Category: Basketball

The Spurs have signed center Mason Plumlee for the remainder of the season. They first signed him to a 10-day contract — you guessed it — 10 days ago, and now they’re making it permanent.

Plumlee has yet to appear in a game for the Spurs as he works his way back into game shape, having last played on Dec. 22 for the Charlotte Hornets. He was signed after the Spurs waived Jeremy Sochan (who went on to sign with the Knicks) to help shore up their depth at the center position. While Victor Wembanyama and Luke Kornet have been one of the best starter/back-up combinations in the league, both have had injuries at times this season, so having that third insurance policy player is important.

By signing Plumlee before the March 1 Playoff Eligibility Waiver Deadline, he will be eligible to play in the postseason. (It’s so nice we can say that again, let alone without having to attach any caveats such as “if they make the playoffs” — although to be fair, they technically haven’t yet.) The signing solidifies the Spurs’ roster at 15 guaranteed players, so if they wish to sign any other players, they’ll need to waive someone themselves. (Jordan McLaughlin would be the most likely candidate, but the odds of that are likely slim at this point. There’s no reason to mess with a good thing.)

Welcome to San Antonio for good, Mason!

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Our NBA player prop projections are back for tonight’s marquee matchup between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder.

Our Covers prediction model has led us to a few NBA prop bets that offer solid value. We’ve evaluated the numbers, and our Nuggets vs. Thunder predictions are based solely on our data-driven model.

Read on for NBA picks for Friday, February 27, and don't forget to check out Jason Logan's Nuggets vs. Thunder predictions for tonight's clash.

Nuggets vs Thunder computer picks for February 27

Nuggets	Thunder
Johnson o11.5 points -115	Gilgeous-Alexander u28.5 points  -115
Strawther o2.5 rebounds -135	Hartenstein o9.5 points -112
Braun u1.5 made threes  -145	Holmgren o16.5 points -120

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Nuggets computer picks

Cameron Johnson Over 11.5 points (-115)

Projection: 14 points

Cameron Johnson has fit seamlessly into the Denver Nuggets' rotation, and this projects as a bounce-back scoring spot even though he’s fallen short of this number in four of his last seven.

Johnson does most of his damage from beyond the arc, and that’s where the opportunity lies. The Oklahoma City Thunder has allowed nearly 13 made threes per game over its last five contests, which fits into Johnson’s role. 

With the pace uptick and three-point volume in play, Johnson is in a good spot to reach at least 12 points tonight.

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Julian Strawther Over 2.5 rebounds (-135)

Projection: 3.4 rebounds

Julian Strawther has quietly been productive on the glass for Denver, and this sets up as another favorable rebounding spot for the former Gonzaga standout.

He’s grabbed at least three boards in two of his last three games, and the matchup helps. Oklahoma City has allowed 44 rebounds per game over its last five, creating steady opportunities for wings and guards to chip in on the glass.

Strawther averages around 25 minutes per night, which is more than enough runway to clear a modest rebounding number. With consistent floor time and a cooperative matchup, he’ll get there again.

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Christian Braun Under 1.5 made threes (-145)

Projection: 1.1 made threes

Christian Braun has hit two or more threes in just two of his last five games, and our model doesn’t project a breakout spot.

He’s shooting a career-low 28% from deep on 2.5 attempts per game this season, and efficiency has been the bigger issue than volume. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander back, Oklahoma City’s perimeter defense tightens up, particularly against opposing guards.

The Thunder are allowing just three made threes per game to guards, limiting clean catch-and-shoot looks, and Braun's opportunities for a strong shooting night from downtown. 

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Thunder computer picks

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 28.5 points (-115)

Projection: 24.7 points

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected back after missing nine games, but this number assumes a full workload, and that’s far from certain.

While the matchup may look favorable on paper, Oklahoma City has no reason to push its franchise player in his first game back. A managed minutes plan is the most logical approach, especially with the bigger picture in mind.

Gilgeous-Alexander has also scored fewer than 29 points in three of his last five appearances, and if his floor time is trimmed even slightly, he won’t clear his prop total.

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Isaiah Hartenstein Over 9.5 points (-112)

Projection: 11.1 points

Isaiah Hartenstein has quietly become a reliable interior scorer for Oklahoma City, and tonight shapes up as another favorable spot.

He’s reached double figures in four of his last five games, finding consistent looks around the rim and in pick-and-roll action. The matchup helps: Denver is allowing nearly 50 points per game in the paint, leaving room for physical centers to operate inside.

Hartenstein should see roughly 25 minutes, and with SGA back to draw defensive attention, the quality of his touches could improve even further. 

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Chet Holmgren Over 16.5 points (-120)

Projection: 18.4 points

Chet Holmgren is coming off a quiet seven-point outing in Toronto and has cleared this scoring number just once in his last five, but this sets up as a strong rebound spot.

Holmgren’s versatility is the key. With SGA back in the lineup, Oklahoma City can fully re-engage its pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop actions, which are two areas where Holmgren thrives. 

The added defensive attention on SGA should create cleaner looks both at the rim and from mid-range and allow Holmgren to get back to getting buckets for OKC. 

