The Oilers’ captain’s posted total is 1.5 points this afternoon, which is exactly the number of points he’s averaging over his last 10 games. That makes -120 a pretty good price for the Over, especially since he’s eclipsed this total in back-to-back games.
McDavid has also cruised past this total in six of his last seven meetings against the Anaheim Ducks, averaging two points per game over that stretch.
Ducks vs Oilers same-game parlay
Evan Bouchard leads all NHL defensemen with 84 points, 64 counting as assists. He’s also registered 1+ assists in 13 of his last 16 games.
The Oilers have been solid in the second period this season, winning it in 11 of their last 15 games.
Ducks vs Oilers SGP
Connor McDavid Over 1.5 points
Evan Bouchard Over 0.5 assists
Oilers 2P moneyline
Ducks vs Oilers odds
Moneyline: Ducks +120 | Oilers -145
Puck Line: Ducks +1.5 | Oilers -1.5
Over/Under: Over 7 | Under 7
Ducks vs Oilers trend
The Oilers have hit the 3P Under in 7 of their last 9 games (+5.00 Units / 45% ROI). Find more NHL betting trends for Ducks vs. Oilers.
How to watch Ducks vs Oilers
Location
Rogers Place, Edmonton, AB
Date
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Puck drop
3:30 p.m. ET
TV
KTTV, SNW
Ducks vs Oilers 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.
SAN DIEGO, CA - MARCH 22: Zuby Ejiofor #24 of the St. John's Red Storm dribbles up court during the second round game of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament against the Kansas Jayhawks at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Draft SZN is creeping in, and it is never too early to start digging into scouting reports, circling names, and figuring out who the Phoenix Suns should be eyeing when draft night arrives. The board starts to take shape long before the picks are made, and this is where the groundwork begins.
Brynn Tannehill put together a comprehensive list of prospects projected to land in that range where Phoenix is expected to be selecting, the sweet spot where value meets opportunity. These are the names that matter, the ones who could realistically be there when the Suns are on the clock.
So let’s dive into the list, break it down, and start connecting the dots on who fits, who fills a need, and who might be the next piece in what this team is building. This is a good page to bookmark, for it is filled with numerous prospects.
The Suns have only a single second-round pick in the loaded 2026 draft, and that pick looks to be somewhere around the 46th. I looked at many, many mock drafts and player lists to come up with a selection of players who:
Might be available
Would be a good fit
Fill a need
Provide good value at (roughly) the 46th pick
What I’m looking for in a player at the 46th pick isn’t a potential superstar, or a guy with few if any flaws. I’m looking for guys who have at least one thing about them that’s elite, even if it’s just their box plus/minus. I also tend to value three-point shooting, rebounding, and free throw shooting because they translate directly to the NBA. In other words, if a guy is great at any of these things in college, they’ll likely be good at it in the NBA too.
I regard power forward as the Suns’ position of greatest need, with there being a need for better depth at point guard. I also see room for improvement at small forward, where Brooks’ advanced numbers are so-so, O’Neale is a traffic cone, and Ryan Dunn has failed to improve. Mark Williams is also proving to be pretty “meh” overall. I would not be surprised if he takes a contract way bigger than he’s worth this summer.
The Suns need another shooting guard the way I need a sucking chest wound, and as such, you won’t find any pure shooting guards on this list, and only one shooting guard/small forward. When I look at “fit,” I think guys who produce extra attempts via stocks and offensive rebounds will mesh with the Suns’ philosophy. I also believe they’ll want to look at stretch bigs as a change of pace to Oso and Williams.
With that, here’s my list of potential second round picks that are on my radar.
Alex Karaban (UConn, Senior, SF/PF)
Alex Karaban is a 6’8″, 220-pound elite floor-spacing forward with a 6’11” wingspan, known as a high-IQ, high-volume shooter (from three) with excellent off-screen movement and solid passing skills. A two-time NCAA champion, he projects as a reliable, NBA-ready rotation player, likely a 3-and-D forward, despite lacking elite athleticism or high-level self-creation.
Elite Shooting: A consistent shooter (38-40%+ from three-point range) with quick release and high basketball IQ for finding space.
Movement Shooter: Excellent at shooting off screens, which is his most frequent and effective play type.
Size & Wingspan: Good positional size at 6’8″ with a long 6’11” wingspan, aiding in defense and rebounding.
High IQ/Connective Passer: Makes smart, quick decisions and acts as a connector in the offense.
