Additionally, the Houston Astros won the sweepstakes for the heavily sought out Japanese sensation, Tatsuya Imai, a right-handed pitcher who has drawn comparisons to 2025 World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Imai joined the Astros on a three-year, $54 million deal.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to return for the Oklahoma City Thunder when they host the Denver Nuggets tonight.
The reigning MVP is no longer on the injury report after missing nine games with an abdominal strain. The question now is how much SGA will actually play.
My Nuggets vs. Thunder predictions and NBA picks are taking a measured approach to the reigning MVP's output on Friday, February 27.
Tip-off is set for 9:30 p.m. ET from the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, with the game airing on ESPN.
Nuggets vs Thunder prediction
Nuggets vs Thunder best bet: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 28.5 points (-115)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hasn’t played since February 3, with the Oklahoma City Thunder going 5-4 SU in his absence, allowing the surging San Antonio Spurs to close the gap in the West.
SGA’s return is a major boost for OKC, but preserving his health is the top priority. He not only needs to meet the MVP qualifying threshold, but the Thunder have only a 1.5-game lead atop the conference.
While a full workload could yield 30+ points, most models range from 18.4 to 23.7 points if his minutes are capped. I expect OKC to play it safe against the Denver Nuggets tonight.
Nuggets vs Thunder same-game parlay
The Nuggets reminded the league they’re still a contender by blasting the Boston Celtics earlier this week, showing they rise to the challenge against the NBA’s elite.
After missing nine games, OKC will protect the MVP in his first outing back, and he’s unlikely to reach that scoring total.
With SGA limited, Chet Holmgren drew more defensive attention, and his numbers dipped. Even with Shai seeing reduced minutes, the 7-footer will benefit from extra space, with models projecting him for 20+ points tonight.
Nuggets vs Thunder SGP
Nuggets +8
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 28.5 points
Chet Holmgren Over 16.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Calling on Cam
Cameron Johnson has looked great since returning from a six-week absence (knee bruise), averaging almost 12 points, four rebounds, and two assists in the last seven games.
Johnson's player projections all sit north of these prop totals tonight.
Nuggets vs Thunder SGP
Nuggets moneyline
Cameron Johnson Over 12.5 points
Cameron Johnson Over 3.5 rebounds
Cameron Johnson Over 1.5 assists
Nuggets vs Thunder odds
Spread: Nuggets +8 (-110) | Thunder -8 (-110)
Moneyline: Nuggets +250 | Thunder -310
Over/Under: Over 233.5 (-110) | Under 233.5 (-110)
Nuggets vs Thunder betting trend to know
The Nuggets are 38-25-1 ATS as underdogs over the past three years, including a 12-6 ATS mark when catching points this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Nuggets vs. Thunder.
How to watch Nuggets vs Thunder
Location
Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Date
Friday, February 27, 2026
Tip-off
9:30 p.m. ET
TV
ESPN
Nuggets vs Thunder latest injuries
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Two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference do battle when Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons host James Harden and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
With Cleveland banged up, Detroit is a 6-point home favorite, but my Cavs vs. Pistons predictions break down why the East’s No. 1 seed still deserves more respect.
Read more in my NBA picks for this matchup, set to tip off at 7:00 p.m. ET from Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.
Cavaliers vs Pistons prediction
Cavaliers vs Pistons best bet: Pistons -6 (-110)
It feels like people aren’t giving the Detroit Pistons enough respect. Cade Cunningham and Jaren Duren are stars, and the only team that has a better net rating than the Pistons this season is the Oklahoma City Thunder.
They’ve also been a great team at home this season, going 22-7 with an average margin of victory of 10.3 points.
Meanwhile, the acquisition of James Harden has been a home run for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Unfortunately, he’s questionable to play with a thumb injury while Donovan Mitchell is already out.
That’s too much to overcome against this really great Pistons team.
Cavaliers vs Pistons same-game parlay
Sure, the James Harden thing has worked for Cleveland so far. But he won’t help the fact that the Cavaliers allow the fifth-most points per game to opposing guards. Give me Cade to go Over 25.5 points, something he’s done in eight of his last 11 games.
The Pistons are also an elite rebounding team, ranking second in rebounding rate. Tobias Harris has hauled down six or more rebounds in seven of his last eight games, and with the Cavs potentially down their top two shooters, there could be plenty of boards up for grabs.
