Stamkos' 3-point game powers the Predators to a 4-1 win over the Golden Knights

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Steven Stamkos had two goals and an assist to lead the Nashville Predators to a 4-1 win over the Vegas Golden Knights on Saturday.

Stamkos opened the scoring 40 seconds in and added a power-play goal in the first two minutes of the second period as Nashville raced to an early three-goal lead. Tyson Jost and Ryan O’Reilly also scored for the Predators, who won their third straight and for the fourth time in six games. Justus Annunen made 39 saves and improved to 8-9-2.

With his second goal of the game, the 36-year-old Stamkos broke a tie with Brendan Shanahan and moved into sole possession of seventh place in the NHL with 238 career power-play goals. Phil Esposito is sixth overall with 246 man-advantage goals. Stamkos has 33 goals and 55 points this season.

Shea Theodore scored for Vegas, which lost its third in a row and for the sixth time in eight games. Akira Schmid stopped 16 shots.

Vegas carried the play throughout, outshooting Nashville 40-20. But, the Predators made the most of their shots with leads of 3-0 and 4-1 in the second period. The Golden Knights had a 20-4 edge in shots in the first period and a 10-5 advantage in the scoreless third.

Stamkos scored in the opening minute after Ryan O’Reilly won a faceoff and delivered a perfect feed in the slot.

Stamkos scored his 33 of the season on the power play at 1:24 of the second, with assists going to Filip Forsberg and Erik Haula. Tyson Jost made it 3-0 with the Predators' third short-handed goal of the season at 11:56. O'Reilly has the team's other short-handed scores this season.

Theodore got Vegas on the board at 13:10 of the second with a power-play goal before O’Reilly restored a three-goal lead for Nashville with a power-play score at 14:53, on a deflection of a shot by Stamkos.

Up next

Golden Knights: At the Dallas Stars on Sunday.

Predators: At the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

Duplantis clinches 4th straight world indoor pole vault title with a 6.25m record

TORUN, Poland (AP) — Armand Duplantis won another pole vault world title after he was pushed all the way by Greece's Emmanouil Karalis on Saturday.

Duplantis won his fourth consecutive world indoor championships with a tournament record vault of 6.25 meters, a 10 centimeter improvement on his winning height a year ago in Nanjing.

The pair left behind the field at 6.05.

Duplantis cleared his first attempts at 6.10, 6.15 and then 6.25, when he wobbled the bar.

Karalis passed at 6.10 and 6.15, and missed his attempts at 6.25, finshing runner-up for a second straight year.

Duplantis put away his pole, foregoing attempts at 6.32 to break his world record of 6.31 that he set last week at the Swedish meeting named after him, the Mondo Classic.

Karalis was runner-up at 6.05 and Australia's Kurtis Marschall third with a personal-best 6.00, marking the first time in history that three vaulters surpassed six meters in the same indoor contest.

Simon Ehammer of Switzerland reclaimed the heptathlon title with a world record score of 6,670, adding 25 points to the previous high set in 2012 by Ashton Eaton of the U.S. Ehammer was the world indoor champion in 2024 and runner-up last year.

Also, Zaynab Dosso of Italy won the women's 60-meter final — Olympic 100 champion Julien Alfred was third — Christopher Morales Williams of Canada and Lurdes Gloria Manuel of the Czech Republic won the men's and women's 400, and Josh Kerr of Britain the men's 3,000 six months after tearing his calf in the world outdoor 1,500 final in Tokyo.

Wizards guard Trae Young is out with multiple injuries, no timetable for return

WASHINGTON (AP) — Wizards point guard Trae Young is dealing with a pair of injuries and is out indefinitely, the team announced before Saturday's game against the Thunder.

Young re-injured his right quadriceps, sustaining a contusion during the third quarter of Washington's game against Golden State on Monday, the team said in a statement that also said he had lower back irritation.

“Yeah, he obviously got the contusion the other night, but he’s also been dealing with a little bit of back pain, so we obviously did a little bit of imaging,” coach Brian Keefe said before the game. “The back has been irritated. Don’t have a timeline on any of that stuff yet, but obviously, he’s out tonight.”

The team said both injuries are being treated conservatively and will not require surgery at this point.

Young, acquired in a trade with the Atlanta Hawks on Jan. 9, has appeared in five games with the Wizards, averaging 15.2 points and 6.2 assists.

Washington has lost its last 14 games.

___

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

UCLA basketball's Skyy Clark all smiles after procedure repairs damaged tooth

Follow all of Saturday's NCAA Tournament second round games with USA TODAY Sports' live updates.