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How to watch Nuggets vs Thunder tonight

Location	Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Date	Friday, February 27, 2026
Tip-off	9:30 p.m. ET
TV	ESPN

Not intended for use in MA.
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Understandably, everyone in the Sixers’ orbit would like to forget the 2024-25 season. Murphy’s Law ruled the day as a team with championship aspirations only managed to win 24 games.

But it’s always darkest before the dawn.

Sure, last season was miserable — in fact, if there’s a word stronger than miserable, it was that — but without it, VJ Edgecombe would not be a Sixer. The No. 3 overall pick out of Baylor has been everything the team had hoped and then some.

Edgecombe’s performance in a big home win over the Miami Heat Thursday was another reminder of that. Tyrese Maxey, on a night that was really about him after setting the franchise’s all-time record for made threes, couldn’t help but laud Edgecombe.

“I love VJ. I think everybody knows that. It’s pretty evident,” Maxey said. “Not just because of his basketball abilities, but like who he is as a person. … Our season was very, very, very bad last year … but we were blessed with VJ Edgecombe and I think as the Sixers organization, as a fanbase we should be very happy, very pleased and very thankful. I know I am.”

When a two-time All-Star and franchise cornerstone feels that way about you, you must be doing something right.

Of course it wasn’t long ago Maxey was in Edgecombe’s shoes. Maxey, selected 21st overall out of Kentucky in 2020, was a 20-year-old trying to find his way amongst stars and earn the trust of a veteran coach. While Maxey fought for minutes that entire season, Edgecombe has been a starter since opening night — and for damn good reason.

Edgecombe’s season has understandably been a bit up and down, but there’s never been a moment where his starting spot or role were in peril. That’s largely thanks to his scalability amongst stars, his feel — which seems beyond his years — and his propensity to show up in clutch moments.

All of that was on display Thursday. Edgecombe stuffed the stat sheet with 19 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and a block. With the game still hanging in the balance, he hit big shots, made key defensive plays and secured critical rebounds.

It’s what the team has come to expect.

“When the lights were on in Boston [on opening night], for the whole four quarters, he was really good,” Maxey said. “That’s when you know somebody’s a big time performer. And then he went and did it in Madison Square Garden twice. Certain people you just know can perform when the lights are on and I knew I’d be able to trust him.”

Edgecombe already has the second-most threes for a rookie in Sixers history. The record holder? Allen Iverson, of course. There’s a decent chance that Edgecombe could break that mark as well.

As for Maxey’s record — which he will keep adding on to considering he’s 25 and on a long-term deal — it might be a while before Edgecombe gets there.

“I’m very happy for him,” Edgecombe said. “Now the record is going to be a little harder to break now. I’m going to try. Hopefully I can get there.”

Edgecombe has earned the respect of all his teammates, no small feat for a rookie in his spot. He even gave an impassioned defense of Joel Embiid, who nailed a game-sealing three while battling discomfort most of the night after getting kicked in the ribs.

“The media try to make it seem like he don’t want to play basketball,” Edgecombe said of Embiid. “Like come on, he’s out there in pain and he made a big shot at the end of the game. He barely could raise his right hand up. That just shows his character, too. He cares about winning. It’s Joel Embiid, bro.”

A rookie showing public support for a player who’s been through what Embiid has been through should only endear him more to the locker room — not that Maxey and company needed it.

Maxey’s support has meant everything to Edgecombe. They’re the ideal mentor-mentee backcourt pairing.

“‘Rese showed love from day one,” Edgecombe said. “It means a lot to me. Speaks to obviously who he is as a person, who he is as a player. I mostly just sit there and watch him work out, also. That’s it, man. He just means a lot.”

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Quarterback Diego Pavia, runner-up in the Heisman Trophy voting, said Friday he will throw passes at the NFL scouting combine.

The quarterbacks are scheduled to go through drills on Saturday. Heisman winner and expected No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza of Indiana said he would wait until his pro day on April 1 to throw passes.

Pavia said he will not go through additional on-field drills and will instead wait for Vanderbilt's pro day on March 18.

He is viewed as a later-round pick largely because of his size. Pavia measured at just less than 5-foot-10. Mendoza, by comparison, is 6-5.

But Pavia's confidence is not in short supply, something that has gotten him in trouble. He lashed out at Heisman voters in a social media post last year before later apologizing.

While saying Friday he didn't “care what people think about me,” Pavia emphasized he takes a cerebral approach to the game.

“I think my mind is just underrated, just the way I process," Pavia said. "I feel like I’m a fast processor.

“I’m humble, and I get my confidence from my process. And if you saw what, how much I put into this, you would see where I get my confidence from.”

Whether it's confidence or brashness, Pavia helped drive a Vanderbilt team — often a bottom-dweller in the Southeastern Conference — to a No. 9 ranking in The Associated Press poll at one point last season.

Now he hopes to transfer that play over to the NFL, and Pavia perhaps poked fun at himself regarding his on- and off-field reputation.

