Houston's Chris Cenac Jr. (5) cheers during a second-round game in the NCAA men's basketball tournament between Houston Cougars and Texas A&M Aggies at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Saturday March 21, 2026. | SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Chris Cenac Jr. is one of the more intriguing big men in the 2026 NBA Draft, and it’s the potential that he has shown on both sides of the ball that makes him someone teams could keep their eyes on. At 6-11, the Houston center has the size to be a solid big in the league, but it’s his mobility that helps him stand out more than others at his height. To add on to that, some of the things that he does on the defense are important for what teams are looking for nowadays.
The one thing that sticks out when watching Cenac is his knack for grabbing rebounds (7.9 per game). He may be one of the best in the draft in that category, because when the ball comes off the rim, he seems to always be in the vicinity. That’s where his athleticism comes in, because he has a solid second jump that keeps him in play for grabbing rebounds.
Cenac still has a long way to go with building out his frame, and there were times throughout his collegiate career where he got outworked by bigger centers than him. There’s no doubt that he has to get stronger, especially when comparing him to what he’ll see once he enters the league. As far as perimeter defense, he slides his feet well, but it’s not something that he’s best at right now. He’ll be better off staying down low and defending players around his height.
The biggest concern with Cenac’s defense is picking up fouls. He’s typically been aggressive closing out on shooters, and he can be undisciplined if he’s on the perimeter, reaching in when he doesn’t have to or getting beat off the dribble.
On offense, Cenac has a nice mid-range jumper that can help teams spread the floor. He also took a few threes with Houston, shooting 2.4 attempts per game, and making 0.8 of them. They mostly came off catch and shoot, and he’s not known as a creator. For a center, shooting 3-pointers are big, and he’ll need to continue that when he enters the league.
As far as what he can do in the interior, Cenac’s athleticism allows him to finish well around the rim. All you have to do is throw the ball up, and he’ll throw it down, no matter where the ball is coming from. He also has a nice touch at the rim, and he has the ability to take advantage of mismatches if he has to.
Cenac has the motor that teams want in a center, but it’s the inconsistency that could hold him back at times. Nonetheless, if he’s actively engaged in the game, there will be a lot of good things to come from him.
The Atlanta Hawks had a problem with their center depth throughout the season, and adding a player like Cenac could be the start to improving that area. With his size and potential to space the floor, he’s a player the Hawks might look at with their pick later in the draft.
The Sacramento Kings landed the No. 7 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, which might seem like a consolation prize.
The Kings had a tie with the Utah Jazz after both posted 22-60 records during the 2025-26 season and thus a pretty good chance at landing a top-4 pick. That decision was decided by a coin flip and resulted in Utah getting the No. 2 pick.
With the No. 7 pick solidified, Sacramento can start figuring out who it'd select in the draft. General manager Scott Perry has said that he was prepared with at least nine prospect during an April exit interviews in April.
It most likely won't be AJ Dybantsa, Cam Boozer, Darryn Peterson or Caleb Wilson that the Kings select but there are still number of prospects that they could grab at No. 7.
Perry said the team would select the "best player available" during his exit interview with media, but acknowledged that the team needs a starting-level point guard for the long-term future.
Here's which prospects USA TODAY Sports and other sports experts predict the Kings could select at No. 7 in the 2026 NBA Draft:
The Kings need a potential star like Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. in this class.En route to the Sweet 16, the SEC Player of the Year proved he is one of the most enticing offensive prospects in recent memory. Acuff Jr. led the nation for points created (1,394) either by himself or through an assist, per CBB Analytics. He led freshmen for field goals made in transition (72) and field goals made from both the left and right side of the court. He was among the freshmen leaders in alley-oop assists (17) as well. He has significant defensive deficiencies but is one of the most exciting offensive prospects in recent memory. – Bryan Kalbrosky, USA TODAY
The Kings fell from No. 5 to No. 7 in a critical draft for the franchise, considering their older, expensive roster and the need for a younger face to rebuild around as general manager Scott Perry enters his second season. If there's a silver lining, it's that Sacramento has a clear need at point guard, with several options likely on the board at this spot.
Flemings' explosive speed and winning intangibles swayed NBA executives this season, and he projects as a lead playmaker who puts downhill pressure on defenses and should also add value as a defender. The continued progression of his jump shot is key for him and something he'll need to demonstrate effectively in team workouts, but he got positive results at Houston (38.7% from 3, 84.5% from the line) and has shown growth already in that area. – Jeremy Woo, ESPN
Flemings is an elite athlete who can get a piece of the paint on demand, rise up explosively at the rim, get to his pull-up at virtually any time, and be solid on the defensive end. His swing skill is his shooting, and if it holds up, then he too has legit star-type outcomes. In Sacramento, Flemings will have an opportunity to earn the starting point guard job from day one. – Adam Finkelstein, CBS Sports
Kings fans must be disappointed by not moving up in the draft, but there are tons of guards available in this range who could run the show for the next decade. The most electric one? Acuff is a wiry scorer who can get a bucket from anywhere on the floor with a quick trigger, slippery handle, and a feel for manipulating defenses. He has a knack for clutch moments too. He is not the biggest guard or the most explosive athlete, but he reads defenses like someone who's been in the league for a decade. He emerged as a freshman as a skilled, low-turnover playmaker. The question that follows every undersized guard into the draft is whether the brilliance survives contact with bigger, longer, faster defenders. The Kings will have to find big wings and forwards, plus a rim-protecting center to support Acuff. But for now, fans can enjoy the Acuff show. – Kevin O'Connor, Yahoo Sports
The Golden State Warriors have got a couple questions answered about their future: they know their coach will be and which pick they'll have in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Next, the Warriors found out at the lottery that they would have the No. 11 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft in June.
A team that's looking to add a superstar in the offseason whether it's via trade or a free agent signing, that No. 11 pick could look enticing to suitors. But also, the Warriors could choose to take a look at some of the prospects on the board projected to fall between No. 10 to 15.
Golden State is nearing the end of its Stephen Curry era. Whether they package the pick in a trade or utilize it is yet to be determined. However, in the event the Warriors get young talent to add to their core, experts have them adding a ready-now player.
Here's which prospects USA TODAY Sports and other sports experts predict the Warriors could select at No. 11 in the 2026 NBA Draft:
Karim López had a low usage rate and played few minutes than other players in this range while playing against pros but was still very productive for the NBL Next Stars program in Australia. The Mexican-born forward is physically gifted, athletic, and universally seen as the top prospect from this class currently playing overseas. He exploded for 32 points (11-of-13 FG) with eight rebounds, two blocks and one steal against Melbourne on Jan. 30. Despite his age, he played a huge role for his team defensively for a team that won the NBL Ignite Cup. – Bryan Kalbrosky, USA TODAY
The Warriors had long odds and no luck in their first draft lottery since 2021. They have an important decision to make with this pick, as they weigh the long-term health of the roster versus maximizing the team's competitive chances with Stephen Curry still playing at a high level. Coach Steve Kerr agreed to an extension Saturday and presumably didn't sign on for a rebuild. Selecting a younger player such as Lopez, who has the experience to potentially slot in early on his rookie deal, might help mesh the short- and long-term goals. Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan) is another player who will draw strong consideration here.