PHILADELPHIA, PA  — You just never know when a dentist on standby will come in handy.

That moment came Friday night inside Xfinity Mobile Arena for UCLA men’s basketball guard Skyy Clark, who had his front tooth knocked out after he dove to the floor in an attempt to get a loose ball against Central Florida’s Themus Fulks. 

"I didn't know (what would happen). The trainer, Alexa (Blatt), told us she was going to find a dentist. I thought I was going to be toothless for the night and get it fixed today," Clark told USA TODAY Sports outside of the Bruins' locker room on Saturday, March 21.

The 6-foot-3 guard received some immediate attention from UCLA’s medical staff at the bench after the incident. He checked back in toward the end of the game and hit a free throw with 2.3 seconds left to seal the victory for the Bruins.

The dentist who saved the day was Dr. Jeff Goldfine, who is the dentist for the Philadelphia 76ers in Philadelphia. Clark said he found out he was getting a new tooth 15 minutes after Blatt said she was going to find a dentist in the area.

"Went there (to the dentist's office), took me in around 11:30. I left around 12:45, 1 in the morning," Clark said.

UCLA shared a smile of Clark's new smile on social media on Saturday.

Clark described the procedure Goldfine performed as similar to one used for a root canal. He said Goldfine made the "whole process painless," telling a larger group of reporters at media availability that anesthesia was used.

"He had to take out the nerve, clean all the tooth, and take out the root," Clark said. "Then he had to nub it down and make a little fake tooth. (Then) cemented it on for temporarily."

When asked whether he's in any pain just over 12 hours after the procedure, Clark told USA TODAY Sports there is a "little soreness" in his mouth.

"Nothing crazy," Clark said.

The replacement tooth is only temporary, Clark emphasized. He'll need another procedure in a few weeks, once the Bruins' season is over, but there won't be any holdback in how he plays in Sunday's second-round matchup against No. 2-seed UConn. He'll wear a mouthguard for protection tomorrow, though.

The Bruins and the Huskies are set for an 8:45 p.m. ET tipoff on Sunday night in Philadelphia. A win would advance UCLA to the Sweet 16 of the Men’s NCAA Tournament. 

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: UCLA basketball's Skyy Clark repairs damaged tooth, to wear mouthguard

Houston vs Texas A&M live updates: Start time, channel for March Madness game

Follow all of Saturday's NCAA Tournament second round games with USA TODAY Sports' live updates.

Houston breezed through its NCAA Tournament first round game on Thursday, blasting No. 15 seed Idaho, 78-47. Freshman star Kingston Flemings had 18 points in 27 minutes, shooting 8 of 12 from the field. Emanuel Sharp added 16 points and the Cougars led by 24 at halftime.

Saturday's second round opponent, Texas A&M, figures to provide a stiffer test. The 10th-seeded Aggies upset No. 7 seed Saint Mary's in the first round. Rashaun Agee did most of the damage scoring 22 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Texas A&M's defense forced 18 turnovers and held the Gaels to 38% shooting.

Here's what you need to know for Saturday's second round game with a trip the Sweet 16 to face the winner of No. 3 Illinois/No. 11 VCU next week in Houston.

HIT REFRESH FOR UPDATES.

Houston vs Texas A&M live score

TEAMS1H2HF
Texas A&M
Houston

What time is Houston vs Texas A&M?

  • Time: 6:10 p.m. ET, Saturday.

What channel is Houston vs Texas A&M? How to watch, streaming info

  • The game is airing on TNT, streaming via Fubo.

Houston vs Texas A&M prediction, odds

  • Ehsan Kassim: Texas A&M
  • Jordan Mendoza: Houston
  • John Leuzzi: Houston
  • Blake Schuster: Houston
  • Moneyline: Houston (-500); Texas A&M (+375)
  • Spread: Houston (-10.5)
  • Over/under total: 143.5

Kingston Flemings 2026 NBA Draft prediction

Utah Jazz at No. 5 overall.

Kalbrosky's Analysis:

The Jazz currently have the worst defensive rating in the league but could potentially improve that by selecting Houston freshman Kingston Flemings. The All-Big 12 guard has several games when he has recorded at least three steals, notching eight against Arizona State earlier this season. He scored 42 points against No. 11 Texas Tech on Jan. 24 and had a strong performance against Baylor, recording 21 points with seven assists and two steals on March 4. With highs as high as his thus far, it will not take long for him to hear his name called on draft night.

See USA TODAY's full mock draft here.