Efficient Scorer: Highly efficient, able to impact the game without needing many touches.
Weaknesses
Athletic Limitations: Lacks high-end quickness or explosive verticality, which limits his ability to create his own shot or defend quick guards.
Defensive Concerns: Struggles with lateral quickness and navigating screens, potentially making him a target in isolation.
Finishing: Below-the-rim finisher.
Draft Range
Between 20-50 at the extremes, and most likely 38-45.
Why The Suns Should Take a Look
Karaban projects as a tweener forward on a team where the front court has all sorts of issues. Ryan Dunn has failed to develop offensively and has gone long stretches on the bench. Royce O’Neale is a traffic cone on defense, and Dillon Brooks’ on-court and off-court antics (and arrests) are a distraction. Karaban fills a need, and ticks the boxes for fitting the Suns’ vision for versatile, unselfish, high basketball IQ players who can hit the three. There is a chance he will still be available when the Suns make their pick.
NBA Comparisons
Georges Niang, Sam Hauser
Joshua Jefferson (Iowa State, Senior, PF)
Joshua Jefferson is a 6’9″, 240-pound versatile senior forward for Iowa State (formerly St. Mary’s), projected as a 2026 NBA Draft prospect. He is a highly skilled playmaker with elite passing vision and high IQ, frequently acting as a “point-forward”. He is also a reliable, efficient scorer in the paint (99th percentile, 73.9% at the rim) with an improving 3-point range. Defensively, he uses his strength to guard multiple positions and displays strong awareness (2.0+ SPG as a junior). Sixth in the nation in Box Plus Minus (13.4).
Elite Playmaking & Passing: Possesses “point-forward” vision, making advanced reads from the post, in the short-roll, and off the dribble.
Efficient Scorer: A high-level finisher at the rim (73.9%) and effective post-up player.
Versatile Defense & IQ: Uses a 6’9″ frame and 240-pound build to defend multiple positions with high, consistent effort.
High-Basketball IQ: Known for high-level “feel” and spatial awareness.
Weaknesses
Limited Verticality: Lacks elite vertical explosiveness, which limits his ceiling as a rim protector and finisher.
Foot Speed: While generally solid, he can struggle against exceptionally quick, smaller guards on the perimeter.
Shot Creation: Relies more on strength and finesse than explosive first-step quickness.
Age: Almost 23 by the time the 2026-2027 NBA season starts
Draft Range
Mid-to-late first round (18-27), though a few mocks have shown him slipping.
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Jefferson is one of the best defensive PFs in the draft. He comes with the 10th highest defensive Box Plus Minus (DBPM) in the NCAA, and the 6th highest BPM overall. He’s an interior scorer that the Suns lack, and his passing means that he would do well at finding the open man outside the three-point line. He generates a surprising number of steals for a big, and his passing for a power forward is top-tier, resulting in a remarkably high assist-to-turnover ratio. Again, he grades as a “high-IQ, high-energy” player that the Suns crave.
His lack of three-point shooting and elite athleticism are concerns, but he would bolster a weak Suns frontcourt. All that said, he is unlikely to fall all the way to the mid-second round. If he does, the Suns should take a long, hard look given his credentials. The primary knocks on him are his age, athleticism, and lack of a reliable (but improving) 3-point shot. For all of these reasons, I could see him slipping back to the Suns.
NBA Comparisons
Wendell Carter Jr., Jaylin Williams, Julius Ranlde, and Toumani Camara
Milan Momcilovic (Iowa State, Junior, SF/PF)
As a 22-year-old senior, Jefferson has improved his draft stock significantly by developing into a more consistent three-point shooter and reliable playmaker in Iowa State’s system. He is projected to be a 2026 NBA draft pick in the mid-to-late first round or early second round (Mock 23rd by Tankathon).
Milan Momcilovic is a 6’8″, 210-225-pound forward for Iowa State, recognized as a high-level shooter with elite touch from mid-range and 3-point range. He is a crafty offensive player with strong footwork and a quick release, often using a “Dirk-ish” fadeaway, though he lacks elite speed and strength. Scouts highlight his shooting, but have concerns about his on-ball defensive mobility and rebounding.
Elite Shooting: Possesses a very quick, high-release shot, shooting with high accuracy from 3-point range.
Offensive Skillset: Crafty in the post, utilizing pivot moves, footwork, and a high-arcing turnaround jumper.
