Reaves has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 left oblique muscle injury and he will miss the Lakers' five remaining regular-season games, according to ESPN. The combo guard is expected to be out for four to six weeks, ESPN's Shams Charania reported.
Reaves has had his best season with the Lakers after joining the team as an undrafted rookie signing in 2021. In his fifth season in Los Angeles, Reaves averaged a career-high 23.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 1.1 steals. His shooting splits are 49% on field goals, 36% from three and 87% on free throws.
Reaves appeared in their most recent game, a 139-96 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 2. Reaves scored 15 points on 5-of-9 shots and 3-for-3 on free throws in 27 minutes in the loss. Los Angeles also lost their star guard, Luka Doncic, when he left the game and was later ruled out with a strained hamstring.
The Lakers' five remaining games of the 2025-26 regular season are against the Dallas Mavericks, Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Phoenix Suns and Utah Jazz.
Los Angeles has a 50-27 record and is currently at the No. 3 spot in the Western Conference standings to determine the playoff matchups. They are a game ahead of the Denver Nuggets. The NBA postseason begins April 14 with the SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament.
Reaves is expected to become an unrestricted free agent in July 2026.
Austin Reaves injury timeline
Reaves was having a career season before his injury. It wasn't the first time he was kept out of the action due to bodily limitations.
Reaves missed 19 consecutive games earlier in the season with a Grade 2 left calf strain that he injured on Christmas Day against the Houston Rockets. Prior to his calf injury, Reaves was averaging 26.1 points, 6.0 assists and 5.2 rebounds.
That was his second calf injury. Reaves had just returned, having missed three straight games for the Lakers, from Dec. 14-20, due to a calf strain.
Lakers remining schedule
Here is who the Lakers face in their remaining five games in the 2025-26 regular season.
Sunday, April 5: Dallas Mavericks
Tuesday, April 7: Oklahoma City Thunder
Thursday, April 9: Golden State Warriors
Friday, April 10: Phoenix Suns
Sunday, April 12: Utah Jazz
Lakers playoff matchups
If the NBA playoffs began today, the Lakers would be the No. 3-seed going against the Minnesota Timberwolves, who would be the No. 6-seed.
Last year, the Lakers faced Anthony Edwards and the T'Wolves in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Minnesota bounced them winning the series in five games, 4-1. This year would seem to have a similar outcome, especially if Los Angeles is without its stars, Doncic and Reaves.
The Lakers only have a game lead over the Nuggets and a two-game lead over the No. 5-seed Rockets. Los Angeles doesn't have the No. 3-seed locked in just yet. They can still slide down within the next five games.
If they slide down one spot, they could face the Rockets in the first round with home-court advantage. However, if the Rockets climb up and the Lakers move down, it's Houston that would have home-court advantage. Either way, it would set up possibly one last postseason matchup between LeBron James and Kevin Durant.
The Lakers and Nuggets could face each other in the postseason for the fourth time since 2020. It's unlikely the Lakers drop to a No. 6 seed, so this matchup would be in the event Houston bolts to third, while Los Angeles and Denver jockey for home-court advantage at the No. 4- and 5-seed matchup.
Lakers guard Austin Reaves, left, passes the ball over Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell in the second half at Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)
The Lakers will be without their starting backcourt for the rest of the regular season — five more games — after Austin Reaves was diagnosed with a Grade 2 left oblique strain on Saturday.
Lakers coach JJ Redick said Reaves underwent an MRI exam on his left olbique/rib area.
The team learned earlier this week that Luka Doncic has a Grade 2 left hamstring strain and will be out for the remainder of the regular season — and perhaps beyond. Grade 2 strains often take four to six weeks to heal.
The Lakers are also dealing with an injury to guard Marcus Smart, who has missed the last six games because of a right ankle contusion and will be sidelined for the game Sunday at Dallas.
“It's it's lingering soreness in the ankle,” Redick said.
Even with all of this, Redick said the Lakers’ “mission hasn’t changed.”
“We want to get the third seed and we want to win a first-round series,” Redick said.
The Lakers are the third in the Western Conference, but Denver, Houston and Minnesota are within striking distance. The Lakers hold the tiebreaker over all three.
They'll try to hold on to the No. 3 seed over the final five games of the regular season without Doncic, who leads the NBA in scoring (33.5 points per game) and is fourth in assists (8.3), and Reaves, who is averaging 23.3 points, 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds.
Each player was injured in the first half of a blowout loss on Thursday to Oklahoma City but returned to play in the second half.
“I know Luka's gonna do everything he can to get back on the court,” Redick said. “We don't know what this recovery timetable looks like."
The Lakers likely will have to lean more on LeBron James, a role the 41-year-old is more than willing to take on. James has been designated the third option behind Doncic and Reaves yet has still averaged 20.6 points per game, 6.9 assists and 6.0 rebounds in his 23rd season.
“It probably is going to look a little bit differently with Luka being out,” James said after practice. “I'll figure that out and then, obviously, the coaches will figure it out as well.”
The Lakers are making the mental adjustment of playing without Doncic. After the Mavericks, they'll have tough games against Oklahoma City, Golden State and Phoenix before finishing against lowly Utah on April 12.
“I mean, it’s a challenge for us,” James said. “It’s always got to be a next-man-up [mentality]. But there’s no way you can replace that type of impact. So, it's going to be a collective group. We all have to figure out a way to do a little bit more. But even now, you got to be even more tightened up on the things that we do. When you lose a special player like that, you can't have as many mistakes. So, we got to figure that out.”
For Redick, speaking for the first time since news of Doncic’s injury, he had to check on the temperature of his team to make sure his group was in the right space.
The practice Saturday on the campus of Southern Methodist helped.
“I think making sure that everybody's in the right frame of mind, first of all, and then you know we worked on just offensive stuff, just cleaning up some stuff and being really explicit with what we want to run,” Redick said. “Did some offensive breakdown. It was definitely more of an offensive day.
