Category: Basketball

Jonathan Kuminga’s potential is still carrying his reputation. The fifth-year forward has consistently failed to earn the trust of Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, and so far this year he’s been producing like one of the worst players in the league (12th percentile in EPM). The Warriors still didn’t want to cut bait on the talented 23-year-old, so they signed him to a two-year, $46 million contract over the summer with the intent of trading him eventually. Kuminga has been fully out of Golden State rotation for the last month as he became trade eligible on Jan. 15, and he has unsurprisingly “demanded” to be traded to a new team.

The Warriors payed Kuminga handsomely mostly to use him as trade bait, but at this point they need to realize he likely won’t be used to acquire something resembling the missing piece for the team’s flawed roster. Golden State reportedly doesn’t want to take back any long-term salary in the deal, and at this point that might be their only reasonable hope. It’s starting to feel like the best the Warriors can do here is some expiring contracts and maybe a second-round pick or two. Golden State could continue to hold Kuminga hostage in hopes of finding a trade partner this summer, but he’s not going to be able to grow him value on the bench.

Here’s three fake Jonathan Kuminga trades ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline. Add some future second-round picks to all of these. Warning: none of these are very good for the Warriors.

Jonathan Kuminga to Lakers trade idea with Nets

The Lakers reportedly have some interest in Kuminga, but it’s hard to come up with a deal that works straight up between the two teams due the arcane rules around the forward’s “base year compensation.” I wanted to get the Warriors Jake LaRavia in this deal, so I included the Nets as a third team, who could conceivably pick up multiple future second-round picks for taking on a pair of expiring contracts by make the numbers work. LaRavia hasn’t been great this year (41st percentile EPM), but he has a combination of size, shooting, and IQ on the wing that could entice Golden State. Highsmith is currently recovering from a torn meniscus, but he’s shown some level of competency as a two-way forward when he’s been healthy. The Lakers get a chance to give Kuminga a more defined role, and maybe they turn him in to a solid rotation piece the same way they’ve done with Rui Hachimura. I think this one makes sense for all sides.

Jonathan Kuminga to Kings trade idea with Bulls

The Kings have consistently been mentioned as Kuminga’s biggest suitor, but Golden State’s hesitance to take on Malik Monk’s long-term money has killed the deal to this point. In this three-team trade, the Chicago Bulls jump in to take Monk, clearing the way for Kuminga to Sacramento. The Warriors are getting a pair of failed first-round picks in this deal with Devin Carer and Dalen Terry. Terry is a pretty good wing defender who can’t do much on offense, and he expires after this season. Carter is in his second season, and the 3-and-D skill set that made him a lottery pick coming out of college has yet to translate. Maybe the Warriors think they can resurrect Carter’s career, while the Bulls land a microwave scoring guard that allows them to trade Coby White before they would have to re-sign him this summer.

Jonathan Kuminga to Mavericks trade idea

The Mavs reportedly have interest in Kuminga, and I could help myself but use that as an excuse to send Klay Thompson back to the Bay. Golden State might not love Thompson having another season at $16 million on the books after this year, but maybe they could trade him again this summer for a piece that fits better. There’s always a chance Thompson can catch fire and swing a playoff game again for Golden State, and that’s just fun to think about. I don’t see much downside here for either team.

Could Golden State package a future first-round pick or two with Kuminga to try to get Michael Porter Jr.? That’s a possibility too, but I’m not sure Brooklyn will play ball for only one pick, and I don’t think the Warriors will offer two. Add your favorite fake Kuminga trades below and I’ll judge them.

The Philadelphia 76ers were embarrassed at home in a lopsided loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday, but they’ll have a chance to respond in Friday’s rematch in Philly.

Tyrese Maxey remains one of the NBA’s premier scorers, and my Cavaliers vs. 76ers predictions call for a strong offensive bounce-back after his quiet showing earlier in the week.

Cavaliers vs 76ers prediction

Cavaliers vs 76ers best bet: Tyrese Maxey Over 25.5 points (-120)

Tyrese Maxey is scoring a career-high 30.5 points per game this season, and tonight's scoring line is set at a juicy 25.5 points. He finished with just 14 points on 5-of-16 shooting in Wednesday's win, but he posted 26+ in three straight and nine of 10 games before that. 

Cavaliers vs 76ers same-game parlay

Jaylon Tyson finished with 20, 17, and 27 PRA across 25.3 minutes over his last three games. He started Wednesday in place of Sam Merrill, who was injured in that contest.

Merrill and Darius Garland are both out tonight, which should mean another start for Tyson. He's averaged 21 PRA across 22 started, hitting the Over on this line 13 times, including five of eight on the road.

Cavaliers vs 76ers SGP

• Tyrese Maxey Over 25.5 points
• Jaylon Tyson Over 21.5 points + rebounds + assists
• Over 235

Our "from downtown" SGP: Spida web

Donovan Mitchell has scored at least 31 points in nine of 16 road games this season, and has dropped point totals of 35 and 46 against the 76ers.

Cavaliers vs 76ers SGP

• Tyrese Maxey Over 25.5 points
• Jaylon Tyson Over 21.5 points + rebounds + assists
• Over 235
• Donovan Mitchell Over 30.5 points 

Cavaliers vs 76ers odds

• Spread: Cleveland +1.5 (-105) | Philadelphia -1.5 (-115)
• Moneyline: Cleveland +110 | Philadelphia -130
• Over/Under: Over 235 (-110) | Under 235 (-110)
  

Cavaliers vs 76ers betting trend to know

The Cavaliers have hit the 1Q Over in 29 of their last 45 away games (+11.35 Units / 22% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Cavaliers vs. 76ers.

