiid returned to the 76ers for Game 4.  He started out strong, scoring the 76ers first 8 points and drawing 2 quick fouls on Queta.   He played 34 minutes, finishing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block while shooting 42.9% from the field and 16.7% from beyond the arc.   He struggle a bit in the first half of Game 5, but took over the 2nd half as he played more in the paint and finished with 33 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists and 1 block while shooting 52.2% from the field but going 0-5 from three. Queta needs to find a way to stay out of foul trouble and to counter Embiid on defense. 

Honorable Mention
Jayson Tatum vs Paul George 
Neither of these players were able to play in any of the 4 games between Boston and Philly this season.  In Game 1, George finished with 17 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assist while shooting 50% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc, but he only took 8 shots. In game 2, he finished with 19 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and 1 block while shooting 53.8% from the field and 40.3% from beyond the arc.  In Game 3, he finished with 18 points, no rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals while shooting 50% from the field and 57.1% from beyond the arc.  In Game 4, he finished with 16 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals and 1 block while shooting 46.2% from the field and 3-3 from beyond the arc.  In Game 5, he finished with 16 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 steals while shooting 46.2% from the field and 44.4% from beyond the arc.  The Celtics need to defend him better, especially on the perimeter. 

Keys to the Game
Defense – As always, defense is absolutely the key to winning this, and every, game.  Defense becomes even more important in the playoffs.  It is very true that defense wins championships.   In Game 1, the Celtics held the 76ers to 38.9% from the field and 17.4% from beyond the arc. In game 2, the Celtics defense faltered as the 76ers shot 47.8% from the field and 48.7% from beyond the arc.  In Game 3, the 76ers shot 43.7% from the field and 34.3% from beyond the arc. In Game 4, the Celtics held the 76ers to 41.3% from the field and 30% from beyond the arc.  The Celtics allowed the 76ers to shoot 50% from the field and 35.7% from beyond the arc in Game 5.  When the Celtics shot weren’t falling in Game 5, the Celtics defense disappeared also.  The Celtics have to play tough, physical, lock down defense from the opening tip until the final buzzer if they want to win this game. 

Rebound – Rebounding is also one of the biggest keys to winning every game and has definitely been a big factor in this series. In the regular season, the Celtics were 43-12  in games that they tied or out-rebounded opponents and just 11-13 in games in which they were out-rebounded. In Game 1, the Celtics out-rebounded the 76ers 43-40. In Game 2, they out-rebounded the 76ers 50-42, but they were unable to capitalize on them since they shot so poorly.  In Game 3, the Celtics once again out-rebounded the 76ers 45-37.   And, in their big win in Game 4, they out-rebounded the 76ers 51-30.  In Game 5, especially in the 2nd half, they stopped fighting for rebounds and the 76ers had 47 rebounds to 49 for the Celtics.  They have to fight harder to grab rebounds than the 76ers if they want to win this game.  Much of rebounding is effort and the Celtics need to put out more effort to grab rebounds then the 76ers.

3 Point Shooting – The Celtics are shooting 36.1% as a team from beyond the arc (5th) while the 76ers are shooting 34.9% from beyond the arc (8th).  The Celtics make 16.8 threes a game (3rd) while the 76ers make 11.8 thees a game (6th). The Celtics were 2-4 in last year’s playoffs. 0-2 in this year’s playoffs and 14-17 in the regular season when they shoot under 34% from the field.  In Game 2, they shot 26% from beyond the arc and in Game 5, they shot 28.2% on threes.  They have to stay focused and they need to work to get open and move the ball to find the best shots. If the 3’s aren’t falling, they need to take the ball inside. And they need to defend the perimeter or the 76ers will beat them with 3’s of their own. The Celtics need to stay focused on offense and play tough perimeter defense in order to win this game.

Effort and Focus for 48 Minutes – The Celtics have to play with extra effort overall for all 4 quarters. In their losses in Game 2 and Game 5, they allowed the 76ers to play with more energy than them for periods of time during the game. They play well for stretches but let up and allow the Sixers to surge ahead. The 76ers will be playing for their playoff lives and so will play hard and desperate and with all out effort.  The Celtics must match that effort and they need to stay focused on playing the right way from the opening tip until the final buzzer. 

X-Factors
On the Road – The Celtics will be on the road once again and they will be facing a very hostile crowd.  Philly fans hate the Celtics because they have pretty much owned them in recent years.  They hate Jayson Tatum because the Celtics took him with Philly’s pick after the 76ers traded up to take Markelle Fultz. There will likely be a lot of boos and the Celtics need to play through them. They have to shake off the distractions of playing on the road gand stay focused on playing Celtics basketball..

Coaching – Joe Mazzulla is in his 4th season as Celtics’ head coach.  He won a title in 2024 with a very talented team that was packed with shooting stars.  Now he has to win in a different way since his personnel has changed and he did a great job in the regular season.   Nick Nurse is in his 8th season as a head coach overall and his 3rd as the 76ers head coach.  He won a title with the Raptors in 2019.  In the playoffs, coaching becomes more important as it becomes a game of adjustments as they play the same team game after game.  So far, Joe Mazzulla has come out ahead in the series but wasn’t able to push the right buttons in Game 5 and so the coaching chess game will continue in Game 6. 

