Category: NBA

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Game 3 is where this series tightens up, with the Phoenix Suns back home and urgency starting to drive pace and star usage.

This same-game parlay leans into a modest total for two efficient offenses, plus a spread that gives Phoenix enough cushion.

My Thunder vs. Suns predictions see it all run through Devin Booker, whose scoring consistency makes him the safest anchor on the board.

Our best Thunder vs Suns SGP for Game 3

The Oklahoma City Thunder have an NBA-best 66 wins, including the postseason. However, they are just 40-43-1 ATS. The Thunder are 20-20 ATS on the road and 19-18 as the road favorite. Conversely, the Phoenix Suns are 24-19 ATS at home and 12-6 as the home underdog. The Suns have covered in 23 of 39 games following a loss and in 35 of 56 games against Western Conference opponents.

The Thunder and Suns have hit the Over in five of seven head-to-head matchups this season, including one of two games in the first-round playoff series. The 214.5 total is set a bit low for two offenses that can effectively put up points, especially if Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks are playing with extra motivation.

Devin Booker has scored 20+ in 13 straight games, averaging 26.9 points along the way. In that span, he scored 23+ in eight games and finished with exactly 22 points in four more. Booker averaged exactly 22.5 points in four matchups with the Thunder, hitting the Over twice and finishing with 22 and 21 in the other contests.

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Even with a banged-up Anthony Edwards, the Minnesota Timberwolves have found their playoff gear — and they’ve got Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets on the ropes heading into Game 4.

While Minnesota’s smothering defense got the headlines after limiting Denver to 34% shooting in Friday’s win, the offense is also rounding into form behind the red-hot Donte DiVincenzo.

My Nuggets vs. Timberwolves predictions point to another strong showing from DiVincenzo.

Read on for my free NBA picks for this high-stakes battle on Saturday, April 25, and don't miss tip-off at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

Nuggets vs Timberwolves prediction

Who will win Nuggets vs Timberwolves Game 4?

Timberwolves: I trust Minnesota to have the upper hand on both ends of the floor, especially if Anthony Edwards can rediscover his Game 2 mojo.

Nuggets vs Timberwolves best bet: Donte DiVincenzo Over 11.5 points (-105)

It says a lot about the Minnesota Timberwolves’ growth that Anthony Edwards’ knee issue hasn’t submarined their chances in this first-round series. 

Instead, the rest of the Minnesota backcourt has answered the call, with Donte DiVincenzo, Jaden McDaniels, and Ayo Dosunmu combining for 60 points in Game 3.

The hosts will need a similar script this weekend to grab a 3-1 lead, and that means a neon green light for DiVincenzo, who’s nailed this points prop Over in all three games so far in the series.

DiVincenzo's hot streak includes 11-for-22 shooting from downtown, and the Denver Nuggets have struggled to contain his speed and quick release coming off screens and DHOs. Minnesota had a 21-7 edge in fast break points in Thursday’s victory, and the T-Wolves guard is a big part of that transition attack.

This O/U line is right around his regular-season mark of 12.2 points per game, but the T-Wolves need even more of DiVincenzo’s shotmaking without Edwards at full strength.

Nuggets vs Timberwolves same-game parlay

The T-Wolves have been the tougher, more imposing team through three contests, and DiVincenzo continues to burn the Nuggets from downtown.

Although Nikola Jokic couldn’t get anything to fall in Game 3, I expect a bounce-back performance. The three-time MVP has averaged 27.4 ppg and 12.4 rebounds per game in his playoff career.

Nuggets vs Timberwolves SGP

• Donte DiVincenzo Over 11.5 points
• Timberwolves +1.5
• Nikola Jokic to record a double-double

Our "from downtown" SGP: Jaden Keeps Backing It Up

McDaniels didn’t hold back in blasting the Denver defense earlier this week — and then backed it up with 20 points in Game 3, capped off with a monster slam.

He also chipped in 10 boards on Thursday while holding Jamal Murray to just 16 points. Put simply, McDaniels’ two-way play is key to a Minnesota victory here.