How to watch Cavaliers vs 76ers

Cavaliers vs 76ers latest injuries

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

Hornets announcer Eric Collins clearly won’t be getting a holiday card from Luka Doncic this year.

The broadcaster ripped into the Lakers guard during Charlotte’s matchup with Los Angeles at Crypto.com Arena on Thursday night, calling out the five-time All-Star for complaining about whistles.

Eric Collins on Luka Doncic: "This guy is a whiner."

Luka received a technical foul and the Hornets scored a corner 3 at the other end beforehand

Also on Youtube:https://t.co/5PE4uaVpOVpic.twitter.com/5xCa9bCSZJ

— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) January 16, 2026

“Oh my goodness,” Collins said on air. “This guy is a whiner.”

Collins’ rant came early in the third quarter, after Doncic thought he had been fouled while trying to score on Kon Knueppel.

Doncic shook his head in disbelief, before he appeared to have some words for one of the on-court officials. Seconds later, the 26-year-old was issued a technical foul, and as he tried to plead his case to the ref, Collins unloaded into his mic.

“The Hornets have a chance to make it hurt,” Collins said after throwing the jab at Doncic. “A potential four-point play.”

Collins went on to add, “That is now 11 technical fouls on Luka Doncic. He’s got a reputation.”

Doncic and the Lakers weren’t able to make Collins eat his words — they ultimately lost, 135-117.

The Lakers are now just 1-4 in their last five games, although Doncic was still able to finish the night with 39 points, three rebounds and four assists.

It’s no secret that the Lakers are trying to add a two-way wing to this roster via a trade.

The question is, how can they get that done while keeping the parts of their roster that are working well?

After all, the Lakers are still in the running for a top-four seed in the Western Conference, so any move has to be a combination of helping the team win now while also building for the future.

In a recent episode of “The Kevin O’Connor Show,” Kevin stated that the Lakers are trying to send out Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent in an attempt to acquire a wing.

Kevin O’Connor: “With the Lakers, the word on the street is that they’re looking to package Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent together for a wing.”

Vando is a good defender, but it’s clear the Lakers want a bit more offense from that position. For a moment, Vando was out of the rotation due to his offensive struggles, but with LA being so poor defensively, he is back to playing double-digit minutes in each contest.

On the season, Vanderbilt is averaging 5.1 points and 5.2 rebounds per game.

Vando is under contract for next season and has a player option for the following year, so LA getting out of that deal would be beneficial.

Vincent has a higher offensive upside than Vando, but he is also struggling to consistently produce. He is averaging 5.1 points and shooting just 33.7% from the field. Vincent is on the final year of his deal, so anyone interested in acquiring him can rest assured they aren’t committing to any long-term money.

The problem is, how many teams would actually be interested in a package where Vincent and Vanderbilt are the main players in a deal?

Perhaps adding some draft capital can get teams in on a Lakers trade? Los Angeles is reportedly trying to trade their 2032 first round pick for multiple future firsts. If they can accomplish that and add Vincent and Vando in a package, suddenly that’s a much better deal for the right franchise.

For now, this seems like the options the Lakers are exploring to improve their roster. Now, it’s up to the front office to execute on a deal and give Luka Dončić and LeBron James a shot at contention.

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

Nothing doing in the win column. The Brooklyn Nets went to New Orleans to face the Pelicans on Wednesday night to wrap up their three game road trip. It was close, but the Nets ultimately fell short by three points. The L was their fifth in a row.

The opponent tonight is hanging around the play-in. The Chicago Bulls are tenth in the Eastern Conference standings and look like they have another date with the play-in tournament this year. They helped their cause with a last second win against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night.

Where to follow the game

YES Network on TV. Gotham Sports on streaming. WFAN on radio. Tip after 7:30 PM.

Injuries

No Ziaire Williams (illness) or Haywood Highsmith (surgery recovery). Ben Saraf remains on Long Island as does two-way E.J. Liddell.

The following players are out for the Bulls:

• Zach Collins
• Josh Giddey
• Noa Essengue

Kevin Huerter is probable and Julian Phillips is questionable.

The game

Brooklyn won the first meeting in December.

This is a home-and-home set. These teams will do it again Sunday evening in Chicago.

Brooklyn will see an old nemesis at center tonight. Nikola Vucevic has given the Nets troubles over the year, but only shot 6-18 from the field in the first matchup back in December. For Nic Claxton and the Nets bigs, they’ll look to make things difficult for Vuc in the paint and force him into tough jumpers. If they can do that, they’ll make things a lot more difficult for Billy Donovan’s club.

The Nets have consistently had a turnover problem this season as they are ranked 29th in turnover rate. Fortunately for them, the Bulls don’t force many turnovers as they are 29th in opponent’s turnover rate. Every coach stresses the importance of making the most out of every possession, and it’s something Jordi Fernandez will put extra emphasis on tonight.

If Brooklyn is successful, they can make a living on the inside. The Bulls allow 31 shots per game inside the restricted area, most in the NBA this season. Drives to the cup open up a bevy of opportunities, and for someone like Cam Thomas in particular, it can get him back on the right track. It’s been a bit rocky since Thomas returned from a hamstring injury and getting to the cup is when he’s at his most dynamic.

Player to watch: Matas Buzeli

For the Bulls, they’ve got to figure out a real path forward. That means identifying players that can help them make it back to the playoffs and not just their annual play-in appearance. They’ve got a long way to go, but they’ve got somebody who is worth keeping an eye on. From Drew Stevens of The Bigs

“Buzelis is learning the subtleties of a team built on shared responsibility. Flagg is Dallas’s fulcrum, creating opportunities even when the outcome isn’t perfect. Mistakes come with responsibility — and that’s the point.