“(Vanderbilt) Coach (Clark) Lea always stressed that your frontal lobe isn’t fully developed until you’re 25, and I just turned 24,” Pavia said. “So I’ve got like 360 days to go.”

___

AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

Youth took center stage Thursday night when the Jazz met the Pelicans at the Delta Center, with four of the five Jazz starters aged 22 or younger.  With multiple key players out of the lineup due to injury or season ending surgery, the game also provided second unit and bench players with extended minutes as they try to make their case for a roster spot next season.  The Jazz fell to the Pelicans 129-118, due mainly to a disastrous second quarter and a stellar performance from Saddiq Bey, who finished with 42 points.  It will be interesting to see what adjustments the coaching staff and players make when the two teams meet again tomorrow night.

Ace Bailey – A-

Ace bounced back from a difficult game against the Rockets with a career best 14 points in the first quarter.  He made his mid-range jumper look easy as he curled off screens to get to his spot.  He ended up with 23 points in 29 minutes and added 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and a block.  His challenge is consistent scoring throughout the game.  His production tailed off significantly in the second quarter as the Pelicans’ defense tightened.

Cody Williams – C-

Cody had the highlight of the night with a ferocious hammer dunk in the first quarter.  But it was a tough night for the second year man, scoring only 6 points in 30 minutes and being outmuscled by Zion Williamson and Bey in the paint.  He struggled from the free throw line (2-5) and at times tried to fight his way to the basket, instead of drawing the defense in and then kicking out to an open teammate.

Isaiah Collier – B-

One thing other teams are learning is that Isaiah is fast, really fast.  And when he gets in the lane, he is like a bowling ball, bullying his way to the basket.  He dished out 7 assists, including a cross court bullet to Brice Sensabaugh for 3.  But his speed at times last night led to some questionable decisions and turnovers, and there were instances when he settled for a tough isolation possession instead of keeping the ball moving.  

Kyle Filipowski – B-

Asked to play center again, Kyle is getting good at adapting his play to different positions.  He is showing less hesitation driving to the basket and showed a variety of shot making skills, including a Dirk Nowitzki-like one-footed jumper.  His screens opened up the floor for his teammates, with Ace Bailey being one of the main beneficiaries.  Turnovers continue to be an area for improvement.  He tied a team high with 4.

John Konchar – B+

The senior member of the starting five was ice cold from 3, missing all three of his attempts, but found other ways to impact the game, especially on the defensive end.  He had a team high 5 steals, had 2 blocks, including one on Zion Williamson, and created extra possessions with 4 offensive rebounds.  

Brice Sensabaugh – B-

Brice didn’t see action until the second quarter and it took a while for him to warm up.  The Jazz really could have used his shot-making ability in that quarter, when they were outscored 41-23.  He ended up with 20 points and was 3-8 from three, most of his output coming when the game was already out of reach.  He did have some bright spots in other areas of his game:  as a facilitator, unselfishly passing up a good short to find Svi Mykhailiuk for a better shot in the third quarter; and on defense, taking a charge to stop a Pelicans possession.  

Elijah Harkless – A

With Keyonte George out, Elijah shared the point guard duties with Isaiah Collier and looked very comfortable bringing the ball up the court.  He also showed his relentless defensive intensity, netting 4 steals and a block.  Even when he made a mistake, he didn’t give up on the play, stealing the ball, then losing it, then stealing it right back in the second quarter.  It’s unclear if Elijah has a future with the Jazz, but wherever he ends up his fire and competitiveness will be definite assets.

Oscar Tshiebwe – A

Oscar made the most of his 10 minutes on the court, scoring 8 points on 4-4 shooting and grabbing 2 offensive rebounds.  It would be great to see him get some extended minutes in this final stretch of the season to see if he can reproduce some of his impressive output in the G League at the next level.  He certainly looked the part tonight.

Blake Hinson – C-

A rough night for the sharpshooter, which is a shame as Blake was the first player off the bench and had the chance to make an impact early in the game.  He managed only 2 points, going 0-4 from three.  

Kevin Love – A-

What a luxury for Will Hardy, having a player-coach with NBA championship experience.  Kevin had extended minutes tonight and showcased his ability to bring calmness and leadership to the game, set up his teammates with good looks and do the dirty work on both sides of the ball.  He dished out some great dimes in the third quarter, including a full court pass to Isaiah for a dunk.  He showed his strength and veteran savvy completing a one handed shot with the foul.  His three turnovers to start the fourth quarter were unfortunate and can likely be put down to fatigue.

Svi Mikhailiuk – A

Svi has proved time and time again that he is always ready to play:  as a starter, coming off the bench, in limited minutes, it doesn’t matter.  He had an efficient 15 minutes last night, providing a spark when the Jazz needed it, scoring 14 points, including 4-7 from three, grabbing 2 offensive rebounds and doling out 3 assists.  

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to return for the Oklahoma City Thunder when they host the Denver Nuggets tonight.

The reigning MVP is no longer on the injury report after missing nine games with an abdominal strain. The question now is how much SGA will actually play.

My Nuggets vs. Thunder predictions and NBA picks are taking a measured approach to the reigning MVP's output on Friday, February 27.