Officiating – Officiating is always an x-factor.  Every crew calls  the game differently.  Some call it tight and call every bit of contact while others allow more physical play.  Some favor the home team while others call both sides evenly.  We have seen them call offensive fouls on Jaylen Brown far more than they have all season and Neemias Queta seems to be in constant foul trouble.  The Celtics have to adjust to the way the refs are calling the game and not allow the calls, no calls and bad calls to affect their focus on playing the game. 

Official Report
Crew Chief: Marc Davis
Davis has called 589 games since the 2018-19 season and 100 playoff games. His home won/loss record is 34-32. He averages 18.9 fouls against the home team and 19.0 fouls against the road team. The Celtics are 1-2 with Davis this year and 3-4 with him last year. The 76ers are 2-4 with Davis this year and 0-2 last year.

Referee: Nick Buchert
Buchert has called 515 games since the 2018-19 season and 15 playoff games. His home won/loss record is 34-33. He averages 20.1 fouls against the home team and 20.1 fouls against the road team. The Celtics are 3-3 with Buchert this year and 3-1 last year. The 76ers are 2-4 with Buchert this year and 2-3 last year.

Umpire: Ray Acosta
Acosta has called 498 games since the 2018-19 season and 6 playoff games. His home won/loss record is 38-33. He averages 19.5 fouls against the home team and 19.8 fouls against the road team. The Celtics are 2-1 with Acosta this year and 2-2 last year. The 76ers are 2-4 with Buchert this year and 1-3 last year.

With the offseason officially underway, speculation surrounding the Suns’ offseason will begin. Many fans just wrapped up watching the Suns’ exit interviews with Brian Gregory and Mat Ishbia and are now excited to see where this team is headed.

That being said, there was some news that dropped recently from the Marc Stein Substack. This was tailored around one of the two players on the roster who could see an extension this offseason. That player is Dillon Brooks.

Brooks came over this year from the Houston Rockets in the Kevin Durant trade and was viewed as a positive asset, but not in all the ways many perceived. See, he has this villainous attitude, one he certainly embraced here in Phoenix, and many were uncertain how that would translate there. Well, he proved those doubters wrong and had a great year in Phoenix.

The wing this year averaged a career-high in points and rebounds, with 20.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1 steal, and44/34/84 from the field. For someone whose role has fluctuated in different situations, he rose to the occasion with Jalen Green missing most of the season. Brooks was tasked with being the second-best offensive player most nights and succeeded in that role.

This is where it makes sense for both parties to want to keep him long-term. The fit seemed to work, and not only does he represent the culture the Suns want of hard work, hustle, and heart over everything, but the fans really bought into this villain mentality that rubbed off in a good way on his teammates.

Per Stein:

The Suns, I’m told, indeed want to secure a long-term stay for Brooks after role in establishing them as the West’s foremost regular season surprise tea but sources say that Phoenix is also mindful of the fact that an extension would kick in for Brooks’ age-32 season since there is currently only one season left on his contract in 2026-27 at $21 million.

The max extension that Brooks can command is a four-year deal in the $125 million range but the expectation is that a new deal will not reach that upper threshold.

As we can see from the snippet via Stein’s Substack, the Suns want Brooks back. We know he makes $21 million next year and $22 million this year. With him able to get an extension of up to 4 years and $125M, that would price him at $31.25 million a year, which is a big pay raise. Luckily, though, they may be able to generate a team-friendly deal, one that is still a pay raise but not completely limiting the Suns’ future financial abilities.

https://t.co/khQ3jw6E7Opic.twitter.com/IDehA13RHi

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) April 28, 2026

Looking at the future and knowing that guys like Ryan Dunn, Oso Ighodaro, Rasheer Fleming, and Khaman Maluach in a few seasons will need paydays could make them hesitant about the max for Brooks. Especially with how this team is shaped up, with $20+ million+ in dead cap from the Bradley Beal sign-and-trade last year, they cannot handicap themselves too much.

That is why I think a 4-year, $100 million deal is perfect for a guy like Brooks. A little bump up in money with the salary cap rising since he signed his last deal is good for a guy who embodies everything the team wants him to be. At age 30, this allows him to grow alongside Devin Booker and remain on the same timeline as the star the franchise remains committed to.

What do you think, though? Should the Suns retain Brooks or maybe even look to move off him? If they do extend him, what deal would you like him brought back on?

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

The Detroit Pistons leaned on their size in Game 5 to keep this series alive, but that kind of emphasis typically invites adjustments in the postseason.

If nothing else, the Orlando Magic shouldn’t allow the boards to be dominated again.

My Pistons vs. Magic predictions and NBA picks focus on where that adjustment will show up most in Game 6 on Friday, May 1.