Cavaliers vs Pistons SGP
Pistons -6
Cade Cunningham Over 25.5 points
Tobias Harris Over 5.5 rebounds
Our "from downtown" SGP: Cade!
Cade is getting some MVP buzz down the stretch, and a big game against an East contender could bolster that case.
Cavaliers vs Pistons SGP
Cade Cunningham Over 25.5 points
Cade Cunningham Over 5.5 rebounds
Cade Cunningham Over 9.5 assists
Cade Cunningham Over 1.5 steals
Cavaliers vs Pistons odds
Spread: Cavaliers +6 | Pistons -6
Moneyline: Cavaliers +200 | Pistons -240
Over/Under: Over 227 | Under 227
Cavaliers vs Pistons betting trend to know
The Pistons have covered the 1H spread in 28 of their last 45 games (+10.75 Units / 21% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Cavaliers vs. Pistons.
How to watch Cavaliers vs Pistons
Location
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
Date
Friday, February 27, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
ESPN
Cavaliers vs Pistons latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
BIRMINGHAM, AL FEBRUARY 19: Malachi Smith #18 of the Long Island Nets drives to the basket during the game against the Birmingham Squadron on February 19, 2026 at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, AL. 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 GettyImages License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Mercedes Oliver/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
A lot is going on in Long Island! Even before Friday morning’s moves that sent Grant Nelson to Brooklyn on a 10-day, returned Ben Saraf to the big club, and sent Drake Powell to the G League, the Nets’ G League affiliate lost a tight one, 119-116, to the Grand Rapids Gold Thursday night at Nassau Coliseum.
And in the midst of it all, Brooklyn may have found a new development prospect in Chaney Johnson.
Johnson is the newest and youngest two-way player on the Long Island Nets roster. At 6’8”, 225 pounds with a 6’11” wingspan and a max vertical approaching 40”, the 23-year-old Johnson has 3-and-D potential. Signed off the Cleveland Charge just before New Year’s, Johnson keeps making progress, and Thursday night, that progress reached a high point.
The Auburn product had his biggest game as a pro, scoring 29 points, one night after scoring 19! Johnson connected on 10 of his 12 tries, while hitting all three of his tries. The Alabama native also had seven rebounds, one assist, and two blocks … both in crucial moments for Long Island. He did everything he could to put the team in a position to win, but the Gold had their number.
Indeed, after a somewhat slow start, Johnson has taken off in the last nine games, averaging 15.5 points while shooting 77.7% from two and 32.0% from three and grabbing 5.5 rebounds. He was not the only Long Islander to impress on the back-to-back at Nassau Coliseum.
Complementing Johnson’s game, Saraf had another big game in what he no doubt hopes will be his 21st and final game in the G League.
Coming off his 12-for-19, 32-point shooting performance the night before, Saraf followed it up with yet another solid offensive output. He connected on nine of his 15 shots and connected on three of his six attempts from beyond the arc for 21 points, giving him 53 points in a little more than 24 hours. He also had two rebounds, two assists, and three steals, the most in the game.
However, one glaring issue with Saraf has always been ball protection. Saraf turned the ball over five times, Nolan Traore had the same issue in the early going of this season, and he turned his game around.
In his most recent assignment, Saraf has looked much better than earlier in the season. There were many times back then when he was a big question mark, as his Flatbush 5 counterparts took off. The 19-year old, the NBA’s eighth youngest player, has been showing flashes of why Brooklyn drafted him in the 2025 NBA Draft in the first place.
Malachi Smith had another performance. He finished with 18 points, shooting 60% overall. He hauled in seven rebounds, including five in the fourth quarter alone, and two steals. His big downfall came in the ball protection department, his Achilles heel since starting at the point a few weeks back. Smith turned the ball over seven times, leading the game. After the game, NetsDaily spoke with Smith about his performance…
“Obviously, those are good numbers,” Smith tells ND. “But the number that’s sticking with me right now is the seven turnovers. I pride myself on being a low-turnover point guard, and today it was just a lot of dumb ones that I wish I could get back. It’s not something I usually do. As I said, I pride myself on having low turnovers. I know it’s a game of possessions, and one play doesn’t ruin the game. Right now, it feels like those seven turnovers are a big reason we lost tonight, and that’s not a good feeling as a point guard. I have to just be better and learn from it.”