Kingston Flemings stats

(all stats as of March 15)

  • 16.4 points per game
  • 3.9 rebounds per game
  • 5.3 assists per game
  • 47.5% field goal percentage
  • 39.2% three-point field goal percentage

Houston NCAA Tournament history (since 2014)

  • Appearances: 7
  • Most recent appearance: 2025
  • Games played: 26 (19-6)
  • Highest seed: 1
  • Lowest seed: 6
  • Best finish: National Championship

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Houston vs Texas A&M live score update: March Madness time, TV channel

Gonzaga vs Texas live updates: Start time, channel for March Madness game

Follow all of Saturday's NCAA Tournament second round games with USA TODAY Sports' live updates.

Texas lost five of its last six games heading into the NCAA Tournament, but the Longhorns are kind of on a heater right now. After beating NC State in the First Four, Texas upset No. 6 BYU, despite AJ Dybantsa going for 35 points.

Can they keep it going against No. 3 seed Gonzaga?

Gonzaga needed to dig deep to get past No. 14 seed Kennesaw State in Thursday's first round.

The Owls got to within five points late before the Bulldogs sealed their eventual 73-64 win.

Graham Ike lead Gonzaga with 19 points, Jalen Warley had a double-double (12 points, 12 rebounds) and Davis Fogle added 17 points off the bench.

The big issue for the Zags was its 3-point shooting, going 3 of 18 (17%) from behind the arc.

Here's what you need to know for today's second round matchup with a spot in next week's Sweet 16 on the line:

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Gonzaga vs Texas live score

TEAMS1H2HF
Texas
Gonzaga

What time is Gonzaga vs Texas?

  • Time: 7:10 p.m. ET, Saturday.

What channel is Gonzaga vs Texas? How to watch, steaming info

  • The game is airing on TBS/truTV, stream via Fubo.

Gonzaga vs Texas prediction, odds

  • Ehsan Kassim: Texas
  • Jordan Mendoza: Gonzaga
  • John Leuzzi: Texas
  • Blake Schuster: Texas
  • Moneyline: Gonzaga (-250); Texas (+200)
  • Spread: Gonzaga (-6.5)
  • Over/under total: 146.5

Gonzaga NCAA Tournament history (since 2014)

  • Appearances: 12
  • Most recent appearance: 2026
  • Games played: 42 (30-11)
  • Highest seed: 1
  • Lowest seed: 11
  • Deepest round reached: National Championship

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Gonzaga vs Texas live score update: March Madness time, TV channel, odds

NBA fines Magic guard Jalen Suggs $25,000 for throwing mouthpiece

NEW YORK (AP) — Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs has been fined $25,000 for throwing his mouthpiece in the direction of the stands, the NBA announced Saturday.

The incident occurred with 5:35 remaining in the first quarter of the Magic’s 130-111 loss to the Hornets on Thursday in Charlotte.

Suggs tossed his mouthpiece off the court after he was bumped by LaMelo Ball and received a technical foul.

He finished the game with ‌nine ⁠points on 4-of-12 shooting in 22 minutes.

___

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

Duke vs TCU live updates: March Madness Round 2 game score, highlights

Follow all of Saturday's NCAA Tournament second round games with USA TODAY Sports' live updates.

The NCAA Tournament's overall top seed Duke was in a first-round dogfight against No. 16 seed Siena on Thursday.

Afterward, Blue Devils coach Jon Scheyer called it his toughest March Madness moment.

"Toughest one," he told reporters after the 71-65 win. "Not close. Toughest moment, toughest game, toughest position I've ever been in in the tournament, no question about it."

You'd imagine things will only get tougher as the tournament goes on.

Up next for Duke is No. 9 seed TCU. The Horned Frogs beat No. 8 seed Ohio State, 66-64, on a late Xavier Edmonds bucket in Thursday's first round opener.

TCU has never won a Round of 32 game in March Madness. Is today the day?

HIT REFRESH FOR UPDATES.

Duke vs TCU live score

TEAMS1H2HF
TCU
Duke

What time is TCU vs Duke ?

  • Time: 5:15 p.m. ET, Saturday.

What channel is Duke vs TCU? Streaming, how to watch

  • The game is airing on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.

Duke vs TCU prediction, odds

Odds provided by BetMGM as of 1:15 p.m., Saturday.