Our best Pistons vs Magic SGP for Game 6

SGP leg #1: Jalen Duren Under 13.5 points (-112)

Jalen Duren isn’t getting anywhere near his usual offensive workload in this series. The Detroit Pistons center hasn’t cleared 12 points in a game after averaging 19.5 in the regular season, largely because he’s taking just 7.6 shots per game compared to 11.5.

Even with four second-chance points on five offensive rebounds in Game 5, Duren finished with just 12 points.

Don’t expect him to shine offensively. The postseason isn’t built for players like Duren to score in volume.

SGP leg #2: Jalen Duren Under 9.5 rebounds (-155)

Duren has yet to reach double-digit rebounds in this series after averaging 10.5 per game in the regular season. Even with five offensive boards in Game 5, he finished with just nine total rebounds.

This leg is heavily juiced, but that doesn’t deter this same-game parlay, as the Orlando Magic’s Game 6 adjustment should further limit Duren’s rebounding.

SGP leg #3: Magic +3 (-110)

If Duren is slowed in Game 6, Orlando should continue its trend of going 4-1 against the spread in this series, exceeding bookmakers’ expectations by more than seven points per game — even including the lone ATS loss.

---

Covers NBA betting tools

• NBA odds
• NBA picks
• NBA player props
• Best NBA betting sites
• Today’s NBA matchups

---

See our full Pistons vs Magic Game 6 preview

Get Douglas Farmer's full breakdown of this game, including his best bet, plus the latest NBA odds, injuries, and betting trends, in his Pistons vs Magic predictions for Game 6.

More Covers NBA Playoff content

NBA Championship odds

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

NBA Finals MVP odds

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

Live NBA Playoff bracket

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

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

Herald Celtics veteran has clear message for struggling starter ahead of Game 6

GlobeCeltics at 76ers Game 6 preview: Can Boston close it out on the road?

Former Hawks executive Lester T. Jones Jr. sentenced to over three years in prison for embezzling $3.7 million from team

Cade Cunningham scores 45, Pistons beat Magic to avoid elimination

CelticsBlog Derrick White focused on having fun through shooting struggles

How the 76ers exposed Celtics’ drop coverage

Celtics, 76ers Game 6 injury reports: who’s in, who’s out

CLNS Media Celtics Confident Entering Game 6 Despite Collapse at Home

Time for Celtics to give Payton Pritchard Bigger role vs 76ers | Still Poddable

NBC Sports BostonHow a former Celtic kept Jordan Walsh ready for his next opportunity

NESNCeltics’ Derrick White Opens Up About Shooting Woes Before Game 6 Against 76ers

NBA Legend Issues Public Apology To 76ers After Shocking Game 5 Comeback

How to Watch Game 6 of Celtics vs. 76ers Series

Jaylen Brown Wears Blame For Celtics’ Stunning Game 5 Choke Vs. 76ers

Celtics Star Admits Uncomfortable Truth After Game 5 Implosion Vs. 76ers

Mass Live Ex-Celtics guard giving Lakers full playoff experience – good and bad

Experts release Celtics vs. 76ers Game 6 prediction with Joel Embiid off the injury report

Celtics WireDefending Brown, Embiid key to Celtics-76ers series, says Grimes

Vucevic on how he, Celtics can play better vs. Embiid, 76ers

Celtics’ Payton Pritchard quickly moving on from Game 5 loss to Sixers

Celtics history: Jones, Heinsohn draft; Russell swap; Rivers hire; Bass born; Tatum gets 60

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown wants team to make Sixers’ Joel Embiid work more

Tyrese Maxey vows to bring fans a “deserved” win at home vs. Celtics

Celtics’ Game 5 struggles were due to the Sixers defense

Celtics’ Jayson Tatum pinpoints defense as key factor for Game 6

Celtics’ Jayson Tatum speaks on fourth quarter struggles vs. 76ers

The Athletic The Bounce: Can anybody close out a playoff series?

NBA head coach Rajon Rondo? Don’t rule it out. ‘I know I can do it now’

NBA playoffs first-round series odds: Knicks favored to close out Hawks on the road

Boston Sports Journal Simone: Payton Pritchard needs more minutes

Hardwood Houdini Derrick White not letting shooting frustrations distract from what matters most

Celtics carry painful lessons from playoffs past into pivotal Game 6 vs. 76ers

Celtics must bear in mind biggest Joel Embiid advantage ahead of Game 6

NBA has Luka Garza to thank for insane Eastern Conference playoff picture

Joe Mazzulla playing with fire in terms of bizarre lineup decisions

Nobody loves playing with their food more than the Celtics in the playoffs

East rival unsurprisingly has interest in poaching from Celtics’ front office

Tyrese Maxey’s fiery declaration explains stunning feat in Game 5 win over Celtics

Chowder and ChampionsCeltics’ Nikola Vucevic Experiment Has to Come to an End

Locked on CelticsThe Boston Celtics are FINE, but also DOOMED, and EXACTLY What We Should Have Expected

CLNS Media/YouTubeRick Mahorn & Cedric Maxwell on HOW Celtics Can Guard Joel Embiid: “Do Your Work EARLY!”