Nuggets vs Timberwolves SGP

• Jaden McDaniels Over 15.5 points
• Jaden McDaniels Over 4.5 rebounds
• Jamal Murray Under 25.5 points
• Timberwolves +1.5

Nuggets vs Timberwolves odds for Game 4

• Spread: Nuggets -120 | Timberwolves +100
• Moneyline: Nuggets -1.5 (-110) | Timberwolves +1.5 (-110)
• Over/Under: Over 229.5 (-110) | Under 229.5 (-110)

Nuggets vs Timberwolves betting trend to know

The Under went 28-14 in Minnesota's 42 regular-season outings at Target Center this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Nuggets vs. Timberwolves.

How to watch Nuggets vs Timberwolves Game 4

Nuggets vs Timberwolves latest injuries

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Houston Rockets vs Los Angeles Lakers

April 24, 2026

Location: Toyota Center – Houston, Texas

TV:Prime Video

Radio:KBME Sports Talk 790 / KLTN 102.9 (en español)

Online: Prime Video

Time: 7:00 PM CST

Probable Starting Lineups

Rockets: Reed Sheppard, Amen Thompson, Tari Eason, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun

Lakers: Luke Kennard, Marcus Smart, Jake Laravia, Lebron James, Deandre Ayton

Who will stay and who will go?

It's the question some of the top players in men's college basketball need an answer to as the deadline to declare for the NBA draft has arrived on Friday, April 24.

Entering your name into the 2026 NBA Draft doesn't shut the door completely on college eligibility, as the deadline is when players must decide to forgo their college eligibility or retain it by "testing the waters." Some people have decided to return to college hoops while others have entered the transfer portal while putting their name into draft consideration, and they have another month before they have to officially withdraw and return to their respective college program.

Still, several top prospects have already decided the pro ranks will be their next career stop. Here's who has decided to enter the 2026 NBA Draft and who still hasn't made a decision yet with the deadline approaching, as well as other key dates for the process:

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A series doesn’t truly begin until the home team drops one, right? After losing the first two at Paycom Center, the Phoenix Suns return home looking to get on the board against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 on Saturday.

With Oklahoma City on the road and potentially shorthanded without Jalen Williams, this may not be a comfortable spot for the visitors.

My Thunder vs. Suns predictions lean toward Phoenix keeping things close and covering the spread as sizable home underdogs.

Here are my NBA picks for Game 3 on Saturday, April 25, from Mortgage Matchup Center.

Thunder vs Suns prediction

Who will win Thunder vs Suns Game 3?

Suns: I’ll take the Suns to win this one at home. Not simply to cover but to win outright. The Suns have adopted a scrappy, hard-nosed attitude with Dillon Brooks in the locker room, and Brooks will set the tone on defense.

Fresh off his sizzling critique of the officials in Game 2, I expect Devin Booker to set the tone on the offensive end. The Thunder could take their foot off the gas here, and Jalen Williams’ absence will certainly be felt. Phoenix went 10-8 straight up as home dogs this season.

Playing with their backs against the wall, I’ll take Phoenix to get the dub.

Thunder vs Suns best bet: Suns +8.5 (-105)

The Oklahoma City Thunder have an NBA-best 66 wins, including the postseason. However, they are just 40-43-1 ATS. The Thunder are 20-20 ATS on the road and 19-18 as the road favorite. Conversely, the Phoenix Suns are 24-19 ATS at home and 12-6 as the home underdog. The Suns have covered in 23 of 39 games following a loss and in 35 of 56 games against Western Conference opponents.

In seven matchups with the Thunder, the Suns covered the spread four times, including one of two games at home. The Suns hung tough with the Thunder through two quarters in Game 2, going into halftime with a 65-57 deficit. A monster third quarter from the Thunder propelled them to victory, and the game got chippy.

Following the game, Devin Booker ripped the officiating crew and called out referee James Williams by name, calling him “terrible” and questioning his integrity. Booker was fined $35,000 for his comments, but owner Matt Ishbia backed his star player and doubled down on his comments.

Dillon Brooks called Shai Gilgeous-Alexander “frail” and noted the lack of physicality in the current NBA. Both Booker and Brooks will surely be playing with chips on their shoulders, feeling slighted by the referees playing favorites and making unfair calls in favor of their opponents.

Booker’s comments triggered an investigation from the Association that found nothing to substantiate his claims, but the public call-out could lead to an overcorrection, and the refs may swallow their whistles.