"We did work on defense to start the practice, but that's again that's the primary sort of focus. How do we score, how do we score efficiently, and our defense again is, it's we're interchangeable. We've been interchangeable now for two-and-a half-months.”
James controversy
James created a bit of controversy when he said on “Bob Does Sports” YouTube video that Memphis should relocate to Nashville.
“I’m not like the first guy to even talk about it in the NBA. We all like, ‘You guys have to move. Just go over to Nashville," James said.
James, when asked if he wanted to clarify his remarks, then mentioned Milwaukee also as one of his least favorite cities.
“I said Milwaukee as well,” James said. “I’m 41 years old (and) there's two cities I do not like playing in right now — and that's Milwaukee and that's Memphis. What is your problem with it? I don't like going home [to Cleveland,] either. … And I'm from there. People are ridiculous. They also get mad at my son [Bronny James] being on the [Lakers] team, too.
"So, what are we talking about? People need to figure out other ways to put their energy to other things that's important. Like, seriously? I'm not talking about the city, like the people in Memphis. I don't like staying at the Hyatt Centric [hotel]. What's wrong with that? Nothing. What are we talking about? What are we talking about? People need to chill the hell out.”
This is the same storm front that stopped the Cardinals/Tigers game in Detroit this afternoon after eight innings.
As of the time of this post, neither team had officially announced any starters for either game, though I would assume Shōta Imanaga and Edward Cabrera will both go Sunday, in what order is uncertain. That’s because the Cubs have an off day Thursday, and Imanaga could start tomorrow and then still go on regular rest Friday against the Pirates at Wrigley Field.
I have not exhaustively checked this, but the last “traditional” doubleheader (in other words, two games, single admission, with about 45 minutes in between) that the Cubs played in at Wrigley Field was Aug. 3, 2006 against the Diamondbacks. Except for the 2020 season, I do not think they’ve played in such a doubleheader on the road since then, either. (Feel free to correct me if you find evidence to the contrary.)
With the first game Sunday at 1:10 Eastern time (12:10 CT), I will post a preview for both games of the doubleheader at 10 a.m. CT.
DALLAS — Lakers star guard Austin Reaves will be sidelined for the remainder of the regular season because of an oblique injury, the team said on Saturday.
Reaves was diagnosed with a Grade 2 left oblique muscle injury after having an MRI over the weekend.
He suffered the injury during Thursday’s blowout loss to the Thunder after he “overextended a little bit” for a rebound in the first quarter, Reaves said postgame.
Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 2, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty Images
Reaves stayed in the game despite the discomfort, going back to the locker room after subbing out before returning in the second quarter.
He subbed out for the remainder of the game in the third, with the Lakers down by 38 at the time.
Reaves is expected to be sidelined for 4-6 weeks, joining fellow star guard Luka Doncic as Lakers who are out for the rest of the regular season after Doncic suffered a regular-season-ending Grade 2 left hamstring strain against the Thunder.
"The second [MRI] was today. Again, I don't know where the chain of command lies with Dallas imaging, but uh they scanned the wrong area. Not on our end. We made it explicit what was supposed to be scanned but they scanned the wrong area." JJ Redick on Austin Reaves' MRI https://t.co/JweK8oI1aZpic.twitter.com/SPcM0hvb0v
With Doncic (33.5 points) and Reaves (23.3) sidelined, the Lakers will be without their top-two scorers for the remainder of the regular season and the start of the playoffs.
Doncic’s injury is expected to sideline him for a few weeks.
“From a strategic tactical standpoint, we obviously are gonna have to play a little bit differently,” coach JJ Redick said after Saturday’s practice before Reaves’ injury was revealed. “There’s enough that we have in that we can play through LeBron [James], play through Luke [Kennard], play through Rui [Hachimura], play through [Deandre Ayton].”
The Lakers entered Sunday with a 50-27 record for third place in the Western Conference standings, a ½ game ahead of the fourth-place Nuggets (50-28), two games ahead of the fifth-place Rockets (48-29) and four games ahead of the sixth-place Timberwolves (46-31).
“Our mission hasn’t changed,” Redick said. “We want to go get the 3-seed and we want to win a first round series.”
In addition to his career-high scoring average, Reaves will finish the season with averages of 5.5 assists, 4.7 rebounds and 1.1 steals in a career-low 51 games after missing significant time in December and January because of a calf strain.
He has a $14.9 million player option for 2026-27 that he’s expected to decline, making him an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
LeBron James, who’s 41 and in his 23rd NBA season, is the Lakers’ lone star player available for the stretch run of the season.
“You got to flip the mindset a little bit,” James said. “When your role changes, whatever the case may be, or what’s needed out of the team. So the mindset changes a little bit for sure.”
Marcus Smart will also remain sidelined because of a right ankle contusion. He’ll miss his seventh consecutive game because of the injury when the Lakers play the Mavericks on Sunday.
“The ball handling role, we’ll obviously have to ask guys to do more,” Redick said. “Kobe [Bufkin], Nick [Smith Jr.], Dalton [Knecht], those guys will be with us at some point for [on Sunday]. We’ll probably have to play a 10- and 11-man rotation, all hands on deck.”
There was a delay getting the results from Reaves’ MRI.
Saturday was Reaves’ second time getting imaging for his injury in Dallas after the first one didn’t scan the right area.
“Again, I don’t know where the chain of command lies with Dallas imaging, but they scanned the wrong area,” coach JJ Redick said. “Not on our end. We made it explicit what was supposed to be scanned but they scanned the wrong area.”
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - APRIL 04: Center fielder Garrett Mitchell #5 of the Milwaukee Brewers rounds the bases after hitting a three-run home run during the 3rd inning of game one of a double-header against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Garrett Mitchell had five RBIs, including a three-run home run, and Chad Patrick went five scoreless innings as the Brewers defeated the Royals in the first game of today’s doubleheader.