Gary Washburn: “Everything Changes” if Celtics LOSE 76ers Series | Big 3 NBA Podcast

Grimes on Defending Jaylen Brown: I Feel Like I’m Doing a Good Job | Celtics vs 76ers Pregame

Derrick White Explains Taking Fewer Shots in Game 5 | Celtics vs 76ers Pregame

Nikola Vucevic on Game Plan to Slow Down Joel Embiid | Celtics vs 76ers Pregame

Are Celtics in TROUBLE After Game 5 Loss vs 76ers? | Celtics Daily

WFMD Free Talk Joel Embiid is the only 76er worth trusting with Philadelphia’s back against the wall

HeavyCeltics Get Best Possible Injury News Before Game 6 vs. 76ers

Celtics Receive Worrying Development Over Two Stars Before Massive Game 6

Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Experiences Personal Setback Ahead of Game 6 Against 76ers

Jaylen Brown Makes Announcement Hours Before Boston Celtics Game 6 Against Philadelphia 76ers

Celtics Predicted to Fall to Surging 76ers Amid Looming Exit

Celtics’ Derrick White Makes Honest Admission Ahead of 76ers Showdown

Celtics Announce Joel Embiid Plan Before Game 6 — But There’s a Catch

NBA .com 3 things to watch in Celtics-76ers Game 6

NBA Mailbag: What’s the biggest key for Celtics-Sixers Game 6?

Sixers Wire Joel Embiid addresses gravity he creates within Sixers offense

Sixers discuss their swarming defense in Game 5 win over Celtics

Sixers describe their energy, focus after shootaround ahead of Game 6

Basketball NetworkSkip Bayless calls Joel Embiid the biggest tease in NBA history: “This guy has been the alien for the last decade when he feels like it”

Clutch PointsWhy Joel Embiid’s resurgence gives the 76ers chance to beat Boston

Men’s HealthNBA Champion Jaylen Brown Wants You to Talk (And Occasionally Joke) About Hair Loss

Liberty BallersWith Joel Embiid back and dominating, Sixers have real shot at forcing Game 7

The Sports Hub ‘Just not good enough’: Second-half collapse cost Celtics in Game 5

SI .comHow the Sixers’ Defense Forced Game 6

6 Boston Celtics Thoughts Heading Into Game 6 vs. Sixers, Including Confusing Offense

Knicks’ Playoff Path Fortunes Starting to Look Up in a Big Way

Jayson Tatum’s Girlfriend Ella Mai Shares Rare Post Amid Missing Celtics Playoffs

ESPNNBA playoffs 2026: Five first-round trends we’re watching

Celtics Chronicle Issues At Home?

ESPN/YouTubeWill the 76ers be able to take down the Celtics 👀 Michael Wilbon isn’t so sure 😬 | Get Up

Fan Recap Celtics Forced To Rethink Payton Pritchard Role

Barstool Sports There Is Seemingly Nothing The Celtics Love More Than Dragging Their Entire Fanbase Through Emotional He** In The Playoffs

The Straits TimesPhiladelphia 76ers out to ‘do whatever it takes’ in Game 6 against Boston Celtics

NESN/YouTubeWhat’s Causing Celtics To Drop Winnable Games With Dan Greenberg

NBA on ESPN/YouTubeCONCERNS for the Celtics after Game 5 loss? Perk says Jaylen Brown isn’t getting it done | NBA Today

The Sporting NewsCeltics Game 5 loss further proves Boston’s reliance on the three-point line can be a kryptonite

Why Brad Stevens’ Executive of the Year award has the Celtics eyeing another title run

NBC Sports PhiladelphiaSixers appreciate George doing ‘everything’ through roller coaster of Celtics series 

The Los Angeles Lakers are relocating and rebranding.

No, not those Lakers. Well yes, but not exactly.

The Lakers announced Thursday that its G-League affiliate South Bay Lakers will no longer play their home games at UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California, instead moving the team to the Greater Palm Springs region and renaming them the Coachella Valley Lakers.

At the start of the 2026-27 NBA G-League season, the Coachella Valley Lakers will play their home games Acrisure Arena, an 11,000-max capacity multi-purpose event venue in Palm Desert.

"I have enjoyed a long-time relationship with Jerry and Jeanie Buss, Lon Rosen and Linda Rambis. And I am beyond thrilled to have the Coachella Valley Lakers call OVG’s Acrisure Arena their home. Go Lakers," Oak View Group Senior Partner Irving Azoff said in a news release.

The venue has been mainly used for concerts, comedy shows and hockey games. The facility serves as the home of the American Hockey League affiliate of the Seattle Kraken, the Coachella Valley Firebirds.

The Lakers have also hosted a couple of NBA preseason games at Acrisure Arena in 2024, against the Minnesota Timberwolves and Phoenix Suns on Oct. 4 and 6, respectively.

