From Memphis' perspective, they were open to trading a two-time All-Star who has averaged 19.5 points and 8.1 assists a game this season. They wanted some value back in any deal.
That's not how other teams viewed trading for Ja Morant, whose injury and suspension history has limited him to 20 games this season, and he hasn't played six consecutive games in three years. Throw in the fact that he is owed $87 million over the next two years, and teams were only willing to take him on if it was essentially a salary dump, or if the Grizzlies included a pick, something Jake Fischer wrote about at The Stein Line Newsletter on Substack.
"Memphis' Ja Morant just didn't have much a trade market no matter how seriously the Grizzlies explored their options for sending him elsewhere.
"Sources say Sacramento only ever showed modest interest. I'm told Miami, too, only inquired about Morant with the idea of acquiring him in a deal similar to Washington's asset-light acquisition of Trae Young. And the Heat, sources say, were not actively pursuing Morant in the days leading up to the deadline because Antetokounmpo had become their primary target."
Morant will be back on the trade market this summer and one option could be a desperate Milwaukee Bucks team looking for a big swing trade that would inspire Giannis Antetokounmpo to sign his extension and stay in Milwaukee.
"One scenario that has to be filed away — for all the justified questions about fit — is the prospect of Milwaukee trading for Morant. Numerous teams came away from the deadline believing that the Bucks' interest in Morant was genuine … whether that was to install him as their eventual successor to Antetokounmpo as Face of the Franchise or because they believe they could actually make a Giannis-and-Ja pairing work."
Morant in Milwaukee seems an odd fit, but it's something to watch. This is going to be a wild summer in the NBA and Morant in a Bucks uniform would not be the craziest thing we will see.
In an interview with ESPN's Myron Medcalf, Peterson spoke out on the current narrative, which has been sparked by social media, regarding his availability for games or coming out of them as he continues to deal with the numerous injuries he has sustained this season.
"Everybody's got an opinion on it," Peterson recently told ESPN. "But basketball is my life. If I could have been out there every game this year, I would have. If you would have asked me last year, what were my goals for this year, I would never mention missing games. So all this stuff kind of just happened, but I've got to deal with it."
Peterson's comments to Medcalf are some of his first public remarks this season, as he has not spoken in many availabilities this season.
The Jayhawks 6-foot-6 freshman guard has missed 11 games this season, including Kansas' loss to Duke in the Champions Classic and its win over then-No. 1 Arizona on Feb. 9, with the majority of those being due to a lingering hamstring injury. He has also not been able to finish games due to cramps from that hamstring injury.
However, in the 16 games that Peterson has played in, he has lived up to the hype and expectations that surrounded his name heading into the season. He scored 32 points in an overtime win over TCU, scored 26 points on 11-of-13 shooting against Baylor, and 23 points on 7-of-12 shooting against Oklahoma State before exiting due to injury.
"There is a way to change the narrative — play, finish," Self said on Feb. 20. "Now, if his body allows him to, fantastic. If it doesn’t allow him to, then they’ll say something again the next game. But that’s the way to get people to quit talking.
"It’s not me saying it’s not fair, I don’t think that really keeps anybody from having an opinion at a national level or on this level or any level to be quite candid, but I do think it’s easy for everybody to say what’s happening within a situation that really doesn’t know the situation."
Darryn Peterson loves ball, and Kansas HC, Bill Self, isn't buying the false narratives. pic.twitter.com/n7tPoReo7o
Is Darryn Peterson playing tonight for Kansas basketball vs Houston?
All signs point to a "yes" for Peterson's status against Houston on Monday. The Jayhawks enter Monday's critical Big 12 game with a 40-0 record on "Big Monday" games at Allen Fieldhouse under Self.
Feb 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; A cast is visible on the hand of Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks against the Portland Trail Blazers at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Dillon Brooks exited the game against Orlando early in the first quarter, and it did not take long to learn it was his left hand. Then the real news dropped. The hand was fractured, and the absence would not be short-term.
The diagnosis was revealed today, scheduled for four to six weeks. It’s a significant stretch of time that removes one of the Suns’ most physical tone setters from the rotation and further thins an already strained roster.
