Chicago Blackhawks (23-28-9, in the Central Division) vs. Winnipeg Jets (23-26-10, in the Central Division)
Winnipeg, Manitoba; Tuesday, 8 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: The Chicago Blackhawks visit the Winnipeg Jets after Teuvo Teravainen's two-goal game against the Utah Mammoth in the Blackhawks' 4-0 win.
Winnipeg is 6-7-3 against the Central Division and 23-26-10 overall. The Jets have given up 182 goals while scoring 167 for a -15 scoring differential.
Chicago is 23-28-9 overall with an 8-6-2 record against the Central Division. The Blackhawks have a 6-7-4 record in one-goal games.
The matchup Tuesday is the third meeting between these teams this season. The Blackhawks won 2-0 in the last meeting.
TOP PERFORMERS: Mark Scheifele has scored 27 goals with 43 assists for the Jets. Adam Lowry has five assists over the past 10 games.
Tyler Bertuzzi has 26 goals and 19 assists for the Blackhawks. Connor Bedard has five goals and two assists over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Jets: 3-3-4, averaging 2.1 goals, four assists, 2.7 penalties and 5.7 penalty minutes while giving up 2.9 goals per game.
Blackhawks: 2-6-2, averaging 2.2 goals, 3.6 assists, 2.7 penalties and 5.7 penalty minutes while giving up 2.8 goals per game.
INJURIES: Jets: None listed.
Blackhawks: None listed.
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
BOSTON, MA - MARCH 1: Neemias Queta #88 of the Boston Celtics is introduced before the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on March 1, 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
BOSTON — “MVP! MVP! MVP!”
The chants echoed across TD Garden as the Celtics inched toward a win over the Philadelphia 76ers.
Normally, that chant is reserved for Jayson Tatum, the Celtics’ perennial MVP candidate.
This year, Jaylen Brown has received his fair share of MVP cheers en route to a career season that’s already seen him secure his first-ever All-Star start.
But, on Sunday night, the “MVP!” chorus was directed toward a more unlikely character: Neemias Queta.
Queta, after all, appeared to be floating. The 26-year-old posted one of the best games of his NBA career, scoring a career-high 27 points (on 10-14 FG) to go alongside 17 rebounds and 3 blocks.
The Celtics, in turn, tallied a 114-98 win over the 76ers, improving to an astounding 40-20 record, the Eastern Conference’s second-best mark.
Amazingly, ten of Queta’s rebounds were on the offensive glass.
And, he did it all in just 27 minutes of action.
How did he do it?
“Just trying to have fun out there,” he said after the win.
Queta smiled when asked about the Garden’s boisterous MVP chants, which erupted multiple times in the game’s second half.
“I got distracted, missed a couple of free throws,” he said. “Got to work on that.”
Some MVP chants breaking out for Neemias Queta at the line — would imagine those are the first of his NBA career
The Celtics continue to push Neemias Queta toward greatness
After the win, Joe Mazzulla recalled how he informed Queta early last summer that he’d be the starting center on the Celtics this season. That came after the departures of Luke Kornet and Al Horford in free agency, and after Kristaps Porzingis was traded to the Atlanta Hawks.
Almost overnight, Queta went from being the Celtics’ fourth-string center to the frontcourt’s anchor.
“Part of telling him in the summer that he was going to be the starting center was giving him the time to properly wrap his mind around —- physically, mentally, emotionally prepare himself—— for what it means to be the starting center for the Celtics,” Mazzulla said. “And he’s taken on that ownership and responsibility well, and he’s got to keep it going.”
Shortly after that conversation, Queta represented Portugal at EuroBasket, going into the FIBA tournament with the knowledge that he was poised to be a critical part of the Celtics’ success. That tournament run came on the heels of offseason knee surgery, and Queta credits the national team experience for preparing him for this season.
“Playing for Portugal was huge for me this summer,” he said. “It allowed me to get a lot of rhythm, allowed me to get a lot of confidence, too. And just from that point on, it was just like a building stage. We worked a lot during the summer, pre- and post-surgery. It was a big summer for me in terms of fine-tuning a bunch of different stuff. We worked on all types of aspects — rebounding, pick-and-roll defense, we worked on match-up recognition. It was a big summer for me.”
As a result, Queta has had a career year, averaging 10.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 24.9 minutes per game, while shooting 64.5% from the field.
He’s tallied three double-doubles in his last five games, and last month, he logged back-to-back double-doubles for the first time in his career.
But many around the team, such as Jaylen Brown, feel like Queta has yet to reach his final form.
“I’m very pleased just to see his progression; he’s been working hard all season long,” Brown said. “I’ve been in his ear, talking to him. He’s done a good job this year. I feel like he has another level he can tap into, and I feel like he’s starting to tap into that.”
As such, it was fitting that right in the middle of Queta’s most dominant stretch of the game, Joe Mazzulla scolded him for swatting a shot out of bounds instead of saving it in-bounds.