Putting aside the turnovers, since being named a starter for the first time, the Gonzaga product’s performances become quite common for Smith. When asked about what he attributes this to the most, Smith told ND, “I think just trusting my work, staying ready. I’ve played in a lot of big games in college and have contributed in multiple ways. So, I’ve always been the type to put the work in behind the scenes, and whenever my number gets called, the work will show. I think that’s just what you see. Credit to my teammates, the coaches for helping me develop, and my teammates for having faith in me, but just being ready whenever my number is called.”
The 26-year-old picked up 13 assists, continuing to showcase himself as a playmaker and cementing yet another double-double. Smith told ND after the game, “I think as a point guard, making sure your teammates get to their spots and helping them get to their spots, gives them confidence, but also opens up my game. If I’m spreading it, when I drive, they might fan out and let me finish. I try to make the right play at the end of the day. Whatever the right play is, I just want to make it. I do a lot of film and stuff. So, I try to know what the defense is going to do and try to find my teammates where they’re most comfortable.”
Nelson remained on a minutes restriction, being the only starter to not reach 30 minutes, but in his last game before being called up. Nelson finished with just over 26 minutes, but once again continued to make the most of every second on the court. He finished with 17 points, on 47% shooting. There was a big difference in Nelson’s game on Thursday. He took many more three-point attempts than normal.
Nelson connected on just one of his six shots from deep, the most he’s put up this season and likely something Brooklyn has encouraged. Nelson is trying to expand his game from beyond the arc in hopes of reaching the NBA. In today’s NBA, if you hope to not just thrive but survive, you have to know how to shoot from deep, even as a big man. Nelson showed himself to be a solid three-point shooter in college, so if he can get back to this, it’s just one more tool Nelson will have working for him.
Tyson Etienne finished with 18 points, having one of his better shooting performances as of late, connecting on seven of his 11 tries, including four-for-seven from deep. EJ Liddell had four points, his lowest output in weeks, connecting on two of his nine attempts. Liddell shone in other aspects of the game, including hauling in nine rebounds and finishing with a team-leading three blocks.
The Gold went on an 8-0 run in the first quarter before Long Island responded with a 22-4 run over the final 5:36 of the first. The Nets closed the first frame with a 30-22 advantage after scoring 18 points in the paint and shooting 57.9 percent (11-for-19) from the field in the first. Grand Rapids went on a 17-7 run from 11:19 to 5:45 in the second quarter to close the gap, but Long Island entered the break with a 55-51 lead. Johnson led all scorers with 16 points in the first half, shooting 83.3 percent (5-for-6) from the field and 100 percent (2-for-2) from deep before halftime, and the Nets held the Gold to just 27.3 percent (3-for-11) shooting from long range in the first half.
Long Island entered tonight’s game with a +19.5 net rating in third quarters, the best differential by an NBA G League team in any quarter this season, and the Nets continued that success by limiting the Gold to 38.5 percent (10-for-26) shooting from the field and 11.1 percent (1-for-9) shooting from deep in the third. After Grand Rapids started the fourth on a 15-7 run from 11:48 to 9:21 to regain the lead, both teams traded the lead over the final nine minutes. Johnson hit a layup to tie the game at 116 with 5.1 seconds left in regulation, but Grand Rapids made three free throws to secure the 119-116 victory. Long Island scored 60 points in the paint for the second consecutive game and dished out 31 assists.
Next Up
The Long Island Nets (15-11) return to the court on Sunday for a game against the Westchester Knicks at the Nassau Coliseum. The game tips off at 3:00 p.m. EST and can be watched on the NBA G League website and the Gotham Sports app.
Cincinnati Reds third baseman Sal Stewart (27) rounds the bases to third base in the ninth inning of a Cactus League game between the Cincinnati Reds and Kansas City Royals, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, at Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear, Ariz. | Frank Bowen IV/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Cincinnati Reds continue their quest to play only in Goodyear Ballpark on Friday, as they’ll take the field at their home stadium for the fifth time through six Cactus League games played so far this spring.