Return timetable for Suns guard Dillon Brooks after suffering a broken left hand: 4 to 6 weeks, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/X5Tj8cV9Wh
Four weeks from now would land Dillon Brooks’ return on March 24 against Denver. That would mean roughly 15 games missed, and everyone understands that represents the most optimistic outcome. The six-week timeline feels more realistic, which would push his return to April 7 against Houston. At that point, the Suns would have four games left in the regular season.
That is where the real question lives. If Brooks is out that long, when does it make sense to bring him back? Do you shut him down through the rest of the regular season and save him for the Play-In? Or do you hope the six-week mark holds, give him a handful of games to get his legs back, and let him ramp up heading into postseason play?
It is another frustrating reminder of how little continuity this team has had all season. Jalen Green has missed 48 games. Devin Booker has missed 14 and counting. Grayson Allen has missed 22. All you can do is hope a player in the middle of a career year heals cleanly and comes back ready when it matters most.
The Houston Rockets are massive home favorites against the Utah Jazz tonight, but Houston has a problem getting buckets these days.
It seems a little odd considering the roster, but that’s exactly what’s happening to Kevin Durant & Co., and a matchup against Utah may not be as easy as it appears.
My Jazz vs. Rockets predictions and NBA picks explain why points will be hard to come by for the home team in this Western Conference matchup set to tip off at 9:30 pm ET on Monday, February 23.
Jazz vs Rockets prediction
Jazz vs Rockets best bet: Rockets team total Under 120.5 (-115)
The Rockets rank 26th in offensive rating over their last 12 games. That’s worse than the Wizards. And their 104.9 points per game during that stretch are next-to-last.
Now, you’d think a matchup with the Utah Jazz would be the cure for what ails them. But hold on.
The Jazz were playing horrific defense for most of the first half, but they have ranked 10th in defensive rating since February 1.
Houston’s team total of 120.5 is inflated. The Rockets haven’t topped this number in 12 games.
Jazz vs Rockets same-game parlay
What’s one way the Rockets can get more buckets? By moving the ball more. And that’s exactly what Reed Sheppard has been trying to do.
The second-year guard is averaging 4.0 assists over his last five games, topping 3.5 three times over that stretch. And while Utah has been playing better defense, the Jazz still rank dead last in opponent assists per possession.
The other thing that a struggling offense means is rebounds, and Lauri Markkanen has gone Over his number in five of his last six games.
Jazz vs Rockets SGP
Rockets team total Under 120.5
Reed Sheppard Over 3.5 assists
Lauri Markkanen Over 4.5 rebounds
Our "from downtown" SGP: Rebound Town
The Rockets can't shoot. The Jazz can't rebound. Rebounds for all!
Jazz vs Rockets SGP
Lauri Markkanen Over 4.5 rebounds
Ace Bailey Over 3.5 rebounds
Kevin Durant Over 5.5 rebounds
Amen Thompson Over 7.5 rebounds
Jazz vs Rockets odds
Spread: Jazz +13 (-110) | Rockets -13 (-110)
Moneyline: Jazz +575 | Rockets -850
Over/Under: Over 228.5 (-110) | Under 228.5 (-110)
Jazz vs Rockets betting trend to know
The Rockets have hit the Game Total Under in 21 of their last 25 games for +16.60 Units and a 60% ROI. Find more NBA betting trends for Jazz vs. Rockets.
How to watch Jazz vs Rockets
Location
Toyota Center, Houston, TX
Date
Monday, February 23, 2026
Tip-off
9:30 p.m. ET
TV
Peacock
Jazz vs Rockets latest injuries
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Spurs computer picks
Julian Champagnie Over 7.5 points (-112)
Projection: 9.1 points
Julian Champagnie doesn’t need plays drawn up for him to clear this number. A few catch-and-shoot looks, and one trip in transition put him well on pace. The model has Champagnie north of nine points, giving this a comfortable margin Over 7.5.
He's gone Over this number in seven of his last nine games.