But the Bulls’ system allows Buzelis to translate lessons into growth and consistent production.

The last six games have shown what the 21-year-old can do with more responsibility, He’s scoring consistently, making smart reads and producing in the paint while also stretching the floor when opportunities arise. It’s growth that’s quiet but dependable.“

Gotta start somewhere.

The ballots are in, and Michael Porter Jr is hoping he did enough to earn his first All-Star nomination. MPJ has done everything asked of him this season and then some. Porter Jr tuned the Bulls up to the tune of 33 points the first time around, and he’ll look to see if he can put forth another great performance. He went 4-5 at the rim in that game, and if the Nets can create good looks for him at the cup, MPJ will make the most of it.

From the Vault

Salute to Sade

And ones in the air for Aaliyah

More reading: Blog a Bull, The Bigs, SB Nation NBA, New York Post, New York Daily News, Clutch Points, Nets Wire, Steve’s Newsletter, City of Nets

• Brooklyn Nets Game Notes – Brooklyn Nets
• Chicago Bulls Game Notes – Chicago Bulls
• Nets take on the Bulls on 5-game losing streak – AP
• Drake Powell cracks starting lineup as Nets try to break five-game skid – Peter Botte – New York Post

In today’s Dub Hub:

• Warriors’ veteran leaders Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler maintain that Jonathan Kuminga’s trade demand won’t be a distraction. 
• Steph Curry played through a quad contusion during Thursday’s 126-113 win vs. Knicks, per ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
• Klay Thompson passes Damian Lillard for fourth on NBA’s all-time three-pointers list.

Despite the Golden State Warriors taking care of business with a 126–113 home win over the New York Knicks on Thursday night, the conversation around the team centered elsewhere. Earlier that day, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Jonathan Kuminga had officially demanded out of Golden State on the first day he became trade eligible.

Golden State's Jonathan Kuminga has demanded a trade away from the Warriors as he becomes eligible to be moved Thursday, sources tell ESPN.

Full story with @anthonyVslater: https://t.co/70ByLkfbIN

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 15, 2026

It’s the type of news that can linger over a locker room — but the Warriors made it clear it won’t.

Veteran leaders Stephen Curry and Draymond Green both dismissed the idea that Kuminga’s situation would become a distraction, stressing that the team remains focused on winning.

Steph Curry kept it real on why Jonathan Kuminga's situation is not a distraction at all despite the outside noise.

"You've been around for the last 3-4 years — we've done it this whole time so we're very very well trained in this area. To just play basketball." pic.twitter.com/KRaAJTXiXc

— KNBR (@KNBR) January 16, 2026

Draymond Green with a strong Jonathan Kuminga endorsement in this extended soundbite

“It won’t be a distraction because he’s not a distraction.”

“I know how talented he is. I know how good of a teammate he is. I know how good of a person he is.” pic.twitter.com/wtHoqz8FQJ

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) January 16, 2026

That same message was echoed by Jimmy Butler, who has served as a mentor to Kuminga since his arrival in Golden State. Butler reiterated that the locker room continues to support Kuminga and ultimately wants what’s best for him moving forward.

"I want JK to be happy. At the end of the day, that's what I want."

Jimmy Butler iterates the Warriors' support of Jonathan Kuminga pic.twitter.com/CLPDlXX03C

— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) January 16, 2026

To the Warriors’ credit, the situation hasn’t had a negative impact on the court. Golden State is 7–3 over its last 10 games and now sits four games above .500 for the first time all season. As long as the wins keep coming, the message inside the locker room aligns with the results — at least for now, this isn’t a distraction.

For more on this and other news around the NBA, here is our latest news round-up for Friday, January 16th:

Warriors News:

Warriors prove Kuminga ‘not a distraction’ in win over Knicks | ESPN

Kuminga and Warriors coach Steve Kerr talked after shootaround on Thursday morning. Kerr said he preferred to keep the conversation private, but acknowledged the entire ordeal is a “difficult situation” for everyone involved.

How Warriors’ Jimmy Butler resurrected the art of earning free throws: ‘You will foul me now’ | San Francisco Chronicle

Also notable here: Butler, unlike Doncic, rarely complains to the officials about a call or non-call. That habit reminds Kerr of Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, fierce competitors who were determined not to constantly chirp at the refs. 

“Jimmy is the same way — he never wants to show weakness,” Kerr said. “It’s a quality I absolutely love. That’s so powerful and productive for a team.”

So is Butler standing stoically at the free-throw line, having earned a whistle to silence his opponent.

Steph Curry played through a quad contusion vs. Knicks

Steph Curry was in some pain and limping in the tunnels postgame. Played through it but told me it was a quad contusion.

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) January 16, 2026

NBA News:

As Klay Thompson moves into 4th on 3s made list, his love for the game keeps him going | The Athletic

“I love shooting the basketball,” Thompson said. “I was very lucky to grow up with a hoop in my driveway. A really nice one. Breakaway rim. Big backboard. It was always my source of joy and form of escapism for me to get away from school work or whatever chores I had that day. It was like my favorite hobby to just go hear the net swish.

“The fact that it’s amounted to this is incredible and inspires me to keep going. I have many years left. But it’s truly just because I love shooting the basketball so much. It’s always been my favorite thing to do.”