The top player in a thin international prospect class, Lopez has a chance to help himself in pre-draft workouts, where teams will gain a better sense of his physical traits and skill level coming off a positive year in the NBL. Showing progress as a perimeter shooter in those settings would help his case to sneak into the top 10. – Jeremy Woo, ESPN
Mara kept getting better as the college season went on and ultimately led Michigan to a national championship. At 7-foot-3, he's a giant, even by NBA standards, and a tremendous rim protector. He's also got sneaky mobility, good hands, real passing ability, and provides vertical spacing. With Steve Kerr returning next season, the Warriors' style of play will be staying largely the same, and Mara's facilitating ability fits that. – Adam Finkelstein, CBS Sports
It's been a brutal year. The Warriors lost Jimmy Butler to a torn ACL and Moses Moody to a torn patellar tendon, watched Steph Curry miss 27 games with knee issues, and finally gave up on Jonathan Kuminga. Golden State has been desperately searching for a young star to extend Curry's championship window, and bridge into whatever comes next. It will be harder to do that here after not getting lucky in the lottery. But maybe the Warriors will still find a hit prospect. López is the best basketball prospect Mexico has ever produced. He left Hermosillo at 14 to play professionally in Barcelona, then at 17 moved to Auckland, New Zealand, where he shined for two years in the NBL Next Stars program. He checks a lot of boxes with his excellent physical tools, a hardnosed approach, and a well-rounded ability to defend multiple positions, handle the ball, and a blossoming shot. But he’s thus far more of a jack of all trades since his jumper runs hot and cold and he lacks the burst to blow by defenders off the bounce. Regardless, not every player is drafted with stardom in mind. López has all the requisite skills to enhance a star teammate as a key piece on a winning team — and the Warriors could be looking to win now after Steve Kerr re-signed on a two-year deal. And sometimes those players with high floors end up proving their ceiling is a lot higher than you think. – Kevin O'Connor, Yahoo Sports
For the second straight season, the Knicks are going to the Eastern Conference Finals, this time on the back of a 4-0 sweep over the 76ers. New York won the series by a combined 89 points, averaging out to roughly a 22-point blowout per game, despite most expecting a competitive six- or seven-game series.
Instead, the Knicks delivered their most dominant stretch of basketball in recent history, and will look to build off that momentum to make their first NBA Finals appearance in over a quarter-century. Here’s how they did it, and what we can glean from it going forward.
From a bird’s eye view, there was no area of the game that the Knicks didn’t spectacularly outperform. In the series, they scored 129.1 points per 100 possessions, eight points higher than the regular-season leader, and allowed only 106.3, or worse than the rock-bottom Nets.
However, let’s start with the defense, as it was the foundation for this conclusive win. The Philly offense is run through its two cornerstones – Joel Embiid and TyreseMaxey – and New York was able to stop them at the source.
Embiid’s 26.9 points per game during the regular season dropped to a measly 18.7 against New York, though he was relatively efficient and able to get Karl-AnthonyTowns and the Knicks in foul trouble. That was seemingly the ceiling to his contributions, though.
In Game 1, Embiid went just 3-for-11 from the field, despite largely being covered solo. After missing Game 2, the Knicks went to a more aggressive strategy, sending a second defender on every touch.
This forced Embiid into more of a playmaker role, where he struggled with six turnovers in the final two games. New York did a strong job of bodying up the paint, so Embiid had to generate much of his offense on the perimeter, where his jumpshot wasn’t bailing him out this series.
He wasn’t 100 percent, but the Knicks strong-armed and schemed him out of his comfort zone as well. Ditto for Maxey, who looked even less like himself than Embiid did this series.
Maxey went from scoring 28.3 points a night in the regular season and 26.9 against Boston in the first round to just 18.3 versus New York, shooting a rough 43.3 percent from the field and 16 percent from three. Credit to Mikal Bridges and Miles McBride for the jobs they did one-on-one, tracking the explosive Maxey.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) drives against New York Knicks guard Mikal Bridges (25) in the third quarter during game four of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Xfinity Mobile Arena. / Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
Both did an excellent job on the scout and keeping Maxey out of the paint, where he causes the most havoc. He never scored less than 20 against the Celtics and did it three times against the Knicks, in large part due to their defensive talent.
They also schemed Maxey super aggressively, high-hedging or trapping every one of his screens, especially anything towards the baseline where he loves to get going downhill. This forced him to continually burn energy trying to turn the corner on Towns, who’s having the defensive postseason of his life, or try and force passes over the outstretched arms of Knicks defenders.
Maxey couldn’t find the easy targets – if dumped off to Embiid, who needs a beat to make the next read, the defense recovered. The rest of the Sixers didn’t have the scoring or creation chops to continually take advantage of a 4-on-3 halfcourt, especially with how quickly and accurately the Knicks rotated.
Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, Jalen Brunson and the rest of the roster cannot be overlooked here. They each did their jobs on multiple different matchups, allowing the heavy-handed defense on Embiid and Maxey to work.
When the Sixers would miss, the Knicks did a phenomenal job of securing the defensive boards to take advantage on the other end. The ensuing transition opportunities helped open up the gates for their offense.
The truth is, New York’s offense was historically anomalous in Games 1 and 4, while doing just enough in Games 2 and 3. A lot of that has to do with the mental side of the game and some shooting luck, but the headline from the series is the Knicks found their winning recipe on this end.
Their strategy carried over from the back end of the Hawks series – have Towns facilitate from the high elbow, and watch the embedded motion offense and top-tier talent make use of the space. Towns averaged 7.5 assists against Philly in a show of comfort with the pivot.
This flow got the Knicks so many looks and the Sixers so worried about Towns's passing, that in one Game 4 possession running the same action, Towns kept pivoting for a pass, until his man bizarrely left him wide open for a mid-range swish. It was a hilarious signal of Philly’s panic in trying to cover the Knicks’ vexing attack.
Of course, Brunson was the star of the offense, averaging 29 points and six assists on 51 percent shooting from the field. While he benefited from ample transition opportunities and off-ball looks playing off Towns, he also reminded folks of the gaping chasm in talent between him and the rest of the league.
Philly simply did not have the bodies to guard Brunson, who was a bit slower against Dyson Daniels and the big-winged Hawks. The 76ers opted for sticking rookie VJ Edgecombe, a feisty but smaller defender, on Brunson for most of the series.
Other teams, even the Sixers of two years ago, would have sent more double teams or different, bigger defenders at Brunson. They kept it conservative with Brunson this series, opting to let him beat them one-on-one, and he did so efficiently time and time again.
New York needed more than just their two stars to step up. Anunoby had 18 and 24 points in his two contests before going down with a hamstring injury, and Bridges stepped up in his wake to average 17.5 on 64 percent shooting from the field on the series.
Both were pivotal to the offense converting at this rate, knockdown from range, decisive in attacking smaller defenders, and methodical in their cuts and transition breaks.
Both took on pick-and-roll reps to ease the creation from their stars, while filling in corners and making the little plays required that don’t fill up the stat sheet. But perhaps the Knicks' biggest edge here came from their bench.
While the 76ers struggled to field a true eight-man rotation, the Knicks were finding sparks from all over their pine. Mitchell Robinson was an unsurprising lift, McBride broke out in Game 4 with 25 points on seven threes, Landry Shamet joined the rotation late and delivered two massive games, all while Jose Alvarado and JordanClarkson provided steady hands throughout.
It can be hard to judge a team’s true ability to contend during the regular season, when stakes are lower and randomness much higher. But Knicks fans who waited until the postseason to draw their conclusions are being rewarded handsomely.
These last seven games have been the best basketball New York has played this millennium, with this Philadelphia sweep serving as Exhibit A in their case for competing. If they can build off what got them here, the Knicks have a real chance at accomplishing what they’ve been desperate to.
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 9: G League Prospect Aiden Tobiason #3 shoots a free throw during the game during the 2026 G League Combine on May 9, 2026 at Windtrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
One of the Syracuse Orange men’s basketball team’s new names is currently in Chicago looking to impress scouts and other NBA personnel.
Aiden Tobiason, who announced he was transferring to the Orange from Temple in April, was among dozens of players picked to suit up for the 2026 AWS NBA G League Combine. Tobiason is currently one of 44 prospects participating in this weekend’s combine, which allows them to showcase their skills through various drills and five-on-five scrimmages.
Right off the bat, we do have some new numbers about how Tobiason measures out:
The nearly 7-1 wingspan definitely stands out the most. Tobiason is definitely bringing a reputation of being a scorer going from the Owls to the Orange. He had a career year in 2025-26, averaging 15.3 points in 35.3 minutes per game on 48% from the field, 34% from three, and 80% from the foul line.
The wingspan could be intriguing if he can improve on the 1.2 steals per game he had last year and truly be a point of attack defender at the one. Tobiason being close to 6-4 will also, in theory, help in that department.
We’ve also got some stats from scrimmages Tobiason took part in. On Saturday, he played nearly 15 minutes and finished with five points on 2/5 shooting, one assist, and one steal. He was plus-eight in his minutes for “Team One,” which defeated Team Two 77-74.
Boxscore from Game 1 of the G League Combine.
Monster game from Purdue's Trey Kaufman-Renn with 17+12.
USC's Jacob Cofie did a little bit of everything on both ends.