Joe Mazzulla has been urging Neemias Queta to catch some of these great blocks he’s had recently
Mazzulla said postgame that there have been three recent instances in which Queta has unnecessarily blocked a shot out-of-bounds that he thinks Queta could have salvaged.
“I do think that’s an area of growth,” Mazzulla said. “Like, if you can catch it, catch it. Why give a team another possession? You just get the ball, and then we go in transition. So it’s definitely something he’s gotta better.”
To those not intimately familiar with Mazzulla and his coaching style, it might seem overly negative that, amid Queta’s career night, he was visibly distressed at a mistake that could be perceived as very minor.
But, from Queta’s perspective, it’s that exact mindset from Mazzulla and the coaching staff that has allowed him to develop into the player he is today.
“It’s easy when you have a night like this to settle down,” Queta said. “When Joe keeps coming at you like that, you’re only going to get better. Like he says, something that’s occurred a lot in the last couple of games. In the moment, I don’t think I can get it, but then when it settles down…”
Queta, upon further review, did think he could have salvaged that block. And, he’s committed to blocking a shot and subsequently keeping it in-bounds in the coming days, a play that could give the Celtics a transition opportunity, or at the very least, a chance at a defensive board.
“Hopefully, I get a couple of those next couple of games,” Queta said.
Neemias Queta said he agrees he could have caught the block, in hindsight.
He appreciates that Joe Mazzulla is pushing him: “It’s huge.”
Although Mazzulla remains laser-focused on the details, and pushing Queta to be the absolute best version he can be, he hasn’t lost sight of the big picture.
“You have to just have a level of gratitude and appreciate how hard he’s worked — but not just this year,” Mazzulla said. “He’s been here for three, four years, right? So the process of what he’s gone through to earn what he’s got is really what I care about.”
“We have to wake up and do it again tomorrow, so there’s that piece to it, but there’s the piece of — he’s taken on the ownership of the responsibility, and he cares about working hard and understanding how important what he does for us and for our team.”
Just moments after Queta finished addressing reporters in the locker room, he headed to Milwaukee along with the rest of his teammates; the Celtics (40-20) will face the Bucks (26-33) on Monday night.
Mazzulla loved what he saw from Queta on the first night of a back-to-back.
But, there’s a reason he’s not satisfied. It’s the same reason he’s not satisfied every night.
“In less than 24 hours,” said the Celtics head coach, “we have to do it again.”
The Boston Bruins aren’t a top-tier Stanley Cup contender this season, even though they have a good chance to return to the playoffs after failing to qualify in 2025.
Therefore, it wouldn’t make sense for general manager Don Sweeney to go all-in at the March 6 NHL trade deadline like he did in 2023.
Trading away first-round picks or top prospects for rentals would be a horrible move.
However, if the Bruins could acquire an impact player signed long term who fits the age timeline of their franchise players (David Pastrnak, Charlie McAvoy, Jeremy Swayman, etc.), then it would make sense to part with premium assets like a first-rounder and good prospects.
As a result of their 2025 trade deadline selling, the Bruins have more quality trade assets than they’ve had in a long time. That list includes two first-round picks in both 2026 and 2027, plus a prospect pool that has significantly improved over the last two years. Boston also has some young players in the AHL, such as Matthew Poitras and Fabian Lysell, who could interest other teams.
Which players signed beyond this season should the Bruins consider pursuing ahead of the trade deadline? Let’s take a look at some intriguing names.
Robert Thomas, St. Louis Blues
Position: Center
Contract: Signed through 2030-31, $8.125 million salary cap hit
2025-26 stats: 12 goals, 23 assists in 43 games
The Blues are the team to watch at the trade deadline. They sit at the bottom of the Central Division and have a bunch of veteran players who could be dealt.
Thomas is a legit top-six center and could serve as the Bruins’ first-line center if they acquired him. He is an elite playmaker who has tallied 60-plus assists and 80-plus points in each of the two previous seasons. He also averaged 21.25 goals scored over the last four seasons.
Thomas is just 26 years old and would be a great fit alongside the Bruins’ other core players such as Pastrnak. He is signed for five years beyond the current season at a $8.125 million cap hit, which is not steep at all considering the salary cap is expected to rise quite a bit in the near future.
The cost to acquire Thomas would be significant because top-six centers in their prime are among the most coveted players in the sport. Players of his caliber at center almost never reach free agency anymore. You have to draft and develop them or trade for them.
Jeremy Rutherford of The Athletic reported last week that Blues general manager Doug Armstrong “has made it clear what the asking price is for Thomas: three first-half-of-the-first-round assets. For example, that could mean an established young player, a drafted prospect and a draft pick who were all selected or could be taken in the first 15 or so picks.”
Given his age, offensive production and team-friendly contract, Thomas would be the type of player worth giving up premium assets to acquire.