Magic’s Anthony Black throws down potential dunk of the year vs. Grizzlies

DUNK OF THE YEAR?!!?! ANTHONY BLACK ON 4 GRIZZLIES 😳😳😳 pic.twitter.com/8QANj6pPUM

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 15, 2026

In case you missed it at Golden State of Mind:

Warriors vs. Knicks player grades: Jimmy Butler III and Steph Curry take over as the bench shines

Brandin Podziemski

26 minutes, 19 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 3 turnovers, 2 fouls, 8-for-9 shooting, 2-for-3 threes, 1-for-2 free throws, 96.2% TS, +22

Podziemski was, to quote Mark Jones, deep in his bag like the fries were at the bottom. Hook shots. Floaters. Off-balance rain collectors. Threes. Podziemski looked like he was playing a game of HORSE on the Chase Center court, and he was winning handily. And he did all of that while also making all the little plays that contribute to winning.

The three turnovers were a bit much but, like Moody, that’s picking nits when everything else was so flawless.

Grade: A+
Post-game bonus: Best plus/minus on the team.

A post to end the week:

Follow @unstoppablebaby on X for all the latest news on the Golden State Warriors.

As LaMelo Ball sat by his locker, he broke out into a dance, undulating his arms and shimmying his shoulders while smiling.

He had just scored 27 of his 30 points in the second half, leading the Hornets to a 135–117 win over the Lakers Thursday, including making nine 3-pointers. 

For the Lakers, it was their fourth loss in five games, with two of those losses coming this week against opponents that are near the cellar of their respective conferences, including the 12th-place Hornets and the 14th-place Kings on Monday. 

It drove home one big point: The Lakers need help. 

Luka Dončić had 39 points, four assists and three rebounds. LeBron James had 29 points, nine rebounds and six assists. But that wasn’t enough. 

No other Laker scored 20 points. And no Laker could stop the Hornets’ shooting barrage which, in addition to Ball, also included the shining Brandon Miller (26 points) and Miles Bridges (25 points).

The Lakers need better perimeter defense and they need scoring help, especially with Austin Reaves sidelined because of a calf strain. 

Even though the Lakers have tied their worst skid of the year with their latest speed bump, Lakers coach JJ Redick remained positive. 

 “I thought we fought,” Redick said. “Just another team that has a hot shooting night.” 

Redick was similarly relatively optimistic after the Lakers’ ugly 124–112 loss to the Kings Monday, in which they were outshot from the 3-point line, 65.4 percent to 22.2 percent, respectively.

“We can’t make a shot,” he said, before pointing out that over the previous seven games the Lakers were “one of the best defenses in the league.” 

It was a stark contrast from the way he responded to the Lakers’ three-game losing skid three weeks ago, which culminated in a 119–96 loss to Houston on Christmas. A fuming Redick laid into his team after that contest, saying, “We don’t care enough to be professional” and “I’m not doing another 53 games like this.”

So, either Redick believes the care factor is there in the Lakers’ latest skid, or he’s showing more restraint, both of which may be true. 

On Thursday, the Lakers led by as much as 13 points before a dreadful second quarter in which they were outscored, 34–16. The Lakers fought to cut their deficit to as small as six points in the fourth quarter, but Ball exploded for a series of 3-pointers, making four of his five shots from that distance in the period. 

It’s no secret that the Lakers are going to get the other teams’ best effort every night, and right now it’s greatly exposing their weaknesses, which is something to monitor closely as the Feb. 5 trade deadline creeps closer. 

As for the Hornets, it was clear this was a game they had circled on their calendar. 

“These guys grew up watching LeBron James play,” Redick said. “The Lakers, like the Celtics, are arguably the most storied franchise in all of sports. We’ve mentioned it as a team. I think all the guys know we don’t get a lot of off nights from other teams in terms of energy and being up and all that stuff.”

The Washington Wizards traded for Trae Young with the long term in view, and his impact is already being felt before he takes the court. “Felt” as in, Washington is quickly improving its lottery odds because of what it gave up in that trade. 

My Wizards vs. Kings predictions recognize how bad everything is in Washington.

Find out more in my NBA picks for January 16.

Wizards vs Kings prediction

Wizards vs Kings best bet: Kings -7 (-110)

The Washington Wizards are 0-4 against the spread in their last four games and 1-5 in their last six, falling short of bookmakers’ expectations by an average of 8.25 points per game since trading for Trae Young. 

Well, the more precise thought there would be since trading away CJ McCollum. The veteran shooting guard had scored double digits in every game since November 7, with his reliability and leadership more needed than known.

That may sound abstract or intangible, but Washington has a young roster to start with, one lacking thorough talent. Pouring 24 or more minutes into Malaki Branham for two of those games as a McCollum replacement is not a recipe for success.

Wizards vs Kings same-game parlay

DeMar DeRozan averaged 17.4 points in 11 games alongside Domantas Sabonis this season, a distinct drop from the 19.8 he has averaged in 30 games without Sabonis.

As the Sacramento Kings’ cornerstone returns to the lineup, he'll overlap with DeRozan’s midrange game, though Sabonis may himself be rusty.

Wizards vs Kings SGP

• Kings -7
• DeMar DeRozan Under 20.5 points
• Domantas Sabonis Under 13.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: Under thunder

Sacramento has cashed seven Unders in its last 11 games, a stretch that very much overlaps with Washington cashing eight Unders in its last 10 games.