High Basketball IQ: Understands spacing, moves well off the ball, and is a reliable passer.
Positional Size: At 6’8″, he has the size to play forward and space the floor, often described as a potential “stretch 4” or shooting wing.
Weaknesses
Athleticism/Lateral Quickness: Lacks elite run/jump ability, struggling to contain smaller guards or quick wings on defense.
Strength/Rebounding: Needs to add strength to defend against bigger players and improve his rebounding, which is considered low for his position.
One-Dimensionality: At this stage, his game is heavily reliant on shooting, leading to questions about his secondary offensive skills at the NBA level.
Draft Range
Mid-second round to undrafted
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Momcilovic brings one ultra-elite skill to the table: he is one of the best three-point shooters to ever emerge from the NCAA. The downside is he’s not great at anything else. If the Suns decide that they need a cheap replacement for Royce O’Neale, they could do worse than Momcilovic.
It’s also worth remembering that shooters who do nothing else on the court are still capable of carving out long careers for themselves (Kyle Korver and Luke Kennard come to mind). If he’s still available when the Suns pick, Milan strikes me as a low-risk, low-ceiling, WYSIWYG pick who will bring elite 3-point shooting with him to the NBA level. Given that most second round picks rarely last more than a few years, selecting a guy who stands a good chance of lasting a decade in the league seems like a solid way to go.
NBA Comparisons
Sam Hauser, Bojan Bogdanovic, Georges Niang
Baba Miller (Cincinnati, Senior, PF/C)
Baba Miller is a 6’11”, 215-pound forward with exceptional perimeter skills, length, and versatility for his size. Originally from Spain and developed through Real Madrid’s system, he is a fluid athlete with high-level basketball IQ, acting as a “point-forward” with strong passing instincts and capable of initiating fast breaks.
Perimeter Skills: Possesses advanced dribbling ability for a 6’11” player, allowing him to play as a guard, handle the ball in transition, and create for himself or others.
Defensive Versatility: Possesses a reported 7’2″ to 7’3″ wingspan, making him an effective rim protector, helper, and capable of guarding multiple positions, including covering guards on the perimeter.
High Basketball IQ: Demonstrates great awareness, quick decision-making, and high-level, unselfish play.
Shooting Potential: Shows promise as a floor spacer, with the ability to shoot from beyond the arc.
Weaknesses
Strength & Physicality: Needs to continue adding weight and strength to hold his spot in the post and withstand physical play.
Consistency in Shooting: While promising, his three-point shot needs to become more consistent
Offensive Aggression: Needs to be more aggressive offensively on a consistent basis.
Draft Range
Early-to-mid second round
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Baba Miller comes with two top-tier skills: total rebounding and defensive rebounding in particular. He’s also a fantastic passer for a big and draws fouls at a high rate. He’s not a three-point shooter, and his free throw percentage is “meh”. He’s an excellent defender in space and moves very well, which fits well with the Suns’ defensive schemes.
In many ways, I would regard him as similar to Oso Ighodaro, but a better rebounder and free throw shooter. He’s capable of playing power forward or center, and might prove a good insurance policy if the Suns don’t think they can re-sign Mark Williams.
NBA Comparisons
Jared Jeffries, Leonard Miller, Nerlens Noel, Oso Ighodaro if he could hit free throws and rebound
Pryce Sandfort (Nebraska, Junior, SF)
Pryce Sandfort (Nebraska) is a 6’7″, 215-pound sharpshooting wing with immense potential for the 2026 NBA Draft due to his elite 3-point shooting and high-efficiency offensive game. He excels as a high-volume shooter (nearly 48% 3P in conference play), proficient at attacking closeouts, with a very low turnover rate.
Shooting: Elite shooter with a quick release and deep range. He thrives in catch-and-shoot scenarios, often grading in the top tier nationally for efficiency.
Offensive Versatility: Beyond shooting, he can attack the rim, often finishing at a high rate (around 70%+ true shooting). He makes intelligent reads off the dribble and as a passer.
Efficiency: Shows remarkable efficiency with a low turnover percentage (6.7% TOV%), making him a low-mistake player.
Weaknesses
Defensive & Physicality: As a, at times, average-athleticism defender, he may face questions about his ability to defend quicker players at the next level. However, his positional size and length are beneficial, and he has shown improvement in disrupting plays.