  • Ehsan Kassim: Duke
  • Jordan Mendoza: Duke
  • John Leuzzi: Duke
  • Blake Schuster: Duke
  • Moneyline: Duke (-800); TCU (+550)
  • Spread: Duke (-12.5)
  • Over/under total: 139.5

Cameron Boozer NBA draft stock, mock draft predictions

Boozer is widely projected as a top-3 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Here’s a look at where various mock drafts from major outlets have the Duke freshman going:

Is Cameron Boozer related to Carlos Boozer?

Cameron Boozer and his twin brother, Cayden (also a freshman for Duke) are the sons of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer.

Before his 13-year career in the NBA, Carlos Boozer was a standout forward for the Blue Devils under Mike Krzyzewski from 1999-2002. A member of Duke's 2001 national championship team, Carlos Boozer finished his three-year career with the Blue Devils with more than 1,500 points scored and started 93 of the 101 games in which he appeared.

Jamie Dixon coaching record: How long has Jamie Dixon coached TCU?

This is Dixon's 10th season as TCU's head coach. Dixon returned to his alma mater after after a 13-year run as head coach at Pitt.

Dixon is 199-137 with the Horned Frogs and has led TCU to five NCAA Tournament appearances.

Has TCU ever reached Sweet 16?

TCU reached the Regional Final in 1968 but only 23 teams were in the NCAA Tournament that year. So the Horned Frogs have never won a Round of 32 game.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Duke vs TCU score live update: March Madness highlights in NCAA Round 2

Robbie Avila reflects on career after Saint Louis March Madness loss: 'I'm just blessed'

Follow all of Saturday's NCAA Tournament second round games with USA TODAY Sports' live updates.

Just like that, the career of one of the most interesting figures in recent college basketball history has come to an end.

Robbie Avila saw the door shut on his collegiate career with No. 9 Saint Louis losing 95-72 to No. 1 seed Michigan in the second round of the 2026 Men's NCAA Tournament on Saturday, March 21, at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

Avila started his career in 2022-23 at Indiana State, gaining acclaim for his style of play and goggles during Indiana State's NIT run two years ago. The player who earned many nicknames over the years, including "Cream Abdul-Jabbar," "The College Jokic" and "Larry Blurred" was a favorite of many college basketball fans.

He reflected on his fame and how it impacted his career following the loss.

"I take it with a grain of salt. Some days it's good, some days it's not good," Avila said of the attention he received. "When you're really, really good, the attention is awesome. When you're not, it's negative. So I kind of try not to let it play too big in my head.

"I'm just blessed to be able to play the sport I love at a high level. Hopefully I'll be able to play basketball for a long time."

After the run with the Sycamores, Avila was one of the top players in the transfer portal due to his 6-foot-10 frame, ability to shoot and as a playmaker at his size. Instead of opting for bigger programs, however, he chose to follow his coach, Josh Schertz, to Saint Louis.

Avila entered the second-round game needing 19 points to reach 2,000 for his career. However, he was limited to nine points on 3-of-13 shooting with the Wolverines very keyed in on taking him out of the equation.

Still, Avila finished his career with 1,990 points, 750 rebounds and 473 assists while shooting 51.9% from the field and 38.1% from 3-point range for his career.

Schertz reflected on Avila's career following the Billiken' loss on Saturday.

“Robbie's, he's somebody that I've said, when he came with us from Indiana State, I think he legitimized our program immediately," Schertz said. "He's, obviously, was one of the top recruits in the country, and to choose Saint Louis, and that was, was an incredible coup for us. He has, like I said, no coincidence that winning has followed him everywhere he's ever gone. He won in high school at a place that hadn't won. He went to Indiana State, a place that hadn't won. He came to St Louis, at a place that hadn't been winning, and won.

"We're only 23 months from being 14th in the A-10 to being one of the last 32 teams standing. If you look at it, it's been a quick, a quick trajectory, and he's had the most to do with that of anybody. I'm incredibly proud of him and his growth over the four years. I think he won 100 and some games, a little over 100 games in four years. He's been incredible, a great teammate, a great competitor, a great human being."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Saint Louis coach Josh Schertz on Robbie Avila: 'He legitimized our program'

Boston Celtics Daily Links 3/21/26

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 18: The sneakers worn by Kristaps Porziis #7 of the Golden State Warriors during the game against the Boston Celtics on March 18, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

HeraldKey reserve helps Celtics rally past zombie Grizzlies, avoid upset

GlobeJaylen Brown has 30 points as Celtics rally to defeat Grizzlies 117-112

What is the best soundbite in Boston sports history?