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Victor Wembanyama Over 23.5 points (-115)
Projection: 24.8 points
Victor Wembanyama carries enough usage to live in the mid-20s most nights. He scores inside, stretches the floor, and gets to the line, which keeps his floor high. The projection puts Wembanyama nearly a full bucket above this line.
He's gone Over this number in five of eight February games.
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Devin Vassell Over 1.5 assists (+100)
Projection: 2.1 assists
Devin Vassell only needs two assists to cash this, and that’s well within his normal role. With the ball in his hands consistently, a couple of simple kick-outs or drive-and-dish reads get him there. The model gives Vassell a solid edge at even money.
He's gone Over this number in three straight and in five of his last six.
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Pistons computer picks
Ausar Thompson Over 8.5 points (-125)
Projection: 10.6 points
Ausar Thompson scores more on activity than on isolation. Cuts, offensive boards, and transition chances add up quickly. The projection has Thompson clearing double digits, creating separation from this 8.5 line.
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Cade Cunningham Under 27.5 points (-110)
Projection: 25.5 points
Cade Cunningham is capable of a 30-point night, but the model points toward a mid-20s output. If the defense crowds him and forces the ball elsewhere, Cunningham’s scoring dips just enough to stay Under.
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Tobias Harris Over 5.5 rebounds (+115)
Projection: 5.9 rebounds
Tobias Harris logs steady minutes and spends enough time around the paint to flirt with six boards. At plus money, the projection gives Harris a small but playable edge Over this number.
He's gone Over 5.5 boards in three straight and in five of the last six.
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How to watch Spurs vs Pistons tonight
Location
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
Date
Monday, February 23, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
Peacock
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.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 22: Khris Middleton #20 of the Dallas Mavericks talks to the media after the game against the Indiana Pacers on February 22, 2026 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The trade deadline has come and gone. The NBA’s All-Star weekend, along with the break, has come and gone. We’re staring at the last 25 or so games and just trying to find a way to make it through. Here’s the last Lounge if you need to reference any of the nearly 800 comments.
Where we turn our attention likely has to be towards the NBA Draft. There’s a lot of that coverage overall on Mavs Moneyball, but there will be even more because the Mavericks are a tough watch (particularly if Cooper Flagg isn’t going to play).
I am just starting to formulate some opinions on our potential pick, but there are so many good players it’s hard to be too invested in any one guy.
Past that, I’m starting to get a bit bored with the NBA in general right now. Too many tanking teams. I like basketball but this is all bleh and it’s felt that way for most of the 2026 part of the season. What’s interesting you right now?
Remember to use THE FEED too. There’s a lot you can do in that area and my bosses are encouraging us all to use it more and more.
Thanks for spending your time here, I mean it. Your patronage is why this place exists. We want comments. We want all this sort of interaction. Go Mavs!
NEW YORK (AP) — The NBA fined Memphis Grizzlies guard Scotty Pippen Jr. and Miami Heat forward Myron Gardner $35,000 each on Monday for their scuffle in a game over the weekend.
With 1:55 remaining in the fourth quarter of the Heat’s 136-120 victory on Saturday night, Gardner bumped Pippen from behind and knocked him down. Pippen then jogged down court to confront Gardner and gave him a hard two-handed shove, resulting in a melee that spilled into the seats with 1:19 remaining. Both received technical fouls and were ejected.
SAN ANTONIO, TX - FEBRUARY 19: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs leads his team in traditional drum beating after the game against the Phoenix Suns on February 19, 2026 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Welcome to Week in Review: a Monday feature that looks back at the week that was for the San Antonio Spurs, takes a look at the week ahead, and more. Enjoy!
Week 17: The Spurs started off the Rodeo Road Trip by sweeping a couple of games against injured Lakers and Warriors teams to head into the All-Star break riding a six-game winning streak. They then had a big showing at All-Star weekend in Los Angeles, leaving their mark all over the state of California.
Already missing Dillon Brooks to suspension for receiving his 16th technical of the season, the Suns then lost Devin Booker to hip soreness at halftime, leaving a shorthanded Phoenix team reeling against a Spurs squad that picked up right where they left off after the All-Star break. The Spurs weren’t their most efficient selves in the first half but played well enough to build a sizeable lead, and by the third quarter the offense was back on a roll, turning the fourth quarter into extended garbage time at the Moody Center.