On Sunday, Tobiason had 13 points on 4-9 shooting (2-4 from 3 and 3-4 from the foul line) but his team was on blown out 98-68.
Tobiason previously confirmed to Syracuse.com that he would participate in the pre-draft process, which includes the combine, then head to Upstate New York to participate with the program.
It seems scouts, on first impression, seem to agree.
I did not watch these games, I'm not in Chicago. I'm purely going off of what scouts told me.
I like Tobiason as an intriguing long-term guy but think he should clearly go to Cuse.
Tobiason will be entering his junior year with Syracuse and Orange fans shouldn’t be surprised when he starts appearing in 2027 mock drafts.
Syracuse commit Aiden Tobiason with some nice moments as the youngest player in the camp. Great length, shoots a pretty ball, competes defensively. Turns 20 tomorrow. Intriguing one to keep on the draft radar for 2027 and beyond. https://t.co/HFpfjRpFjc
CHAPEL HILL, NC - FEBRUARY 28: Caleb Wilson #8 of the North Carolina Tar Heels takes pregame shots with a cast on his hand before a game against the Virginia Tech Hokies on February 28, 2026 at the Dean Smith Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. North Carolina won 82-89. (Photo by Peyton Williams/UNC/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Now that the NBA Draft Lottery has taken place, the top of the NBA Draft is now set with the top five picks belonging to the Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, Memphis Grizzlies, Chicago Bulls, and Los Angeles Clippers.
Caleb Wilson seems to be a consensus top five pick so with the order now set, what would be his best and worst fit?
Best Fit: Memphis Grizzles
Before the lottery, my choice for this spot would’ve been either the Indiana Pacers or the Atlanta Hawks, as both have good rosters and would allow Wilson to join a winning program. Obviously, neither team made the top five (the Pacers actually did land pick number five but had to surrender it to the Clippers). I went with the Grizzlies over the Clippers because Wilson seems to fit better with timeline in Memphis as opposed to Los Angeles, though that could change based on the moves the Clippers make regarding players like Kawhi Leonard.
In Memphis, Wilson would get to play with a young team that has an opening in the post after trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz this past season. With Ja Morant also likely soon out the door the team looks to turn to younger players like wings Cedric Coward, who finished fifth in the Rookie of the Year race, and Jaylen Wells as well as a young center in Zach Edey.
Worst Fit: Utah Jazz
I went back and forth between the Jazz and the Wizards. Both have front courts already in place, and of course neither have shown the ability to win with both finishing in the bottom of the league the past three seasons. However, Washington seems to have made better moves to actually try to win next season (and they play in the East where making the playoffs is easier) by acquiring veterans in Trae Young and Anthony Davis and with Davis’s health, there is a way for Wilson to get some playing time.
However, in Utah they have a young front court of the aforementioned Jackson Jr and former one time Tar Heel Walker Kessler, and though neither are the epitomes of health, both are still young and would be much more established making it harder for Wilson to get the playing time he needs to further develop into the superstar he could easily become.
Projected Spot: Chicago Bulls
Wilson is rated as the fourth overall pick and therefore is being mocked as such to the fourth overall team, which in this case would be the Bulls. The Bulls do have history with former Tar Heels — most recently with Coby White and most notably with Michael Jordan — but are horribly run and currently don’t have a head coach. The Bulls do need size and Wilson would get lots of playing time, but until they hire a coach the situation would look murky due to the ownership alone.
So what do you think? Let us know in the comments below.
Oklahoma City looks to close out their series with the Lakers tonight in Los Angeles. They lead LeBron James and co. three games to none. Each game has remained relatively close through three quarters only to see the Thunder roll in the fourth quarter and win by double digits. Their depth, pace, and defensive pressure have overwhelmed Los Angeles at every turn, and their dominance has been consistent both in Oklahoma City and in Game 3 in SoCal.
The Lakers have repeatedly doubled Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and dared the rest of the Thunder to knock down shots. They have slowed down SGA, but the aforementioned depth has made plays. Chet Holmgren scored 19 points and pulled down 9 rebounds, Cason Wallace had 16 off the bench in 25 minutes, and Isaiah Joe was 4-6 from deep in the 131-108 win Saturday.
Down 0–3, the Lakers face a deficit no team in NBA history has ever overcome, and their performances so far haven’t suggested a breakthrough is imminent. LeBron James and Austin Reaves have carried or attempted to carry the offense, but turnovers, inconsistent shooting, and the absence of Luka Dončić (hamstring) have left Los Angeles overwhelmed.
The Lakers’ path to extending the series requires near-perfect execution: controlling tempo, limiting turnovers, and finding reliable scoring beyond James. Rui Hachimura’s strong Game 3 performance—21 points and five made three’s—offers a glimmer of hope, but Los Angeles will need multiple players to exceed expectations to stay alive. Their defense must also find answers for Oklahoma City’s balanced attack, which has punished every coverage adjustment so far.
Should the Thunder close out the series tonight – and they are heavy favorites to do so - they know they’ll have more than likely a week off as Minnesota and San Antonio are knotted up at two games apiece in the other West semifinal.
Lets take a closer look at tonight’s matchup and take into consideration lineups, injuries, and other factors affecting the line and total.
We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on how to catch tipoff, odds courtesy of DraftKings recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.
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Game Details and How to Watch Live: Thunder vs. Lakers
Date: Monday, May 11, 2026
Time: 10:30PM EST
Site: crypto.com Arena
City: Los Angeles, CA
Network/Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
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Game Odds: Thunder vs. Lakers
The latest odds as of Monday courtesy of DraftKings:
Moneyline: Oklahoma City Thunder (-520), Los Angeles Lakers (+390)
Spread: Thunder -10.5
Total: 214.5 points
This game opened Thunder -9.5 with the Game Total set at 211.5.
Be sure to check out DraftKings for all the latest game odds & player props for every matchup this week on the NBA schedule!
Expected Starting Lineups: Thunder vs. Lakers
Oklahoma City Thunder
PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
SG Luguentz Dort
C Isaiah Hartenstein
SG Ajay Mitchell
PF Chet Holmgren
Los Angeles Lakers
PG Marcus Smart
SG Austin Reaves
C Deandre Ayton
PF Rui Hachimura
SF LeBron James
Injury Report: Thunder vs. Lakers
Oklahoma City Thunder
Jalen Williams (hamstring) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Thomas Sorber (knee) has been declared OUT of tonight’s game
Los Angeles Lakers
Luka Doncic (hamstring) has been declared OUT of tonight’s game
Important stats, trends and insights: Thunder vs. Lakers
The Lakers are 30-15 at home this season
The Thunder are 33-10 on the road this season
The Lakers are 49-41-1 ATS this season
OKC is 44-44-1 ATS this season
The OVER has cashed in 49 of the Thunder’s 89 games this season (49-40)
The OVER has cashed in 46 of the Lakers’ 91 games this season (46-45)
Chet Holmgren is averaging 21.3 points and 10 rebounds per game in this series
Ajay Mitchell is averaging 20.7 points and 6.7 assists per game in this series
Cason Wallace has seen his point totals increase from 5 to 12 to 16 in this series
Austin Reaves has turned the ball over 14 times in this series
LeBron James is averaging 23 points, 4 rebounds, and 6.7 assists in this series
Luke Kennard is 7-13 from 3-point range in this series including 4-6 in Game 3
Rotoworld Best Bet
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Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the NBA calendar based on data points like recent performance, head-to-head player matchups, trends information and projected game totals.
Once the model is finished running, we put its projections next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.
Here are the best bets our model is projecting for tonight’s Thunder and Lakers’ game:
Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is staying away from a play on the Moneyline
Spread: Rotoworld Bet is recommending a play on the Thunder -10.5 ATS
Total: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Game Total OVER 214.5
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May 9, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren (0) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) during the first quarter of game three in the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images | Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Steal a road game, steal the series. That is what both the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers must be thinking as they enter Game four with Detroit up 2-1. That means Cleveland will be looking to protect its homecourt advantage, where it is unbeaten these playoffs, while Detroit attempts to take full control with a win in enemy territory. All three games in this series have featured one team seemingly to roundly outplay the other before the opponent somehow storms back to take a late lead that they can’t quite maintain. Will that trend continue tonight?