Draft Range
Mid-second round to undrafted
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Sandfort is basically Koby Brea with a little more meat on him. His defensive numbers aren’t great, but he’s a high-volume, high-efficiency three-point shooter with many of the same qualities seen in Koby Brea. If the Suns want a redo on picking Brea, here’s their chance. Otherwise, there’s probably going to be at least one other player out there who’s a better prospect.
Juke Harris is a 6’7″ 200-pound wing known for his elite scoring jump, shooting efficiency (35.7% 3PT), and improved, high-volume production (20+ PPG). He is considered a “top-tier” shooter with significant physical tools, including a long wingspan and strong athleticism. He is regarded as a potential 2026 NBA Draft prospect, frequently mentioned as a “sleeper” or second-round talent with “boom or bust” potential.
Defensive Consistency: While athletic, he needs to improve off-ball attention and defensive consistency to become a reliable plus defender at the next level.
Physicality/Strength: Continued strength development will help him as a finisher and defender.
Draft Range
Juke’s stock has been rising, from 2nd round consideration to being a late-first to mid-second (25-45) high-risk, high-reward pick.
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Harris has some of the qualities the Suns have been seeking: he’s got a high wingspan to height ratio, he’s athletic, and he rebounds well for his position and size. He’s a capable scorer In a lot of ways, he reminds me of a bigger Jalen Green (both good and bad). He’s got some real deficiencies (particularly on defense), but he’s also young enough that improvement seems plausible. He was named ACC’s Most Improved Player, averaging a 15.6 PPG increase from the previous season.
NBA Comparisons
Caleb Martin
Henri Veesaar (North Carolina, Junior, PF/C)
Henri Veesaar (7’0″, 225 pounds) is a skilled Estonian center at North Carolina (transferred from Arizona) projected as a high-upside prospect for the 2026 NBA Draft. He is a mobile, pick-and-pop big with a high basketball IQ, solid shooting touch, and impressive rim and rim protection/finishing, though he needs to add strength to improve defensive consistency.
Stretch Big Ability: Veesaar has a developing 3-point shot, making him a threat to pick-and-pop.
Offensive Efficiency: He is a strong finisher at the rim, shooting over 75% there in recent action.
Mobility & IQ: He moves well for a 7-footer, displaying high-level passing, cutting, and intelligent movement within offensive sets.
Rim Protection: His length and timing make him an effective shot-blocker.
Offensive Rebounding: He is active on the glass, averaging high offensive rebound rates.
Weaknesses
Strength & Frame: Needs to add strength to handle physical post play, improve finishing through contact, and hold his ground defensively.
Defensive Consistency: While skilled, he can be foul-prone and struggles in space against quicker guards.
Consistency: Needs to stabilize his shooting percentages to be a reliable floor spacer at the next level.
Draft Range
Late-first to early second round, between 25 and 38 at the extremes.
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Veesaar offers a lot to love as a mobile PF/C who can hit the three at a high rate and isn’t afraid to take that shot. Recent drafts have shown the “skinny big who hits threes and is drafted late” like Maxime Renaud have a real place in the league.
He’s not as mobile as Baba Miller, but as a 7-footer who shoots threes and passes well, he would fit very well into a 5-out Suns lineup that features Rasheer Fleming at the 4. He’s unlikely to be there when the Suns draft, but if they found a way to move up a few slots, or he slips for some reason, the Suns would do well to take him for how well he fits team needs.
NBA Comparisons
Isaiah Hartenstein, Frank Kaminsky
Alex Condon (Florida, Junior, PF/C)
Alex Condon is a 6’11” (7’0.75″ wingspan) 225-pound Australian forward/center at Florida known as a high-motor, mobile “fixer” with excellent passing, rim protection, and defensive versatility.
High Motor/Mobility: Elite runner for a big man with impressive lateral quickness and fluid movement, allowing him to handle switch-heavy defensive coverages.
Passing & Feel: Displays high-level vision and “big-to-big” passing ability, acting as a connecting hub in the offense.
Defense & Rebounding: Strong rebounder and disruptive rim protector (approx. 1.3-1.4 blocks/game) with disciplined interior positioning.
Physicality: Plays with a physical edge and high toughness, honed from a background in Australian rules football.
Weaknesses
Offensive Polish: Limited offensive game; currently thrives mostly on cuts, offensive rebounds, and handoffs, lacking advanced post or isolation moves.
Perimeter Shooting: His 3-point shot remains a work in progress, and not improving
Size/Strength: While 6’11”, his wingspan is barely as wide as he is tall
Free Throw Shooting: Inconsistent at the line, often hitting in the 65% range.