Owen Tippett, Philadelphia Flyers
Position: Left/right wing
Contract: Signed through 2031-32, $6.2 million salary cap hit
2025-26 Stats: 19 goals, 17 assists in 59 games
Tippett is a player who could fill a top-six wing role for Boston, which is something they very much need, especially if Viktor Arvidsson doesn’t re-sign in the summer.
The speedy 27-year-old forward will soon hit the 20-goal mark for the fourth straight year. He also has dished out 20-plus assists in each of three previous seasons and should get there this year as well.
Tippett is signed for six more seasons at a very team-friendly $6.2 million cap hit. The Flyers are six points out of a playoff spot and face a tough uphill climb to get back in the race, but would they even want to move a player like Tippett to a rival such as the Bruins? It’s worth checking in on, at the very least.
Colton Parayko, St. Louis Blues
Position: Defenseman
Contract: Signed through 2029-30, $6.5 million salary cap hit
2025-26 Stats: One goal, 13 assists in 58 games
The Blues could look to move a couple veteran defensemen as rumors have swirled around Parayko and Justin Faulk. Parayko is a more valuable player than Faulk because he’s better defensively.
Parayko has great size at 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds. He’s tied for the league lead in blocked shots with 141 and plays 2:37 per game on the penalty kill. His impressive PK ability would help a Bruins team whose penalty kill ranks 27th out of 32 teams with a 76.7 percent success rate.
The only real issue with Parayko is that he has four more years left on his contract and will be 33 years old in May. The cap hit is pretty manageable at $6.5 million, but it’s fair to wonder if the Bruins would want to take on a player with so much term left on his deal at age 33. He also has a full no-trade clause, per PuckPedia.
That said, Parayko is a quality top-four defenseman who got meaningful ice time for Canada at the Olympics and would address one of the Bruins’ biggest needs: depth on the right side of the blue line.
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Colton Parayko is a defensive defenseman with tons of playoff experience.
Shane Wright, Seattle Kraken
Position: Center
Contract: Signed through 2026-27, $886,666 salary cap hit
2025-26 Stats: 11 goals, 12 assists in 59 games
Wright was once viewed as the top player in his draft class but slipped to the No. 4 pick in 2022. He has not yet fulfilled his enormous potential and still has one more year left on his entry-level contract with a salary cap hit under $1 million.
Wright took a huge step forward last season and set career highs with 19 goals and 25 assists. He’s on pace to take a step back offensively this year, but he does have genuine offensive talent.
Wright, at 22 years old, could thrive in a different situation. The Kraken have mostly given him a bottom-six role and under 14 minutes of ice time per game. A player with his skill set needs more of an opportunity to thrive.
If the price isn’t too steep, it would be worth pursuing him. If Wright reaches his ceiling, he could be a top-six forward.
MacKenzie Weegar, Calgary Flames
Position: Defenseman
Contract: Signed through 2030-31, $6.25 million salary cap hit
2025-26 Stats: Three goals, 18 assists in 59 games
The Bruins really need a right-shot defenseman, and Weegar fits that description. Weegar is playing 23:08 per game for the Flames and is on the ice for all situations, including the power play and penalty kill. He ranks second on the Flames with 128 hits and his 141 blocked shots are tied for the league lead. He can provide offense, too, evidenced by his 99 points over the two previous seasons combined.
The main concern about acquiring Weegar is he’s 32 years old with five more years left on his contract. The cap hit is pretty manageable but the term is a lot. That said, he would give the Bruins a physical, two-way presence on the right side of the blue line.
Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
Weegar would add some much-needed depth to the right side of the Bruins blue line.
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 1: Maxi Kleber #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket during the game against the Sacramento Kings on March 1, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
LOS ANGELES — On the season, Maxi Kleber has only played in 34 of the Lakers’ 59 games and averages fewer than 11 minutes per contest in those appearances.
On Sunday night, he brought life to every second he played.
While LA had both of its top centers available, Jaxson Hayes found himself in early foul trouble, so Lakers head coach JJ Redick turned to Kleber. Immediately, he ramped up LA’s intensity.
Kleber was cleaning up the glass while serving as a rim protector, rejecting a Drew Eubanks attempt. He even added an offensive highlight to his reel, posterizing Precious Achiuwa.
“He had two poster dunks tonight,” Redick said postgame. “Things you get really excited about…Just the reaction from his teammates on that, it’s something that gives your group spirit.”
But it was a play that largely won’t show up in the box score that provided the most spirit for the group.
As Marcus Smart took a 3-point attempt, Malik Monk yelled out “Hell naw!” as the ball failed to touch the rim. On the ensuing Kings’ possession, Monk tried to go coast-to-coast but Kleber stood his ground and knocked the guard down, sending a clear message.
When Monk got up, he had words for Kleber, as did former Laker Russell Westbrook. Kleber wanted all the smoke before coaches, players and officials stepped in to make sure things didn’t further escalate.