When they do so, they’ll be up against a former teammate, too. Brent Suter will lead the charge for the Los Angeles Angels on the day, and with a lefty on the mound manager Terry Francona has tweaked his lineup to account for it.
Noelvi Marte, whose struggles against southpaws last season have been noted publicly by Francona already this spring, will bat leadoff to presumably give him the chance of maybe getting a pair of PA against southpaws out of his day. Of note also is that Sal Stewart will start at 2B on the day as his work all around the infield gets put further to the test, while Rece Hinds will spend at least part of the day manning CF.
Rhett Lowder will start for Cincinnati for the second time in this Cactus League campaign. He fired a pair of innings in his first outing, and I’d expect the Reds to ask him to get through 3.0 IP today (assuming he’s cruising along efficiently). Though with Julian Aguiar and Jose Franco both starters who are listed on the above roster for the day, there’s plenty of long relief available should that not be the case.
First pitch is once again slated for 3:05 PM ET, and – you guessed it – it’s not televised anywhere. To follow along with the action you’ll need to tune into 700 WLW’s coverage, or at least track down where said coverage is being streamed should you not have access to an old-timey AM radio.
The New York Islanders will participate in the NHL’s first-ever “Hockey Day” when they host the Florida Panthers at UBS Arena on March 28.
The events will take place throughout Finland on March 27 and 28, with a focus on fan activities and a prime-time viewing party for an 8:00 p.m. local time (1:00 p.m. Eastern Time) puck drop.
The Panthers’ roster consists of strong Finnish players, including Anton Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen, and Niko Mikkola, as well as their injured captain, Aleksander Barkov.
The Islanders-Panthers matchup will be the fourth and final game in the NHL’s European “Hockey Day” initiative.
Prior games include the Pittsburgh Penguins vs. New York Rangers on February 27–28 in Sweden, the Washington Capitals vs. Boston Bruins on March 6–7 in Czechia, and the Anaheim Ducks vs. Ottawa Senators on March 13–14 in Germany.
Both the NBA and college basketball seasons are winding down, which means 2026 NBA Draft odds are becoming a major topic of discussion.
The NBA has come under fire for almost one-third of the league seemingly tanking — but with one of the deepest draft classes in years (including the "Big Three" prospects of Darryn Peterson, A.J. Dybansta, and Cam Boozer), the NBA's cellar dwellers have a lot to gain... by losing.
The NBA Draft Lottery is scheduled for May 10, where we'll find out which team selects first, but for now, here are the latest odds for which player will go No. 1-overall at the NBA Draft on June 24.
The 2026 class is defined by a "Big Three" at the top, followed by high-upside versatile wings. Here is how the top of the board looks as we head toward March Madness.
1. Darryn Peterson | G | Kansas
2025-26 stats: 19.5 ppg, 47.4 3PT%
Bill Self has called Peterson the best recruit he’s ever landed at Kansas, as the 6-foot-5 combo guard has elite body control and a methodical scoring pace. He has dealt with minor hamstring and ankle issues this season, but remains the draft's best pure scorer as he can bully smaller guards in the post or pull up from 30 feet with ease.
2. AJ Dybantsa | SF | BYU
2025-26 stats: 25.1 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 52.8 FG%
Dybantsa is the most "pro-ready" scorer in the class. Standing 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan, he currently leads the nation in scoring — including an absurd 30 ppg in February. He is explosive in driving to the paint, and getting to the free-throw line a lot, and he has a strong mid-range game... plus he has greatly improved as a playmaker and ball handler as the season has progressed.
3. Cameron Boozer | PF | Duke
2025-26 stats: 22.7 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 58.3 FG%
The son of former NBA player Carlos Boozer, Cam is the most productive player in college basketball. He's not as flashy (or may not have quite as high a ceiling) as the flashy wings above him, but Boozer has the highest floor of any player in the draft to turn out as a highly productive player. He is an elite short-roll passer, a solid defender, and can also hit jumpers from a distance.
4. Caleb Wilson | F | North Carolina
2025-26 stats: 19.8 ppg, 9.4 rpg, 57.8 FG%
Possibly the most athletic player in the draft, has major hops and a relentless motor, which combine well with his elite speed at 6-foot-10. He's a raw player: He struggles to finish at the rim, is not a 3-point threat at all right now, and has issues in off-ball defense, but his potential is as high as any player in the draft.