The Suns can’t afford to lose this game and fall into a 0-3 hole, so I expect them to scrap and claw with a Thunder team missing SGA’s No. 2, Jalen Williams. I’ll take Phoenix to cover, and I like their chances of winning this one outright.

Thunder vs Suns same-game parlay

The Thunder and Suns have hit the Over in five of seven head-to-head matchups this season, including one of two games in the first-round playoff series. The 214.5 total is set a bit low for two offenses that can effectively put up points, especially if Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks are playing with extra motivation.

Devin Booker has scored 20+ in 13 straight games, averaging 26.9 points along the way. In that span, he scored 23+ in eight games and finished with exactly 22 points in four more. Booker averaged exactly 22.5 points in four matchups with the Thunder, hitting the Over twice and finishing with 22 and 21 in the other contests.

Thunder vs Suns SGP

• Suns +8.5
• Over 214.5
• Booker Over 22.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: Hotter than the sun

It’s now or never for the Suns. A loss would essentially end the series, as no team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit. If Devin Booker, Jalen Green, and Dillon Brooks can all eclipse their point totals and limit Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the other end, the Suns can take this one and gain some ground back in the series. It’s a long shot, but they’ve got a chance.

Jalen Green scored 20+ in three of his last four games overall, and he reached that mark in 18 of 32 regular-season matchups. He finished with 21 in Game 2.

Dillon Brooks led the Suns in scoring in Game 2 with 30, and he’s scored 18+ in each of the first two games of the series. He scored at least that many points in 38 of 56 regular-season contests, including 25 of 27 at home.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has averaged just 30.4 points per game across five matchups with Phoenix this season, going Under 31 points three times, including a 25-point performance in his only trip to the desert. I expect the refs to be more conservative with their calls, limiting free-throw opportunities and points.

Thunder vs Suns SGP

• Suns moneyline
• Booker Over 22.5 points
• Green Over 19.5 points
• Brooks Over 17.5 points
• Gilgeous-Alexander Under 30.5 points

Thunder vs Suns odds for Game 3

• Spread: Thunder -9 | Suns +9
• Moneyline: Thunder -325 | Suns +425
• Over/Under: Over 214.5 | Under 214.5

Thunder vs Suns betting trend to know

The Suns covered the spread in 12 of 18 games as the home underdog this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Thunder vs. Suns.

How to watch Thunder vs Suns Game 3

Thunder vs Suns latest injuries

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Well, this is all moving quite fast now, isn’t it?

The Sixers released their injury report ahead of Game 3 as the first round series shifts to Philadelphia, and Joel Embiid wasn’t initially ruled out on it. He is listed as doubtful with post appendectomy surgery recovery. It’s truly remarkable that Embiid could play in a playoff game just 15 days after the emergency procedure back on April 9.

Word around Embiid started trending in a positive direction earlier in the day at practice. The team announced that he was a partial participant. Nick Nurse told reporters that he was “hopeful,” but didn’t know “how close” the big fella was to getting back on the court. The extended quote is below courtesy of Ky Carlin of SixersWire.

Embiid being able to take the court sooner than anyone expected would of course make that Game 2 win for the Sixers even bigger. The doubtful designation for most players means just that, but, for Embiid, it could be a pretty good sign he’s going to play.

It’s really hard to guess how Embiid would look if he is able to go, but just his presence in the starting lineup would obviously be an upgrade. He’s obviously not asked to carry any sort of scoring burden, but Adem Bona shooting 12% on his layups sums up how his series has gone for him pretty well.

Regardless, this would be an insane recovery if Embiid is able to come back about a week or two earlier than the typical recovery time from an appendectomy. It would go right to the top of the list up there with Bell’s palsy and a broken face in terms of insane injuries Embiid has pushed through to play in a playoff game.

Update: 4/24 5:13 p.m ET: Joel Embiid has been ruled out for Game 3, per ESPN’s Tim Bontemps. According to the report he has intensified his on-court work in order to get back on the court. Doctors are pleased with his progress but he’s yet to be cleared just yet.

In his pregame media availability, Nick Nurse said that Embiid has done some on-court work both individually and with the rest of the team, but he is “just not there yet.”