"Moving the Lakers G League team to the Coachella Valley is an incredible opportunity for the organization,” Lakers president of business operations Lon Rosen said in a press release. “The Lakers have had a strong presence in the region for decades, from the Showtime Lakers holding training camp in the 1980s to more recent preseason games.

"We are looking forward to extending that experience and becoming a staple for Coachella Valley sports and entertainment. Acrisure Arena is the perfect modern venue that provides an incredible fan-first experience, while ensuring players have the premium facilities and space they need on game day."

Season ticket deposits starting at $100 per account are available online at coachellavalleylakers.com. Season tickets are fully refundable at the time of seat selection, the team said.

In two decades, the franchise has recorded 60 NBA call-ups across 38 players.

The Lakers' G-League team has a knack for finding raw talent and developing them into quality NBA talent, from current Laker Austin Reaves, two-time champion Alex Caruso, NBA All-Star Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, Lonzo Ball and even Kyle Kuzma, who played a role in the Lakers' 2020 NBA championship.

And it's been the case most recently with Bronny James Jr., Dalton Knecht, Adou Thiero, Kobe Bufkin and Nick Smith Jr. This past season, the South Bay Lakers clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference with a 26-10 regular-season record.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lakers G-League team moves to Palm Springs now Coachella Valley Lakers

After missing the end of the regular season and the start of the postseason, Austin Reaves made his playoff debut for the Lakers in Game 5.

He received a loud ovation from Lakers fans and played like he didn’t miss a beat. Reaves was back, knocking down shots, drawing fouls and injecting the team with his try-hard energy.

The result didn’t go in LA’s way, as they lost to Houston, but after the game, Reaves talked about enjoying the moment and feeding off the energy the home fans gave him.

“As I ran out tonight, for the first time in a long time, I got a really good chills feeling with the atmosphere, the crowd,” Reaves said. “And I think that’s just because when something you love is taken away from you for four weeks with an injury and then you get, like I said, thrown in the fire in a game like this. I could say I wouldn’t want it any other way, but I kind of do, but it was a lot of fun.”

Ideally, Reaves would’ve never gotten hurt and could’ve played in all these games, but the fact that he was able to come back and be this impactful immediately is a testament to his quality as a player and the competitive fire he has.

Austin Reaves’ return for Game 5 wasn’t a surprise considering that he was questionable for Games 3 and 4, but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. With Reaves dealing with a Grade 2 oblique strain, which typically takes 4-6 weeks to recover from, the Lakers weren’t expecting him to play during the first round.

Not only did he come back earlier than expected, but if they advance to the second round, it’ll likely be because of Reaves’ play.

After the game, Reaves talked about the effort he’s put into getting back as soon as possible.

“It’s been a grind,” Reaves said. “I’ve been running around Los Angeles doing everything I could possibly do to get back to this moment. We’ve done it and it feels good. I love playing basketball. It’s my happy place and it was nice to get back out there. Obviously, I wish I played a little better. I wish I made a couple more shots. But at the end of the day, I had fun out there and it was good to compete.”

While Reaves’ return was the only good news the Lakers got from Game 5, it is a positive update. Reaves is back, played well, and if he can replicate that for Game 6, hopefully, it means there won’t be a Game 7.

These are the moments players live for, and thanks to his recovery, Reaves is in a position to have a special moment in this series and help LA finally eliminate this pesky Rockets squad.

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

The Lakers are relocating and renaming their South Bay G League team, with the transition happening ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The South Bay Lakers will be renamed the Coachella Valley Lakers and will relocate to the Greater Palm Springs region, playing their home games at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, the team announced on Thursday. 

“Moving the Lakers G League team to the Coachella Valley is an incredible opportunity for the organization,” Lakers president of business operations Lon Rosen said in a statement.

“The Lakers have had a strong presence in the region for decades, from the Showtime Lakers holding training camp in the 1980s to more recent preseason games. We are looking forward to extending that experience and becoming a staple for Coachella Valley sports and entertainment. Acrisure Arena is the perfect modern venue that provides an incredible fan-first experience, while ensuring players have the premium facilities and space they need on game day,” Rosen added.

The Lakers have played at least one preseason game at Acrisure Arena, which opened in December 2022, every year since 2023. 

Acrisure Arena, which has a capacity of around 11,00 spectators, also hosts the Coachella Valley Firebirds, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Seattle Kraken. 

The Lakers G League team went 26-10 during the 2025-26 G League season, securing the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference before falling to the Stockton Kings in the conference finals. 

The Lakers G League team started as the Los Angeles D-Fenders in 2006 in the NBA’s D-League (renamed the G League in 2017), playing at the then-Staples Center before moving to the Toyota Sports Center ahead of the 2011-12 season.

The G League team rebranded as the South Bay Lakers in 2017, playing at UCLA Health Training Center over the last nine seasons.

Season ticket deposits, which start at $100 per account and are fully refundable at the time of seat selection, opened to the public starting Thursday.

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

LeBron James hit his breaking point after the Los Angeles Lakers let another one slip against the Houston Rockets.