Wizards vs Kings SGP

• Kings -7
• DeMar DeRozan Under 20.5 Points
• Domantas Sabonis Under 13.5 Points
• Under 233.5

Wizards vs Kings odds

• Spread: Wizards +7 | Kings -7
• Moneyline: Wizards +220 | Kings -270
• Over/Under: Over 233.5 | Under 233.5

Wizards vs Kings betting trend to know

The Kings are 3-0 against the spread in their last three, exceeding bookmakers’ expectations by an average of 23.8 points in three outright upset wins. Find more NBA betting trends for Wizards vs. Kings.

How to watch Wizards vs Kings

Wizards vs Kings latest injuries

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

Friday night in the NBA is made for big boards and even bigger payouts. I'm building a three-leg moneyline parlay for January 16, targeting a trio of squads with the momentum to carry your slip to the finish line.

First, I'm backing Joel Embiid and the Sixers to avenge their recent stumble against the Cavs. Then, I'm riding the Clippers’ four-game win streak as they head North to tame the Raptors. Finally, I'm banking on the Timberwolves to outmuscle the suddenly reeling Rockets.

This parlay has been BOOSTED by our friends at bet365. Let's get the party started with my NBA picks!

NBA moneyline parlay for January 16

Cleveland Cavaliers vs  Philadelphia 76ers

• Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
• Location: Xfinity Mobile Arena
• TV: ESPN, FDSN, NBCSP
• Pick: 76ers (-125)

The market has shrunk this edge as the 76ers were -125 on the opener but there's still one there as I believe the 76ers should be trading closer to a -155 favorite on the moneyline against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday.

The Cavaliers demolished the 76ers on Wednesday but the rematch will look a lot different as Darius Garland has been ruled out for this one. This is a huge bailout for the 76ers defense, which isn't filled with multiple point of attack defenders to slow down two high usage guards that can create a ton of offense in Garland and Donovan Mitchell.

Now the 76ers defense can solely focus on Mitchell, matching the offense of Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid on the other side becomes a lot more difficult for the Cavaliers.

Los Angeles Clippers vs Toronto Raptors

• Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Scotiabank Arena
• TV: NBA League Pass, FDSN, Sportsnet
• Pick: Clippers (-125)

The Los Angeles Clippers are trading as a -125 favorite on the moneyline against the Toronto Raptors on Friday and I'm hitting the button on that number as I believe they should be trading closer to a -150.

The Raptors defense is very vulnerable to high usage pick-and-roll ball handlers which is a massive problem when you're facing James Harden and Ivica Zubac, or when Brook Lopez is setting screens.

The Raptors have the better record and appear as the better team in this matchup on the surface, but don't get it confused. There's a reason the Clippers are favored on the road. The Clippers are much better than their record and are fourth in net rating in the NBA over their last 10 games.

Minnesota Timberwolves vs  Houston Rockets

• Time: 9:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Toyota Center
• TV: ESPN, SCHN, TSN
• Pick: Timberwolves (+145)

No Anthony Edwards? No problem. At +145 give me the Minnesota Timberwolves on the moneyline. I think the Wolves should be trading closer to a +115 underdog than a +145.

Everything in the Houston Rockets offense flows through Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun and the Wolves have the perfect defensive matchups for these two players in Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert.

It's the second night of a back-to-back for the Rockets after getting beat up by the Thunder, and let's face it, Houston is reeling a bit at the moment. Plus, do you really think Julius Randle will have any problem picking up the extra usage that's available with Ant out?

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

Coming off a blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Spurs returned home to take on the Milwaukee Bucks. Devin Vassell remains out with his adductor injury. The contest started with a gigantic scare of Victor Wembanyama banging knees with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Vic would clutch his knee on the ground and hobble to the locker room. However, he would return in the second quarter. After leading by as much as 17 in the second quarter, the Spurs led the Bucks 66-53 at halftime. Usually, this is when the Spurs would allow their opponent to close the gap and make it a down-to-the-wire game. Except this time, the Spurs took care of business. Thanks to their hot shooting, they outscored the Bucks 40-16 in the third quarter and led by as much as 39. The Spurs ultimately won 119-101.

Victor Wembanyama dropped a double-double: 22 points (7-12 FG, 5-6 3PT) and 10 rebounds to go along with two blocks and an assist. After the OKC game, Wemby and Keldon Johnson decided to shave each other’s heads as a means of togetherness and ultimate focus. After surviving another injury scare, Wemby played decoy for most of the second quarter before going off in the third. He splashed five threes and dropped highlight plays on both ends. This was the first game of Bald Wemby, and he played like a seven-foot-five avatar.

Just throw it up there! Harrison Barnes finds Wemby on the lob, and Wemby finishes the play with a reverse tap layup!

👽👽👽

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/1oM9tbM1za

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

Signature Wemby play! Wemby turbo blocks Ryan Rollins off the backboard and finishes with a transition three on the other end!

THE BLOCK. THE THREEEEE 🔥🔥🔥

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/FBn5S9bpXT

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

ALIEN-LIKE ACTIVITY! Wemby catches the ball on AJ Green and simply drains the turnaround three-ball!

VIC ON FIRE FROM DOWNTOWN 🔥

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/9XwLWcdoz7

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

Stephon Castle dropped a double-double: 19 points (6-9 FG, 6-6 FT) and 10 assists to go along with a board and 0 turnovers. Steph played a fantastic game as the Spurs’ primary playmaker. For someone who is averaging 3.7 turnovers a game, Steph took care of the ball by recording his first zero-turnover game of the season. He also finished with a team-high +36. Coming into the season as a combo guard, Steph is averaging three more assists than last season. His versatility and frame allow him to continue to be a combo guard, but it is clear the coaching staff is having him handle the ball more than De’Aaron Fox.

ST3PH! D-Fox drives in, draws multiple defenders, and dumps it off for a wide-open Steph splash!