The play doesn’t appear in the box score as anything more than a foul on Kleber, but it gave this game a bit more edge. The Lakers kept that intensity up even as Kleber went to the bench, and they entered the halftime break up 15.
At times, LA has a tendency to let go of the rope, particularly in games seen as easy wins. Kleber ensured that wouldn’t be the case, even on the second night of a back-to-back.
“He’s the guy that makes our team,” Rui Hachimura said. “He has good energy. He always brings good energy to the team. We always talk about how we need to be more like Maxi or we need to be like Maxi. We always talk about that. I know how he approaches this every day and brings positive energy. He always brings good energy to the team, whether he plays or not.
Kleber won’t always play, and when he does, it won’t always look as good as it did against the Kings.
However, each team needs everyone rowing in the same direction. Kleber is one of those veterans who not only knows how to be a pro but also sets the standard for his teammates, whether they are playing big minutes or riding the bench.
With the Lakers responding to their three-game losing streak with back-to-back wins, LA is having a moment of positivity. Still, the Western Conference race is as tight as ever, and as a vet, Kleber knows better than most that the work is far from done.
“I think the best thing for us is to just block out the noise from outside because we know what we got to focus on, what we got to do, and keep our composure,” Kleber said. “But obviously, having two wins like that obviously helps for the team chemistry, for like everything for the flow.
“But we know that we got to continue building on this now.”
Kleber’s qualities are exactly what teams want every player to have. He always brings that same level of passion, hustle and will to win regardless of his role.
On Sunday, his influence was obvious, and whether Lakers fans see it nightly or not, his impact is palpable.
Fantasy hockey managers looking to tinker with their rosters will benefit from zeroing in on specific categories. Whether you are looking for long-term fits or short-term options, there should be a plethora of potential pickups to help your squads.
Let's get into this week's suggestions for your consideration.
Pavel Buchnevich, C/LW/RW, Blues (27% rostered)
Categories: Goals/Points/Shots/PP
Buchnevich has amassed six goals and seven assists in his last 10 outings. He has lit the lamp five times while adding three assists and 14 shots on net over a five-game point streak. He contributed five power-play points during that span. Buchnevich has been hot and cold offensively this campaign, but could prove to be a solid pickup in a three-game road trip this week for St. Louis.
Mason Marchment, LW, Blue Jackets (28% rostered)
Categories: Goals/Points/Shots/Hits
Marchment has one goal and three assists during his three-game point streak. After being acquired from Seattle in December, he has compiled 10 goals, 16 points, 29 shots on net and 17 hits in 16 games for Columbus. Marchment has been a great fit with the Blue Jackets on the top line alongside Kirill Marchenko. The duo's chemistry has helped Columbus claw its way back into the playoff hunt. The team plays four times this week, giving Marchment plenty of opportunities to continue his scoring surge.
Casey DeSmith, G, Stars (20% rostered)
Categories: Starts/Saves/Wins
DeSmith continues to be a successful spot starter for fantasy managers this campaign. He has a 12-4-5 record with one shutout, a 2.31 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage across 22 appearances. He has allowed two goals or fewer in six of his last seven outings. Dallas opens the week with a road back-to-back against Vancouver and Calgary on Monday and Tuesday, respectively. DeSmith will probably get one of those favorable matchups, and he could play again on Sunday versus Chicago if Dallas wants to give Jake Oettinger a breather after a contest against Colorado on Friday.
Arturs Silovs, G, Penguins (19% rostered)
Categories: Starts/Saves/Wins
Silovs was superb in his last six appearances, posting a 5-1-0 record with a 1.68 goals-against average and a .938 save percentage. He posted a 22-save shutout win over Vegas on Sunday, and he beat Edmonton and Buffalo during that six-game span, too. Silovs splits time between the pipes with Stuart Skinner, which could see both netminders get two games apiece this week. Pittsburgh plays four contests in six days, including a weekend back-to-back.
Jackson Blake, RW, Hurricanes (10% rostered)
Categories: Assists/Points/Shots
Blake has generated five goals, 12 points and 31 shots on target in his last 16 outings. He has a pair of three-game point streaks over that stretch, including one that has carried over from the Olympic break. During that time, he has accumulated one goal, three assists and nine shots. Blake has a career-high 36 points through 59 games this season and ranks fourth on the Hurricanes with 17 goals. He offers potential during Carolina's four-game road trip this week.
Matt Savoie, C/RW, Oilers (2% rostered)
Categories: Assists/Points/Shots
Savoie has three goals on 22 shots plus seven assists in his last 13 matches. Following the Olympic break, he has one goal and five helpers during a three-game point streak. He has two multipoint efforts, a power-play marker, seven shots on target and two blocked shots across that stretch. Savoie sees playing time in all situations, including alongside Leon Draisaitl at even strength. While the 22-year-old Savoie hasn't been consistent offensively this season, he possesses short-term value during a three-game week for Edmonton.