Milwaukee roared out to a quick lead in the top of the first courtesy of Mitchell’s second two-run double in as many games. Brice Turang struck out looking to start the inning, but Luis Rengifo doubled to put a runner in scoring position with only one out. Royals starter Luinder Avila didn’t want to give William Contreras anything to hit, ultimately walking him on five pitches to bring up Christian Yelich, who beat out a double-play ball to second base to put runners on the corners with two outs for Mitchell. Avila left a sinker up and in to Mitchell, who punished the mistake with a 108.8-mph double that nearly cleared Kaufman Stadium. Contreras and Yelich both scored to give the Brewers an early lead.
In the bottom of the first, Brewers starter Chad Patrick worked around a walk to Bobby Witt Jr. to retire the Royals without allowing a hit or a run. Patrick would give up his first hit in the second inning, a one-out single off the bat of Jac Caglianone. Starling Marte struck out for the second out of the inning, but old friend Isaac Collins grounded a single into right that advanced Caglianone to third base. As Collins took off for second on a 1-2 pitch to Nick Loftin, Caglianone broke for home. Turang cut off the throw and gunned him down at home with a beautiful throw to keep Kansas City scoreless.
The Brewers would add to their lead in the top of the third thanks to a two-out rally. Avila struck out both Turang and Rengifo, but Contreras doubled to keep the inning alive. Yelich beat out another grounder to second base for an infield hit, bringing up who else but Mitchell. Mitchell took strike one, let a couple of balls pass by, then crushed a line drive that kept carrying until it dropped into the right field seats for a three-run homer.
Another Mitchell fun fact: that home run gave him five RBIs through just three innings, already a career-high for a single game.
Jake Bauers walked, and Sal Frelick singled to keep the inning alive and put another runner in scoring position, but Bauers was thrown out trying to steal third for the third out.
Patrick’s day was done after five innings and 86 pitches. He kept the Royals scoreless through five, although it wasn’t always smooth. Right before Kyle Isbel flew out for the first out of the fifth, the broadcast team remarked that it was already the seventh full count that Patrick had faced. He threw 47 strikes to 39 balls, which is not exactly an ideal number. Still, it’s hard to complain about five shutout innings, especially facing a Royals lineup with names like Bobby Witt Jr., Maikel Garcia, and Vinnie Pasquantino. Patrick only walked three batters, with Witt and Garcia accounting for two of those walks, and exited in line for the win.
Milwaukee mustered up another two-out rally in the top of the sixth courtesy of a Brice Turang walk and another Luis Rengifo double, but Contreras grounded out to Garcia at third to end the inning. Aaron Ashby came in for the bottom of the sixth and gave up a leadoff single to Pasquantino. He allowed Pasquantino to take second on a wild pitch before getting Salvador Perez to ground out for the first out. Caglianone then hit a little chopper to first base that probably should have been the second out, but Ashby was late to cover the bag, allowing Caglianone to beat it out and putting runners on the corners. Starling Marte, who doubled in his last at-bat against Patrick, fouled off a couple of pitches before striking out. Up next was Collins, who came just feet away from hitting a three-run homer on what ended up a foul ball. He would go on to wave at an 0-2 changeup in the dirt to end the inning, and no harm was done.
Kansas City finally got on the board against Ashby in the seventh. Nick Loftin walked on five pitches to start the inning, swiftly prompting a mound visit. Ashby remained on the mound to face Lane Thomas, pinch-hitting for Isbel, who ripped a line drive double into left field. Loftin scored to finally put the Royals on the board. After another mound visit, Ashby got Maikel Garcia to ground out for the first out, although Thomas advanced to third on the play. The next batter up was Witt Jr., who smoked a one-hopper right at Turang. Turang made a great play on the ball, but was unable to get a throw off. Thomas scored to give the Royals their second run of the inning.
With Pasquantino coming to the plate, the inning looked like it could keep snowballing. Thankfully, Ashby managed to bear down, striking him out for the second out of the inning. Brewers manager Pat Murphy brought Abner Uribe in to face Perez, who popped out to Turang to end the inning.
Uribe stayed in for the eighth and retired the Royals in order. Trevor Megill had the ninth inning today and got into a little bit of a jam, walking Thomas and Witt to bring the tying run, Pasquantino, to the plate. Pasquantino took a ball in the dirt, fouled off three straight pitches, then got caught looking at a 98-mph fastball down the middle for strike three.
The back half of today’s doubleheader is in just a few hours, with first pitch scheduled for 6:10 p.m. Logan Henderson will be on the hill for the Brewers, with Brandon Sproat expected to follow as he looks to rebound from his first start of the season. Starting for the Royals is righty Seth Lugo, who went 6 1/3 scoreless innings in his first start of the season.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 03: Ron Harper Jr. #13 of the Boston Celtics dribbles the ball against Andre Jackson Jr. #44 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum on April 03, 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
BOSTON — Ron Harper Jr. has long awaited this moment. After four two-way contracts, the 25-year-old has finally signed a two-year NBA contract, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Harper Jr. has appeared in 26 games for the Celtics this season, averaging 3.4 points and 1.6 rebounds in 10.4 minutes per game. Of late, he’s had several standout performances for the Celtics; last month, he exploded for 22 points on 8-11 shooting against the San Antonio Spurs. Last week, he had a great first-quarter stint against the Charlotte Hornets — scoring 7 quick points — before he went down with an ankle sprain.
The Boston Celtics are signing two-way wing Ron Harper Jr. to a new two-year deal, agent Drew Gross of WME Basketball tells ESPN. Harper has played a key Celtics rotation role at times this season while spending time starring for their Maine G League affiliate. pic.twitter.com/3g44oay1Ql
Harper Jr. had a standout season with the Maine Celtics before primarily joining the parent club in January. He averaged 24.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, while shooting 37.7% from three in the G-League.