Robert Parish’s take on this Celtics group centers on teamwork and the return of a strong defensive identity

Celtics survive surprising battle from banged-up Grizzlies, need fourth-quarter rally for victory

Nikola Vucevic (broken finger) eager to again lend a hand to Celtics’ playoff run

Celtics GreenComments from the Other Side – Grizzlies 3/20/26

CelticsBlog10 Takeaways from the Celtics Grit & Grind Win Over Grizzlies

‘Ultimate competitor’ Luka Garza is embracing everything that’s made the Celtics special

Celtics stave off undermanned Grizzlies in 117-112 win

CLNS Media Robert Parish and Cedric Maxwell Share Legendary Celtics Stories

Celtics .com Keys to the Game: Celtics 117, Grizzlies 112

NBC Sports BostonCeltics-Grizzlies recap: C’s take control in fourth to extend win streak

Why Celtics should chase East’s top seed after Cunningham injury

NESNCeltics Reporter Calls Jaylen Brown One Of NBA’s ‘Five Most Impactful Players’

Jayson Tatum’s Return Drawing Strong Reaction From Paul Pierce

Celtics’ Nikola Vucevic Reveals Updated Injury Timeline Amid Finger Fracture

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Celtics Wire Derrick White on playing all of 4th, Luka Garza helping Celtics win vs. Grizz

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BSJ Game Report: Celtics 117, Grizzlies 112 – White, Garza save Boston late

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Luka Garza keeps proving why he belongs in Celtics’ rotation

Celtics’ 17th title has aged like wine after brutal truth has been exposed

CLNS Media/YouTubeGarden Report: Celtics vs Grizzlies Postgame Show on CLNS – Boston Outlasts Shorthanded Memphis

Should Luka Garza get MORE Minutes in Celtics Rotation? | Garden Report SHORTS

Jaylen Brown Should be a SHOO-IN for First Team All-NBA | You Got Boston w/ Noa Dalzell

Yahoo SportsDerrick White is the top role player in the NBA

Fadeaway WorldNBA Most Improved Player Power Rankings: A Big Twist Late In The Season

SI .comBoston Celtics Mailbag: What Makes Derrick White a Special Defender

One Game on the Celtics’ Remaining Schedule Suddenly Got Incredibly Important

Celtics-Grizzlies Player Grades: Brown Great Again, Clutch 4th From White, Garza

HeavyJohn Wall Makes Bold Celtics Prediction, Names 7 NBA Contenders

Athlon SportsEvan Turner Comments on Jaylen Brown’s MVP Chances

WEEI/YouTube Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated discusses where the Celtics rank in the East | WEEI Afternoons

The Sports HubRecapping Bill Chisholm’s first year as Celtics owner

BasketNewsNikola Vucevic updates his injury status, reveals when he expects to return

This Rookie Makes NBA Superstars Look Lazy

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Memphis Flyer Grizzlies Lose to Celtics at Home

Hoops Rumors Atlantic Notes: Vucevic, Celtics Cap, Minott, Barrett

Locked on CelticsDerrick White ELEVATES Celtics in Fourth, Luka Garza DOMINATES Glass, Celtics WIN!

NBA/YouTubeCELTICS at GRIZZLIES | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | March 20, 2026

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NBC Sports Boston/YouTube POSTGAME POD: Luka Garza Powers Celtics to Gritty win over Grizzlies

Zimmerman, Abou Ali score goals as Toronto beats Crew 2-1

TORONTO (AP) — Walker Zimmerman scored a goal in the 83rd minute, José Cifuentes added a goal, and Toronto FC beat the Columbus Crew 2-1 on Saturday.

Luka Gavran stopped two shots for Toronto (2-2-1).

Djordje Mihailovic played a corner kick into the center of the area where Zimmerman went up high and slammed a header inside the back post to give Toronto the lead for good.

The Crew’s Wessam Abou Ali opened the scoring in the fourth minute. Dylan Chambost played a long ball down the left side to Max Arfsten, who played an arcing cross to Abou Ali for a header from the top of the 6-yard box that slipped under the crossbar and into the side-net. Abou Ali has six goals and two assists in 10 career MLS appearances, nine starts.

Cifuentes scored his first goal for Toronto in the 56th minute to make it 1-1. The 27-year-old midfielder scored for the first time in MLS since July 12, 2023, when he had his only goal of the season in a 3-0 win over St. Louis.

Patrick Schulte had four saves for the Crew (0-3-2). Columbus had 54% possession but was outshot by Toronto 13-9, 7-3 on target.

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

Lakers vs Magic Computer Picks: Our Best Player Prop Projections for March 21

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Our NBA player prop projections are locked in for tonight’s clash in Central Florida between the Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic, with the model highlighting several standout opportunities.