Much attention was paid to Cade Cunningham’s three consecutive turnovers, which allowed the Cavs to pull away in the fourth quarter of a tied game. Fair enough. Cade giveth great performances, and Cade taketh away in a critical moment. The bigger issue, to my mind, is Detroit’s biggest problem in these playoffs — its big men.
Jalen Duren is straight up having a bad playoffs, and it’s now stretched to 10 games. It’s not just that opponents are taking away his opportunities, though they are doing that. It is that Duren is fumbling away the opportunities he does get, sometimes literally.
This season for Duren has been all about an elevated level of skill and assuredness that he added to his prolific strength as a big man. He was no longer strictly a rim-running big; he was a center who had a dangerous face-up game, who could make the right decision in the short roll, and who could combine burst with a new level of touch and finesse that made him a lethal scorer within eight feet.
Duren shot 67.3% on 10.6 attempts within eight feet in the regular season. That trailed only Giannis Antetokounmpo for players with at least eight such shots per game. Duren was a monster. In the playoffs, Duren’s attempts have been whittled to just over seven per game, and his field goal percentage has plummeted to just 50%. Of the 17 players in the playoffs who have averaged that many shots within eight feet, only Paolo Banchero and Jamal Murray shoot worse than Duren. The 22-year-old big man has also seen his free throws and rebounds tick lower while his turnovers have increased.
No problem, you might think, Detroit’s deepest position was at the center spot, and Isaiah Stewart was a whispered defensive player of the year candidate before a suspension and injury took him out of contention late in the season.
Stewart has been a bit of a disaster in these playoffs. There has been no definitive indication of any health concerns, but something simply doesn’t look right. In the regular season, Stewart’s impact was felt up and down the floor. His absence in last year’s postseason matchup against the Knicks is often cited as one that swung the series.
Well, Stewart is available in these playoffs, but he isn’t making any impact. He’s been limited to just under 14 minutes per game, but that is masking just how little he is accomplishing on the floor. On a per 36-minute basis, Stewart’s scoring has plummeted from over 15 to around 10, his three-point shot has almost completely disappeared, down by 66%. Detroit’s defense has been stout throughout the playoffs, and is a mighty 94.1 when Stewart is on the floor. The issue is that offense, already a middle-of-the-road offense in these playoffs, falls off a cliff with Stew on the floor. It goes from a modest 110.2 to a 93.7. Looking at Stewart’s on-off splits, the team is 20 points per 100 possessions better on offense with him off the floor compared to on the floor. That’s not all on Stewart, of course, but it’s been a black hole of a position for the Pistons, and it’s so bad not even Stew’s defense can make up for it.
It was no surprise to many Pistons fans that when the Pistons finally made their run to take the lead in game 3, it was with Paul Reed on the floor. He scored 11 points in just over nine minutes of action and breathed some actual life into a very stagnant offense.
JB Bickerstaff has to figure out this big man conundrum, and he’s got to be willing to ask some hard questions and come to some hard conclusions. The Cavs, with both Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, were always going to present some challenges for the Pistons bigs, but I think we can definitely say whatever the team is doing is not working. Maybe it’s more Paul Reed; maybe that means resting Isaiah Stewart. Maybe it means whoever starts the game isn’t necessarily finishing the game, and instead riding whatever is the closest resemblance to a hot hand.
It feels like if Detroit can get a good to great game from a big, they are almost defacto going to win that game, and if they win that game, they will be on the doorstep of winning the series and advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals (with its own matchup issues for bigs against the mighty New York Knicks).
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES - MAY 10: Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers falls during Game 4 of the NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals at Xfinity Mobile Arena on May 10, 2026 in Philadelphia, United States. (Photo by Nathan Morris/Anadolu via Getty Images) | Anadolu via Getty Images
Would you believe the aftermath of a sweep is one week without the Knicks?
On why he trusted Miles McBride in OG Anunoby’s absence:
“Deuce, he’s not afraid. He gives us the ability to make shots from range and or the ability to go get a shot. He gives us another ball handler. He’s a really good defender, and he’s versatile. When he’s on the floor with Jalen, analytically, they’re pretty good together. But he just brings a lot to the table for us on both ends of the floor, last thing offensively he’s got to be guarded because he can makes shots.”
On McBride’s mental toughness during the series:
“He’s just tough-minded. In order to have success in anything you do in life you need to have a short memory, and he definitely has a short memory.”
On how McBride’s shooting performance elevated the team in Game 4:
“Obviously, all of our guys, starting with Jalen [Brunson] and KAT [Karl-Anthony Towns], were really good, but Deuce — he was unbelievable. His ability to stretch the floor and create space for others is second to none. He’s got a confidence about him and in himself that just makes us take another level on both ends of the floor.”
On where McBride’s resilience comes from:
“It’s Mother’s Day. It comes from his mom. Get that correct. It comes from his mom. [Deuce is] just tough. He’s tough. He’s a football player, you know? In order to have a chance in life and at anything you do, you have to have a short memory, and he definitely has a short memory.”
On embracing criticism while making bold adjustments:
“We made a lot of moves throughout the course of the year and throughout the course of the playoffs, and you just keep trying to do what’s best for the team. I don’t care what team I’m with. When you’re talking about being in the NBA, even if you do stuff right, you’re going to get criticized. So you just embrace whatever’s out there and you keep trying to do what’s best for the team. And at the end of the day, if it doesn’t work out, the one thing I know I can do is I can go look in the mirror and say, ‘Hey, I tried to do the best I could for this group, regardless of anything else.’ I try to do the best I could, and that’s what keeps me going.”
On gaining appreciation for the Knicks’ traveling fan base:
“I obviously didn’t know how well they traveled and stuff like that, because I was out of coaching, so I watched [them] once in a while. I watched ESPN and all of that stuff during basketball time. And they showed videos of fans after first-round wins climbing light poles. So I’m like, wow. You love it. You love seeing stuff like that. But I got a lot of respect for them. And the more you’re around, the more you appreciate and understand why they are like that. But more than anything else, they’re knowledgeable. It’s a knowledgeable group, a knowledgeable fan base, and you respect that just as much as their passion shows.”
On the timing of the next game after a sweep:
“I wouldn’t want to play [Monday] or Tuesday. Maybe Wednesday?”
"I definitely knew the Knicks had crazy fans…but for them to travel the way they've traveled, be as loud & always have our backs…I've never seen anything like [this arena takeover] honestly. It really does give us energy"
On meeting the expectations placed on him in a starting role:
“This is what I expect to do. I feel like that’s why the coaching staff trusts me in the lineup, my teammates trust me out there, and just I trust my work.”
On his mindset when stepping into bigger minutes:
“I just want to win and do what I can to help this team win.”
On the significance of being part of a record-setting playoff performance:
“It’s definitely special. I didn’t even know honestly. To have anything like that on your name is a legacy you want.”
On capitalizing when the Sixers left him open:
“They left me open. This is what I expect to do. That’s why the coaching staff trusts me, my teammates trust me. And I trust my work.”
On seeing Knicks fans hand out posters of Mitchell Robinson’s dunk on Embiid:
“Man, Mitch did his thing right here, so shout-out to the fans.”
On how the team’s mentality shifted after an earlier loss in the series:
“I feel like our mindset shifted. We know we’re the better team (but) we can’t just come out there and expect to win, because they’re talented too. So I feel like our mindset just shifted totally to ‘take the game’ instead of (waiting for) them to give us the game.”
On the internal standard the team is holding itself to:
“People on the outside always have their expectations, but internally we have our own. Our expectations are a championship, nothing less. So, this series is done, enjoy it. Obviously we’re happy, can’t take it for granted but we have a lot more to go.”
"This year we just have another year with each other, it's just us being very locked into the moment and understanding there's a lot more work to do"
Karl-Anthony Towns was asked about the mindset switch from advancing to the ECF last season vs. this season: pic.twitter.com/5WwEnUvT5x
On the team’s maturity heading into another Eastern Conference Finals:
“This year we just have another year with each other, it’s just us being very locked into the moment and understanding there’s a lot more work to do.”
On how McBride’s early barrage set the tone in Game 4:
“He was fantastic. The start of the game really was the Deuce McBride show. He went out there and hit some really big shots that gave us momentum. We talked about how we wanted to start fast and we’ve talked about starts, and Deuce allowed us to do that. Shout out to Deuce. That’s one of the best games I’ve ever seen Deuce play, especially in the moment.”