And while he hasn’t shot particularly well in very limited minutes in Boston, his shooting has nonetheless impressed his teammates.
“Ron’s one of the best shooters on our team,” Jaylen Brown proclaimed a few weeks ago. Harper Jr. proceeded to shoot 60% from three in March.
While this is his first year actually under contract with the Celtics, Harper Jr. is very familiar with the organization; he spent the 2024 and 2025 NBA training camps with Boston and was also on the Celtics’ Summer League team in 2024.
“I feel like I know the system; the coverages are like the back of my hand,” Harper Jr. said in February. “That was a big part of the process and the decision to be coming back in the summer — I just knew the team, I knew the coaches, I knew the system.”
After his first NBA start, a Celtics win over the Houston Rockets on February 4th, Harper Jr. said he felt he made the right decision to rejoin the Celtics organization.
“I felt like I could excel,” Harper Jr. said then. “I feel like it’s working out pretty good so far.”
Now, he’s officially achieved something he’s long desired: an NBA contract.
Tushar Deshpande bowled an excellent last over as Rajasthan Royals edged out Gujarat Titans by six runs to win their second successive match of the IPL season on Saturday.
Apr 2, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) passes around Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort (5) during the first quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images | Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
The haymakers are coming left and right for the Lakers right now.
According to Shams Charania of ESPN, Reaves is expected to miss 4-6 weeks with the injury. That safely rules him out for the first round and likely rules him out for part or most of a second round series, which feels basically impossible to even reach now.
Lakers' Austin Reaves is expected to miss four to six weeks with the Grade 2 oblique injury, sources tell ESPN. Devastating run of injuries to L.A.'s two leading scorers. Reaves and Luka Doncic are expected to be sidelined to begin the NBA playoffs. https://t.co/E2495zVWqH
Truly, it’s hard to imagine a worse 24 hours for the Lakers. In that span, both Luka and Austin have all but been ruled for the first round of the playoffs. The Lakers are going to limp into the postseason like it’s 2012 all over again.
After practice on Saturday in Dallas, head coach JJ Redick revealed that Reaves had imaging done on his oblique. In fact, he had an MRI twice for the most hilarious reason possible.
“The second one was today,” Redick said. “I don’t know where the chain of command lies with Dallas imaging, but they scanned the wrong area. Not on our end. We made it explicit where it was supposed to be scanned but they scanned the wrong area.”
Somehow, this is very fitting for how the Lakers’ season has gone.
It’s hard to really have much of a takeaway from this other than it being a brutal way for this season to unofficially end. There will be another week of regular season games and a first round series but it’s all going to feel ceremonial at this point.
We’ll always have the March Lakers. They can’t take that away from us at least.
Saturday’s game began with Dustin May on the mound for the Cardinals and Jack Flaherty for the Tigers, but neither was sharp and the game ended up being a slugfest including a grand slam from Jordan Walker, but the Tigers would rock Dustin May and the Cardinals bullpen and win 11-6 after being called an official game by rain.
The scoring started early for the Detroit Tigers as they put 3 runs on the board in the bottom of the 1st inning on a single by Torres and a throwing error on Victor Scott II that allowed Keith to score. That was followed by a 2-run homer by Carpenter that put the Tigers up 3-0 in the first frame.
The Tigers would add to their lead with a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the 3rd inning by Carpenter. McKinstry homered in the bottom of the 4th inning and Vierling followed that with a sacrifice fly to give Detroit a comfortable 7-1 lead. Or, at least they thought it was comfortable as the St. Louis Cardinals came storming back in the top of the 5th inning as Alec Burleson doubled to left field scoring JJ Wetherholt who had walked. Jack Flaherty then had a hard time finding the strike zone as the Cardinals loaded the bases for Jordan Walker who unloaded them with a monstrous grand slam that traveled 459 feet and had an exit velocity of 113.7 mph.
The Detroit Tigers would strike back in the bottom of the 5th inning as McKinstry singled in Greene to make the score 8-6. In the bottom of the 7th Torres hit a drive to right field that Jordan Walker appeared to have caught, but his back hit the wall which allowed the ball to sail over his glove into the bushes for a home run making in 9-6 Tigers.
Matt Vierling hit another home run in the bottom of the 8th inning giving the Tigers their final score of 11-6. Dustin May’s final stat line was a disappointing 3 innings and a 1/3 giving up 7 earned runs on 7 hits. His ERA is now a hefty 15.95. The Cardinals bullpen including Svanson, Bruihl, and Roycroft were responsible for the other 4 Tigers runs. The game was finally delayed with one out in the 9th inning by rain before it was eventually called.
The Cardinals, now at an even .500 at 4-4 for the season, will try not to get swept by the Tigers when they play Sunday night. According to MLB.com, Kyle Leahy will make the start for the Cardinals while Keider Montero will take the mound for the Tigers.
Michigan coach Dusty May revived the Wolverines in just two seasons, leading the program to the Final Four in 2026 after taking over a team that went 26-40 in the two years prior to his arrival.
May has only been a head coach for eight seasons but already has two Final Four appearances at two schools – Michigan and Florida Atlantic. A national championship is in Michigan's sights this season.
His services are also – obviously – sought after. He has been tied to the North Carolina opening after the school fired Hubert Davis, and he'll likely always be thought of as a dream candidate at Indiana, where he cut his teeth as a student manager before graduating from his hometown school.
Michigan won't let him walk easy, like any other top-tier program in college basketball.
Here's a look at May's current contract at Michigan, which could increase even more if the Wolverines add another raise after is Final Four run:
Dusty May contract
May signed a new contract with Michigan in February 2025, just under a year after he became the Wolverines' next coach. His current deal is through 2030, and offers him an increase of $250,000 each season, according to his contract obtained by USA TODAY Sports.