“I’m too old for that shit,” he snapped — and honestly, he’s not wrong. Asking a 40-year-old to carry the scoring load in a must-win Game 6 on the road is a bad process.

If the Lakers are getting out of Texas with a series win, it won’t be because LeBron James goes nuclear as a scorer — it’ll be because he controls the game.

My Lakers vs. Rockets predictions and NBA picks for Friday, May 1, all point to one thing: LeBron leaning into playmaking mode and piling up assists, with Over 7.5 dimes the clearest edge on the board.

Lakers vs Rockets prediction

Who will win Lakers vs Rockets Game 6?

Lakers: We knew balance would be restored to this series after the Lakers grossly overperformed in the opening three games. The Rockets have rallied, but Reaves’ return in Game 5 gives L.A. an extra attacker, and he’ll look much sharper in Game 6 after shaking off the rust.

Lakers vs Rockets best bet: LeBron James Over 7.5 assists (-130)

After soaring well beyond expectations in the opening three wins versus the Houston Rockets, the Los Angeles Lakers have fallen back to earth with all the grace of a dinosaur-killing asteroid. 

Poor shooting and too many turnovers have flushed possessions down the crapper, sending the Lakers’ assist-to-FGM rate from north of 70% in the first three games to below 61% in those two defeats.

But what goes up must come down... and then go back up a bit.

Los Angeles leveled off in Game 5, and it will be LeBron James who steadies the ship. He’s still creating opportunities, but the team’s bad offensive efforts have burned his setups. LeBron has squeezed just 22 assists out of 37 potential assists over the past three contests.

Austin Reaves’ return should help cash in on those passes. He led L.A. in usage in Game 5 but looked rusty, going 4-for-16 in his first action since April 2. I expect Reaves to be much sharper on Friday, along with the rest of the Lakers’ offense.

In games with Reaves in and Luka Doncic out, James becomes the primary ball handler. And if we look across the Lakers’ season, we see LeBron dishing out around 10 assists per contest in those Luka-less spots with Reaves available.

LeBron had only seven assists on 13 potential dimes in Game 5, and his projections for Friday lean toward eight assists. With improved shooting and tightening the belt on turnovers, I don’t see L.A. pissing away James’ passes this time around.

Lakers vs Rockets same-game parlay

The Lakers will clean up their play with sharper shooting and fewer turnovers. Those miscues have gifted Houston 48 total points across the past two outings. The Rockets have capitalized on those mistakes for easy buckets, but they struggle when forced into a half-court game.

Reaves will work out the kinks and provide L.A. with a reliable scoring option alongside LeBron. He still finished with 22 points in Game 5, drawing fouls and converting at the line, and that will continue on Friday.

Lakers vs Rockets SGP

• Lakers +4.5
• LeBron James Over 7.5 assists
• Austin Reaves Over 22.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: Lone Star LeBron

Although LeBron might be too old to play games with the press, he’s more than spry enough to put the Lakers on his back.

On top of his passing prowess, James is projected to score 23+ points and grab 7+ rebounds — essentially his average stat line for this series.

LeBron is preaching offense heading back to Houston. He’s a man of his word.

Lakers vs Rockets SGP

• Lakers moneyline
• LeBron James Over 22.5 points
• LeBron James Over 7.5 assists
• LeBron James Over 6.5 assists

Lakers vs Rockets odds for Game 6

• Spread: Los Angeles +4.5 (-110) | Houston -4.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Los Angeles +150 | Houston -180
• Over/Under: Over 206.5 (-110) | Under 206.5 (-110)

Lakers vs Rockets betting trend to know

The Lakers are 10-4 SU and ATS in their last 14 games as underdogs. Find more NBA betting trends for Lakers vs. Rockets.

How to watch Lakers vs Rockets Game 6

Lakers vs Rockets latest injuries

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

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

The Detroit Pistons have bought themselves a little more time, but the odds are still stacked against them.

Even with the Orlando Magic entering Game 6 as slight underdogs, my Pistons vs. Magic predictions and NBA picks expect Detroit’s Game 5 momentum to fade on Friday, May 1.

Pistons vs Magic prediction

Who will win Pistons vs Magic Game 6?

Magic: Orlando entered the 2025-26 season seen by some as a possible Eastern Conference contender. Then injuries and frustrations knocked the Magic into the Play-In Tournament, while the Pistons surged to the top of the East.

But perhaps this series represents a return to priors. And if so, Orlando should prevail in Game 6.

Pistons vs Magic best bet: Jalen Duren Under 13.5 points (-112)

The fact that the Orlando Magic shot 17-of-38 from deep in Game 5 and still trailed throughout demands a closer look at the box score. Ah, there it is. The Detroit Pistons out-rebounded the Magic by 16, including snagging 16 offensive rebounds compared to just eight for Orlando.

The Pistons corralling 39.0% of available offensive rebounds is wildly impressive and something that the Magic should focus on correcting heading into this Game 6.

Jalen Duren led Detroit on the offensive glass, grabbing five offensive rebounds that yielded four points for the center. And yet, he still scored just 12 points. In fact, Duren has not cleared this points prop in any of the five games of this series.