Peyton Krebs, C, Sabres (2% rostered)
Categories: Assists/Points/Shots/Hits
Productive since mid-January, Krebs registered six goals, 13 points, 13 shots and 30 hits in 14 games. He hasn't gone more than two straight outings without reaching the scoresheet during that period. Krebs has also notched two goals and two assists during a three-game point streak. He ranks second on the Sabres with 139 hits this season, and his offensive upswing comes while he is logging playing time alongside Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch on the top line. The 25-year-old Krebs has plenty of under-the-radar value for banger leagues ahead of a four-game week for Buffalo.
Thomas Novak, C/LW, Penguins (1% rostered)
Categories: Assists/Points/Shots
Novak has accounted for four goals and eight assists in his past 14 contests. He has found the scoresheet in five of the past six games. Novak's playing time hasn't increased substantially during the absence of Sidney Crosby, who sustained a lower-body injury during the Olympics. However, the 28-year-old Novak is clicking alongside Evgeni Malkin at even strength. Novak should remain productive during a four-game week for Pittsburgh, which includes three games on home ice.
Mavrik Bourque, C/RW, Stars (2% rostered)
Categories: Goals/Points/Shots/Hits
Bourque has collected four goals, four assists, 25 shots and 20 hits in his last 11 appearances. He currently logs time in Dallas' top-six forward group, and his average ice time per game has increased to 17:07 over the past six games. He has three goals, five points, 16 shots and 14 hits during that span. Since the team's return from the Olympic break, he skates alongside Wyatt Johnston and Jason Robertson in place of Mikko Rantanen. The 24-year-old Bourque offers plenty of potential going into a four-game week for the Stars.
Braeden Bowman, RW, Golden Knights (1% rostered)
Categories: Assists/Points/Shots
Bowman's bid for a three-game point spree ended in Sunday's 4-0 loss to Pittsburgh, but he has one goal and three assists in his past five outings. He is skating alongside Tomas Hertl at even strength, but Mark Stone's upper-body injury in Sunday's defeat moved Bowman up to the top line and first power-play unit. The 22-year-old Bowman has been productive with Jack Eichel this season and could receive a significant fantasy boost if Stone misses additional action. Vegas plays four times this week.
Arsenal won the battle of set pieces, beating Chelsea 2-1 to keep Manchester City at bay. In a game that offered few clearcut chances from open play, it was a familiar story of Arsenal overpowering their opponents from corner kicks. Gabriel bullied Reece James to set up William Saliba for their first goal and Jurriën Timber punished a flailing Robert Sánchez for their second. Mikel Arteta’s side have equalled the record for the most goals scored from corners in a Premier League season (16) with nine games still to go. Meanwhile, Chelsea have conceded seven goals from set pieces in Liam Rosenior’s first 13 games in all competitions. Despite posing a threat offensively through Reece James’s delivery for Piero Hincapié’s own goal, they repeatedly failed to match Arsenal’s physicality when defending. Xaymaca Awoyungbo
Memphis Grizzlies (23-36, 11th in the Western Conference) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (38-23, fourth in the Western Conference)
Minneapolis; Tuesday, 8 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Minnesota heads into a matchup against Memphis as winners of three games in a row.
The Timberwolves are 23-17 in conference games. Minnesota is sixth in the Western Conference with 26.5 assists per game led by Julius Randle averaging 5.4.
The Grizzlies are 18-23 in conference matchups. Memphis is sixth in the Western Conference with 11.6 offensive rebounds per game led by Zach Edey averaging 3.9.
The Timberwolves' 14.1 made 3-pointers per game this season are only 0.1 fewer made shots on average than the 14.2 per game the Grizzlies allow. The Grizzlies average 13.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.1 more made shots on average than the 12.4 per game the Timberwolves give up.
The teams meet for the fourth time this season. The Grizzlies won 137-128 in the last matchup on Feb. 3.
TOP PERFORMERS: Rudy Gobert is scoring 10.9 points per game and averaging 11.5 rebounds for the Timberwolves. Anthony Edwards is averaging 28.6 points and 5.2 rebounds over the last 10 games.
Cam Spencer is scoring 11.4 points per game and averaging 2.6 rebounds for the Grizzlies. GG Jackson is averaging 1.9 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Timberwolves: 7-3, averaging 117.5 points, 43.4 rebounds, 25.9 assists, 9.4 steals and 6.3 blocks per game while shooting 49.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 114.8 points per game.
Grizzlies: 3-7, averaging 117.7 points, 37.3 rebounds, 28.7 assists, 12.9 steals and 5.3 blocks per game while shooting 48.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 121.0 points.
INJURIES: Timberwolves: None listed.
Grizzlies: Taj Gibson: out (coach decision), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: out for season (finger), Ja Morant: out (elbow), Zach Edey: out (ankle), Ty Jerome: out (thigh), Cedric Coward: out (knee), Santi Aldama: out (injury management), Brandon Clarke: out (calf).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
BOTTOM LINE: The San Antonio Spurs take on the Philadelphia 76ers in non-conference action.