5. Kingston Flemings | G | Houston
2025-26 stats: 16.8 ppg, 5.1 apg, 85.7 FT%
Flemings has been the biggest draft riser throughout the season. A true point guard, he is a skilled passer, and his incredible speed sees him wreak havoc by getting in the paint and he shines in the open court. His improved jump shot has helped him move from a projected late-lottery pick to the Top-5 conversation over the last few months.
NBA mock draft comparison table
Player
School
Strength
Comparison
Darryn Peterson
Kansas
Pure scoring
Devin Booker
AJ Dybantsa
BYU
Shot creation
Tracy McGrady
Cameron Boozer
Duke
Passing/IQ
Alperen Sengun
Caleb Wilson
UNC
Athleticism
Kenyon Martin
Kingston Flemings
Houston
Speed/Passing
De'Aaron Fox
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Current 2026 NBA Draft Lottery odds
The three teams finishing with the worst record in the NBA all have equal odds of winning the first-overall pick. while the fourth and fifth-worst teams also have odds better than 10% to land No. 1.
Team
Record
No. 1 odds
Sacramento Kings
14-47
14.0%
Indiana Pacers
15-45
14.0%
Brooklyn Nets
15-43
14.0%
Washington Wizards
16-42
12.5%
New Orleans Pelicans*
16-42
10.5%
Utah Jazz
18-41
9.0%
Dallas Mavericks
21-37
7.5%
Memphis Grizzlies
21-36
6.0%
Chicago Bulls
24-36
4.5%
Milwaukee Bucks
26-31
3.0%
*New Orleans traded its unprotected 2026 first-round pick to Atlanta for Derik Queen at the 2025 draft.
NBA Draft betting trends
Here are some recent trends you'll want to keep in mind when betting on NBA Draft odds:
Positions have been reasonably well-distributed among the No. 1 picks. Over the past 21 NBA Drafts, nine have been forwards, seven guards, and five centers.
"One-and-done" college freshmen make up the overwhelming majority of recent top picks, being selected No. 1 in 16 of the past 19 seasons since high schoolers were ruled ineligible.
Among NCAA schools, Duke leads the all-time count with five No. 1-overall picks, including Paolo Banchero in 2022.
Cooper Flagg's selection last year ended a two-year stretch of international players taken No. 1 — after just one such player (Andrea Bargnani, 2006) was selected in the previous 17 years.
Both the Vegas Golden Knights and the Washington Capitals came back from the Olympic break with a win, but only one will walk away with a 2-0 start to the season's unofficial second half when they meet at Capital One Arena tonight.
My Golden Knights vs. Capitals predictions and NHL picks are calling for Washington to tighten the screws on defense en route to victory on Friday, February 27.
Golden Knights vs Capitals prediction
Golden Knights vs Capitals best bet: Capitals moneyline (-118)
The Washington Capitals are 18-13 SU at home compared to 12-17 SU on the road, and the stats back up those records.
The Capitals play much stronger defense in their own building, allowing 2.77 GPG (vs. 3.07 on the road) on 27.1 shots per game (vs. 29.4). Their PK tightens up too, from 76.9% as a visitor vs. 82.1% at home.
The Caps will turn to Logan Thompson tonight, and he outranks Akira Schmid in SV% (.913 to .895). Thompson has won both his prior starts vs. the Vegas Golden Knights, posting a 2.01 GAA and .941 SV%.
Golden Knights vs Capitals same-game parlay
Sticking with the theme of home/road splits, I'm backing both Jakob Chychrun and Connor McMichael to score a point tonight.
Chychrun has a team-leading 31 points at home vs. 16 on the road in only two fewer games. McMichael has notched 22 points at home this season compared to just nine points as a visitor, and each is a 28-game sample size.
Golden Knights vs Capitals SGP
Capitals moneyline
Jakob Chychrun Over 0.5 points
Connor McMichael Over 0.5 points
Golden Knights vs Capitals odds
Moneyline: Golden Knights -104 | Capitals -118
Puck Line: Golden Knights +1.5 | Capitals -1.5
Over/Under: Over 5.5 | Under 5.5
Golden Knights vs Capitals trend
The Capitals have won five of their last six games. Find more NHL betting trends for Golden Knights vs. Capitals.