He averaged 19.5 points per game in the regular season, which explains oddsmakers’ reluctance to lower this points prop further. He was also taking 11.5 shots per game, compared to just 7.6 shots per game in this series.

Chalk some of that up to the Magic defense. And chalk some of it up to the change in the game come the postseason. Possessions take longer, defenders are allowed to be more physical, and superstars tend to hang onto the ball even more often.

Duren is not going to become a scorer at any point in this series, not even when he hits the offensive glass.

Pistons vs Magic same-game parlay

While Duren has not scored more than 12 points in any game in this series, he also has not reached double-digit boards in any of the five games. Grabbing five offensive rebounds in Game 5 was vital, but Duren still topped out at nine total boards.

That offensive rebounding emphasis should be countered by Orlando tonight, and removing that gear from the Pistons should tilt this game toward the Magic.

Pistons vs Magic SGP

• Jalen Duren Under 13.5 points
• Jalen Duren Under 9.5 rebounds
• Magic +3

Our "from downtown" SGP: Onward, Orlando

If Detroit had not so thrived on the offensive glass in Game 5, it likely would have been the fourth game out of five in this series to cash its Under.

Betting against Duren because those offensive rebounds should not be as available also coincides with a bet on the Under as well as a bet on Orlando winning this series at home.

Pistons vs Magic SGP

• Jalen Duren Under 13.5 points
• Jalen Duren Under 9.5 rebounds
• Under 211
• Magic moneyline

Pistons vs Magic odds for Game 6

• Spread: Detroit -3 | Orlando +3
• Moneyline: Detroit -155 | Orlando +130
• Over/Under: Over 211 | Under 211

Pistons vs Magic betting trend to know

It should be mentioned somewhere in this preview that Orlando is 4-1 against the spread in this series, exceeding bookmakers’ expectations by an average of 7.1 points even when including the sole ATS loss. Find more NBA betting trends for Pistons vs. Magic.

How to watch Pistons vs Magic Game 6

Pistons vs Magic latest injuries

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

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

The Los Angeles Lakers blew a 3-0 series lead over the Houston Rockets and are trending the wrong way toward history in Game 6.

Oddsmakers have Los Angeles pegged as a road pup, and my same-game parlay gladly grabs the points with the Purple and Gold. The Lakers offense gets right with the help of LeBron James’ playmaking and Austin Reaves shaking off the rust.

Here are my best NBA picks and SGP predictions for Lakers vs. Rockets on May 1.

Our best Lakers vs Rockets SGP for Game 6

SGP leg #1: Lakers +4

The Los Angeles Lakers' offense came crashing back to earth in the past two games, but things balance out in Houston.

Austin Reaves will get over his rough return to power the L.A. attack, and the Lakers will tighten the bolts on turnovers, not allowing the Houston Rockets to score easy buckets off those miscues. Los Angeles has made good on the points, going 10-4 SU and ATS in its last 14 games as an underdog.

SGP leg #2: LeBron James Over 7.5 assists

With Luka Doncic out and Austin Reaves in, LeBron James has dished out around 10 assists in those spots. He’s made plenty of plays, but L.A.’s poor offensive efforts have either missed shots or coughed the ball up. Those passes won’t go to waste in Game 6, with James projected for eight or more dimes.

SGP leg #3: Austin Reaves Over 22.5 points

Austin Reaves was just 4-for-16 from the floor in his first game back since April 2 but made up for those misses by getting to the foul line, finishing with 22 points in 34 minutes.

He topped the Lakers in usage in Game 5 and will be much sharper in this second contest. Given his playing time and touches, Reaves will put up 23+ points on Friday night.

---

Covers NBA betting tools

• NBA odds
• NBA picks
• NBA player props
• Best NBA betting sites
• Today’s NBA matchups

---

See our full Lakers vs Rockets Game 6 preview

Get Jason Logan's full breakdown of this game, including his best bet, plus the latest NBA odds, injuries, and betting trends, in his Lakers vs Rockets predictions for Game 6.

More Covers NBA Playoff content

NBA Championship odds

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

NBA Finals MVP odds

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

Live NBA Playoff bracket

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

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

The Minnesota Timberwolves can wrap up their first-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets with a victory in Game 6. The Timberwolves led the series 3-1 before losing Game 5 125-113 on Monday in Denver. A win by Minnesota sends it to the second round to face the San Antonio Spurs. The Nuggets are favored by 5.5 points in Game 6.