Swipa 🤝 Steph 🔥

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/OmJ5eLkmBt

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

CLEAR THE WAY! Steph uses his strength to drive into the paint and dunks it home with two hands!

HOPS! 🐰

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/jbNKxKTVXH

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

Had him frozen! Steph puts the moves on Giannis and skips past him for the lay!

T👀 nice Steph

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/vR9gswwWdm

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

De’Aaron Fox dropped 18 points (6-10 FG, 3-4 3PT), four assists, and four rebounds. D-Fox had a solid bounce-back game in terms of efficiency. His three-ball laced the nylon, and he seems to be embracing more of an off-ball guard role next to Steph. Even though he did not play the fourth quarter due to the score, the former Clutch Player of the Year will still have the confidence to run the offense in the clutch.

Stepback sniper! D-Fox toys with Myles Turner by creating space for the stepback trey!

D3'AARON 🎯

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/AcuVvmPcu2

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

Alley-oop! Speaking of pick and rolls, D-Fox finds Luke Kornet on the lob for the slam! Luke finished with 10 points, four rebounds, and a dime on a perfect five of five from the field!

LUUUUKE 🔨

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/BV4CGi9jc1

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

Dylan Harper dropped 13 points, five assists, and four rebounds. The rookie continues to bounce back after a rough stretch. The shiftiness of Dyl was lightning quick for the Bucks to handle. Not only is he shifty, but his vertical is scary. Even though he went zero of five from three, all the threes he attempted were open shots. Once that shot becomes more consistent, he has the potential to be unguardable. However, the 19-year-old has plenty of time and will let the game come to him.

SHIFTY! Speaking of shifty, Dyl puts the behind-the-back on move on Gary Trent Jr. in transition and finishes off the glass!

Too saucy with it 😮‍💨

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/Py5JuF4yx0

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

GET UP! Wemby finds an open Dyl near the basket, and he catches and slams home the lob pass!

Throw it down rook! 👏

📺 @FanDuelSN_SWpic.twitter.com/4cYFaqgPB8

— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) January 16, 2026

Julian Champagnie dropped a double-double: 13 points (3-5 3PT, 4-4 FT) and 11 rebounds to go along with a steal. Julian dropped multiple threes and got to the free-throw line by drawing fouls on his three-point attempts. He even drew a flagrant foul on Green. Despite the scoring, Julian continues to sneakily grab defensive rebounds when players fall asleep on the boards. His hustle and defense remain the most underrated part of his game.

All in all, this was a much-needed bounce-back win. As soon as Wemby returned from injury, this team’s confidence stayed high and never got low. No better way to reignite the shooting slump than by making the Bucks pay for defensive mistakes. The way the silver and black played in the third quarter is a great tone-setter of how they need to approach the rest of the season. Take care of huge leads. This team’s chemistry continues to shine through the ups and downs, no matter who shaves their head. Next up, revenge against Minnesota.

Finally, here are the full game highlights.

The Spurs continue their homestand with a revenge matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves this Saturday at 7:00 P.M. (CST) on FDSN-SW.

The Minnesota Timberwolves will be without their best player tonight, but they still have a chance to push the Houston Rockets toward the Play-In Tournament.

That would mark a steep fall for a team that entered the season with legitimate title aspirations following the arrival of Kevin Durant.

My Timberwolves vs. Rockets predictions recognize the immediate Minnesota value in Anthony Edwards’ absence.

Read more in my NBA picks for Friday, January 16. 

Tip-off is set for 9:30 p.m. ET at Toyota Center in Houston, with the game airing on ESPN.

Timberwolves vs Rockets prediction

Timberwolves vs Rockets best bet: Jaden McDaniels Over 16.5 points (-105)

Jaden McDaniels scored 14 points in Tuesday’s first quarter at Milwaukee, which is the reason he cashed this same prop by only half a point, adding a second-quarter 3-pointer. The Minnesota Timberwolves were so walloping the Bucks that McDaniels eased up.

He has now cleared this prop in six of eight games without Anthony Edwards in the lineup this season, averaging 19.9 points in those eight games, up from 13.5 points in 31 games alongside the Minnesota superstar.

McDaniels takes 10.1 shots per game with Edwards in the lineup, jumping to 13.75 without the MVP candidate. Maybe even more notable, McDaniels’s field-goal percentage rises to 55.5% in that increased usage, up from 51.0%. 

The 25-year-old is a more complete player than given credit for, and that often shows up when the Timberwolves’ best offensive player is on the bench.

Timberwolves vs Rockets same-game parlay

Doubt Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard in all defensive matchups. He logged 19 minutes last night and finished a team-worst minus-10.

Yes, it was a 20-point loss to Oklahoma City, but some of that stemmed from Sheppard’s defensive issues. Minnesota point guard Donte DiVincenzo shouldn’t need much space to score in this matchup.

The McDaniels–DiVincenzo pairing has been a key reason the Timberwolves are 5-1 ATS in their last six games without Anthony Edwards, compared to just 13-17 ATS with Edwards since Nov. 1.

As brilliant as Edwards is, Minnesota often plays with sharper focus in his absence.

Timberwolves vs Rockets SGP

• Jaden McDaniels Over 16.5 points
• Donte DiVincenzo Over 14.5 points
• Timberwolves +4.5

Our "from downtown" SGP: Gobert or Go Home

Prior to Rudy Gobert’s one-game suspension on Tuesday, he had cleared this prop in six straight games. Minnesota's center may be playing the best basketball of his career.