His base salary this season was $4.6 million and will increase to $4.85 million next season if his current deal doesn't change, which seems unlikely due to the Wolverines' dominance and other schools' interest in May. His yearly salary would peak at $5.6 million in Year 5 of the deal under the current agreement.
He also earns $150,000 on April 30, 2026, as part of his retention bonus. His retention bonus is set at $450,000 for 2027 and 2028, before going back to $150,000 for 2029 and 2030.
Dusty May bonuses
May has already made $250,000 in bonuses this season for leading Michigan to an outright Big Ten championship and at least a Final Four appearance, according to his contract. He's currently earning $200,000 for a Final Four spot, but that bonus can rise to $300,000 for a national championship berth and $400,000 if Michigan wins the title.
Dusty May buyout
May's buyout is currently set at $7 million, if he were to leave Michigan before April 30, 2026. The number decreases each year, and is set at $5 million until April 30, 2027, $3 million until April 30, 2028, $2 million on April 30, 2029, and $1 million on April 30, 2030.
Apr 2, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) drives to the basket against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images | Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Nothing is going to loom over the Lakers’ offseason more than LeBron James.
Will he retire? Will he want to remain with the Lakers? At what price? Under what expectations for a role?
For chunks of the season, it’s felt like the swan song for LeBron in Los Angeles. All of the mesaging from the Lakers was about moving into the Luka era and LeBron’s presence felt like a hindrance to that.
Then in March, things changed. LeBron’s role on the court shifted into one he’s never had before as he was a willing third fiddle, eager to capitalize on fastbreak opportunities and work off the ball offensively.
That shift seemed to open the door for a future with LeBron in LA. While President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka has said that the team wants LeBron to retire with the Lakers, that always felt more like saying the right thing in public. When the rubber meets the road, will they hold the same belief?
Those answers won’t come for a number of more months, but some insight indicates that the Lakers could be leading the pack for LeBron’s 2026-27 season. In a recent appearance on Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective, Dave McMenamin of ESPN shared his thoughts on LeBron’s future.
It’s a very lengthy quote with the most important parts bolded.
“If you asked me in October or December, I’d probably have put retirement as the No. 1 option here. As of today covering LeBron with the Lakers winning 15 out of 17 games and accepting this role that I didn’t know if I’d ever see him actually accept being willingly this much off the ball, why wouldn’t he stay with the Lakers. It gives him all the off-court things that he values — his business empire, his family, his son’s on the team, his other son is a short flight away in Arizona…and they’re winning.
So, I think the only part of the equation that would be less desirable than other situations would be the money because the Lakers do intend to build this time around Luka Dončić and use their cap space to get younger and get two-way type players and talent. Quite frankly, they don’t have a ton of cap space after they re-sign Austin Reaves and Jaxson Hayes and Luke Kennard and maybe Rui Hachimura. It’s not like they have all this money…If he wants to come back, you’re not talking about a lot of money. That’s the sacrifice he would make. But everything else checks the box. So, the Lakers, I think, are the No. 1 by a wide degree at this point.”
While I’d push back against the “not like they have all this money” part because, well, the Lakers are going to have a lot of money, it doesn’t change that they want to spend that money elsewhere and not on a returning LeBron.
This isn’t the first time this debate has been had this season and even with free agency approaching, it won’t be the last time either. Things clearly change throughout the season and maybe there is one more swing before free agency opens in July.
But McMenamin is right. The Lakers give him everything he wants off the court. If they can also add winning on the court to the table, it’s a compelling case. Is it a strong enough case for him to take less money to return? That might be out of his control as it’s hard to imagine him getting a ton of money from any franchise he wants to go to.
But as things play out, it certainly seems like the Lakers are the frontrunners.
Apr 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the sixth inning at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
A bullpen day this early in the season is tough, and many of the regulars are tired. But you can’t put Brandon Little into a one run game unless all of the other options are literally deceased. John Schneider did, and as a consequence the Blue Jays lost.
Of course, it isn’t all on Little. The Jays managed just two off Anthony Kay, which is its own problem. And bad base running and fielding compounded the issue. Regardless of how you attribute blame, it was a bad game to lose, and a bad way to lose it. The Jays now find themselves in the position of needing a win tomorrow to stay above .500 in the easiest stretch of the season. And they’ve suffered two major injuries in that stretch to boot. You can’t panic in a season as long as baseball’s, especially not in April, but fair to say the good vibes coming out of the gate have at least temporarily dissipated.
Grant Taylor was as untouchable as he was yesterday, opening the game by sitting the Jays down in order on 8 pitches. Mason Fluharty wasn’t as good today, giving up a one out single and a double off the left field wall to get into a jam. The lead runner came home on a sac fly, but he was able to get a pop out to stop the damage there.
Anthony Kay came on as the bulk guy for the White Sox in the second. Kazuma Okamoto worked a walk, but was traded for Ernie Clement on a fielder’s choice. Clement stole second to put a Jay in scoring position with two out. That almost paid off, as Myles Straw hit a hard liner, but it was right into third baseman Miguel Vargas’ glove. After a quiet third, Davis Schneider lead off the fourth with a ground ball single. Vlad came within about a foot of giving the Jays the lead, golfing a towering fly ball to the power alley in left that Austin Hays caught against the top of the wall. Okamoto lined a single that advanced Schneider to second. First baseman Munetaka Murakami booted a hard grounder off Daulton Varsho’s bat and all three runners advanced safely. Again they failed to capitalize, as Clement popped out and Straw flew out to left. Tyler Heineman was robbed of a hit by Vargas in the fifth on a scorched one-hopper, the only excitement in the inning.
They finally landed a punch on Kay in the sixth. Schneider worked a walk and Vlad didn’t miss on his second chance, launching a low slider 437 feet to left to put the Jays in front 2-1. Kay got Okamoto to ground out before being lifted for Chris Murphy. Murphy was able to hold it there, getting the next two batters.