Tip-off is set for 9:30 p.m. ET from the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, with the game airing on ESPN.

Nuggets vs Thunder prediction

Nuggets vs Thunder best bet: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 28.5 points (-115)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hasn’t played since February 3, with the Oklahoma City Thunder going 5-4 SU in his absence, allowing the surging San Antonio Spurs to close the gap in the West.

SGA’s return is a major boost for OKC, but preserving his health is the top priority. He not only needs to meet the MVP qualifying threshold, but the Thunder have only a 1.5-game lead atop the conference.

While a full workload could yield 30+ points, most models range from 18.4 to 23.7 points if his minutes are capped. I expect OKC to play it safe against the Denver Nuggets tonight.

Nuggets vs Thunder same-game parlay

The Nuggets reminded the league they’re still a contender by blasting the Boston Celtics earlier this week, showing they rise to the challenge against the NBA’s elite.

After missing nine games, OKC will protect the MVP in his first outing back, and he’s unlikely to reach that scoring total.

With SGA limited, Chet Holmgren drew more defensive attention, and his numbers dipped. Even with Shai seeing reduced minutes, the 7-footer will benefit from extra space, with models projecting him for 20+ points tonight.

Nuggets vs Thunder SGP

• Nuggets +8
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 28.5 points
• Chet Holmgren Over 16.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: Calling on Cam 

Cameron Johnson has looked great since returning from a six-week absence (knee bruise), averaging almost 12 points, four rebounds, and two assists in the last seven games.

Johnson's player projections all sit north of these prop totals tonight.

Nuggets vs Thunder SGP

• Nuggets moneyline
• Cameron Johnson Over 12.5 points
• Cameron Johnson Over 3.5 rebounds
• Cameron Johnson Over 1.5 assists

Nuggets vs Thunder odds

• Spread: Nuggets +8 (-110) | Thunder -8 (-110)
• Moneyline: Nuggets +250 | Thunder -310
• Over/Under: Over 233.5 (-110) | Under 233.5 (-110)

Nuggets vs Thunder betting trend to know

The Nuggets are 38-25-1 ATS as underdogs over the past three years, including a 12-6 ATS mark when catching points this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Nuggets vs. Thunder.

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Two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference do battle when Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons host James Harden and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

With Cleveland banged up, Detroit is a 6-point home favorite, but my Cavs vs. Pistons predictions break down why the East’s No. 1 seed still deserves more respect.

Read more in my NBA picks for this matchup, set to tip off at 7:00 p.m. ET from Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.

Cavaliers vs Pistons prediction

Cavaliers vs Pistons best bet: Pistons -6 (-110)

It feels like people aren’t giving the Detroit Pistons enough respect. Cade Cunningham and Jaren Duren are stars, and the only team that has a better net rating than the Pistons this season is the Oklahoma City Thunder.

They’ve also been a great team at home this season, going 22-7 with an average margin of victory of 10.3 points.

Meanwhile, the acquisition of James Harden has been a home run for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Unfortunately, he’s questionable to play with a thumb injury while Donovan Mitchell is already out.

That’s too much to overcome against this really great Pistons team.

Cavaliers vs Pistons same-game parlay

Sure, the James Harden thing has worked for Cleveland so far. But he won’t help the fact that the Cavaliers allow the fifth-most points per game to opposing guards. Give me Cade to go Over 25.5 points, something he’s done in eight of his last 11 games.

The Pistons are also an elite rebounding team, ranking second in rebounding rate. Tobias Harris has hauled down six or more rebounds in seven of his last eight games, and with the Cavs potentially down their top two shooters, there could be plenty of boards up for grabs.

Cavaliers vs Pistons SGP

• Pistons -6
• Cade Cunningham Over 25.5 points
• Tobias Harris Over 5.5 rebounds

Our "from downtown" SGP: Cade!

Cade is getting some MVP buzz down the stretch, and a big game against an East contender could bolster that case.

Cavaliers vs Pistons SGP

• Cade Cunningham Over 25.5 points
• Cade Cunningham Over 5.5 rebounds
• Cade Cunningham Over 9.5 assists
• Cade Cunningham Over 1.5 steals

Cavaliers vs Pistons odds

• Spread: Cavaliers +6 | Pistons -6
• Moneyline: Cavaliers +200 | Pistons -240
• Over/Under: Over 227 | Under 227

Cavaliers vs Pistons betting trend to know

The Pistons have covered the 1H spread in 28 of their last 45 games (+10.75 Units / 21% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Cavaliers vs. Pistons.

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Cavaliers vs Pistons latest injuries

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A lot is going on in Long Island! Even before Friday morning’s moves that sent Grant Nelson to Brooklyn on a 10-day, returned Ben Saraf to the big club, and sent Drake Powell to the G League, the Nets’ G League affiliate lost a tight one, 119-116, to the Grand Rapids Gold Thursday night at Nassau Coliseum.

And in the midst of it all, Brooklyn may have found a new development prospect in Chaney Johnson.