After digging into the data and lining it up against current market prices, we’ve identified the bets with the strongest value.

These Lakers vs. Magic predictions aren’t based on feel — they’re backed by the numbers.

If you’re putting together your card, these are the model’s top NBA picks for Saturday, March 21.

Lakers vs Magic computer picks for March 21

Lakers LakersMagic Magic
Reaves o20.5 points
-105
Bnachero o23.5 points
-112
Doncic u8.5 assists 
-110
Carter Jr. u7.5 rebounds 
-140
James o5.5 rebounds
-105
Bane u2.5 3-pointers 
-170

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Lakers computer picks

Austin Reaves Over 20.5 points (-105)

Projection: 22.3 points

While Austin Reaves is questionable for tonight, it’s worth noting he’s gone Over his 20.5-point line in four of his last 10 games.

He’s averaging an impressive 23.5 points per game this season — a notable jump from 20.0 last year — and has taken on a larger scoring role.

With the Los Angeles Lakers operating as the NBA’s highest-scoring offense over their last five games, this matchup against the Orlando Magic sets up well for Reaves to find success from the field.

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Luka Doncic Under 8.5 assists (-110)

Projection: 8.0 assists

The Lakers have played at the fourth-slowest pace among road teams over their last five games, a tempo that could limit Luka Doncic’s playmaking opportunities against Orlando.

That trend supports the Under on his 8.5 assist line, a number he’s stayed below in six of his last 10 games.

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LeBron James Over 5.5 rebounds (-130)

Projection: 6.3 rebounds

The Magic have played at the fifth-fastest pace in the NBA over their last five games, which should create more rebounding opportunities for the Lakers.

That uptick benefits LeBron James, who has gone Over his 5.5 rebound line in six of his last 10 games.

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Magic computer picks

Paolo Banchero Over 23.5 points (-112)

Projection: 24.8 points

Orlando’s offense has been rolling at home, averaging a strong 122.6 points per game — the sixth-best mark in the NBA over the last five games.

Much of that production has been driven by Paolo Banchero, who has gone Over his 23.5-point line in six of his last 10 games.

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Wendell Carter Jr. Under 7.5 rebounds (-140)

Projection: 7.2 rebounds

The Magic have ranked as the third-worst offensive rebounding team at home over their last 10 games, a trend that could limit Wendell Carter Jr.’s impact on the glass.

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Desmond Bane Under 2.5 3-pointers (-170)

Projection: 2.5 3-pointers

With the Lakers playing at the fourth-slowest pace on the road over their last five games, this matchup could feature fewer possessions for the Magic.

That slower tempo may limit Desmond Bane’s chances from deep, aligning with the Under on his 2.5 three-point line — a mark he’s stayed below in four of his last 10 games.

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How to watch Lakers vs Magic tonight

LocationKia Center, Orlando, FL
DateSaturday, March 21, 2026
Tip-off7:00 p.m. ET
TVSPECSN, FDSN FL

Not intended for use in MA.
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Bucks co-owner says Giannis Antetokounmpo will be extended or traded

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MARCH 15: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks in action during the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Fiserv Forum on March 15, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images

By the end of this year, the NBA’s long and draining Giannis Antetokounmpo saga should finally be over. At least, it will be if you believe Milwaukee Bucks co-owner Wes Edens in a conversation with ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne. With Antetokounmpo able to opt out of his contract after the 2026-27 season, the coming months should pressure the Bucks into action around their clearly frustrated superstar. Antetokounmpo will be eligible for a contract extension on October 1st. If he tells the Bucks he will not sign the $275 million extension, Milwaukee is put in a position where they have to trade him or risk losing him for nothing in free agency the following year.

“Giannis is going into the last year [of his contract],” Edens told Shelburne.”So one of two things will happen: Either he will be extended or he’ll be traded. The likelihood you’ll let him just kind of play out the last year, we can’t afford that. It’s not consistent with what’s good for the organization. That’s not a Giannis issue. That’s any player that’s in their last year.”

Shelburne’s reporting around the conversation, however, undermines Edens’ simplistic statement. The fact is Antetokounmpo’s saga in Milwaukee has seemed heading toward him forcing his way out for years. The Golden State Warriors, of course, made an aggressive push to acquire him at this year’s deadline. However, Milwaukee chose to hold onto him for a little bit longer and the Dubs opted to swap Jonathan Kuminga for Kristaps Porzingis.