Facing the team with the worst record in the NBA and on a 15-game losing streak, the Spurs’ good old friend Complacency gave them a visit. After a dominant start to the game, they took their foot off the gas for a while, allowing the depleted Kings to get as close three late in the third quarter quarter before once again flipping the switch and turning a close game against an inferior opponent into a fourth-quarter blowout.
The Spurs remain undefeated (8-0) in February, having won their two games in Austin handily. All eight wins have been by nine points or more, with the last four coming by an average of 21.3.
Three takeaways
1. The first two games of this eight-game winning streak were somewhat ugly, but the Spurs have scored a remarkably efficient 127.2 points per 100 possessions over the last six. Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper still aren’t making a lot of 3s, but they’ve combined to shoot 63-for-91 (69%) inside the arc over these last six games. 2. The Spurs have won their last six games against teams that are currently over .500 and have the second-best record (19-11) within that group overall. They’re four games into a stretch where they’re playing eight of 10 against winning teams, and the team with the league’s best record (and the best record against other winning teams) is up next. 3. The game in Detroit on Monday will probably be won or lost inside. While the Pistons have outscored their opponents in the paint in 32 of their last 33 games, the Spurs have outscored their opponents by an average of 18.3 points in the paint over their eight-game winning streak. Victor Wembanyama has been playing bigger (offensively) of late, taking 57% of his shots in the paint over the last 10 games, up from just 33% over his previous eight.
Coming up: The Spurs have the league’s best record (14-3) in interconference games and now embark on their longest road trip of the season (five games over nine days), which includes visits to four of the top six teams in the East. Wembanyama has played just one career game (fewest against any opponent) against the first-place Pistons, who the Spurs will face twice in the next 11 days.
Post All-Star break: We have a third 40 before 20 team! And it is the Spurs, a team that hasn’t made the playoffs since the pandemic. The Spurs defense was on point against the Phoenix Suns, and then Victor Wembanyama lit up the Kings.
With the Cavs losing on Sunday, the San Antonio Spurs are the only team with a win streak longer than six games, as they have now won eight straight and are undefeated in February.
Victor Wembanyama continues to impress, with six double-doubles this month and six games with three or more blocks. As long as Wemby, Stephon Castle, and De’Aaron Fox are healthy heading into the final stretch run of the season, the Spurs have a strong chance at potentially catching the Thunder for the 1-seed in the West.
Coming up: Mon. 2/23 at Detroit Pistons (42-13); Wed. 2/25 at Toronto Raptors (34-23); Thurs. 2/26 at Brooklyn Nets (15-41); Sun. 3/1 at New York Knicks (37-21)
Prediction: 3-1 — This is not your big brother’s Eastern Conference. Other than the Nets, the Spurs are playing three of the top 5 teams in the East this week, beginning with the a Pistons team that has the best record in the NBA in what should be a strength-on-strength match-up, followed by a better-than-expected Raptors team and a Knicks squad that has been hovering around .500 in 2026, but MSG tends to be one of those cursed places for the Spurs (although at this point, they’d say the same of San Antonio). That being said, if the Spurs win tonight, which I whole heartedly believe they can, amend this prediction to 4-0, the Spurs getting their first double-digit winning streak since the 2016-17 season (which would just require also beating the Raptors), and an undefeated February.
Perhaps the biggest, most anticipated weekend of one of the most thrilling men’s college basketball seasons in recent memory delivered.
The top four teams in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll faced off last Saturday, with No. 1 Michigan taking on No. 3 Duke in a neutral-site game in Washington, D.C. and No. 2 Houston hosting No. 4 Arizona.
Behind 18 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists from Cameron Boozer, the Blue Devils knocked off the top-ranked Wolverines 68-63, snapping Michigan’s 11-game win streak. Even without star freshman Koa Peat, Arizona went on the road and beat Houston 74-66, handing the Cougars their first home loss this season.