Johnson is the newest and youngest two-way player on the Long Island Nets roster. At 6’8”, 225 pounds with a 6’11” wingspan and a max vertical approaching 40”, the 23-year-old Johnson has 3-and-D potential. Signed off the Cleveland Charge just before New Year’s, Johnson keeps making progress, and Thursday night, that progress reached a high point.

The Auburn product had his biggest game as a pro, scoring 29 points, one night after scoring 19! Johnson connected on 10 of his 12 tries, while hitting all three of his tries. The Alabama native also had seven rebounds, one assist, and two blocks … both in crucial moments for Long Island. He did everything he could to put the team in a position to win, but the Gold had their number.

Indeed, after a somewhat slow start, Johnson has taken off in the last nine games, averaging 15.5 points while shooting 77.7% from two and 32.0% from three and grabbing 5.5 rebounds. He was not the only Long Islander to impress on the back-to-back at Nassau Coliseum.

Complementing Johnson’s game, Saraf had another big game in what he no doubt hopes will be his 21st and final game in the G League.

Coming off his 12-for-19, 32-point shooting performance the night before, Saraf followed it up with yet another solid offensive output. He connected on nine of his 15 shots and connected on three of his six attempts from beyond the arc for 21 points, giving him 53 points in a little more than 24 hours. He also had two rebounds, two assists, and three steals, the most in the game.

However, one glaring issue with Saraf has always been ball protection. Saraf turned the ball over five times, Nolan Traore had the same issue in the early going of this season, and he turned his game around.

In his most recent assignment, Saraf has looked much better than earlier in the season. There were many times back then when he was a big question mark, as his Flatbush 5 counterparts took off. The 19-year old, the NBA’s eighth youngest player, has been showing flashes of why Brooklyn drafted him in the 2025 NBA Draft in the first place.

Malachi Smith had another performance. He finished with 18 points, shooting 60% overall. He hauled in seven rebounds, including five in the fourth quarter alone, and two steals. His big downfall came in the ball protection department, his Achilles heel since starting at the point a few weeks back. Smith turned the ball over seven times, leading the game. After the game, NetsDaily spoke with Smith about his performance…

“Obviously, those are good numbers,” Smith tells ND. “But the number that’s sticking with me right now is the seven turnovers. I pride myself on being a low-turnover point guard, and today it was just a lot of dumb ones that I wish I could get back. It’s not something I usually do. As I said, I pride myself on having low turnovers. I know it’s a game of possessions, and one play doesn’t ruin the game. Right now, it feels like those seven turnovers are a big reason we lost tonight, and that’s not a good feeling as a point guard. I have to just be better and learn from it.”

Putting aside the turnovers, since being named a starter for the first time, the Gonzaga product’s performances become quite common for Smith. When asked about what he attributes this to the most, Smith told ND, “I think just trusting my work, staying ready. I’ve played in a lot of big games in college and have contributed in multiple ways. So, I’ve always been the type to put the work in behind the scenes, and whenever my number gets called, the work will show. I think that’s just what you see. Credit to my teammates, the coaches for helping me develop, and my teammates for having faith in me, but just being ready whenever my number is called.”

The 26-year-old picked up 13 assists, continuing to showcase himself as a playmaker and cementing yet another double-double. Smith told ND after the game, “I think as a point guard, making sure your teammates get to their spots and helping them get to their spots, gives them confidence, but also opens up my game. If I’m spreading it, when I drive, they might fan out and let me finish. I try to make the right play at the end of the day. Whatever the right play is, I just want to make it. I do a lot of film and stuff. So, I try to know what the defense is going to do and try to find my teammates where they’re most comfortable.”

Nelson remained on a minutes restriction, being the only starter to not reach 30 minutes, but in his last game before being called up. Nelson finished with just over 26 minutes, but once again continued to make the most of every second on the court. He finished with 17 points, on 47% shooting. There was a big difference in Nelson’s game on Thursday. He took many more three-point attempts than normal.

Nelson connected on just one of his six shots from deep, the most he’s put up this season and likely something Brooklyn has encouraged. Nelson is trying to expand his game from beyond the arc in hopes of reaching the NBA. In today’s NBA, if you hope to not just thrive but survive, you have to know how to shoot from deep, even as a big man. Nelson showed himself to be a solid three-point shooter in college, so if he can get back to this, it’s just one more tool Nelson will have working for him.

Tyson Etienne finished with 18 points, having one of his better shooting performances as of late, connecting on seven of his 11 tries, including four-for-seven from deep. EJ Liddell had four points, his lowest output in weeks, connecting on two of his nine attempts. Liddell shone in other aspects of the game, including hauling in nine rebounds and finishing with a team-leading three blocks.

The Gold went on an 8-0 run in the first quarter before Long Island responded with a 22-4 run over the final 5:36 of the first. The Nets closed the first frame with a 30-22 advantage after scoring 18 points in the paint and shooting 57.9 percent (11-for-19) from the field in the first. Grand Rapids went on a 17-7 run from 11:19 to 5:45 in the second quarter to close the gap, but Long Island entered the break with a 55-51 lead. Johnson led all scorers with 16 points in the first half, shooting 83.3 percent (5-for-6) from the field and 100 percent (2-for-2) from deep before halftime, and the Nets held the Gold to just 27.3 percent (3-for-11) shooting from long range in the first half.