On adjusting the team’s approach after the first-round struggles:
“Shout out to our team. We found a way to, in a way, stabilize our season and do what was needed to adjust to Atlanta. And [we] found ourselves in a better position. It’s a shout-out to the coaching staff for realizing adjustments that needed to be made and also [a] shout-out to me personally that they trusted me.”
On the difficulty of closing out a series and ending another team’s season:
“It’s great when you see a team having that kind of focus and discipline and execution. I’ve always said that the toughest games are to end someone’s season and to see us taking that to a series, it’s great. It’s great for us to see. But now we’ve got to reset. We’ve got to readjust. Get our minds back right and enjoy this time with our family and get back to business.”
On staying grounded despite outside criticism during the season:
“It was a rollercoaster for sure. I think outside the Knicks organization, things looked worse than what they were. From the outside looking in. But inside the building, we were working every single day to be the best team we can be. That’s all we were focusing on. There were times when there were positives and negatives, ups and downs. But that’s what our goals were. And that’s still our goal. Be the best we can be. Continue to learn. Continue to get better. The journey shows you who you are.”
On what lies ahead despite the sweep:
“We have a lot of work to do.”
"Roller coaster for sure…
Outside the NY Knicks organization
Things looked worse…
Inside the building…
We were working every day to be the best team we could be…
“We’re focused. We’re staying poised, staying composed. Just focusing on the little things. One day at a time, one game at a time. Not looking ahead at all, staying in the moment.”
On whether it matters who they face next in the conference finals:
“One game at a time. One game at a time. We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.”
On hearing Knicks fans take over opposing arenas:
“It’s one of the coolest things in the world hearing Knicks fans take over opposing arenas.”
On how team chemistry has developed over time:
“I think the more we’ve played together as a team, the more we’ve grown. And we’ve continued to get better. It’s a chemistry thing. It’s a feel thing. It’s how things get better. Things get better over time.”
On reflecting on his growing legacy in New York:
“I think that’s a question I would love to answer when I retire. This place means a lot to me. We’re still writing our story. I’ll answer that another time.”
“I used to think Philly was a sports town. I don’t know if it is anymore. Everybody was begging for Philly (fans) not to sell their tickets. It never felt like a road game.”
On keeping emotions in check after advancing to the ECF:
“No relief, no jubilation. Just another step in the process. The way we beat Boston last year, the comebacks and all that, it was — I don’t wanna say it was celebratory — but it hit a little bit differently. Here, it’s business as normal, and we gotta make sure we’re locked in and focused.”
On the ball movement that fueled the Knicks’ historic shooting night:
“Guys were sacrificing good shots for better shots, and when you do that, the ball has energy and we have to knock down shots. So playing a style like that is fun.”
On rediscovering his three-point touch in Game 4:
“My right hand remembered that the goal was to make 3s. So happy to have her back.”
On how the Sixers’ arena atmosphere felt during the takeover:
“It was like a branch of MSG here today.”
On the importance of recovering during the playoff break ahead:
“We’re a little banged up. We need to get some treatment, get some rest, recover a little. And be ready to go.”
On how he plans to spend the downtime before the next series:
On Jalen Brunson’s long-term impact on the franchise:
“He’s definitely proved himself. I don’t think he gets enough credit for what he’s done for this team for, what, the last five years? S—, they don’t give him his credit.”
Kenny "Gets real again next round for Knicks…Cade such big guard…Cavs possibly most explosive backcourt NBA. This round…cakewalk … Shaq "They'll breeze thru whoever next if they play like this … Chuck "Had cakewalk…Whoever next v difficult … Shaq "Knicks going to Finals" pic.twitter.com/y31zkDBi9K
“We ran into a hot New York team. They’re getting momentum. And they’re playing better and better as these games are coming. And they came out hot. They threw haymakers early and they kept throwing them.”
On the Knicks being simply superior to the Sixers:
“I mean, they were just better. I’m proud of this group. I feel like we play hard, we tried, as we have done all season, and at times it’s OK to say that the other team was just better. Tonight, they made every shot, they made every single play, we didn’t make shots. We just got to get better from top to bottom. Ownership, front office, players, coaches … everybody just got to get better.”
On the organization-wide need for improvement after the sweep:
“So, we just gotta get better, from top to bottom. Ownership, players, coaches, everybody just has to get better.”
On taking personal responsibility for the team’s shortcomings:
“Frankly, they were just better than us. So, we have to look at each other, and that starts with me. I wasn’t around for much of the season for a lot of things. So, moving forward, I have an understanding of what it takes to make sure that I get to play. I think we will be better next year. But, for now, I’m disappointed we didn’t get a chance for a championship. So, everyone has to look at themselves, starting with me.”
"It actually really sucks
It just sucks bruh
It just sucks man
Yeah It just sucks…
It felt louder here than it did for them in the Garden…
On the frustration of Knicks fans taking over Philadelphia’s arena:
“It absolutely sucks, if I’m being honest. It just sucks. That’s really all I can say about it, man. It’s hard. It’s definitely difficult. It’s only one way to put a stop to it and it’s, we have to go out there and win these games. Just being completely honest, we were better when we played them in the Garden this entire season. I know we lost Game 2 and 1, but Game 2 was better. The regular season was better. I was telling them, it felt louder here for them than it did in the Garden. We got to put a stop to it as a team. Winning these games, that’s gonna make our fans louder than theirs or whatever. I don’t know how to keep them out. I don’t know the logistics of it, but it does suck. I can’t even lie. It definitely does suck.”
On Joel Embiid battling through injuries during the series:
“I commend him man, he worked his ass off to get out there and play. He certainly was trending upward toward the end of the Boston series…obviously, he gets the hip, ankle, injury that took him out a game, and I don’t think he ever got back to where he was trending.”
Chad ochocinco calls out Shannon Sharpe and Joe Johnson for doubting the New York Knicks all postseason and now what are y’all going to say after they swept the sixers pic.twitter.com/WIDBskPyJA
— joebuddenclips/fanpage (@Thechat101) May 11, 2026
Coverage of the 2026 NBA playoffs continues tonight on NBC and Peacock when Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons take on Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Live coverage begins at 7:00 PM ET with NBA Showtime. See below for additional information on how to watch the 2026 NBA Playoffs on NBC and Peacock.
Detroit Pistons vs Cleveland Cavaliers Game Preview:
The Cavaliers defeated the Pistons 116-109 on Saturday, cutting Detroit's series lead to 2-1. Donovan Mitchell led Cleveland with 35 points and 10 rebounds. James Harden added 19 points and 7 assists.
Cade Cunningham finished with a 27-point triple-double (10 rebounds, 10 assists) but committed eight of Detroit's 15 turnovers.
“That’s too many turnovers for us as a group. Sixteen is too many,” said Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff after the game. “Give up 27 points off those turnovers … our defense is so stingy if we get you in the half court. We’ve just got to make sure we get shots on goal so we can set our defense and make people have to work through it.”
The Pistons are looking to reach their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2008, while the Cavaliers look to reach their first Conference Finals since 2018.
NBC Sports will present up to 23 games in the First Round and 11 games in the Conference Semifinals across either NBC and Peacock, or Peacock and NBCSN. Playoff programming concludes with exclusive coverage of the Western Conference Finals on NBC and Peacock
Which playoff rounds will be available on Peacock?
Peacock’s NBA Playoffs coverage spans multiple rounds, including Round 1, the Conference Semifinals, and the Western Conference Finals, with coverage evolving as the postseason progresses.
Will Peacock show both Eastern and Western Conference playoff games?
Yes. During earlier rounds such as Round 1 and the Conference Semifinals, Peacock will carry a mix of Eastern and Western Conference playoff games.
How to sign up for Peacock:
Sign up here to watch all of our LIVE sports, sports shows, documentaries, classic matches, and more. You'll also get tons of hit movies and TV shows, Originals, news, 24/7 channels, and current NBC & Bravo hits—Peacock is here for whatever you’re in the mood for.