While the Warriors were one of the few teams interested and able to acquire Antetokounmpo during the current season, it seems far more difficult to envision them getting a deal done this offseason. The fact is, every team has more financial flexibility during the offseason, and several teams with proven young players are more likely to enter the trade market after some squads inevitably under perform during the postseason. Nevertheless, Joe Lacob will surely be trying to wishcast a Warriors deal for Giannis into existence anyway.

Wisconsin Herd Weekly Recap: Fourth quarter

HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL - MARCH 16: Johnny Davis #2 of the Wisconsin Herd during the game against the Windy City Bulls on March 16, 2026 at NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, 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 Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Herd is going through the motions of functioning as a G League team, waiting to finish out the remainder of a fruitless season. The stakes are getting lower, and the Herd is looking inside to see which players might remain on their roster or, better yet, join an NBA team.

Wisconsin Herd 113, Osceola Magic 126

Alex Antetokounmpo: DNP

Kira Lewis Jr.: 36 minutes, 28 points, 3 rebounds, 10/16 FG, 2/6 3FG, -14

Stephen Thompson: 39 minutes, 27 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists, 5 steals, 9/20 FG, 3/7 3FG, -3

The Herd’s away match at Osceola wasn’t very close despite the high-scoring efforts of Lewis, Thompson, Mark Sears (21 points, seven assists), and some others. Although they kept the first quarter close, closing it down by six, a significant 14-2 run helped Osceola stretch their lead to 18 points by the half. After that, the Herd struggled to stop the Magic’s bruising offensive style of play and strolled to a 14-point win.

With all of the Herd’s two-way players unavailable, the scoring responsibilities rested on guys like Lewis, who contributed 28 points off the bench on 63% true shooting. Lewis, a former lottery pick who struggled to get game time in New Orleans and Utah, has shown genuine scoring and playmaking potential, matching an NBA rotation guard. Lewis’s speed accentuates his tight handle and ability to convert tough layups in the air. His shooting has long been a concern, but he’s become efficient inside (59.6% on two-pointers), and he’s showing signs of improving from range (career-high 33.7% three-point average)

Wisconsin Herd 115, Windy City Bulls 116

Cormac Ryan: 33 minutes, 29 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 9/17 FG, 3/5 3FG, +12

Alex Antetokounmpo: 15 minutes, 3 points, 3 rebounds, 2 turnovers, 1/4 3FG

Mark Sears: 35 minutes, 20 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 7/19 FG, 3/8 3FG, +2

Monday’s game against the Windy City Bulls seemed to go as expected: the Herd’s opposition jumping out to an early lead, and despite hot three-point shooting, they controlled the game. However, the Herd fought back in the second half against the Bulls and kept an otherwise out-of-control game very close. 

After getting Ryan back from Bucks duty, they gained a new level of lethality from range. However, the turning point for the Bulls, who needed to win to stay alive in the G League’s playoff race, came with Kevin Knox II’s third-quarter outburst. Knox was unstoppable from deep, helping the Bulls pull away early in the fourth quarter. Although Ryan and the Herd rallied to keep it close at the end, the Herd had to play the foul game at the end, dropping them to 9-22, the worst in the East.

With his 29 points against the Bulls, Ryan is now up to an average of 22.1 points per game on .491/.439/.870 shooting splits. His game shows a player whose main strengths lie in his consistent, dead-eye shooting, but he also offers a versatile skillset, including rebounding, playmaking, and active defense. Ryan made his Bucks debut against the Jazz on Thursday, scoring five points on four shots. Although his first minutes in a Milwaukee uniform started slowly, Ryan may be a name to watch in the Bucks’ long-term plans.

Motor City Cruise 123, Wisconsin Herd 105

Alex Antetokounmpo: 29 minutes, 15 points, 7 rebounds, 2/6 FG, 1/2 3FG, 6/8 FTA, -9

Kira Lewis Jr.: 33 minutes, 19 points, 4 assists, 7/14 FG, 2/6 3FG, -4

Stephen Thompson: 32 minutes, 15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 turnovers, 6/13 FG, 3/5 3FG, -11

In an unremarkable Friday night game, the Herd fell early against the Motor City Cruise and never found their footing. The Herd didn’t lead at all during the game, and the closest they got to challenging the Cruise was with Mark Sears’ early pair of three-pointers. Without Ryan and Nance, the Herd shot around 36% from three and 43% from the line, but the biggest problem was defense: they couldn’t stop the hot perimeter shooting from guys like John Ukomadu and Bobi Klintman.