The 76ers have gone 16-15 at home. Philadelphia has a 14-20 record against opponents over .500.
The Spurs are 22-11 on the road. San Antonio ranks third in the Western Conference with 16.5 fast break points per game led by Stephon Castle averaging 3.0.
The 76ers score 116.4 points per game, 4.6 more points than the 111.8 the Spurs allow. The Spurs average 13.1 made 3-pointers per game this season, the same that the 76ers give up.
TOP PERFORMERS: Tyrese Maxey is averaging 29.1 points, 6.8 assists and two steals for the 76ers. VJ Edgecombe is averaging 17.2 points and 6.7 rebounds over the last 10 games.
Victor Wembanyama is averaging 23.7 points, 11.2 rebounds and 2.9 blocks for the Spurs. Devin Vassell is averaging 2.6 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: 76ers: 4-6, averaging 114.1 points, 41.1 rebounds, 22.9 assists, 10.9 steals and 5.2 blocks per game while shooting 45.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.1 points per game.
Spurs: 9-1, averaging 123.4 points, 45.9 rebounds, 32.0 assists, 8.2 steals and 6.9 blocks per game while shooting 49.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 111.9 points.
INJURIES: 76ers: Johni Broome: out (knee), Joel Embiid: out (oblique).
Spurs: David Jones Garcia: out for season (ankle), Mason Plumlee: out (reconditioning).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Oklahoma City Thunder (47-15, first in the Western Conference) vs. Chicago Bulls (25-36, 12th in the Eastern Conference)
Chicago; Tuesday, 8 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Matas Buzelis and the Chicago Bulls host the Oklahoma City Thunder in a non-conference matchup.
The Bulls have gone 16-17 in home games. Chicago is fifth in the Eastern Conference with 51.5 points per game in the paint led by Josh Giddey averaging 8.3.
The Thunder are 22-8 in road games. Oklahoma City averages 119.2 points and has outscored opponents by 11.3 points per game.
The Bulls' 14.7 made 3-pointers per game this season are only 0.5 more made shots on average than the 14.2 per game the Thunder allow. The Thunder average 13.6 made 3-pointers per game this season, 0.4 fewer makes per game than the Bulls give up.
TOP PERFORMERS: Buzelis is averaging 15.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks for the Bulls. Collin Sexton is averaging 11.6 points over the last 10 games.
Cason Wallace is scoring 8.8 points per game and averaging 3.2 rebounds for the Thunder. Isaiah Joe is averaging 15.9 points and 3.3 rebounds over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Bulls: 1-9, averaging 108.8 points, 41.2 rebounds, 25.4 assists, 9.5 steals and 5.3 blocks per game while shooting 45.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.6 points per game.
Thunder: 7-3, averaging 113.9 points, 45.0 rebounds, 25.7 assists, 9.4 steals and 4.9 blocks per game while shooting 46.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 107.9 points.
INJURIES: Bulls: Anfernee Simons: out (wrist), Noa Essengue: out for season (shoulder), Jaden Ivey: out (knee), Patrick Williams: out (quadriceps), Zach Collins: out for season (toe), Jalen Smith: out (calf).
Thunder: Ajay Mitchell: out (abdomen), Branden Carlson: out (back), Jalen Williams: out (hamstring), Thomas Sorber: out for season (knee).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
BOTTOM LINE: Toronto hosts New York looking to stop its three-game home slide.
The Raptors are 4-9 against Atlantic Division opponents. Toronto has a 7-4 record in games decided by less than 4 points.
The Knicks are 26-15 in Eastern Conference play. New York is sixth in the Eastern Conference with 27.1 assists per game led by Jalen Brunson averaging 6.1.
The Raptors score 114.0 points per game, 2.9 more points than the 111.1 the Knicks give up. The Knicks average 5.2 more points per game (117.2) than the Raptors allow (112.0).
The teams square off for the fourth time this season. The Knicks won the last matchup 119-92 on Jan. 29. Mikal Bridges scored 30 points to help lead the Knicks to the victory.
TOP PERFORMERS: Scottie Barnes is averaging 19.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 1.6 blocks for the Raptors. Immanuel Quickley is averaging 3.3 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
Brunson is averaging 26.7 points and 6.1 assists for the Knicks. Landry Shamet is averaging 2.2 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Raptors: 6-4, averaging 115.3 points, 41.7 rebounds, 27.4 assists, 9.4 steals and 5.7 blocks per game while shooting 47.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 109.8 points per game.
Knicks: 6-4, averaging 112.2 points, 43.7 rebounds, 27.9 assists, 8.4 steals and 4.2 blocks per game while shooting 46.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 106.0 points.
INJURIES: Raptors: Collin Murray-Boyles: day to day (thumb).