Others receiving votes: Wisconsin 47; Saint Mary's 30; Villanova 15; Miami 10; Utah State 8; NC State 7; SMU 4; Texas A&M 3; Iowa 3; UCF 3; High Point 2; Stephen F Austin 2; Navy 1
Duke is now the No. 1 team. The Blue Devils received 27 of 31 first-place votes this week after upending previous No. 1 Michigan in one of those marquee clashes. The Blue Devils received 27 of 31 first-place votes. The lofty perch is not new for the Duke program, though this is the first No. 1 ranking of the current season for the Blue Devils.
Arizona claimed the remaining four No. 1 votes and is back up to second overall after a defeat of Houston. Michigan slips to No. 3, and Houston also slides two spots to No. 4. Iowa State moves up a spot to No. 5 as the Cyclones swap positions with Connecticut.
Florida continues to climb the rankings after a rough non-conference start. The Gators move up four more places to check in at No. 7 this week, seemingly rounding into form in time to defend their NCAA title. Purdue, Gonzaga and Nebraska round out the top 10.
A pair of SEC contenders, No. 18 Alabama and No. 22 Tennessee, rejoin the poll this week. Clemson and Wisconsin drop out.
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown has been a great player for a while. He has multiple All-Star appearances, a second-team All-NBA selection, an Eastern Conference Finals MVP and an NBA Finals MVP on his resume.
But this season has been different.
Brown has taken his performance to a much higher level, and it has helped the Celtics defy some of the most optimistic expectations entering the 2025-26 campaign — one that many people thought would be a gap year because of Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury.
But this has been no gap year. The Celtics entered Monday in second place in the Eastern Conference standings with a 37-19 record after dismantling the Los Angeles Lakers on the road Sunday night.
Brown scored 32 points with eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals. It was an MVP-caliber showing for Brown.
The last Celtics player to win league MVP was Larry Bird in the 1985-86 season. It was the third of his three straight MVPs.
Could Brown end that drought and win the award this season? Oddsmakers aren’t giving him much of a chance. Some sportsbooks have Brown at +3500 (35-1) odds to win MVP, well behind favorites Nikola Jokic (+270) and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (-140).
Other people in the basketball world, including rival players and the media, feel differently about Brown’s candidacy.
Let’s look at what they’re saying about Brown’s MVP chances.
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
James is the most notable active player to comment on Brown’s MVP case.
“This whole MVP thing, I don’t understand why his name is not getting talked about some as well,” James told reporters after losing to the Celtics on Sunday. “Like, nobody gave them a shot to start the season. And he’s averaging what, 30? Just under 30? It’s a popularity contest sometimes, I tell you.”
James added: “I think he just used the motivation of a lot of people just saying that they’re going to have a down year. The whole championship team pretty much is kind of revamped, and he used it as motivation to keep them afloat. They’re playing great basketball, and it’s because of him and the rest of those guys. He’s taken that next step.”
James is a four-time league MVP, and he probably should have won a few other times.
Brown appreciated the praise he received from James.
“It’s an honor for LeBron, who’s arguably the best player to ever play the game, giving me some high praise,” Brown said. “So, I’m just grateful.”
“Well, when I look around the NBA, and for me the criteria is how productive are you for your team, how impactful are you for your team, the leadership you provide, what are you when you play against the other MVP (candidates),” McGrady said.
“What he had to go through losing Jrue Holiday, losing Al Horford, (Kristaps) Porzingis, Jayson Tatum is out, and then you bring in a new cast of guys in and try to get them acclimated with everything you guys are doing. (He’s) playing both sides of the ball and averaging 29 points, (the team is) third in the Eastern Conference.
“When I look at that landscape, look at Shai, I look at Jokic, these guys have missed time but they have their respective teams, their core guys are coming back.”
Charles Barkley, Hall of Famer/ESPN analyst
Barkley won league MVP in the 1992-93 season when he led the Phoenix Suns to the best record in the league before losing to Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls in the NBA Finals.
He views Brown and Detroit Pistons point guard Cade Cunningham as the top MVP candidates right now.