May 10, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) goes to the basket against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first quarter of game four of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images | Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images
I will attempt to refrain from commenting too much on the play that defined last night’s game and will instead try to focus on the optimistic fact that this young and inexperienced Spurs team very nearly scored a road playoff win against a very good (and extremely desperate) opponent without the support of their best player for nearly three quarters. Especially considering how critical Victor Wembanyama’s role is in this particular matchup, it was impressive to see how effective the team managed to be for long stretches. In any case, for the moment I’ll set my broader feelings about the game aside and focus on the box score, which has a number of striking highlights:
Note: Now that we’ve moved into the postseason, the reference period used for grading changes from the set of regular season games since 2012-2013 to the set of postseason games since 2012-2013. Unless otherwise noted below, this set DOES include play-in games. As of the end of May 10, 2026, this group include 1,183 games.
Factors that decided the game
Both teams had numerous mild edges in this game, though they were often offsetting. For example, Minnesota won the offensive (+2) and defensive (+6) glass, but San Antonio had three fewer turnovers.
San Antonio also fouled less and earned a FTA margin of +5. However, the Timberwolves’ big advantage in FT% (+13.13 percentage points) drove the Spurs FTM differential down to just +1.
San Antonio had a +2.99 percentage-point edge in FG%, which should have put them in a great position to win. Unfortunately, Minnesota offset this with two big advantages. First, they attempted eight more total shots, and thus had a FGM margin of +1.
Second, the Spurs’ overall edge in shooting efficiency emphatically did not extend to the three-point line, as the Timberwolves had a 3P% margin of +13.96 percentage points. As a result of all this, Minnesota outscored San Antonio by six from the field despite their FG% deficit.
Rare Box Score Stats
San Antonio and Minnesota combined for 53 shots from distance in this game, which is unusually low but for from unheard of in today’s game. In fact, there have been three other cases in the 2026 playoffs alone (i.e., excluding the play-in) where two teams combined for a 3PA total as low or lower (that’s about once in every 15-16 games). However, what is amazing is how quickly this outcome has gone from being completely expected to notably rare. As recently as the 2016 playoffs, an absolute majority of true playoffs had a 3PA total of 53 or less, and wen the Spurs won the title in 2014 this share was north of 84%. Prior to that, games with more than 53 three-point attempts were exceptionally rare, with no instances in several years.
This is just the 11th postseason game since 2013 (that’s about 1-in-108, or 0.93% of games) in which the winner had a FG% margin at least as bad as -2.99 percentage points and a 3P% margin as good or better than +13.96 percentage points.
This was also just the ninth postseason contest in the same period in which the loser shot at least as 47.67% from the field and at least as bad as 23.08% from distance. Oddly enough, one of the other cases happened yesterday as well, as the 76ers shot 50% from the field and 22.86% from distance.
Though San Antonio’s blocks were (for obvious reasons) way down in this game, they did have 13 steals and thus combined from a total of 16 stocks (steals + blocks), which is 10 more than the Timberwolves’ total of six. Since 2013, only seven other postseason winners (about 1-in-169) have had a stock differential as bad or worse.
What are Team Graded Box Scores?
Very briefly, these box scores grade winner-loser differentials for basic box score statistics, with the grade being based on the winning team’s differential relative to other NBA winners during a defined reference period. Think of it like a report card for understanding how a given winner performed relative to other winners. The reference period used runs from the start of the 2012-2013 season to the latest date of play, including only games in the same season category (i.e., regular season and playoff games are not compared to each other).
Data Source: The underlying data used to create these box scores was collected from Basketball Reference. In all cases, the data are collected the morning after the game is played. Although rare, postgame statistical revisions after data collection do occur and may affect the results after the fact.
With the NBA Draft Lottery in the rear view mirror, we now know the official order for the 2026 NBA Draft. Indiana may have been the biggest loser, as its pick went to the Clippers after falling outside the top-4, with Brooklyn and Sacramento also going home disappointed.
Washington was the biggest winner, as it became the first team since 2019 to land the top pick after finishing with the league's worst record. And with Memphis landing the third overall pick, the question is how this affects their approach with Ja Morant, who could be on the move this summer.
Below is the first Rotoworld mock draft of the spring, with writers Raphielle Johnson and Kurt Helin making their picks and providing some analysis.
The Wizards winning Sunday's lottery makes this the first time since 2019 that the team with the league's worst record won the right to select first overall. While the franchise has loaded up on young wings in recent drafts, they aren't in a position where they can afford to pass on a talent like Dybantsa. The former BYU star was effective on and off the ball offensively, and he has the length and athleticism needed to be a factor on the wing defensively. - Raphielle Johnson
2. Utah Jazz: G Darryn Peterson, Kansas
Jazz fans may have dreamed of BYU's Dybantsa, but they are going to love having the explosive Peterson next to Keyonte George in the backcourt for years to come. Peterson said he now understands what caused his cramping issues, and if true, and he finds his explosiveness again, he is the best shot creator and maker in the draft. - Kurt Helin
3. Memphis Grizzlies: G Kingston Flemings, Houston
At this point in the draft process, there appears to be a feeling in some circles that Dybantsa, Peterson and Boozer have separated themselves from the pack. However, Memphis has shown a willingness in the past to go after "their guy" and disregard conventional wisdom. With Ja Morant's future with the franchise undetermined, and that may be generous, Flemings would be a good fit for the new era of the franchise. - Johnson
4. Chicago Bulls: F Cameron Boozer, Duke
The last time the Bulls drafted No. 4 was 2020, just after Arturas Karnisovas had taken over as the head of basketball operations in Chicago, and he rolled the dice on an athletic but very raw player in Patrick Williams. New head of basketball ops, Bryson Graham, is not going to make that same mistake. If Boozer — the player with the highest floor in this draft — is available at No. 4, Graham is going to take him. - Helin
5. LA Clippers (from Indiana): F Caleb Wilson, North Carolina
Indiana falling out of the top-4 means the Clippers land a lottery pick, which is a huge deal for the franchise. Wilson's lone season at North Carolina was shortened due to a fractured right thumb, but his athleticism makes the 6-foot-10 forward a highly intriguing prospect in this draft class. While there is room for him to grow as a shooter, Wilson has the tools to make an immediate impact as a finisher and defender. - Johnson
6. Brooklyn Nets: G Keaton Wagler, Illinois
Wagler came out of nowhere this season to become a top-10 pick. He had a standout season at Illinois, averaging 17.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.3 assists a game, while shooting 41% from 3-point range. - Helin
7. Sacramento Kings: G Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas
The Kings head into the offseason finding themselves in the same spot they were in last summer, in desperate need of addressing the point guard position. Acuff ended his freshman season at Arkansas with a flourish, leading the Razorbacks to an SEC tournament title and a Sweet 16 appearance. While finishing in traffic and on-ball defensive ability are concerns, Acuff's on-ball playmaking makes him an intriguing prospect for any team in need of help at the point. - Johnson
8. Atlanta Hawks (from New Orleans): G Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville
Trae Young has been sent to the nation's capital and Brown could be the point guard of the future in Atlanta. Brown is lightning-quick and a player who is going to look better in the NBA, with a more open floor and shooting all around him. - Helin
9. Dallas Mavericks: C Aday Mara, Michigan
Used mainly in a reserve role in his two seasons at UCLA, Mara was a high-level performer as the starting center on Michigan's national championship team this past season. At 7-foot-3, he was effective as both a facilitator and shot-blocker for the Wolverines. While the Mavericks still have Dereck Lively II, his offensive ceiling is not on par with Mara's. - Johnson
10. Milwaukee Bucks: G Brayden Burries, Arizona
The Bucks need all the backcourt help they can get, and Burries may not be flashy, but he does a lot of things well — he can play on and off the ball, can knock down catch-and-shoot jumpers but also attack closeouts, and he gets downhill off screens and has a midrange pull-up game. - Helin
11. Golden State Warriors: F Nate Ament, Tennessee