How to watch Golden Knights vs Capitals
Location
Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.
Date
Friday, February 27, 2026
Puck drop
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
Monumental SN, Scripps 66
Golden Knights vs Capitals latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
While the Detroit Red Wings had their top stars on display at the Olympics, with Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond, and Moritz Seider representing their respective countries, another name quietly made a big impression.
Eduards Tralmaks, the 29-year-old Grand Rapids Griffins forward, was a standout for his home country of Latvia. He recorded three goals (all against NHL starting goaltenders) and an assist in four games, averaging a point-per-game.
Tralmaks’ most memorable moment came in Latvia’s surprising 4-3 group stage victory over Germany, where he scored one of the key goals. His performance drew attention from NHL observers. On his 32 Thoughts podcast, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman highlighted Tralmaks as one of the non-NHL players who impressed him at the Olympics.
"Another Latvia guy who I thought was good is the guy who was playing for Grand Rapids right now....Tralmaks, yeah, I thought he was good," Friedman said.
Tralmaks’ professional journey has been unusual, after a strong college career at the University of Maine, where he nearly averaged a point per game, he played in the AHL with the Providence Bruins. He would then move to the Czech league with Rytíři Kladno. In 100 games there, he recorded 83 points. His success earned him a contract with the Grand Rapids Griffins this season.
Currently on a one-year, $775,000 deal, Tralmaks could become a trade candidate for the Red Wings. Detroit may look to move him to give him an NHL opportunity. Alternatively, he could explore a free agent deal in the offseason to try to earn a spot on an NHL roster.
Tralmaks’ Olympic performance has put him on the hockey world’s radar. After years of steady development in the AHL and Europe, the Latvian forward is now a name to watch and his standout play has opened doors for potential NHL opportunities in the near future.
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The Chicago Blackhawks are one of the premier sellers at the NHL Trade Deadline this year. That is because they have a handful of players who can be traded off to contenders looking for something different.
They don't have a high-volume scorer looking to be moved, but a couple of depth forwards and defensemen are on the block. Before March 6th, decisions must be made for the betterment of the franchise.
Most believe that Connor Murphy, Jason Dickinson, Matt Grzelcyk, and Nick Foligno are candidates to be moved. There is also Ilya Mikheyev, who makes sense for either a trade or a contract extension.
More than every other trade candidate on the team, Mikheyev has skills that can help the Blackhawks take steps in the coming years. He is good for 15-20 goals, all at even strength because he gets no power play time, and he is one of the three best pure penalty killers in the National Hockey League.
Because Mikheyev is 31 years old, he is not a candidate for a long-term (more than two years) extension with a young team. However, he has been good enough in his two seasons with the Blackhawks to ask for a decent contract, whether it's in Chicago or somewhere else.
A report from NHL insider Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet suggests that Mikheyev is out there on the trade market, despite the two sides trying to come to terms earlier in the season.
"I think they tried to sign [Mikheyev] at one point, but I think Mikheyev is out there," Friedman said on "32 Thoughts: The Podcast".
Keeping him and trading him both make sense for Chicago. It will likely depend on Mikheyev's opinion of his situation with the Blackhawks and what the team is offered for him in a trade.
Friday morning 32 Thoughts news, information & analysis podcast.
Friedman also mentioned Connor Murphy's name, while also saying that there is a challenge in trading him due to all of the defensemen that are available.
He also brought up Kevin Korchinski, who is still a young prospect at this point. It's not an expiring UFA situation with him, but moving him would free up space for Chicago and give the player room to develop with another organization.
The things that Korchinski does well, skate, possess the puck, run a power play, are all things that Sam Rinzel and Artyom Levshunov can do, if not better, while having a cleaner game on the defensive side of the game.
The good news that would come from trading any one of these players, besides the assets they'd be receiving in return, is the roster spots for younger players to come in and show what they've got. Nick Lardis, Anton Frondell, Ethan del Mastro, and Sacha Boisvert are all candidates to play for this team post-trade deadline at some point.
It may come as a surprise to some that Mikheyev's name is out there, but as a pending free agent, they have to see what they can get if they don't have him extended.
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.