As expected, Alba Berlin combo guard Jack Kayil has declared for the 2026 NBA Draft, according to agents Kevin Bradbury and Milan Nikolic. Don’t fret, as the Gonzaga Bulldogs signee can still decide to opt out and play his first college basketball season in Spokane, Washington, in 2026-27.

He’s testing the waters, looking to hear back from scouts and NBA franchises. Looking around the different draft projections, his name isn’t anywhere to be found. That can change with a strong performance at the NBA Combine from May 10-17, 2026, at the Wintrust Arena and the Marriott Marquis in Chicago, Illinois.

The deadline for an early entry player to withdraw from the NBA Draft is June 13 at 2 p.m. PT.

The 20-year-old native of Berlin, Germany, is averaging 11.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game in German Basketball Bundesliga competition. He also represented his country in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers in March.

At 6-5, Kayil is powerful for his position and can score on all three levels. His ability to create for himself and others is what intrigued coach Mark Few and his staff to bring him over to the Pacific Northwest.

Now that we’ve got the first two games over with in Oklahoma City, the series is heading to the desert.

It’s been a rough couple of games, with OKC dominating for just about every quarter, winning 7 of the 8 quarters thus far in convincing fashion. Phoenix made it a little interesting briefly towards the end of the game, but every time they threw a punch, the Thunder responded immediately.

Here are five storylines that will determine if we’re actually in a series or just waiting for the sweep.

1. The Jalen Williams “Hamstring” Factor

The biggest break the Suns have received wasn’t a tactical adjustment; it was a physical casualty. Phoenix has been without Mark Williams, Grayson Allen, and Jordan Goodwin, so the Thunder aren’t the only team dealing with it.

Jalen Williams, who was carving us up for 19 points in just 23 minutes, went down with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain in Game 2. He is officially week-to-week, which likely sidelines him for Games 3 and 4 at the very least. Williams was the secondary connector for OKC, averaging 20.5 points on 61.5% shooting through the first two games. Without his verticality and secondary playmaking, the Suns’ defense might finally find some breathing room.

It also allows Phoenix to defend Shai more aggressively, but make no mistake… OKC’s depth behind Williams at his position can shoot the rock. We still need to be hyper-aware of the floor spacers.

2. Booker vs. The Zebras

Devin Booker didn’t mince words when discussing the officiating postgame. After a bizarre technical foul and an offensive foul call that went unpunished on the other end for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (among several other things), Book compared the league’s officiating to the “WWE”.

Booker is averaging 22.5 points (lowest of his playoff career) this series on 48% shooting, and is clearly frustrated by the lack of “respect” as far as the whistles go, and I can’t blame him.

The fine was expected. I’m more interested in watching how the whistle treats him in Game 3. If he spends more time talking to the refs than attacking the paint, we’re cooked. I’m all for him speaking up, but the team needs to eliminate that distraction once they are on the court.

Will the refs provide some “make-up” calls on our home floor? It would be nice to have both teams be allowed to play a physical brand of basketball. Just call it both ways. That’s all we’re asking for!

3. The “Iso-Ball” Dilemma

Dillon Brooks was the only Sun who decided to fight back offensively in Game 2, exploding for 30 points on a variety of tough looks.

Coach Jordan Ott and Booker both emphasized moving away from isolation plays after the Game 1 blowout. While it makes sense in theory, the Thunder have a way of defending in a half-court setting that makes it easy to fall into those lapses due to the constant pressure, blitzes, and deflections. It makes moving the ball a challenge, which is why the Suns must capitalize on any transition opportunities they get and look to push the ball early and often. Once OKC’s defense is set, it’s a challenge to score.

When Brooks starts hunting his own shot, the ball stops moving. We need his 30-point ceiling, but we can’t afford the offensive stagnation that comes with it if the shots stop falling.

4. Size, Length, and the Rebounding Gap

We are consistently getting dismantled on the glass. The Thunder are longer and more “twitchy” at almost every position. They are essentially a bigger, more athletic version of us.

• Game 1: A 35-point loss where we looked like we were playing a different sport.
• Game 2: We showed more “sicko” energy, but the second-chance points remained a death sentence.
• Game 3: TBD

If we don’t utilize Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro to bridge the athleticism gap, Chet Holmgren is going to keep treating the paint like his private playground. And yes, I will still die on the hill that Rasheer Fleming needs to be involved. Not even a brief look? What are we doing here?!