“First of all, we have this stupid argument every year,” Barkley said on Inside the NBA. “Who’s the best player? The MVP never goes to the best player. It’s a dog fight right now between Jaylen Brown and Cade Cunningham. If one of them two guys don’t win MVP, it would to me it’ll be like – and I don’t have a vote – but Cade Cunningham and Jaylen Brown, them boys, they are 1 and 1A for MVP.”
Kendrick Perkins, ex-Celtics center/ESPN analyst
Perkins, who spent eight-plus seasons with the Celtics and was the starting center on their 2007-08 championship team, would vote for Jaylen Brown if the MVP race ended today.
“If I had to pencil in an MVP, Jaylen Brown is getting my vote,” Perkins said Monday on ESPN show Get Up. “He is doing more with less. And I say that respectfully to guys like Payton Pritchard and Derrick White. What (Brown) is doing on both ends of the floor — no other person in the league is doing it at this level. He’s the best two-way player in the game. … Jaylen Brown is answering all the questions to the test. Can he lead a team? Can he be a franchise guy? He is showing you he is more than that.”
Cousins, who made four All-Star and two second-team All-NBA appearances in 11 seasons, recently put Cade Cunningham and Jaylen Brown at No. 1 and No. 2, respectively, in his MVP rankings. He sees those two players as a tier above the rest.
“First is Cade Cunningham, then it’s Jaylen Brown, then it’s everybody else,” Cousins said on FanDuel TV’s Run It Back show.
Following the Los Angeles Lakers’ 111–89 loss to the Celtics at Crypto.com Arena, LeBron admitted to being irked by the way Brown spoke about his son during an NBA Summer League game back in 2024.
“Our relationship has been pretty respectful,” LeBron said when asked how he and the Boston superstar have gotten along over the years.
“You know, besides the s–t he said about Bronny in Summer League. But other than that, you know, we’ve been all right.”
LeBron James and Jaylen Brown battled it out during Sunday’s Lakers vs. Celtics game. Afterward, the Los Angeles star admitted the Boston wing’s old comments about son Bronny James irked him. Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
While courtside at a July 2024 preseason matchup in Las Vegas, Brown was caught on camera appearing to tell WNBA players Kysre Gondrezick and Angel Reese that he didn’t “think Bronny is a pro.”
He later added that he believed Bronny would make the Lakers’ main roster and not be sent to the G-League during his rookie year “because of his name.”
Brown took to his X page shortly after his remarks went viral, and while he didn’t exactly apologize, he was very complimentary of LeBron James and his son.
It’s a flex to have your son alongside you in the nba it reflects greatness and longevity !Bronny has all the tools around him to be successful I look forward to watching his growth https://t.co/qO4muFSvrn
“It’s a flex to have your son alongside you in the nba it reflects greatness and longevity,” Brown wrote. “Bronny has all the tools around him to be successful I look forward to watching his growth.”
LeBron James indicated the statement helped to repair the damage the video caused, but still, it wasn’t hard to tell mixed feelings still linger.
Bronny James has played in 29 games for the Lakers this season. Getty Images
“We’ll be all right,” LeBron James said. “We’ll be all right. He went on social media and said something about it. It’s all good. But Bronny’s got a long way to go. But that’s another story.”
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - FEBRUARY 22: Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers smiles in the second quarter of the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on February 22, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images
There’s never a bad time to snap a four-game losing streak, but the Sixers 27-point win over the Minnesota Timberwolves felt like one of their most needed of the season.
Not only were they reeling, but with Joel Embiid suddenly missing five straight games with various sore body parts, Paul George suspended, and no additions made at the trade deadline all emphasized the fact that there was no help on the way either.
On top of all that, the All-Star break coming in the midst of this losing streak made it linger longer than a typical four-game skid would, with the Sixers going over two calendar weeks in between wins.
They looked rather helpless going into that game against Minnesota as well. Not only was it the second night of a back-to-back, but they were coming off what head coach Nick Nurse called the worst loss of the season, a second half collapse to the lowly New Orleans Pelicans.