With head coach Steve Kerr agreeing to a two-year extension, there's some clarity regarding the franchise's approach to the 2026-27 season. However, there's still a need to add pieces that can both fit alongside the team's established veterans and potentially develop into key options for the future. The 6-foot-10 Ament can score at all three levels, and playing alongside someone like Draymond Green would help his development as a defender. - Johnson
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (from LA Clippers): F Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan
Lendeborg looks ready to step in and be an NBA rotation big man, although with the Thunder, cracking that rotation will be the hardest part. Lendeborg has the kind of versatility NBA teams crave. - Helin
13. Miami Heat: F Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers
Will the Heat go "big game hunting" this summer? If so, moving up in the lottery would have given lead executive Pat Riley a more attractive chip to sweeten a potential deal with. While he does need to clean up his perimeter shooting and playmaking, Lopez is a talented forward with upside that's likely to land him on the back end of the lottery. - Johnson
14. Charlotte Hornets: F/C Hannes Steinbach, Washington
One of the best rebounders in this draft. He's a little raw and needs some development, but has great hands and a good touch, and scored 18.5 points per game while pulling down 11.8 rebounds at Washington. - Helin
15. Chicago Bulls (from Portland): C Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky
Due to a torn ACL suffered during his lone season at Arizona State, Quaintance was limited to four games at Kentucky before being shut down in early January. His medical reports will obviously be reviewed by any team evaluating the 6-foot-10 pivot, and the Bulls are in a position where they need to strongly consider drafting a post player. Quaintance's athleticism and rim protection abilities are why he's projected to be a first-rounder despite the knee concerns. - Johnson
16. Memphis Grizzlies (from Orlando via Phoenix): G Labaron Philon Jr., Alabama
He was Mr. Everything for Alabama, averaging 21.5 points and 4.8 assists per game while shooting 38.9% from 3-point range despite playing through injuries. He has to show he can work off the ball, too. - Helin
17. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Philadelphia): G/F Dailyn Swain, Texas
Swain began his college career at Xavier, following head coach Sean Miller to Texas for the 2025-26 campaign. At 6-foot-8, 220 pounds, he has excellent size for a pro wing and improved as a scorer throughout his three seasons in college. Oklahoma City has plenty of depth, but the inability to pay everyone may open up minutes in the rotation for a player like Swain. - Johnson
18. Charlotte Hornets (from Phoenix via Orlando): G Cameron Carr, Baylor
Carr is a bit of a project (and he's got to add a lot of muscle), but he's a pure scorer from all over the court who averaged 18.9 points per game while shooting 37.4% from beyond the arc. - Helin
19. Toronto Raptors: C Chris Cenac Jr., Houston
Given Jakob Poeltl's struggles throughout the season after injuring his lower back during training camp, the Raptors can use additional depth in the frontcourt. After drafting Collin Murray-Boyles last summer, adding Cenac to the mix would help address that issue. While the stats won't jump off the page, the 6-foot-10 frontcourt player made strides throughout his lone season at Houston. - Johnson
20. San Antonio Spurs (from Atlanta): F Koa Peat, Arizona
Peat has the size and physicality the Spurs like in their players; he's 6-foot-8, crashes the boards hard, and can do some playmaking. But his shot needs a lot of work, which is why he's a bit of a project. - Helin
21. Detroit Pistons (from Minnesota): G Bennett Stirtz, Iowa
Despite winning 60 regular-season games for the first time in 20 years, the Pistons still have a clear need for shooting around star point guard Cade Cunningham. Stirtz, who ran the point for Ben McCollum at Drake and Iowa, is one of the best shooters in this draft class. - Johnson
22. Philadelphia 76ers (from Oklahoma City via Houston): G Christian Anderson, Texas Tech
You can't go wrong drafting the best shooter in the class, and Anderson is that guy, hitting 42.5% from 3-point range this season. - Helin
23. Atlanta Hawks (from Cleveland): G Isaiah Evans, Duke
Between CJ McCollum's free agency and Jonathan Kuminga's team option, the Hawks have some important matters to address this summer. And with former first-overall pick Zaccharie Risacher not panning out as the franchise had hoped, adding a shooter like Evans would not be a bad idea. The former Duke standout shot 36 percent from three and 86 percent from the foul line as a sophomore. - Johnson
24. New York Knicks: F/C Morez Johnson, Michigan
He was at the heart of the Wolverines' championship team, he's physical, and he plays bigger than he looks thanks to a 7'2" wingspan. He's going to be a defensive guy in the NBA who can score a little, and he can step in and help right away. - Helin
25. Los Angeles Lakers: F Allen Graves, Santa Clara
The biggest question hanging over the Lakers is what LeBron James will decide to do: retire, re-sign with the team or sign elsewhere? Regardless of what he decides, the Lakers need to strengthen the bench through the draft and free agency. The 6-foot-9 Graves, who entered the transfer portal after his freshman season, could land in the first round despite starting just four games at Santa Clara. At this stage of his career, Graves' strengths are perimeter shooting and on-ball defense, although he does need to limit the fouling. - Johnson
26. Denver Nuggets: C Tarris Reed Jr., UConn
Reed helped himself (and the Huskies) with a strong NCAA tournament. He's more of a defender than a scorer at the next level, but he might be able to help off the bench as a rookie. - Helin
27. Boston Celtics: C Henri Veesaar, North Carolina
The 7-foot Veesaar transferred to North Carolina after two seasons at Arizona, taking on a larger role for the Tar Heels. His production jumped significantly as a starter, putting up 17 points per game. The Celtics are in a position where they can afford to strengthen the center position, even with Neemias Queta enjoying the most productive season of his career. - Johnson
28. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Detroit): F Tounde Yessoufou, Baylor
It's easy to love watching Yessoufou play: very high motor, very physical and he averaged 17.8 points per game while grabbing 5.9 rebounds per night as a freshman. He hunted mismatches and overpowered players in college; will that translate to the NBA? - Helin
29. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Atlanta via San Antonio): G Ebuka Okorie, Stanford
Along with Boozer and Wilson, Okorie was one of the best freshmen in the ACC this season. An honorable mention All-American, the 6-foot-2 guard averaged 23.2 points per game on 46.5 percent shooting from the field and 83.2 percent shooting from the foul line. Cleveland doesn't necessarily need a point guard with James Harden and Dennis Schröder in the fold, but a talented scorer of Okorie's caliber could prove difficult to pass on. - Johnson
30. Dallas Mavericks (from Washington via Philadelphia and Dallas): G Meleek Thomas, Arkansas
Thomas was an impressive offensive player for the Razorbacks, averaging 15.6 points per game while shooting 41.6% from 3. Jason Kidd will have to help him mature his game and decision-making, but he has potential because he can flat-out score. - Helin
Will the Knicks ride the wave or get a reality check in the Eastern Conference finals?
They embarrassed the 76ers in the second round of the NBA playoffs after a sweep was solidified with a 144-114 route on Sunday, and the “Inside the NBA” crew began discussing a potential NBA Finals appearance for Mike Brown’s surging group.
“It gets real again in the next round for the Knicks,” Kenny Smith said as the Knicks will face the Cavaliers or Pistons in the Eastern Conference finals. “Cleveland and the Pistons have caused problems for the Knicks this year.”
Kenny Smith (l.) and Charles Barkley (r.) disagreed with Shaq about the Knicks’ chances in the conference finals. NBAE via Getty Images
Smith added that the next round will look very similar to the Hawks series, which the Knicks won in six games.
Shaquille O’Neal, though, doesn’t think anyone in the East can contend right now with the Knicks, who have won seven straight games after falling behind 2-1 against Atlanta.
“They’ve shown me they are ready,” O’Neal said. “And I have to disagree with both guys, I think they’ll breeze through whoever the next opponent is if they play like this.”
Charles Barkley said the Knicks “had a cakewalk” to the Eastern Conference finals, calling the Hawks “not ready for primetime” while the 76ers dealt with injuries.
Kenny "Gets real again next round for Knicks…Cade such big guard…Cavs possibly most explosive backcourt NBA. This round…cakewalk … Shaq "They'll breeze thru whoever next if they play like this … Chuck "Had cakewalk…Whoever next v difficult … Shaq "Knicks going to Finals" pic.twitter.com/y31zkDBi9K
Jalen Brunson reacts after hitting a 3-pointer during the Knicks’ Game 4 win over the 76ers on May 10, 2026. Jason Szenes for the New York Post
The Knicks also have the best point differential (+194) in NBA playoff history through a team’s first 10 playoff games, besting the 2017 Golden State Warriors, who added Kevin Durant to a team that went 73-9 in the regular season the year prior.
The wild ride will come to a halt for the next week or so as the Knicks await the winner of the Cavaliers vs. Pistons series, which Detroit currently leads 2-1 with Game 4 in Cleveland on Monday night.