A pair of tanking teams face off in the Lone Star State tonight, where the Dallas Mavericks host the Memphis Grizzlies.
Both teams are decimated by injuries, which is why my Grizzlies vs. Mavericks predictions expect Memphis forward Taylor Hendricks to continue shining in an increased role.
Here are my best free NBA picks for Friday, February 27.
Grizzlies vs Mavericks prediction
Grizzlies vs Mavericks best bet: Taylor Hendricks Over 9.5 points (-120)
The Memphis Grizzlies have been without leading scorer Ja Morant (19.5 ppg) since mid-January, and standout rookie Cedric Coward (13.3 ppg) is also sidelined.
That means plenty of shots for Taylor Hendricks, who was acquired in the Jaren Jackson trade, while Santi Aldama and Zach Edey are injured. Hendricks has stepped up, dropping 10+ points in four of his last six games.
The Dallas Mavericks' defense has collapsed with the departure of Anthony Davis and injuries to Cooper Flagg and P.J. Washington. Dallas ranks 28th in the NBA in defensive rating while playing at the sixth-fastest pace over the last month.
Grizzlies vs Mavericks same-game parlay
Rookie guard Walter Clayton Jr. also came over in that Jaren Jackson trade, and he has also thrived in a bigger role. Clayton has dropped 6+ assists in three of four games with Memphis.
The Griz have lost seven of their last eight games, but the Mavs have dropped 11 of their previous 13. I'll take the points with the visitors against a Dallas squad on the tail end of a back-to-back.
Grizzlies vs Mavericks SGP
Taylor Hendricks Over 9.5 points
Walter Clayton Jr. Over 4.5 assists
Grizzlies +4.5
Our "from downtown" SGP: Grizz!
There's plenty of volatility in these late-season games between teams that aren't trying to win.
Since we're betting on a couple of hungry young players on the Grizzlies, let's also back them to lead at half and pull off the minor upset.
The Grizzlies have covered the first half spread in their last 10 games on the road (+10.00 Units / 88% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Grizzlies vs. Mavericks.
How to watch Grizzlies vs Mavericks
Location
American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
Date
Friday, February 27, 2026
Tip-off
8:30 p.m. ET
TV
FDSN SE Memphis, MavsTV
Grizzlies vs Mavericks latest injuries
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Steph Curry reportedly suffered a setback in his recovery from the knee issue that has sidelined the Warriors superstar since the end of January.
Curry, who has missed Golden State’s past nine games, pushed too hard in an attempt to race back and ended up doing more harm than good, according to ESPN’s Marc Spears.
Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on February 7, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty Images
The setback occurred around the NBA All-Star break two weeks ago, Spears told Bay Area radio station 95.7 FM on Thursday.
“He was trying to work out, trying to get back and it pushed him back,” Spears said. “I’m not sure when he’ll be back, but I do know he wants to come back.”
Curry, 37, is set to be reevaluated by the Warriors training staff on Saturday. Golden State hosts the Lakers later that night, when Curry will miss his 10th game with patella-femoral pain syndrome, commonly known as runner’s knee, as well as a bone bruise in his right knee.
The diagnosis means that Curry is dealing with irritation around the front of the knee, according to UCSF orthopedic surgeon Dr. Nirav Pandya. The best method of treatment is rest, but the tricky part, Pandya said, is that there is no defined timetable.
“Sometimes it can be a couple days, sometimes a couple weeks, sometimes several months,” Pandya said on X. “Essentially it’s about getting that rest, getting that inflammation down, so that the player can be effective on the court without causing more aggravation.”
Curry expressed frustration about the nebulous nature of the injury in an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle last week. “It’s frustrating not being out there, especially with an injury that doesn’t necessarily have a specific timeline you can trust,” he said.
LeBron James speaks with Stephen Curry following a basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena on February 07, 2026. (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images) Getty Images
Curry’s desire to hurry back is fueled in part by the Warriors’ position in the standings. Golden State’s veteran-laden roster would benefit from all the rest it can get by avoiding the play-in tournament.
With 23 games to go, however, the Warriors are fairly comfortably locked in to the No. 7-8 matchup in the Western Conference. The Trail Blazers and Clippers aren’t giving them much chase from the ninth and 10th spots, while the Warriors remain 3.5 games back of the Lakers and the No. 6 seed.