Timberwolves vs Rockets SGP

• Jaden McDaniels Over 16.5 points
• Donte DiVincenzo Over 14.5 points
• Rudy Gobert Over 11.5 rebounds
• Timberwolves moneyline

Timberwolves vs Rockets odds

• Spread: Timberwolves +4.5 (-110) | Rockets -4.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Timberwolves +150 | Rockets -180
• Over/Under: Over 222 (-110) | Under 222 (-110)

Timberwolves vs Rockets betting trend to know

Houston has lost seven straight games against the spread, falling short of bookmakers’ expectations by an average of 13.1 points. That includes four outright losses as a favorite. Find more NBA betting trends for Timberwolves vs. Rockets.

How to watch Timberwolves vs Rockets

Timberwolves vs Rockets latest injuries

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

Winning isn’t the assignment in Brooklyn right now. Growth is.

This Nets team is unlikely to be competitive today, tomorrow, or anytime soon. Unless patience becomes a box-score category.

The process may be frustrating, but Jordi Fernández appears to be the ideal coach for the long, unglamorous road ahead.

The second-year coach is built for the slow burn, handling the delicate mindset of his young players with a mix of patience, constructive criticism, and encouragement.

Tough Love Pays Off

Fernández has had no problem identifying where his young players fall short, both privately and in public. Each rookie has taken a turn under the spotlight, with Fernández addressing his concerns to the media when necessary.

His messages are blunt and direct, and they often come with immediate results.

After rookie Drake Powell played just over two minutes during a 119–111 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on December 12, Fernández didn’t sugarcoat his decision to sideline the rookie. When asked about the 20-year-old’s limited playing time, he made it clear that Powell’s performance leading up to that moment didn’t meet his standard.

“These young guys need to understand how important every minute you play is,” Fernández said. “If the intentions are there, I’m completely fine. But if the mistakes are from easing into the game, that’s not how we do it here.”

Powell responded the next game by scoring 13 points while adding four rebounds, three assists, and a steal during Brooklyn’s 127–82 blowout win over the Milwaukee Bucks. He’s continued to show steady improvement on both ends of the floor over the past month, highlighted by a career-high 16 points in Wednesday’s 116–113 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, even knocking down a clutch three to cut the deficit with five seconds left…

Drake Powell… These Nets rookies have some stones on them. pic.twitter.com/f6F9b7Ac0b

— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) January 15, 2026

Powell said he welcomed the honesty and understood where Fernández was coming from.

“I respect him for that,” Powell said of Fernández. “It just shows that he cares, not only about me as a basketball player, but as a human being.”

Following the Dallas game, he delivered a similar, but shorter, message to fellow rookie Egor Demin, who shot just 14 percent from the field while forcing several contested attempts.

“He’s gotta be better, otherwise the minutes are gonna go down, and somebody else will take advantage of them,” Fernández said.

Demin responded with a statement game of his own, leading Brooklyn with 17 points against Milwaukee and carrying that momentum throughout the month. At this point in the season, he ranks second among all rookies in three-pointers made with 79 on 39.1% shooting and is on pace to break Kerry Kittles’ franchise rookie record of 158 made threes. Moreover, in the month of January, he’s shot better and made more threes than Kon Knueppel in one fewer games.

Fernández’s criticism is direct, but it’s also balanced. Just as quickly as he challenges his young players, he’s willing to praise them when they deserve it. Less than a week after calling out the two rookies, he highlighted the way they bounced back.

“I think they both did a great job. We knew that that was in them,” Fernández said. “Our guys care and we know how much they care, especially these two kids. They came back and they did what was best for the group and their performance was up to our standards.”

For inexperienced players who are still acclimating and adjusting, sometimes they simply need to be reminded of what they are capable of.

A Different View of the G League

In many organizations, being sent to the G League can feel like a punishment.

For Jordi Fernández, who spent several seasons as the head coach of the Canton Charge, the league is viewed as a developmental tool that allows players to log meaningful live reps as they adjust to the pace and physicality of professional basketball.

“We have a system in place. It’s important for players to see what the path is to get better,” Fernández said. “I’ve been in the G League as a head coach. All of our players but one have played in the G League. It’s something that we embrace and believe in.”

All but one Nets rookie — Demin — has spent time with Brooklyn’s G League affiliate, the Long Island Nets, as Fernández maintains a consistent line of communication with the developmental staff out in Uniondale.

Fresh off Danny Wolf’s 25-point, 13-rebound performance against the Capital City Go-Go on Nov. 10, the rookie forward pointed to the continuity between both staffs.

“We’re one big group. My position coach here and my position coach back in Brooklyn are in communication,” Wolf said. “They talk about the same things, watch the same film and help me. They do a great job sharing ideas with each other.”

By the end of the month, the Michigan product was ready for consistent NBA action, scoring a career-high 22 points while adding four assists and four rebounds in a 116–99 loss to Milwaukee.

Within the span of three months, fellow rookie first-round pick Nolan Traore went from struggling in the G League and looking unplayable at the NBA level to earning a call-up and averaging 21.6 minutes per game for Brooklyn this month.

“He took full advantage of the opportunities he had with Long Island,” said Fernández. “And when he came back here, he did so with a different spirit and a lot more confidence.”

Traore dished out a career-high 6️⃣ assists, no turnovers. pic.twitter.com/BKohDQtMwI

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) January 12, 2026

Just this week, Long Island’s Grant Nelson who played for Brooklyn in the Summer League and training camp, credited the Brooklyn and Long Island performance teams with helping him get beyond knee soreness than has troubled him since his freshman year in college five years ago.