The Sixers don’t have to haul aside the rubble of endless injuries and meaningless losses to see a bright future now.
However, they sat Sunday night with the humiliation of a second-round playoff sweep capped by a 30-point Game 4 loss to the Knicks. New York fans flooded Xfinity Mobile Arena and had much to celebrate.
“We got beat by a really good team that was better than us tonight,” Sixers head coach Nick Nurse said. “Nobody wants to lose the way we did tonight without doubt. No one wants it to end that way, but our team went through a lot of ups and downs and I think we hung in there really well for the season. A lot of good things happened.”
Even after a serious improvement upon last season’s 24-win disaster, the Sixers appear to need more on many fronts to morph into true contenders. More three-point shooting, more defensive rebounding, more availability from their veteran stars. And, to put it bluntly, more good players.
Compared to their Eastern Conference foes, the Sixers’ depth was an enormous problem. Quentin Grimes had one big playoff performance as the team’s sixth man, scoring 18 points in Game 5 of the Sixers’ fantastic first-round series win over the Celtics. Three bench players 23 years old or younger received postseason rotation minutes in Dominick Barlow, Justin Edwards and Adem Bona.
Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey traded away Jared McCain in February and added no one. Judging a front office’s work is always complex, but it’s clear the Sixers’ deadline was disappointing to the organization as a whole, players included.
We’ll see if the Sixers opt to change anything at the top. The Athletic’s Tony Jones reported that Morey and Nurse’s jobs are “expected to be evaluated entering the offseason” and that “ownership has not made final decisions on either and is likely to take a few days to assess before making any major calls.”
For better and for worse, it seems likely the Sixers will retain the same core players.
“I’m as confident as I’ve ever been,” Embiid said. “Obviously, (the knee) was the biggest concern and I’m not thinking about it. As long as we keep doing what we’ve been doing, I won’t have to think about it anymore. I’m looking at next year, obviously being more available, and being more available might mean being a high seed as a team.
“The personal goals don’t matter. I know that if I’m available and I play as much as possible, everything else is going to follow. … I’ve accomplished everything else. I’m in a good mental place. It sucks losing, but I just know that moving forward, I’ll be better for my team.”
Tyrese Maxey became an All-Star starter for the first time. He played through a nagging right pinky finger injury in the playoffs and was limited by the Knicks’ constant blitzes, but the Sixers have a legitimate superstar as their lead guard who topped the NBA in minutes per game.
“I thought he had an amazing year,” George said of Maxey. “He got better. I thought he really added to a foundation that was already great. He’s one of the best scorers. He’s just been consistent for us all year with what he’s dealt with, with what we’ve been through. The next step for him … he’ll have to figure out and adjust to how these playoffs have been. They’re trying to get the ball out of his hands, and him having to learn to play make from there.
“He’s set a precedent that he can average 30 and he’s an elite scorer and shooter. So I’m pretty sure, going into next year, that’s going to be what’s on teams’ boards, trying to stop Tyrese. … I’m sure he’s going to sit with his trainers, his workout people, and they’re going to look at, ‘How can we be better? What can we do better?’ I think that conversation will come up then.”
Embiid said Edgecombe “has a chance to be extremely special” and “is going to be a monster.”
“I really love my teammates and I really love all the good things they say about me, but I’ve got to keep putting in the work and I’ve got to keep getting better so whatever they say will come to pass,” Edgecombe said. “I’m glad to be here in Philly. … Losing just now, it’s tough, but we’re going to be good for sure.”
Indeed, the Sixers have real reasons for optimism. The team’s leaders in the locker room are right to focus on internal growth and believe better days are ahead.
The gap between the Sixers and the Knicks team that coasted to the Eastern Conference Finals on Sunday was not small, though.
“I think the biggest thing is this was a step in the right direction,” Maxey said, “going from last year where we didn’t even make the playoffs to this year where we (got) to the second round. Again, no moral victories, but at some point you’ve got to take away something positive. And we got a lot of experience. … Once you get this taste of playoff experience, you don’t want to go backwards. … And just staying together, man. Keeping the camaraderie high, keeping the vibes high.
“The vibes with this group are really good, especially with the young guys. Really liked each other, really did things together. So we’ve got to keep that vibe going and keep that culture building. If we can keep building that culture, then I think the sky is the limit for this team.”
The Boston Celtics did not participate in Sunday’s 2026 NBA Draft Lottery because they were one of the 16 teams that made the playoffs, but they still ended up being one of the winners from the event’s results.
Pretty much everything that could have gone right for the Celtics actually came to fruition.
Outside of the Pacers losing their pick to the Clippers (more on that below), there weren’t any earth-shattering results from the lottery.
Let’s dive into how the outcome of the draft lottery benefits the Celtics directly and indirectly.
Indiana Pacers’ trade fiasco
The Pacers gave up a ton of assets to acquire Clippers center Ivica Zubac at the trade deadline in February, including their 2026 first-round draft pick protected for spots 1-4 and 10-30. Despite finishing with the second-worst record in the league, there was only a 52 percent chance of the Pacers keeping their pick entering the lottery.
Indiana ultimately lost out, as its pick slid to No. 5 overall and will convey to the Clippers. This means the Pacers, who already have a fantastic roster if Tyrese Haliburton makes a successful return from an Achilles tear, will not add an elite young player to the mix.
If the Pacers were able to add a player like AJ Dybantsa or Cam Boozer, they probably would have been a top-two or -three team in the Eastern Conference going into next season, and that would have made reaching the NBA Finals a lot tougher for the Celtics and other East contenders.
The Pacers should still be a threat, no doubt. But their roster could have looked a lot scarier had they gotten some lottery luck.
Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images
The Pacers fell to No. 5 in the lottery and have to send their pick to the Clippers.
Potential Giannis Antetokounmpo suitors had no lottery luck
ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote Monday that the Bucks “are open for business on trade calls and offers” for superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Almost none of the potential suitors for Antetokounmpo improved their situation in the lottery, and that’s good news for the Celtics if they decide to get involved this summer.
The Golden State Warriors have been speculated as a potential Antetokounmpo destination in the past, and they need to maximize their increasingly small window to compete while Stephen Curry remains an elite player. The Warriors ended up with the No. 11 pick.
The Miami Heat are always discussed as a potential landing spot for superstar players whenever rumors pop up, even though it’s been a while since they pulled off a blockbuster deal. The Heat don’t like to tank and are typically in the playoff mix. But the Heat had no lottery luck and will pick at No. 13 in Round 1.
The Bucks had a small chance to earn a top-four pick despite not controlling their own 2026 first-rounder, but they had no such luck and will pick at No. 10. That pick is probably not going to be good enough to land an impact player who can pair with Antetokounmpo and help Milwaukee compete in the East.
The Hawks are often thrown into Antetokounmpo mock trade proposals as a third-team or as a potential Antetokounmpo spot. They did not get a top-four pick and ended up with No. 8 overall. Is the No. 8 pick good enough to construct a package for Antetokounmpo?
Two Western Conference teams landed in top three
If you really think that Dybantsa, Cam Boozer, Caleb Wilson, Darryn Peterson or other players in this draft have superstar potential, then it would benefit the Celtics for those players to go to Western Conference teams.
The Wizards won the lottery and will pair an elite young talent with Trae Young and Anthony Davis next season, but the Utah Jazz moved up in the lottery for the first time in franchise history and will pick at No. 2. The Memphis Grizzlies landed at No. 3 and the Clippers are at No. 5.
Two of the top three picks and three of the top five being owned by Western Conference teams is good for East contenders like the Celtics.
OKC Thunder didn’t get lucky
The Thunder had a 1.5 percent chance to win the No. 1 pick because they own the Clippers’ 2026 unprotected first-rounder. It wasn’t likely that OKC would move up, but we’ve seen crazy outcomes before, including last year when the Dallas Mavericks won the lottery with only 1.8 percent odds.
The Thunder didn’t have any luck and will pick at No. 12. It’s still a good pick for a team that might win a second straight title this season and has an absolutely loaded roster headlined by reigning league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. But could you imagine how much better OKC would be if it got Dybantsa, Boozer or Peterson?
Any team with championship aspirations in the near future, like the Celtics, didn’t want to see the Thunder get lucky Sunday afternoon. And for the first time in a while, OKC was unlucky.
Kurt Helin
Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images