Hey, at least Stephen Thompson’s alright! The Oregon State alum is averaging career highs in points (17.9 per game), shooting (.480/.442/.739), rebounding, and assists. Thompson has bounced around from overseas league to overseas league, but his standout season with the Herd could earn him a callback overseas next season, or better yet, a place on an NBA roster.

Three Notes

Butler finds his footing

One important narrative worth following through the last two weeks of the season is John Butler’s efforts to bulk up and add some mass to his spindly seven-foot frame. Butler started the season at 190 pounds, but is now reported at 225 pounds. He’s reached career highs in rebounds (5.7) and steals per game (1.7), and although his rim protection has sagged, Butler is becoming more physical around the rim. Should he stay in the Milwaukee organization through the summer, Butler’s physical development could be something to track; his shooting and finesse could earn him a spot on a roster soon.

Does Davis deserve an NBA spot?

Could Johnny Davis ever live up to the NBA hype that his Badger career promised? At this rate, no. Davis’s move to Oshkosh was supposed to be a second wind, but the red flags surrounding his range as a shooter and shot selection have persisted. Davis’ efficiency has stagnated with the Herd, if not worsened. His reliance on an old-school bully-ball and midrange-focused shot diet didn’t hold up in the modernized NBA. Davis needs to develop his three-point shot if he wants to have any chance at the league.

HERd Night

The Herd held a HER night game on Friday against the Motor City Cruise, wearing specialty jerseys featuring purple, the color symbolizing gender equality, and the lotus flower. The jerseys will be auctioned off to benefit We EmpowHER, a local non-profit providing support and mentorship for women of all ages. 

Michigan blows out Saint Louis to reach Sweet 16, Yaxel Lendeborg shines

Follow all of Saturday's NCAA Tournament second round games with USA TODAY Sports' live updates.

BUFFALO, NY — No. 1 Michigan’s defense stepped up and delivered a 95-72 win against No. 9 Saint Louis to send the Wolverines back into the Sweet 16.

The Wolverines have now reached the second weekend in each of the program’s past seven tournament appearances dating to 2017. Saint Louis was looking for its first trip to the Sweet 16 since 1957.

All-America forward Yaxel Lendeborg led Michigan with 25 points on 9 of 13 shooting. Center Aday Mara had 16 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and a team-leading 4 blocks.

Saint Louis was led by guard Dion Brown's 13 points. Playing in his final college game, center Robbie Avila had 9 points on just 3 of 13 shooting, including 3 of 10 from 3-point range.

The Billikens came into Saturday ranked eighth nationally with 87.7 points per game after beating No. 9 Georgia 102-77 in the opening round.

This matchup of two high-powered offenses lived up to expectations in the early going, with a back-and-forth pace leaving Saint Louis ahead 27-25 at the midpoint of the opening half.

But the U-M defense began to assert itself as the Wolverines’ size up front impacted the Billikens’ ability to get to the basket. After scoring 66 points in the paint in the opener against No. 8 Georgia, SLU had 16 such points at the break while UM had six blocks, four by Mara.

Overall, SLU shot 45.5% from the field and made 5 of 17 from 3-point range in the first half, which ended with Michigan leading 48-39 after a pair of Lendeborg free throws with 5.6 seconds left. The first 20 minutes featured seven ties and three lead changes.

The pace picked up again coming out of the break. The two teams combined for 29 points in the first five-plus minutes of the second half, including four 3-pointers by SLU, to leave Michigan ahead 61-55 with 14:17 left.

UM pushed its lead to 66-57 with 11:44 left on an emphatic slam in transition by Lendeborg, who elevated from well outside the circle and dunked over SLU guard Quentin Jones. The lead would grow to 15 points at 73-58 just over a minute later and then to 81-63 on a Morez Johnson Jr. layup with 7:30 to play.

Needing to spark a comeback, the Billikens turned to the long-range game but couldn’t connect: SLU finished shooting 12 of 27 from 3, including 5 of 15 in the second half after making four of its first six coming out of the break.

Lendeborg would give U-M its biggest lead, at 25 points, with a 3-pointer from the top of the key to make it 89-64 with just over five minutes left.

Michigan will next face the winner of No. 4 Alabama and No. 5 Texas Tech in the Midwest Region. The program’s stretch of seven Sweet 16 berths in as many tournament appearances spans three coaches — John Beilein, Juwan Howard and Dusty May — and gives May two trips to the Sweet 16 in as many years since being hired from Florida Atlantic.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Michigan advances to Sweet 16 with thumping win over Saint Louis