With their backs against the wall they turned in one of their best offensive performances of the season, with their reeling backcourt leading the way. Both Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe had been showing signs of wear and tear due to their heavy workloads. They looked recharged in Minnesota, with Maxey dropping an efficient 39 points while Edgecombe put up 24 thanks to a new career-high six made three-pointers.
In the walk-off interview for NBC Sports Philadelphia, Maxey pointed out a return of positive energy. As watching the previous four games wasn’t enough, there were plenty of signs off the court that the vibes were off, from Embiid’s trade deadline plea being thoroughly rejected to Maxey voicing confusion of his role. It felt like the lowest point of the season spirit-wise as well, and its departure was noticed in the win over the Wolves.
“We got back to playing with a little bit of spirit, you seen guys smiling a bit,” he told Kate and Alaa before praising the individual performance of Quentin Grimes.
If anything this win may have showed just how tall of an order it is for the Sixers to keep themselves afloat with Embiid out of the lineup just as much as the losing streak did. They need both Maxey and Edgecombe to be unconscious to give themselves a chance.
What’s made this stretch even tougher is that they’ve had to go through that a really demoralizing trade deadline as well. Despite the best player on the team begging for a serious deadline, all they did was dump a fan favorite player and add one guard who was playing Europe on the buyout market.
The reality that there were no reinforcements on the way was intensified during the losing streak. They weren’t just losing games, but they looked hopeless in doing so. Their only way through is to power through but in Minnesota, they were able to channel that in a positive direction.
“We didn’t have a choice, we don’t got an option man,” Maxey told the broadcast when asked how the team flushed the New Orleans loss so quickly.
Embiid’s return is the only tangible on-court change this team has left up its sleeve. The losing streak has shown the flaws in this roster and the deadline to try to improve them has come and gone. They have one intangible up their sleeves though and that is a positive spirit.
They’ll certainly need to sustain for more than one game and of course nothing is as good for the spirit as winning ball games. The only other change the Sixers can make though finding good vibes again and blowing out the Timberwolves was a step in the right direction.
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 22: Dillon Brooks #3 of the Phoenix Suns stands on the court during a timeout in the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Mortgage Matchup Center on February 22, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Like teams across the NBA, the Phoenix Suns entered Week 18 ready to navigate life after the All-Star break. A team in need of rest got it, and the hope was that they would come out of the pause with some momentum and start pushing toward the finish line. Instead, they sprinted straight into chaos, stepped on a few Legos, banged a shin on the coffee table, and somehow stubbed the same toe twice.
Injuries have hovered over this season from the start, but Week 18 felt like the moment the dam finally broke.
Devin Booker exited the Spurs game with a hip strain. Jordan Goodwin and Dillon Brooks both went down against Orlando. Goodwin is dealing with a calf strain, an injury that always requires caution, and Brooks fractured his left hand, leaving his return timeline uncertain. Grayson Allen missed the Spurs game, played against the Magic, then sat again versus Portland as his ankle continues to linger in the background.
The Suns are not dealing with anything unique around the league. Wear and tear has become part of the daily conversation as more players across the NBA show up on the injury report with that familiar red cross next to their name. It is another issue the league office continues to wrestle with, and one they will never fully solve without accepting that fewer games might mean fewer tickets sold. That debate can wait.
The reality is simpler and heavier. Phoenix is hurting, and a season that once felt special now feels fragile. Without Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, Grayson Allen, and Jordan Goodwin, the foundation starts to wobble. A team built on hustle and defense is missing two of its best tone setters. A team that thrives on ball movement and finding the open shooter struggles to move the ball without Booker and Allen.
The Suns limp out of Week 18 hoping survival is enough until health returns, because health is the one thing money cannot buy.
Week 18 Record: 1-2
@ San Antonio Spurs, L, 121-94
Possession Differential: +3.8
Turnover Differential: 0
Offensive Rebounding Differential: +8
Against a Spurs team finding its stride, Phoenix was overmatched and undermanned. There were flashes. Jalen Green’s bounce, Mark Williams battled Wembanyama, but none of it really mattered. The Spurs handled the Suns with ease.
vs. Orlando Magic, W, 113-110 2OT
Possession Differential: +1.2
Turnover Differential: -8
Offensive Rebounding Differential: +12
Phoenix survived an absolute rock fight against Orlando. It was the kind of game that makes your eyes hurt and your soul tired, before Jalen Green detonated one moment of pure audacity to end the misery. Nothing flowed. Everything was earned.