“I think it really shows how good the performance staff is here and what they’ve done to get me back on the court and be ready for when I get back on the court,” Nelson told ND’s Scott Mitchell. “The performance staff did a great job, and everyone really cares about me, which really meant a lot.”

Letting The Work Show

While the process doesn’t need to be rushed, each of the team’s young investments appears to be trending upward, despite the scrutiny and confusion that followed the team’s draft decisions.

What was once questioned as drafting three players at the “same position” has proven to be far from it. While the media guide may list Demin, Traore and Ben Saraf as point guards, Fernández has found a way to emphasize their unique skill sets to the team’s benefit.

Meanwhile, Powell’s strengths are being maximized to make him look like a value pick after serving a limited role in college, while Wolf has surprised many by translating his unique combination of size and coordination to the NBA after earning Fernández’s trust.

So far, so good. The Nets were heavily criticized on Draft Night for using five first round picks, the first time any team had done that. One issue was developing that many firsts all at once. It will be a while before final grades are handed in but at the moment, the professor and his students seem to be doing fine.

Games on the road against quality competition are never easy, and the margins can get razor-thin in a hurry. The Phoenix Suns are coming off two losses where they easily could have walked away with wins in both. When that starts happening, the ‘disease of what if’ begins to creep in.

In this case, that conversation circles around Dillon Brooks.

Everything Brooks has brought to Phoenix, the attitude, the toughness, the edge, has reshaped this team. His brand of basketball, and the way he pulls teammates into that same mindset, is stamped all over the Suns you see now. I would not trade that for anyone. This team needed a cultural overhaul, and Brooks delivered it.

With that said, the next hurdle for him is self-awareness. If that part sharpens even a little, the Suns probably add a few more marks in the win column.

Look at last night. With Devin Booker and Jalen Green out, a combined $86.4 million in payroll, it was clear someone had to carry the load. That someone was Grayson Allen. He finished with 33 points on 11-of-25 shooting and set the tone offensively from the opening tip. Doing that on the road, against the top team in the Eastern Conference, a group with the second-best defensive rating in the NBA, is no small ask. What stood out most, though, was how the Suns stayed true to who they are. They competed. They absorbed the contact. They gutted it out. That says plenty about the culture they are building.

They had plenty of hurdles to clear. Jalen Duren living in the paint. A physical team more than willing to push back. But one of the biggest hurdles ended up being Dillon Brooks himself.

Dirty Play or Tough Defense? Dillon Brooks Flagrant 😳https://t.co/dMaxzhEtUy

— EX-Press Sports (@EXSportsLV) January 16, 2026

The inefficiency was brutal. He finished 4-of-16 from the field for 16 points and fouled out with 6 personals. On paper, that looks like a familiar Dillon Brooks night, especially when the stars are sidelined. He is always willing to take the shots, and I am not going to crush him for that instinct. But there are nights when you can feel it early. When you know you do not have it. Last night was one of those nights for Brooks.

I would have much rather seen more deference to Collin Gillespie or Jordan Goodwin than what we got offensively from Brooks. Gillespie took 10 shots and turned them into 18 points. Goodwin took 8 shots and finished with 7 points. Both were giving the team something cleaner within the flow.

The same theme showed up against Miami. The over-aggressiveness. The emotions creeping over the line. The flow of the game getting junked up late when the Suns were still in it. Every team needs an enforcer, and Phoenix needed one that night. But self-awareness has to step in at some point. No need to exaggerate follow-throughs. That is how Brooks picked up a technical that was later rescinded. That is how he ended up with a flagrant 1 after a missed three that would have tied the game in the final minute. Those moments matter. The Heat capitalized, the lead ballooned, and the Suns never recovered.

Down 3 with <15 seconds left Dillon Brooks kicks his legs out on the shot attempt and grabs then pulls down Andrew Wiggins earning him a flagrant offensive foul, essentially sealing the game for Miami (with replays).

The Suns' color commentator didn't think Brooks grabbed him… pic.twitter.com/lEdItMzFwM

— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) January 14, 2026

Over the last two games, Brooks is shooting 3-of-16 from deep. That comes out to a cool 18.8%. No one is asking him to be something he is not. This is about self-awareness. About understanding what helps the team most in that moment.

The best thing he can give this group is opportunity. Opportunity comes from recognizing when the shot is not there, staying engaged on the floor, and resisting fouls that add nothing and disrupt the rhythm. The Suns are a team built on flow. When that flow gets interrupted, everything tightens.

Brooks can bring the antics. He can bring the edge. Those things have value, especially when Devin Booker and Jalen Green are out there to steady the offense. That is part of his role. When those two are missing, and he is asked to be a stabilizing force, the role changes. The edge still matters. Going over it does not.

So far on this trip, he has crossed that line. Two games. Eleven fouls. Two flagrants. One technical that later got rescinded. The point Norman Powell made still counted. That part does not get taken back.

Yeah, it really is the 85%, 15% equation with Dillon Brooks. You love what he gives you most of the time, and you brace yourself for the part that makes your blood pressure spike. That is the deal. That is the Dillon Brooks experience. You live by the Dillon. You die by the Dillon. Over the last two games, the Suns have died by it.

That is why getting Devin Booker and Jalen Green back matters so much. Their presence shrinks Brooks’ shot diet and lets him slide back into the role where he thrives. The disruptor. The irritant. The emotional anchor who tilts the floor without having to carry the offense. If that comes with a little more cerebral feel and self-awareness layered on top, even better. That is the version of Dillon Brooks this team needs when it is whole again.

Until then? The focus needs to be on making winning plays, not plays that prevent you from winning.