“This team is kind of in a no man’s land. They’re probably too bad for a playoff lock, a top-six spot. But they’re too good to not be in the play-in,” Spears said. “So Steph expects to be in the play-in. He wants to be in the play-in. He wants the chance to be in the playoffs.”
MILWAUKEE, WI - FEBRUARY 6: Pete Nance #35 of the Milwaukee Bucks dunks the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers on February 6, 2026 at Fiserv Forum Center 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images). | NBAE via Getty Images
In this week’s Tuesday Tracker and our SB Nation Reacts survey, we asked you about Pete Nance’s two-way contract and the Bucks’ projected playoff seeding. Here are the highlights:
77% of respondents want the Bucks to convert Pete Nance to a standard deal, and if that’s the route the team chooses, 57% feel that Andre Jackson Jr. should be cut from the 15-man roster to make room.
84% of voters believe Milwaukee will rise into the play-in, though 66% of them think they’ll be no higher than the 9th spot, meaning they’d have to win two games to make the actual playoffs.
If they miss the playoffs, they’ll have a lottery pick in June’s draft, and 60% of fans polled think the Bucks should keep that pick, no matter where it ends up.
Of those who disagree, 65% of them would trade the pick if it falls outside the top ten, which is the most likely scenario: factoring in the pick swap with the Pelicans, the two teams’ current positions give the Bucks only a 15.9% chance of drafting better than ten.
Fans also recognize that Milwaukee’s improved play, plus clear tanking by Chicago, Memphis, and Dallas, means that they won’t sink lower than their current spot in the lottery standings (10th).
Thanks again for voting! Check back on Tuesday for another slate of questions.
There’s no better way to kick off the weekend than with some winning bets.
I’ve combed through the latest NBA odds and singled out my three favorites for today, including points props for two role players capitalizing on extra opportunities.
Check out all of my NBA picks for Friday, February 27.
It’s been an unusual season for the Milwaukee Bucks. With Giannis Antetokounmpo missing significant time, they’ve still managed to win eight of their last 10 games heading into tonight's matchup with the New York Knicks.
Kyle Kuzma has stepped up for Milwaukee, averaging 14.6 points over his last 12 contests and shooting 40% from 3-point range over his last five.
The Knicks' perimeter defense has been shaky this season, ranking 20th in opponent made threes per game. Kuzma has made 2+ threes in four of his last five starts, and he’s likely to do it again tonight.
Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
Where to watch: MSG, FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin
Prop #2: GG Jackson Jr. Over 16.5 points
-112 at bet365
The Memphis Grizzlies’ injury list reads like a horror story, and they desperately need scoring.
G.G. Jackson Jr. is averaging 17.4 points with a .667 eFG% over his last nine games, and tonight he faces a Dallas Mavericks team that’s nearly as depleted as the Grizzlies.
With the Mavs playing their second match in as many nights, I like Jackson to eclipse 16.5 points for the fifth time in six games.
Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
Where to watch: FanDuel Sports Network Southeast-Memphis, KFAA
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is back after missing nine games, but in a matchup loaded with NBA stars, I'm focusing on a prop for a lesser-known role player.
Julian Strawther has capitalized on his increased opportunities. The Nuggets guard is averaging 15.6 points and shooting 37% from three over his eight starts, and he’s expected back in the starting lineup tonight.
OKC allows the fourth-most made threes per game, and Strawther has reached double digits in scoring in seven of his eight games while in an elevated role.
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Darryn Peterson
AJ Dybantsa
Cameron Boozer
Caleb Wilson
Kingston Flemings
Keaton Wagler
Jayden Quaintance
Karim Lopez
Koa Peat
Mikel Brown Jr.
Nate Ament
Tounde Yessoufou
Cooper Flagg
Zaccharie Riscacher
Victor Wembanyama
Paolo Banchero
Cade Cunningham
Anthony Edwards
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Deandre Ayton
Markelle Fultz
Andrew Wiggins
John Wall
Blake Griffin
Derrick Rose
Greg Oden
Andrea Bargnani
Andrew Bogut
Yao Ming
Kwame Brown
Kenyon Martin
GG Jackson Jr.
Julian Strawther