Long Island entered tonight’s game with a +19.5 net rating in third quarters, the best differential by an NBA G League team in any quarter this season, and the Nets continued that success by limiting the Gold to 38.5 percent (10-for-26) shooting from the field and 11.1 percent (1-for-9) shooting from deep in the third. After Grand Rapids started the fourth on a 15-7 run from 11:48 to 9:21 to regain the lead, both teams traded the lead over the final nine minutes. Johnson hit a layup to tie the game at 116 with 5.1 seconds left in regulation, but Grand Rapids made three free throws to secure the 119-116 victory. Long Island scored 60 points in the paint for the second consecutive game and dished out 31 assists.

Next Up

The Long Island Nets (15-11) return to the court on Sunday for a game against the Westchester Knicks at the Nassau Coliseum. The game tips off at 3:00 p.m. EST and can be watched on the NBA G League website and the Gotham Sports app.

• Boxscore: Grand Rapids Gold 119, Long Island Nets 116 – G League
• Game Highlights: Grand Rapids Gold 119, Long Island Nets 116 (Video) – G League

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Both the NBA and college basketball seasons are winding down, which means 2026 NBA Draft odds are becoming a major topic of discussion. 

The NBA has come under fire for almost one-third of the league seemingly tanking — but with one of the deepest draft classes in years (including the "Big Three" prospects of Darryn Peterson, A.J. Dybansta, and Cam Boozer), the NBA's cellar dwellers have a lot to gain... by losing.

The NBA Draft Lottery is scheduled for May 10, where we'll find out which team selects first, but for now, here are the latest odds for which player will go No. 1-overall at the NBA Draft on June 24.

2026 NBA Draft odds to go No. 1

Odds from bet365, one of our best betting apps. Sign up with our bet365 promo code, or get one of our other sportsbook promos.

Player
Darryn Peterson	-125
AJ Dybantsa	+130
Cameron Boozer	+700
Caleb Wilson	+10000
Kingston Flemings	+10000
Keaton Wagler	+15000
Chris Cenac Jr.	+20000
Jayden Quaintance	+20000
Karim Lopez	+20000
Koa Peat	+20000
Mikel Brown Jr.	+20000
Nate Ament	+20000
Tounde Yessoufou	+20000

2026 NBA Mock Draft: Top 5 Scouting Reports

The 2026 class is defined by a "Big Three" at the top, followed by high-upside versatile wings. Here is how the top of the board looks as we head toward March Madness.

1. Darryn Peterson | G | Kansas

2025-26 stats: 19.5 ppg, 47.4 3PT%

Bill Self has called Peterson the best recruit he’s ever landed at Kansas, as the 6-foot-5 combo guard has elite body control and a methodical scoring pace. He has dealt with minor hamstring and ankle issues this season, but remains the draft's best pure scorer as he can bully smaller guards in the post or pull up from 30 feet with ease.

2. AJ Dybantsa | SF | BYU

2025-26 stats: 25.1 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 52.8 FG%

Dybantsa is the most "pro-ready" scorer in the class. Standing 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan, he currently leads the nation in scoring — including an absurd 30 ppg in February. He is explosive in driving to the paint, and getting to the free-throw line a lot, and he has a strong mid-range game... plus he has greatly improved as a playmaker and ball handler as the season has progressed.

3. Cameron Boozer | PF | Duke

2025-26 stats: 22.7 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 58.3 FG%

The son of former NBA player Carlos Boozer, Cam is the most productive player in college basketball. He's not as flashy (or may not have quite as high a ceiling) as the flashy wings above him, but Boozer has the highest floor of any player in the draft to turn out as a highly productive player. He is an elite short-roll passer, a solid defender, and can also hit jumpers from a distance.

4. Caleb Wilson | F | North Carolina

2025-26 stats: 19.8 ppg, 9.4 rpg, 57.8 FG%

Possibly the most athletic player in the draft, has major hops and a relentless motor, which combine well with his elite speed at 6-foot-10. He's a raw player: He struggles to finish at the rim, is not a 3-point threat at all right now, and has issues in off-ball defense, but his potential is as high as any player in the draft.

5. Kingston Flemings | G | Houston

2025-26 stats: 16.8 ppg, 5.1 apg, 85.7 FT%

Flemings has been the biggest draft riser throughout the season. A true point guard, he is a skilled passer, and his incredible speed sees him wreak havoc by getting in the paint and he shines in the open court. His improved jump shot has helped him move from a projected late-lottery pick to the Top-5 conversation over the last few months.

NBA mock draft comparison table

Current 2026 NBA Draft Lottery odds

The three teams finishing with the worst record in the NBA all have equal odds of winning the first-overall pick. while the fourth and fifth-worst teams also have odds better than 10% to land No. 1.

*New Orleans traded its unprotected 2026 first-round pick to Atlanta for Derik Queen at the 2025 draft.