Lazaro Estrada followed Fluharty for the Jays. He looked sharp in the second, setting the White Sox down in order. He got the first two batters in the third, but then walked Vargas, who was able to steal second. He escaped the jam by getting the dangerous Murekami to chase a high fastball for a strikeout. He issued his second walk, to Colson Mongomery, in the bottom of the fourth, but again got out of it with a line out and a pop out. The fifth was quieter, as he sat the White Sox down in order. In total, Estrada worked four innings, giving up two walks but no hits and striking out three. It was a clutch fill-in performance that took a load off the regular major league bullpen that it wasn’t in a good position to bear.
I guess deciding that they really didn’t need to win this afternoon after all, John Schneider called for Brandon Little to handle the bottom of the sixth. It took him five pitches to blow it, with Vargas doubling and Murakami launching a two run shot to dead centre field. A Montgomery solo shot one batter later gave Chicago an insurance run. Tommy Nance came in to mop up, preserving the deficit at 4-2.
Myles Straw bunted for a single to lead off and advanced on a Gimenez ground out. Heineman then lined a single to centre to bump Straw to third. That forced Murphy out of the game. Replacement Jordan Hicks walked George Springer to load the bases. Nathan Lukes was called on to pinch hit for Davis Schneider. He flew out to shallow right. It was just deep enough for the speedy Straw to tag and score, cutting the Sox’ lead to one, but Heineman foolishly tried to sneak into third behind him and got himself thrown out. That took the bat out of Vlad’s hands with what would have been the tieing runner in scoring position anyway. Just an unacceptable decision from a guy who should be one of their savviest players. Nance stayed in for a 1-2-3 bottom half.
Hicks got the first to Blue Jays in the eighth before giving way to Sean Newcomb, who walked Varsho but got Clement to ground out. Braydon Fisher took the home half and looked tired, missing spots and getting hit. He walked Vargas, got Murakami to line out, and gave up a hard line single to Hays. He got Montgomery swinging for the second out. Luisangel Acuna then tapped a grounder to Clement at second. Ernie didn’t have a play at first, but for some reason Vargas rounded third, and Clement was able to toss it to Okamoto to get him in a rundown. So far so good. But then Heineman sailed the second throw of that rundown into left, allowing two runs to score. Acuna tried to come to third and was tagged out, ending the inning, but the damage and embarrassment were done and the White Sox lead 6-3.
Addison Barger hit for Straw to lead off the ninth, facing Seranthony Dominguez, and worked a walk. Gimenez grounded into a fielder’s choice for the first out. Jesus Sanchez, hitting for Heineman, lined a broken bat single to left, bringing the tieing run to the plate. Springer couldn’t do anything with the opportunity, striking out swinging and neither could Nathan Lukes, who grounded out.
Jays of the Day: Estrada (0.18), Vlad (0.16),
Less So: Little (-0.44), Fisher (-0.10, but only because he eats the WPA hit for Heineman’s error), Lukes (-0.17), Clement (-0.16), Gimenez (-0.13), and Heineman (who doesn’t have the number but who richly deserves it)
One more game in the series, tomorrow at 2:10pm ET. Eric Lauer (1-0, 3.38) is set to start after being bumped back from today’s appearance due to illness. Hopefully he’ll be able to go, as the bullpen is gassed. Davis Martin (1-0, 5.40) goes for the Sox.
Today’s expected roster move, Cade Horton to the IL and Riley Martin called up, has not been officially announced yet by the Cubs. When it is, I’ll have a separate post on the front page.
Saturday notes…
STREAKING THE WRONG WAY: The Cubs have lost six straight games at Cleveland: two in 2021, three in 2024 and yesterday. That is their second-longest losing streak at any American League city. They lost eight in a row at New York in 2005-22 (12 including two each in the 1932 and 1938 World Series). They dropped five in a row at Detroit (2001-15), Minnesota (2006-12) and Toronto (2014-22). (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
THE NICO FILES: Nico Hoerner has a six-game on-base streak in which he is batting .350/.462/.550 (7-for-20) with four doubles, four stolen bases and five walks. He continues to lead MLB with the four steals.
STEALING BASES: The Cubs have eight steals, ranking fourth in MLB, and have not yet had a runner thrown out trying to stea.
TODAY IN CUBS HISTORY: Jake Arrieta threw seven shutout innings and the Cubs won 9-0 on Opening Day in Anaheim. It happened 10 years ago today, Monday, April 4, 2016.
Shōta Imanaga’s first 2026 start wasn’t terrible… but it wasn’t all that good, either. He allowed one home run, unfortunately that came with two men on base. Hopefully he can keep the ball in the ballpark this evening. He did strike out seven Nationals in that first outing.
His outing last year against the Guardians, July 2, 2025 at Wrigley Field, was a similar game to his first start this year, except with more home runs (three solo homers). So, again, keeping the ball in the yard would be the key to his success, I’d think.
You’ll note in the graphic below that he averaged 92.1 miles per hour on his fastball in his first start this year. That’s up significantly from last year’s 90.8 miles per hour. If he can maintain that, this should be a good year for Shōta.
Slade Cecconi got torched by the Mariners in his first 2026 start last Sunday in Seattle — 4.1 innings, six runs allowed. He threw 93 pitches and, as noted, did not finish the fifth inning.
He has never faced the Cubs. Only two Cubs — Alex Bregman (0-for-4) and Michael Conforto (0-for-3) have ever faced him.
Today’s game is on Fox-TV (regional — coverage map, scroll to the bottom of that link for the map). A reminder that if you have MLB.TV or MLB Extra Innings, you can watch this game via those services even if it’s not on the Fox-TV affiliate in your market. Fox announcers: Adam Amin and John Smoltz.
Please visit our SB Nation Guardians site Covering The Corner. If you do go there to interact with Guardians fans, please be respectful, abide by their individual site rules and serve as a good representation of Cub fans in general and BCB in particular.