5. Protecting the Home Floor Identity

Heading back to the Valley is about more than just crowd noise. It’s about protecting your home floor and showing some pride. Role players play better at home in these environments. Crowd pops and momentum shifts can change games. It could be the fuel they need to make things interesting.

They HAVE to take care of the ball. Booker and Green combined for 12 turnovers to 7 assists, and each labored for inefficient 20-point games. Green more so than Book, who shot 50%, but the turnovers were killer.

The easiest way to lose on your home floor is by making mistakes that you can control. If Phoenix plays smart and hard, they have a chance. If they play carelessly, it will get ugly again, fast.

Closing Thought

The Suns need to stop looking for whistles and start looking for contact. With Jalen Williams out, the door is cracked open. Game 3 on Saturday is the season. Either we find a way to make Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s life miserable, or we can start booking flights to Cabo.

Just win.

The Los Angeles Lakers meet the Houston Rockets in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series. LeBron James and the Lakers won the first two games in L.A. The series moves to Houston for Games 3 and 4. Austin Reaves is questionable to return for the Lakers. Kevin Durant is also questionable to play for the Rockets.

How to watch Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets

• Date: Friday, April 24

• Time: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT

• Where: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas

• TV Channels: Amaz

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

Odds

• Spread: Houston Rockets -8.5

• Moneyline: Houston Rockets -325 (73.4%) / Los Angeles Lakers +260 (26.6%)

• Over/Under: 207.5

Series schedule

Game 1:Lakers 107, Rockets 98
Game 2:Lakers 101, Rockets 94
Game 3: Fri., April 24 at Houston (8 p.m., Prime)
Game 4: Sun., April 26 at Houston (9:30 p.m., NBC)
Game 5: Wed., April 29 at Los Angeles (TBD)
Game 6: Fri., May 1 at Houston (TBD)
*Game 7: Sun., May 3 at Los Angeles (TBD)

*if necessary

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Our NBA player prop projections are fired up for Game 3 of the NBA Western Conference First Round playoff matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and Portland Trail Blazers.

The data is incredibly high in some markets, and we've identified the very best edges against the odds on the board to uncover hidden value. 

Read on for our NBA picks for Friday, April 24. 

Spurs vs Trail Blazers computer picks for Game 3

Spurs	Trail Blazers
Castle u19.5 points  -112	Camara o10.5 points -120
Vassell u14.5 points  -112	Henderson o2.5 rebounds +100
De'Aaron Fox u19.5 points  -120	Holiday o16.5 points -112

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Spurs Game 3 computer picks

Stephon Castle Under 19.5 points (-112)

Projection: 16.9 points

Stephon Castle is a developing scorer who still relies heavily on Victor Wembanyama drawing attention in the paint. Without Wembanyama, Portland can key in on Castle and limit his driving lanes.

At 16.9 points projected, the gap between that number and 19.5 is hard to ignore, which is why we are following our model and playing the Under. 

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Devin Vassell Under 14.5 points (-112)

Projection: 13.38 points

Devin Vassell is an efficient off-ball scorer, but his production is closely tied to the San Antonio Spurs' offensive flow. With De'Aaron Fox set to dominate usage in Wemby's absence, Vassell's shot volume takes a hit.

Projected at 13.38 points and available at a reasonable price, the Under 14.5 is exactly the kind of line you want to attack.

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De'Aaron Fox Under 19.5 points (-120)

Projection: 17.69 points

De'Aaron Fox needs Wembanyama to be gone or severely limited to clear his points total. With Wemby now looking like he might play tonight, Fox likely won't score 20 points as he's failed to do so in three of his last five games with the big fella on the floor.

Expect the Spurs point guard to take a back seat to Wembanyama, and go Under his points total. 

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---

Trail Blazers Game 3 computer picks

Toumani Camara Over 10.5 points (-120)

Projection: 12.16 points

Toumani Camara is a relentless cutter and transition threat for the Portland Trail Blazers, who doesn't need the ball in his hands to produce. With San Antonio's defense possibly missing its anchor, Camara has room to operate.

Projected at 12.16 points with a 22% edge over the line, this is one of the cleaner Overs on the board tonight.