Knicks: Miles McBride: out (ankle).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Phoenix Suns (34-26, seventh in the Western Conference) vs. Sacramento Kings (14-48, 15th in the Western Conference)
Sacramento, California; Tuesday, 11 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Sacramento hosts Phoenix looking to stop its seven-game home losing streak.
The Kings are 2-9 in division matchups. Sacramento is at the bottom of the league shooting 33.6% from 3-point range.
The Suns are 23-18 in conference games. Phoenix ranks third in the Western Conference giving up just 111.4 points while holding opponents to 46.9% shooting.
The Kings average 110.3 points per game, 1.1 fewer points than the 111.4 the Suns allow. The Suns average 14.6 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.5 more made shots on average than the 13.1 per game the Kings allow.
The teams play for the fourth time this season. The Suns won the last matchup 129-102 on Jan. 3. Devin Booker scored 33 points to help lead the Suns to the win.
TOP PERFORMERS: DeMar DeRozan is averaging 18.2 points and four assists for the Kings. Maxime Raynaud is averaging 14.6 points over the last 10 games.
Royce O'Neale is shooting 41.7% and averaging 10.1 points for the Suns. Collin Gillespie is averaging 3.4 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Kings: 2-8, averaging 109.4 points, 44.5 rebounds, 26.1 assists, 9.3 steals and 4.8 blocks per game while shooting 44.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 124.8 points per game.
Suns: 4-6, averaging 103.7 points, 44.1 rebounds, 22.6 assists, 8.8 steals and 3.3 blocks per game while shooting 42.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 111.2 points.
INJURIES: Kings: Domantas Sabonis: out for season (back), Dylan Cardwell: out (ankle), De'Andre Hunter: out for season (eye), Zach LaVine: out for season (finger), Keegan Murray: out (ankle).
Suns: Jordan Goodwin: out (calf), Devin Booker: out (hip), Dillon Brooks: out (hand), Haywood Highsmith: out (knee).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Brooklyn Nets (15-45, 14th in the Eastern Conference) vs. Miami Heat (32-29, eighth in the Eastern Conference)
Miami; Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Brooklyn will try to break its six-game road losing streak when the Nets take on Miami.
The Heat are 16-18 against Eastern Conference opponents. Miami leads the NBA with 35.1 defensive rebounds per game led by Bam Adebayo averaging 7.8.
The Nets have gone 11-26 against Eastern Conference opponents. Brooklyn is at the bottom of the Eastern Conference scoring averaging 107.0 points per game while shooting 44.6%.
The Heat are shooting 46.3% from the field this season, 3.3 percentage points lower than the 49.6% the Nets allow to opponents. The Nets average 13.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 0.3 fewer makes per game than the Heat allow.
The teams square off for the second time this season. The Heat won the last meeting 106-95 on Dec. 19. Norman Powell scored 24 points to help lead the Heat to the victory.
TOP PERFORMERS: Andrew Wiggins is shooting 47.4% and averaging 16.1 points for the Heat. Adebayo is averaging 20.5 points over the last 10 games.
Day'Ron Sharpe is averaging 8.5 points and 6.7 rebounds for the Nets. Michael Porter Jr. is averaging 17.2 points and 4.8 rebounds while shooting 46.6% over the past 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Heat: 5-5, averaging 119.0 points, 51.2 rebounds, 27.7 assists, 8.2 steals and 4.0 blocks per game while shooting 45.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 112.6 points per game.
Nets: 2-8, averaging 107.1 points, 38.4 rebounds, 27.3 assists, 8.7 steals and 3.8 blocks per game while shooting 46.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 117.8 points.
INJURIES: Heat: Nikola Jovic: day to day (back), Norman Powell: out (groin).
Nets: Nic Claxton: out (thumb), Egor Demin: out (injury management).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Dallas Mavericks (21-39, 12th in the Western Conference) vs. Charlotte Hornets (30-31, 10th in the Eastern Conference)
Charlotte, North Carolina; Tuesday, 7 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Charlotte heads into a matchup with Dallas as winners of four straight games.
The Hornets have gone 13-16 at home. Charlotte is third in the Eastern Conference with 12.8 offensive rebounds per game led by Moussa Diabate averaging 3.7.
The Mavericks are 7-20 on the road. Dallas gives up 117.7 points to opponents and has been outscored by 3.8 points per game.
The Hornets average 15.9 made 3-pointers per game this season, 3.7 more made shots on average than the 12.2 per game the Mavericks give up. The Mavericks average 113.9 points per game, 0.9 more than the 113.0 the Hornets give up to opponents.
The teams meet for the second time this season. The Hornets won 123-121 in the last matchup on Jan. 30.
TOP PERFORMERS: LaMelo Ball is shooting 40.1% and averaging 19.3 points for the Hornets. Brandon Miller is averaging 22.1 points over the last 10 games.