The 2026 game discussion procedure has been changed, so please take note.
You’ll find the game preview, like this one, posted separately on the front page two hours before game time (90 minutes for some early day games following night games).
At the same time, a StoryStream containing the preview will also post on the front page, titled “Cubs vs. (Team) (Day of week/date) game threads.” It will contain every post related to that particular game.
The Live! (formerly “First Pitch”) thread will still post at five minutes to game time. It will also post to the front page. That will be the only live game discussion thread. After the game, the recap and Heroes and Goats will also live on the front page as separate posts.
You will also be able to find the preview, Live! thread, recap and Heroes and Goats in this section link. The StoryStream for each game can also be found in that section.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - MARCH 27: Aday Mara #15 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half of the Sweet Sixteen round game of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at the United Center on March 27, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Tyler Schank/NCAA Photos via Getty Images) | NCAA Photos via Getty Images
I’ll confess up front that I have no life. Which is why I spent a large part of my weekend running simulations of the 2026 NBA draft using the Fanspo site. I won’t bore you with the mathy details (yet), but I ran the draft using 9 default setting combinations (auto pick behavior standard, team needs, and chaos vs. the ESPN, Fanspo, and No Ceilings draft boards) 6 times each for a total of 54 runs.
I learned a lot of things (which will be covered in my next article), but one of the more important things I learned was that there were three players that fell to 47 that I had not expected, but that the Suns might want to consider. Thus, I’m providing 3 more scouting reports of players that might be available when the Suns pick at 47. Keep in mind, these are all long shots, but they are players that should at least be on the radar in case they do fall.
Aday Mara (Michigan, Junior, C)
Aday Mara (7’3″, ~255 pounds) is a highly skilled 2026 NBA Draft prospect and Michigan transfer known for elite passing instincts, soft touch around the rim, and significant size. While an exceptional interior scorer and rim protector, his NBA projection relies on improving lateral mobility, perimeter defense, and added physical strength.
Elite Passing & IQ: Possesses rare vision for a center, acting as a high-post playmaker with advanced reads, including flashy behind-the-back passes.
Interior Scoring: Efficient scorer with soft touch, shooting high percentages on layups and dunks, particularly as a pick-and-roll or short-roll threat.
Rim Protection: Uses his 7’3″ frame to block shots and alter attempts in the paint, showing good verticality.
Weaknesses
Shooting: Needs to develop his jump shot to expand his floor spacing, as his free-throw shooting is low.
Physicality & Mobility: Concerns exist regarding his ability to defend in space and switch onto smaller players, which could make him a drop-coverage specialist in the NBA.
Draft Range
Late first to early second round (20-40) with several mocks putting him in the 26-27 range
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
The NBA meta has taken a shift back to having room for giant centers: Zach Edey has been great in Memphis. During last year’s draft, several big men dropped into the second round (Maxime Renaud, Ryan Kalkenbrenner) and have had great rookie seasons. Mara has a 7’6.5” wingspan and grades out as a better defender than Reynaud, if a worse shooter. He averages 4.6 blocks per 36 minutes. He has a more advanced feel for the game than Maluach, and might be a good pick-up if Mark Williams’ contract demands prove exorbitant. He could also provide insurance if Maluach fails to develop.
All in all, he’s a late first round talent; you can’t teach height, and there are several scenarios that fell out where he was the best player available when the Suns drafted in the simulation. I would rank him 5th on the Suns board from my previous article, between Henri Veesaar and Rueben Chinyelu.
NBA Comparison
Maxime Reynaud, but with less jumpshot and more shot blocking.
Flory Bidunga (Kansas, Sophomore, PF/C)
Flory Bidunga is an elite, high-motor 6’10” 235 lbs. sophomore center at Kansas (2025-26) and a projected 2026 NBA Draft prospect known for explosive athleticism, premier rim protection, and efficient finishing. Named the 2025-26 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, he dominates as a lob threat and rebounder, though he is considered slightly undersized for a center and is developing his offensive game beyond the paint.
Elite Athlete & Motor: Possesses tremendous energy, speed, and agility, allowing him to play above the rim consistently.
Rim Protection: A premier shot-blocker (98th percentile block rate) with great verticality, timing, and recovery speed.
Efficient Scorer: Highly reliable in the dunker spot and as a roll man (96th percentile), featuring a soft touch and strong lefty hook.
Rebounding: High-level rebounder on both ends of the floor.
Weaknesses
Size/Position: At 6’9″ to 6’10”, he is considered a bit undersized for a traditional NBA center, leading to challenges against stronger, taller opponents.
Offensive Range: Primarily a paint scorer with limited shooting range; needs to develop a consistent jumper to floor-space, according to SI.com and Reddit users.
Defensive Discipline: Can occasionally get lost on defense or over-pursue block attempts, resulting in foul trouble
Draft Range
Early to mid-second round (35-45)
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Bidunga has the mobility to play PF or C, making him an interesting option if the Suns want to play two bigs at a time. As noted elsewhere, re-signing Mark Williams isn’t a given, and the Suns’ depth at PF is awful. Bidunga has a 7’2” reach and an excellent vertical leap. He would add athleticism and a lob threat, while being young enough for potential growth. I like his intangibles of being high motor and high effort, which fit well with Ott’s vision for the team. My main concerns with him are his limited shooting and limited offensive game, including assists. I would put him between Alex Condon and Baba Miller on my draft board.
NBA Comparisons
Mark West (Look him up, you whippersnappers), Jarrett Allen, Clint Capela.
Ebuka Okorie (Stanford, Freshman, PG)
Ebuka Okorie is a 6’2″, 185-pound freshman guard for the Stanford Cardinal who has rapidly emerged as a top prospect for the 2026 NBA Draft. Originally an under-the-radar recruit ranked outside the top 100, he became one of the most productive freshmen in college basketball during the 2025-26 season, earning All-ACC First Team and ACC All-Rookie honors.