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Scoot Henderson Over 2.5 rebounds (+100)

Projection: 3.1 rebounds

Scoot Henderson is more than a playmaker. He crashes the glass with purpose and competes for boards on both ends. Projected at 3.2 rebounds, the 2.5 line is set low enough to exploit, and you're getting plus money to do it.

Henderson has the motor and the minutes to clear this with room to spare, and he's done so in two of his previous three games. 

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Jrue Holiday Over 16.5 points (-112)

Projection: 18.13 points

Jrue Holiday is a proven playoff performer who elevates when the stakes are highest. Holiday is going to see heavy usage tonight as the Trail Blazers primary ball-handler and shot creator.

He's topped this number in three of his previous five games, and at 18.13 projected points, the Over here is backed by the data. 

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How to watch Spurs vs Trail Blazers Game 3

Location	Moda Center, Portland, OR
Date	Friday, April 24, 2026
Tip-off	10:30 p.m. ET
TV	Prime Video

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.

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The Lakers look set to get an unexpected boost this weekend with the return of Austin Reaves.

In a wave of updates that have escalated quickly, Reaves seems set to return to the court this weekend and as soon as Game 3 on Friday. Prior to Game 2 on Tuesday, head coach JJ Redick confirmed that Reaves had begun on-court work. At that time, though, he was just doing 1-on-1 work and had to progress to 3-on-3 and 5-on-5 work.

From that point to Friday, things have developed so rapidly that, on ESPN on Friday afternoon, Shams Charania reported that Reaves is trying to return for Game 3 and, if not, will try to do the same in Game 4.

If you want to put a lot into the wording here, it sure sounds like Austin will be back by Game 4 at the latest. That’s a pretty drastic change, if that’s really the case.

Prior to the series, the Lakers were working under the expectation that neither he nor Luka Dončićwould return during the first round. To a certain extent, operating under that assumption makes sense and expecting either to return and save the day would be the wrong mindset to take.

But even still, this feels like a bit of gamesmanship went into this one. At the very least, the Lakers were playing things very close to the vest because this all feels pretty sudden.

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

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Victor Wembanyama’s injury status had him as a game-time decision ahead of tonight’s Game 3 between the Spurs and Trail Blazers at Moda Center, with tip-off set for 10:30 p.m. ET.

That decision has been made, with the San Antonio MVP candidate officially ruled out, due to a concussion suffered after a fall during Game 2.

Find out what that means for making Spurs vs. Trail Blazers predictions for Friday, April 24.

Will Victor Wembanyama play tonight?

Victor Wembanyama was officially listed as "questionable" due to a concussion, and while there were encouraging signs he would suit up, he will, in fact, not play.

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama (concussion protocol) has been ruled out of Game 3 against the Portland Trail Blazers.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 25, 2026

Wembanyama traveled with the San Antonio Spurs to Oregon, and Spurs coach Mitch Johnson described Wemby as "progressing" through the NBA concussion protocol.

The only reason Wemby was even possibly available tonight was that the Spurs and Portland Trail Blazers had two days off between Games 2 and 3, as concussion protocol calls for a mandatory waiting period of 48 hours once diagnosed.

Latest Spurs vs Trail Blazers odds

With Wembanyama ruled out, here are the latest game odds for tonight's San Antonio/Portland Game 3.

Potential Victor Wembanyama player props for his next game

Sportsbooks had posted player props for Victor Wembanyama in the event he played in Game 3 — but this could give us an indication of where his lines could sit ahead of Sunday's Game 4.

Market
Over 24.5 points	+105
Over 2.5 assists	-145
Over 10.5 rebounds	-125
Over 1.5 threes	-165
Over 2.5 blocks	-150

Wembanyama's lines were shaded a bit lower than in Games 1 and 2, due to the uncertainty regarding how much Wembanyama would play (if at all).

If you're worried about your bets losing before tonight's game even begins... don't. Per bet365's house rules, "Relevant players (all quoted players in a multi-player market) must be dressed and see court time for bets to have action (unless specified otherwise)."

A bet placed on a Wembanyama prop before he was ruled out would be refunded.

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.

Rather than declare as early entry candidates for the 2026 NBA Draft, several of the top players in college basketball decided to go back to school.