NBA Draft betting trends

Here are some recent trends you'll want to keep in mind when betting on NBA Draft odds:

• Positions have been reasonably well-distributed among the No. 1 picks. Over the past 21 NBA Drafts, nine have been forwards, seven guards, and five centers.
  
  
• "One-and-done" college freshmen make up the overwhelming majority of recent top picks, being selected No. 1 in 16 of the past 19 seasons since high schoolers were ruled ineligible.
  
  
• Among NCAA schools, Duke leads the all-time count with five No. 1-overall picks, including Paolo Banchero in 2022.

Popular NBA futures markets

• NBA championship odds
• NBA MVP odds
• NBA Rookie of the Year odds

History of first overall NBA Draft picks

Cooper Flagg's selection last year ended a two-year stretch of international players taken No. 1 — after just one such player (Andrea Bargnani, 2006) was selected in the previous 17 years. 

Year	Player	Position
2025	Cooper Flagg	SF
2024	Zaccharie Riscacher	SF
2023	Victor Wembanyama	C
2022	Paolo Banchero	PF
2021	Cade Cunningham	PG
2020	Anthony Edwards	SG
2019	Zion Williamson	PF
2018	Deandre Ayton	C
2017	Markelle Fultz	PG
2016	Ben Simmons	PG/F
2015	Karl-Anthony Towns	C
2014	Andrew Wiggins	G/F
2013	Anthony Bennett	PF
2012	Anthony Davis	PF
2011	Kyrie Irving	PG
2010	John Wall	PG
2009	Blake Griffin	PF
2008	Derrick Rose	PG
2007	Greg Oden	C
2006	Andrea Bargnani	F/C
2005	Andrew Bogut	C
2004	Dwight Howard	C
2003	LeBron James	SF/PF
2002	Yao Ming	C
2001	Kwame Brown	C
2000	Kenyon Martin	PF

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A pair of tanking teams face off in the Lone Star State tonight, where the Dallas Mavericks host the Memphis Grizzlies.

Both teams are decimated by injuries, which is why my Grizzlies vs. Mavericks predictions expect Memphis forward Taylor Hendricks to continue shining in an increased role.

Here are my best free NBA picks for Friday, February 27.

Grizzlies vs Mavericks prediction

Grizzlies vs Mavericks best bet: Taylor Hendricks Over 9.5 points (-120)

The Memphis Grizzlies have been without leading scorer Ja Morant (19.5 ppg) since mid-January, and standout rookie Cedric Coward (13.3 ppg) is also sidelined.

That means plenty of shots for Taylor Hendricks, who was acquired in the Jaren Jackson trade, while Santi Aldama and Zach Edey are injured. Hendricks has stepped up, dropping 10+ points in four of his last six games.

The Dallas Mavericks' defense has collapsed with the departure of Anthony Davis and injuries to Cooper Flagg and P.J. Washington. Dallas ranks 28th in the NBA in defensive rating while playing at the sixth-fastest pace over the last month.

Grizzlies vs Mavericks same-game parlay

Rookie guard Walter Clayton Jr. also came over in that Jaren Jackson trade, and he has also thrived in a bigger role. Clayton has dropped 6+ assists in three of four games with Memphis.

The Griz have lost seven of their last eight games, but the Mavs have dropped 11 of their previous 13. I'll take the points with the visitors against a Dallas squad on the tail end of a back-to-back.

Grizzlies vs Mavericks SGP

• Taylor Hendricks Over 9.5 points
• Walter Clayton Jr. Over 4.5 assists
• Grizzlies +4.5

Our "from downtown" SGP: Grizz!

There's plenty of volatility in these late-season games between teams that aren't trying to win.

Since we're betting on a couple of hungry young players on the Grizzlies, let's also back them to lead at half and pull off the minor upset. 

Grizzlies vs Mavericks SGP

• Taylor Hendricks Over 9.5 points
• Walter Clayton Jr. Over 4.5 assists
• Grizzlies moneyline
• Grizzlies 1H moneyline

Grizzlies vs Mavericks odds

• Spread: Grizzlies +4.5 (-110) | Mavericks -4.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Grizzlies +165 | Mavericks -200
• Over/Under: Over 239 (-110) | Under 239 (-110)

Grizzlies vs Mavericks betting trend to know

The Grizzlies have covered the first half spread in their last 10 games on the road (+10.00 Units / 88% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Grizzlies vs. Mavericks.

How to watch Grizzlies vs Mavericks

Grizzlies vs Mavericks latest injuries

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Steph Curry reportedly suffered a setback in his recovery from the knee issue that has sidelined the Warriors superstar since the end of January.

Curry, who has missed Golden State’s past nine games, pushed too hard in an attempt to race back and ended up doing more harm than good, according to ESPN’s Marc Spears.

The setback occurred around the NBA All-Star break two weeks ago, Spears told Bay Area radio station 95.7 FM on Thursday.

“He was trying to work out, trying to get back and it pushed him back,” Spears said. “I’m not sure when he’ll be back, but I do know he wants to come back.”