Elite Rim Pressure: Okorie is widely considered the best pure driver in his class. He led the country in drives, converting 71.4% of his half-court rim attempts.
Shot Creation & Ball Handling: A “jitterbug” with the ball, he uses a shifty handle and change of pace to create his own shot and get downhill.
Efficiency Under Pressure: Despite a high usage rate (30.7%), he maintains a low turnover rate, averaging only 1.7 turnovers per game.
Foul Drawing: He is highly effective at getting to the line, leading the ACC in free throws made and shooting 83.4% from the stripe.
Weaknesses
Physical Limitations: Scouts hold concerns regarding his lack of elite size and “above-the-rim” athleticism for the NBA level.
Shooting Consistency: While a capable three-point shooter, his long-range consistency is a “work in progress,” currently hitting 36.0% from deep.
Defensive Versatility: Due to his size, he can be overpowered by larger guards and lacks the versatility to switch onto multiple positions.
Draft Range
Late 1st to early 2nd Round (roughly 28th-31st).
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Okorie fell to the Suns in one of the runs. He’s unlikely to be there when the Suns pick, just based on his raw potential, but could fall if his measurements at the combine say he’s as short as he looks in video. The good is that he is just about the craftiest scorer I’ve seen: his toolset on drives is otherworldly for a 19-year-old. Stop and pop, floaters, Eurostep, slithery-reverse layups, speed changes, shifting to his left hand, all the skills are there. His three-point shot improved dramatically as the season went by, and I think it will continue to improve at the NBA level. He also displays amazing handles and good court vision while limiting turnovers.
The downside: he’s small, slight, and his defense is abysmal. He is going to struggle mightily at the NBA level. I’m uncomfortably reminded of Damian Lillard at both ends of the court, both the good and the bad. But, if the Suns want a backup point guard behind Gillespie who will run an offense, score, push the pace, and not let the opposing team rest with Green out of the game, Okorie fits the mold.
NBA Comparisons
Damian Lillard, Brevin Knight
Final Verdict
While it’s unlikely that these three players will be on the board when the Suns draft, the simulations show it as possible once in a great while. With these three players added into the mix, here is my draft board for the Suns heading into the 2026 Draft with the 47th Pick:
Joshua Jefferson: Very unlikely to be available, but Julius Randle-level upside
JT Toppin: A borderline lottery pick if not for injury
Zuby Ejiofor: One of the best players two years running at the college level. Elite intangibles
Henri Veesaar: Sweet shooting PF/C to stretch the floor. Could form a rotation with Fleming.
Aday Mara: Best shot blocker in the NCAA this past year per 36
Rueben Chinyelu: Rebounding machine with a clear NBA role and good fit
Milan Momcilovic: 6’8” 50% three-point shooters will always have a spot in the league
Ebuka Okorie: Potential Jamal Crawford sixth-man of the year type-player
Bruce Thornton: Smart, efficient point guard with a bad rap for being one inch too short. Could easily be a steal of the second round like Gillespie
Alex Karaban: He shoots threes, meh rebounder, and can play a little 4. Nothing special
Alex Condon: We already have Oso Ighodaro at home, dear.
Flory Bidunga: projects as a solid, high-energy back-up C. Limited offensive upside.
Baba Miller: Kirkland-brand Oso Ighodaro
Pryce Sandfort: Not sure what he provides that Koby Brea doesn’t
Juke Harris: Low efficiency chucker who doesn’t play defense either. No future in the league. See also: Cam Thomas, Ricky Davis
Next Up
Taking these ratings and showing what they yield in the draft simulator to figure out who the Suns are most likely to get, given this draft big board. Stay tuned…
Veteran center Scott Laughton has only been a member of the Los Angeles Kings for 14 games, yet his former Toronto Maple Leafs teammates already miss his presence.
He was only a Maple Leaf for 76 regular-season and playoff games after joining Toronto at last season's trade deadline. However, his former teammates like the idea of Laughton returning to Toronto in free agency, as he is a pending UFA.
After the Maple Leafs' practice on Friday in preparation for Saturday's game, Toronto's Steve Lorentz was asked about the possibility of Laughton returning in free agency.
"Yeah, that'd be awesome!" Lorentz told reporters. "We would welcome him back with open arms. I know there's a lot of guys in this locker room that feel the same way."
Therefore, unless Kings GM Ken Holland pushes to sign Laughton to a contract extension between now and July 1, the Oakville, Ont., native could leave for free in the summer.
Leafs coach Craig Berube was asked if he could see a world where a Laughton return to Toronto would be a fit.
"Yeah, I could see it, for sure," Toronto's bench boss told reporters. "He really liked it in Toronto, and he's from around there, too. I think that was a… dream for him to go back home and play."
Along with fantasizing about potentially reuniting with their old teammate, they shared how much of a great teammate he was and how lucky the Kings are to have him.
"I think you win with a guy like Scott," Lorentz said of Laughton. "He's a glue guy, he plays the game the right way, he plays hard, and he's definitely got the skill offensively and defensively to be out there in all situations."
Laughton is indeed a player that can be utilized in all situations, and that's exactly how Los Angeles has been using him.
Since his Kings debut against the Montreal Canadiens on March 7, Laughton is the joint leader on the team in shorthanded time on ice per game, along with defensemen Joel Edmundson, Mikey Anderson and Cody Ceci.
He's also on Los Angeles' second power-play unit and averages 1:12 of ice time per game on the man advantage.
Furthermore, he's been so important for the Kings in the faceoff dot, to the point where he takes the opening draw in overtime to win possession in the extra frame. He has a faceoff win rate of 58.1 percent as a member of the Kings.
With all he brings on the ice and in the dressing room, it's no wonder why his former Maple Leafs teammates have raved about him so much since his departure.
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.