With the significant rise of NIL packages offered to collegiate players to play another season with their college team or use the transfer portal, the basketball world has never seen such little financial incentive to turn pro. In many cases, top men's basketball players can actually collect more annual money at their university than they would have in the first year of their rookie scale contract.

Prospects have until 11:59 p.m. ET on April 24 to declare as early entry candidates for the 2026 NBA Draft. Those players can remain as draft candidates 11:59 p.m. ET on May 27 if they want to maintain their collegiate eligibility.

It is not uncommon for players to "test the waters" and go through the draft process and attend the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, then decide to go back to school.

AJ DYBANTSA DECLARES FOR NBA DRAFT: How does he project at the next level?

The Boston Celtics take on the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 3 of their NBA first-round playoff series. The teams split the first two games in Boston. Games 3 and 4 will be in Philadelphia. The Celtics are favored by 7.5 points in Game 3.

How to watch Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers

• Date: Friday, April 24

• Time: 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT

• Where: Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• TV Channels: Amaz

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

Odds

• Spread: Philadelphia 76ers +7.5

• Moneyline: Philadelphia 76ers +240 (28.2%) / Boston Celtics -300 (71.8%)

• Over/Under: 214.5

Series schedule

Game 1:Celtics 123, 76ers 91
Game 2:76ers 111, Celtics 97
Game 3: Fri., April 24 at Philadelphia (7 p.m., Prime)
Game 4: Sun., April 26 at Philadelphia (7 p.m., NBC)
*Game 5: Tue., April 28 at Boston (TBD)
*Game 6: Thu., April 30 at Philadelphia (TBD)
*Game 7: Sat., May 2 at Boston (TBD)if necessary

Boston Celtics (1-1) at Philadelphia 76ers (1-1)
Friday, April 24, 2026
7:00 PM ET
Round 1 Game #3  Road Game #1
TV: Prime Video
Radio:  98.5 The Sports Hub, 97.5 The Fanatic, Sirius XM
Xfinity Mobile Arena 
Officials: John Goble, Brent Barnaky, Andy Nagy

After splitting the games in Boston, the Celtics travel to Philadelphia for Game 3. 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 Celtics have a 67-51 record against the 76ers overall in the playoffs. In the regular season, the Celtics are 272-199 overall, all time against the 76ers. They are i93-129 all time in Philly.

The Celtics have struggled in Game 2 over the past few years. In their past 20 playoff games, the Celtics have gone 14-6. They are 11-2 in games other than Game 2, in which they are just 3-4. In 2024, when they won the championship, They lost Game 2 to Miami in Round 1, but came back to win Game 3 by 20 points and won the series in 5. They also lost Game 2 at home to the Cavs in Round 2 and won Game 3 by 13 points.

Since 2023, the Celtics are 7-1 after a loss with 5 of those wins coming on the road. In 2024, when the Celtics won the Championship, they went 16-3 in the playoffs, Two of those three losses were in Game 2s at home in the first 2 rounds. In the regular season, the Celtics were 23-18 on the road. The 76ers were 23-18 at home. The Celtics were very good about bouncing back after a loss in the regular season, going 21-5 after a loss.

The Celtics need to avoid close games down the stretch in these playoffs if they can help it. The 76ers had the #1 clutch defense in the NBA in the regular season They had a 98.6 defensive rating during the last 5 minutes of games that were within 5 points. They were 23-18 in games that included clutch minutes. The Celtics were 16-17 in games that included clutch minutes and that includes going 1-2 against Philadelphia this season.

Teams that win Game 1 of a best of 7 series at home go on to win the series 86.0% of the time. Teams that win the first 2 games at home go on to win the series 94% of the time. However, if a home team wins game 1 but loses game 2 in a best of 7 series, the odds of them going on to win the series drops down to 76.6%. The team that wins Game 3 of a series that is tied 1-1 goes on to win the series 73.3% of the time.

The Celtics need to be focused and bring their best effort in this game. They need to get motivation from the other series in the East. The Pistons already lost Game 1 at home to the 8th seed Magic. The Knicks lost Game 3 to the lower seeded Hawks and are down in the series 1-2. The Cavaliers lead their series 2-1 but lost Game 3 to the lower seeded Raptors after winning 2 at home. The Nuggets are also down 1-2 to the lower seeded Timberwolves. Just because the Celtics are the 2nd seed doesn’t automatically give them the series. They have to play harder and smarter if they want to beat the 76ers.