Klay Thompson is shooting 38.7% and averaging 11.5 points for the Mavericks. Max Christie is averaging 1.7 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Hornets: 7-3, averaging 116.5 points, 47.5 rebounds, 26.3 assists, 8.8 steals and 4.0 blocks per game while shooting 45.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 107.1 points per game.
Mavericks: 2-8, averaging 114.4 points, 42.3 rebounds, 24.1 assists, 7.3 steals and 3.5 blocks per game while shooting 47.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 123.7 points.
INJURIES: Hornets: None listed.
Mavericks: Naji Marshall: out (finger), Dereck Lively II: out for season (foot), Klay Thompson: day to day (adductor), Kyrie Irving: out for season (knee), Cooper Flagg: out (foot), P.J. Washington: out (ankle), Marvin Bagley III: out (neck).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
BOTTOM LINE: Los Angeles plays Golden State in Western Conference action Monday.
The Warriors are 21-18 in conference games. Golden State is eighth in the Western Conference scoring 115.6 points while shooting 46.2% from the field.
The Clippers are 18-18 in conference play. Los Angeles is at the bottom of the Western Conference recording only 23.6 assists per game led by Kawhi Leonard averaging 3.7.
The Warriors are shooting 46.2% from the field this season, 0.4 percentage points lower than the 46.6% the Clippers allow to opponents. The Clippers are shooting 47.9% from the field, 0.6% higher than the 47.3% the Warriors' opponents have shot this season.
The teams meet for the third time this season. The Clippers won 103-102 in the last meeting on Jan. 6. Leonard led the Clippers with 24 points, and Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 27 points.
TOP PERFORMERS: Brandin Podziemski is averaging 12.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists for the Warriors. Moses Moody is averaging 15.9 points over the last 10 games.
John Collins is scoring 13.8 points per game and averaging 5.2 rebounds for the Clippers. Leonard is averaging 1.9 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Warriors: 4-6, averaging 110.2 points, 42.6 rebounds, 31.0 assists, 9.8 steals and 3.7 blocks per game while shooting 46.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 114.6 points per game.
Clippers: 5-5, averaging 109.1 points, 39.9 rebounds, 23.2 assists, 9.1 steals and 5.2 blocks per game while shooting 48.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 109.6 points.
INJURIES: Warriors: Kristaps Porzingis: day to day (illness), Jimmy Butler III: out for season (knee), Stephen Curry: out (knee), Seth Curry: out (back), Will Richard: day to day (ankle).
Clippers: Bradley Beal: out for season (hip), Darius Garland: out (toe).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 1: Marcus Smart #36 of the Los Angeles Lakers walks off of the court after the game against the Sacramento Kings on March 1, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
It’s been a very long time since the Lakers had blowouts like this in consecutive games. You have to go back to mid-November to even find games with margins similar to this, but these Lakers did it in back-to-back days.
You can easily discredit it by saying this is what they should be doing against these teams, but they haven’t been and that’s kind of been the problem. After a really miserable week of games against the Celtics, Magic and Suns, the Lakers seem to have reset the vibes again over the weekend.
It comes at an important time when they are set to see their schedule pick up, but it was a welcome sight to see LA jump ahead early in these two games and have very comfortable, stress-free victories.
So, let’s dive into the win. As always, grades are based on expectations for each player. A “B” grade represents the average performance for that player.
LeBron has looked awfully spry and re-energized this weekend, especially considering it was a back-to-back. With LA heading into the stretch run, having this version of LeBron, particularly with his shooting from three — would be huge.
After a solid game in San Francisco, Reaves faded into the background again. That’s been a common trend since the All-Star break and an increasingly concerning one.
After missing two games due to illness, it was nice to see Rui both back on the court and looking energetic. He looked a bit rusty but still had some nice defensive plays and continues to shoot threes at a high clip.
Not to belabor a point since he’s no longer on the team, but Gabe Vincent has five made threes in his five games with the Hawks. Kennard had seven in the last two games.
LaRavia feels like one of the few players who has quiet bad games. That might be attributed to the energy he brings regardless whether his shot is falling or not, but tonight was one of the nights where it felt like he had a good game only to see him shooting 2-10.
What an impactful 14 minutes from Kleber, who had a big block at the rim, nearly fought Malik Monk and had a couple of huge dunks. Perhaps he should have replaced Hayes in the dunk contest.
Shoutout to Thiero’s huge dunk and Bronny’s three in garbage time.
JJ Redick
Another solid game from JJ, who made an interesting call by going to Kleber when Hayes got in foul trouble instead of Jarred Vanderbilt, who was a DNP-CD. Vando has struggled in recent games again, so it’s not a surprise to see him out of the rotation. If the Lakers are looking for an athletic wing to replace him, it might be worth giving Thiero some spot minutes in the next handful of games.
Grade: A-
Sunday’s DNPs: Jarred Vanderbilt
Sunday’s inactives: Chris Mañon, Drew Timme, Nick Smith Jr.
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