How to watch Denver Nuggets vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

• Date: Thursday, April 30

• Time: 9:30 p.m. ET / 6:30 p.m. PT

• Where: Target Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota

• TV Channels: ESPN

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

Odds

• Spread: Minnesota Timberwolves +5.5

• Moneyline: Minnesota Timberwolves +200 (31.8%) / Denver Nuggets -250 (68.2%)

• Over/Under: 225.5

Series results, schedule (all times Eastern)

Game 1:Nuggets 116, Timberwolves 105
Game 2:Timberwolves 119, Nuggets 114
Game 3:Timberwolves 113, Nuggets 96
Game 4:Timberwolves 112, Nuggets 96
Game 5:Nuggets 125, Timberwolves 113
Game 6: Thu., April 30, at Minnesota (9:30 p.m., NBC/Peacock)
*Game 7: Sat., May 2, at Denver (TBD)

*if necessary

The Boston Celtics will try to close out the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 6 of their first-round playoff series. The 76ers already won one elimination game, beating the Celtics 113-97 in Game 5 to extend the series. If Boston wins, it will advance to the second round of the playoffs to face the winner of the Atlanta Hawks-New York Knicks series. The Celtics are favored by 5.5 points in Game 6.

How to watch Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers

• Date: Thursday, April 30

• Time: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT

• Where: Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• TV Channels: Peacock, NBCSN

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

Odds

• Spread: Philadelphia 76ers +5.5

• Moneyline: Philadelphia 76ers +190 (33.0%) / Boston Celtics -235 (67.0%)

• Over/Under: 212.5

Series results, schedule (all times Eastern)

Game 1:Celtics 123, 76ers 91
Game 2:76ers 111, Celtics 97
Game 3:Celtics 108, 76ers 100
Game 4:Celtics 128, 76ers 96
Game 5:76ers 113, Celtics 97
*Game 6: Thu., April 30 at Philadelphia (7:30 p.m., Peacock, NBCSN)
*Game 7: Sat., May 2 at Boston (TBD)if necessary

The New York Knicks will try to close out the Atlanta Hawks in Game 6 of their first-round playoff series. The Knicks have won the past two games to take a 3-2 lead in the series. If New York wins Game 6, it will advance to the second round and face the winner of the Philadelphia 76ers-Boston Celtics series. The Knicks are favored by 2.5 points in Game 6.

How to watch New York Knicks vs. Atlanta Hawks

• Date: Thursday, April 30

• Time: 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT

• Where: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, Georgia

• TV Channels: ESPN

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

Odds

• Spread: Atlanta Hawks +2.5

• Moneyline: Atlanta Hawks +118 (43.7%) / New York Knicks -145 (56.3%)

• Over/Under: 213.5

Series results, schedule (all times Eastern)

Game 1:Knicks 113, Hawks 102
Game 2:Hawks 107, Knicks 106
Game 3:Hawks 109, Knicks 108
Game 4:Knicks 114, Hawks 98
Game 5:Knicks 126, Hawks 97
Game 6: Thu., April 30, at Atlanta (7 p.m., ESPN)
*Game 7: Sat., May 2, at New York (TBD)

*if necessary

After falling behind 3-0 to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Houston Rockets have some life again – winning Game 4 and Game 5 to bring the series back to Texas for a Game 6.

Arguably the most bizarre part of all of this is that the Rockets’ have managed this without their leading scorer and best player, Kevin Durant. 

Given how notorious Durant is, this raises an interesting question: are the Rockets a better team without Durant? 

The answer is obviously a resounding no. But then, in a weird way, it is also yes. When the Rockets initially traded for Durant, I was skeptical that it would elevate them to the next level in the way they thought it would. 

Even at the relatively geriatric age of 37, Durant is still one of the most formidable scorers in the association. But so much of Houston’s success last year was predicated on their youth and athleticism sparking easy offense in transition. That just isn’t who Durant is. And since he’s more of a ceiling raiser than a floor enhancer on offense, the value he adds in the halfcourt doesn’t justify what they lose in turnover creation.

We saw this signal in the regular season. In his minutes, the Rockets had a pedestrian change in their point differential (49th percentile, per Cleaning the Glass). Durant improved their offense (+3.4 points per 100 possessions), but the hit to their defensive rating was slightly higher (+4.1 per 100). 

The bottom line here is the Rockets’ halfcourt offense is too flawed for Durant to fix. So, trying to win the turnover battle is still their best avenue for success. That’s exactly what’s happened in the last two games. In Games 4 and 5, Houston has won the turnover battle 39-24 and the points off of turnover battle 48-32. 

Even the miniature Reed Sheppard does a better job of defensive playmaking (93rd percentile steal rate) than The Slim Reaper (17th percentile steal rate). When it looked like the Rockets were going to choke another game away down the stretch, it was the sophomore guard who grabbed it by its balls, literally:

REED SHEPPARD STEALS THE BALL FROM LEBRON & DUNKS IT. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/LUTtH3dlNq

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 30, 2026

Of course, this doesn’t explain how the Rockets lost Games 1 and 3, which Durant also wasn’t in uniform for (frankly, nothing can explain their Game 3 collapse). It also helps that the Lakers are shooting just 24.5% from three in the last two games after hitting 46.5% of those shots in the first three games of the series. 

Still, it is a fascinating case study in the idea that acquiring better teams doesn’t necessarily make your team better. And with the recent news that Durant is a no-go for Game 6 as well, who knows, maybe Houston takes this thing all the way to seven.