The Celtics come into this game with a clean injury report. For the 76ers, Joel Embiid is the only player on their injury report. Embiid underwent an appendectomy on April 9. Recovery for an appendectomy is anywhere from 20 days to 5 weeks. After missing the first 2 games, he has been upgraded to doubtful for this game. I’m guessing that Adem Bona will start at center once again.

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 Adem Bona

Celtics Reserves
Payton Pritchard
Hugo Gonzalez
Luka Garza
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) doubtful

Head Coach
Nick Nurse

Key Matchups
Derrick White vs Tyrese Maxey
In the regular season, Maxey averaged 28.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game while shooting 46.2% from the field and 36.7% from beyond the arc. In Game1, the Celtics were able to hold him 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. The Celtics must do a better job of defending him in this game.

Jaylen Brown vs VJ Edgecombe
Edgecombe averaged 16.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while shooting 43.8% from the field and 35.4% from beyond the arc.   In Game 1, he finished with 13 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals while shooting 37.5% from the field and going 0-5 from beyond the arc.  In Game 2, he finished with 30 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals while shooting 60% from the field and 60% from beyond the arc.  The Celtics left him open way too much.  They absolutely have to defend him better in this game. 

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.  As with Maxey and Edgecombe, the Celtics have to do a better job of defending him in this game. 

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.  The Celtics need to continue to make defense a priority and they need to play physical, lock down defense for all 48 minutes.   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.  The Celtics need  to make defense their priority and they need to play physical, lock down defense for all 48 minutes. 

Rebound – Rebounding is also one of the biggest keys to winning every game. As Pat Riley once said, “No rebounds, no rings.  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 s poorly.  They simply have to fight harder to grab rebounds than the 76ers if they want to win this game.   Every Celtic has got to crash the boards and fight for every rebound.   

Offensive Execution –  The Celtics shot just 39.2% from the field and 26% from beyond the arc in Game 2.  It wasn’t just one Celtic who struggled to hit their 3’s,  it was almost everyone on the team.  In the last 161 games, including the regular season and playoffs, that was just the 12th time that the Celtics didn’t shoot better than 26% from three.  They lost all 12 of those games.  Three of those games were in the playoffs, Games 1 and 2 against New York last year and Game 2 vs Philadelphia.  They need to stay focused on taking and making good shots.  But, if they struggle from 23 early in the game, they need to score in the midrange or in the paint and not continue to brick 3’s the entire game.

Move the Ball Carefully –   The Celtics need to move the ball and trust their teammates.  They are at their best when they keep the ball moving and find the open man.  When they lapse into hero ball and dribble too much, they tend to struggle, as they did in Game 2.  They are 37-2 when they have 25 or more assists  and 20-0 when they have 29 or more assists.  In Game 1, the Celtics kept the ball moving and they had 31 assists.  In Game 2, the ball tended to stick more and they finished with 24 assists.  They also turned the ball over 13 times for 15 points.  They have to move the ball carefully to have a better chance to win this one. 

X-Factors
On the Road – The Celtics will be on the road and 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 game and stay focused on playing good 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.  Joe came out on top in Game 1 and Nurse made adjustments to win Game 2.  Joe has to be ready to adjust again and have the Celtics ready to come out strong and play harder throughout the game. 

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.   The Celtics have to adjust to the way the refs are calling the game and not allow the no calls and bad calls to affect their focus on playing the game. 

Official Report
Crew Chief: John Goble
The Celtics were 6-1 with Goble this season. The 76ers were 4-1. Over the past 2 seasons the Celtics are 12-2 with Goble while the 76ers are 4-4. His home win/loss record this season is 37-26.

Referee: Brent Barnaky
The Celtics were 4-1 with Barnaky this season. The 76ers were 2-1. Over the past 2 seasons, the Celtics are 10-3 while the 76ers are 2-4. His home win/loss record is 34/30.

Umpire: Andy Nagy
The Celtics were 1-3 this season with Nagy, The 76ers were 4-0 with Nagy. Over the past 2 seasons, the Celtics are 5-3 with Nagy while the 76ers are 5-4. His home win/loss record is 33-29.