Curry, 37, is set to be reevaluated by the Warriors training staff on Saturday. Golden State hosts the Lakers later that night, when Curry will miss his 10th game with patella-femoral pain syndrome, commonly known as runner’s knee, as well as a bone bruise in his right knee.

The diagnosis means that Curry is dealing with irritation around the front of the knee, according to UCSF orthopedic surgeon Dr. Nirav Pandya. The best method of treatment is rest, but the tricky part, Pandya said, is that there is no defined timetable.

“Sometimes it can be a couple days, sometimes a couple weeks, sometimes several months,” Pandya said on X. “Essentially it’s about getting that rest, getting that inflammation down, so that the player can be effective on the court without causing more aggravation.”

Curry expressed frustration about the nebulous nature of the injury in an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle last week. “It’s frustrating not being out there, especially with an injury that doesn’t necessarily have a specific timeline you can trust,” he said.

Curry’s desire to hurry back is fueled in part by the Warriors’ position in the standings. Golden State’s veteran-laden roster would benefit from all the rest it can get by avoiding the play-in tournament.

With 23 games to go, however, the Warriors are fairly comfortably locked in to the No. 7-8 matchup in the Western Conference. The Trail Blazers and Clippers aren’t giving them much chase from the ninth and 10th spots, while the Warriors remain 3.5 games back of the Lakers and the No. 6 seed.

“This team is kind of in a no man’s land. They’re probably too bad for a playoff lock, a top-six spot. But they’re too good to not be in the play-in,” Spears said. “So Steph expects to be in the play-in. He wants to be in the play-in. He wants the chance to be in the playoffs.”

In this week’s Tuesday Tracker and our SB Nation Reacts survey, we asked you about Pete Nance’s two-way contract and the Bucks’ projected playoff seeding. Here are the highlights:

• 77% of respondents want the Bucks to convert Pete Nance to a standard deal, and if that’s the route the team chooses, 57% feel that Andre Jackson Jr. should be cut from the 15-man roster to make room.
• 84% of voters believe Milwaukee will rise into the play-in, though 66% of them think they’ll be no higher than the 9th spot, meaning they’d have to win two games to make the actual playoffs.
• If they miss the playoffs, they’ll have a lottery pick in June’s draft, and 60% of fans polled think the Bucks should keep that pick, no matter where it ends up.
• Of those who disagree, 65% of them would trade the pick if it falls outside the top ten, which is the most likely scenario: factoring in the pick swap with the Pelicans, the two teams’ current positions give the Bucks only a 15.9% chance of drafting better than ten.
• Fans also recognize that Milwaukee’s improved play, plus clear tanking by Chicago, Memphis, and Dallas, means that they won’t sink lower than their current spot in the lottery standings (10th).

Thanks again for voting! Check back on Tuesday for another slate of questions.

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There’s no better way to kick off the weekend than with some winning bets.

I’ve combed through the latest NBA odds and singled out my three favorites for today, including points props for two role players capitalizing on extra opportunities.

Check out all of my NBA picks for Friday, February 27.

Best NBA player props today

Player	Pick
Kyle Kuzma	Over 1.5 threes	+150
GG Jackson Jr.	Over 16.5 points	-112
Julian Strawther	Over 9.5 points	-115

Prop #1: Kyle Kuzma Over 1.5 threes

+150 at bet365

It’s been an unusual season for the Milwaukee Bucks. With Giannis Antetokounmpo missing significant time, they’ve still managed to win eight of their last 10 games heading into tonight's matchup with the New York Knicks.

Kyle Kuzma has stepped up for Milwaukee, averaging 14.6 points over his last 12 contests and shooting 40% from 3-point range over his last five.

The Knicks' perimeter defense has been shaky this season, ranking 20th in opponent made threes per game. Kuzma has made 2+ threes in four of his last five starts, and he’s likely to do it again tonight.

• Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: MSG, FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin

Prop #2: GG Jackson Jr. Over 16.5 points

-112 at bet365

The Memphis Grizzlies’ injury list reads like a horror story, and they desperately need scoring.

G.G. Jackson Jr. is averaging 17.4 points with a .667 eFG% over his last nine games, and tonight he faces a Dallas Mavericks team that’s nearly as depleted as the Grizzlies.

With the Mavs playing their second match in as many nights, I like Jackson to eclipse 16.5 points for the fifth time in six games.

• Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: FanDuel Sports Network Southeast-Memphis, KFAA

Prop #3: Julian Strawther Over 9.5 points

-115 at bet365

The game of the night features the Denver Nuggets visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is back after missing nine games, but in a matchup loaded with NBA stars, I'm focusing on a prop for a lesser-known role player.

Julian Strawther has capitalized on his increased opportunities. The Nuggets guard is averaging 15.6 points and shooting 37% from three over his eight starts, and he’s expected back in the starting lineup tonight.

OKC allows the fourth-most made threes per game, and Strawther has reached double digits in scoring in seven of his eight games while in an elevated role.

• Time: 9:30 p.m. ET
• Where to watch: ESPN

These props are available now at bet365, one of our best betting sites.

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