Phoenix shot 29% from deep, coughed through 117 attempts, blew a late lead, lost bodies, and still dragged itself out of double overtime with a win. It wasn’t pretty, sustainable, or clean. It was survival. And this week, that counts.
vs. Portland Trail Blazers, L, 92-77
Possession Differential: -1.2
Turnover Differential: -2
Offensive Rebounding Differential: 0
Phoenix couldn’t find any rhythm, and their poor shooting continues to be of concern. What else is concerning? When the door of opportunity opened, no one stepped through it.
Inside the Possession Game
Weekly Possession Differential: +3.8
Weekly Turnover Differential: -10
Offensive Rebounding Differential: +20
Year-to-Date Over/Under .500: +8
Graphic time.
The Phoenix Suns won the possession battle this week. They took better care of the ball. They competed on the glass. And still, they walked away with two losses. Injuries sit at the center of everything right now, and every stat has to be read through that lens. That part is understood.
What lingers is the depth question. It is being tested, and it is not holding up. Players are operating outside their normal roles, so expectations need to be reasonable, but the drop-off has been real. Since February 1, the Suns are averaging 104 points per game, second-worst in the league. They are shooting 33.5% from three, which is sixth-worst. They average 9.1 steals, which puts them in the middle of the pack. And they are 3-6.
The traits that made this team enjoyable early in the season are slipping. That tells you the system is designed for high-level basketball IQ players, not built to elevate depth on its own. Strong organizations preach next man up because the structure remains functional even when talent thins. Phoenix has kept running the system, but the results have cratered. It is expected. It is part of the season-long evaluation. So far, the Suns are failing that test.
Week 19 Preview
Breathe. That is what the Suns have an opportunity to do over the next week. Only two games on the schedule, both against opponents who know how to make things uncomfortable.
First up is Tuesday, when Phoenix welcomes the Boston Celtics to town. Boston was penciled in by some as a team that might tread water this season, regroup, then reattack later. But that script never materialized. They sit second in the Eastern Conference, driven largely by Jalen Brown, and that matchup will demand real focus.
Two nights later, the Lakers come to Phoenix for the fourth of five meetings this season. That one matters. The standings say so. This is a chance to take a real bite out of them.
After that? Some rest. The Suns don’t play again until the following Tuesday.
Indiana Pacers star point guard Tyrese Haliburton was already missing the 2025-26 NBA season as he continues his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon, but he will be away from the team for a separate issue.
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said Sunday, Feb. 22, that Haliburton has come down with shingles and will spend two to three weeks away from the team to recover.
“It's a very painful thing,” Carlisle told reporters. “... He will make a full recovery, but this happened over the last few days. He was meeting us in D.C. and had some odd symptoms and he came back (to Indianapolis). That's what's happening with him. We certainly wish him a speedy recovery. It's a unique case and a unique situation, but I talked to him a few times and he's always in a good mood, so he'll get through it.”
Tyrese Haliburton injury update
According to the Mayo Clinic, shingles is a common viral infection caused by the same virus that results in chicken pox, varicella-zoster. Shingles produces a painful rash and is most likely to occur in persons older than 60, though anyone who has contracted chicken pox can contract it.
Haliburton, 25, suffered his Achilles rupture early in Game 7 of the NBA Finals in June. The Pacers have confirmed that Haliburton will spend the entire 2025-26 season recovering from the injury. The Pacers are 15-43 and have the worst record in the Eastern Conference.
Haliburton, a two-time All-Star, averaged 17.5 points, 8.8 assists and 3.7 rebounds per game last season. He starred in the playoffs and became known for his late-game heroics, hitting several game-tying or game-winning shots in the final seconds of massive games.
Haliburton has shared his progress from his Achilles rupture, including posting videos on social media of him working out and even participating in pick-up games.
Spurs
Pistons