Draft Range
Mock drafts have Condon going anywhere between 19 (USA Today) and 50 (NBA Draft Room). Averages out to the 38-41 range.
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Condon has improved his stats in every key category over three seasons at Florida. He’s a dirt worker, high-IQ, energy guy who often tends to find a way to stick in the league. The Suns could do a lot worse by bringing him in to fill a Jock Landale/Lou Amundson role to provide depth at the 4/5 position.
NBA Comparisons
Isaiah Hartenstein, James Augustine, Jock Landale
Zuby Ejiofor (St. John’s, Senior, PF/C)
Zuby Ejiofor (6’9″, 245 pounds) is a high-energy, physical senior forward/center widely regarded as a 2026 NBA Draft prospect and 2026 Big East DPOY. He thrives as an undersized rim protector with a 7’1″ wingspan, good rebounding ability (14.6 ORB%), and versatile defensive potential. He is considered a “glue guy” due to his high motor and improved passing.
Defensive Versatility: Strong, physical interior defender who can also switch onto guards in a high-switch scheme. Averaged 2.2 blocks and 1.2 steals in 2025-26.
Rebounding/Motor: Relentless on the boards, particularly on the offensive end, with a high-energy, high-motor style.
Passing/Playmaking: Surprisingly high assist rate for a big, showing ability to operate at the top of the key and find cutters or open shooters.
Physical Finisher: Strong rim runner who excels at put-backs and finishing with contact.
Weaknesses
Size Constraints: At 6’9″, he is slightly undersized for a pure NBA center, which may cause issues against elite 7-footers.
Perimeter Shooting: While improving, his 3-point shot (approx. 30% on low volume) is not yet a consistent weapon to pull opposing bigs out of the paint.
Off-ball Discipline: Can be lured out of position defensively by clever opposing offenses.
Draft Range
Ejiofor is widely projected to be a second-round pick, with some projections pushing him into the late first-round range due to his 2026 performance, where he won both Big East Player and Defensive Player of the Year. He is expected to be an energy big-man backup in the NBA.
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Ejiofor jumps off the page with how his advanced stats jump off the page. He was third in national BPM rankings (14.5), 8th in DBPM, and 10th in OBPM. Only Cameron Boozer and Yaxel Lendeborg rank higher. What keeps him from being a lottery pick is his size for playing center in college, the need to adapt to playing power forward in the NBA, and perimeter shooting.
However, there’s so much to like here as well. He’s a hustle and grit guy who also has good court awareness. He anticipates very well, leading to 3.5 APG and 3.4 stocks. He plays bigger than 6’9” due to his wingspan. His free throw shooting is good enough that he could plausibly improve in other areas (such as the mid-range).
Looking at his Tankathon profile, the thing that jumps out at me is that I’ve only seen one other second round pick with so many strong positives, and so few negatives (which single him out as being a slightly below average rebounder for his size, and being older than the ideal draft pick), and that was Rasheer Fleming (though Ejiofor has more positives than Fleming, which is saying a lot).
If Ejiofor is still on the board when the Suns make their pick, they’d be foolish not to roll the dice on a player that’s got so many of the intangibles the Suns are looking for.
NBA Comparisons
Xavier Tillman, Isaiah Stewart
JT Toppin (Texas Tech, Junior, PF)
JT Toppin is a highly productive, 6’9″ (230 pounds) power forward/center with a 7’0.5″ wingspan, known for his elite motor, rebounding, and interior finishing. Toppin projects as an energy big or “garbage man” scorer who thrives on cuts, putbacks, and defensive versatility.
Elite Rebounder & Motor: Toppin is regarded as one of the nation’s best rebounders, high-motored, and relentless on the offensive glass.
Finishing & Touch: Excellent finisher around the rim with both hands, especially on cuts and in the dunker spot (63.3% on cuts).
Defensive Versatility: Possesses quick feet for a big man, allowing him to switch onto guards effectively. He is a disruptive defender with good length (7’0.5″ wingspan) and shot-blocking capability (1.9 blocks per game as a freshman).
Improvement: Showed significant development from his freshman year at New Mexico to his sophomore year at Texas Tech, improving his free throw shooting from 56% to over 70%.
Weaknesses
Lack of Spacing: While he has shown flashes of a pick-and-pop game, he is not yet a consistent threat from 3-point range.
Size for Position: He is considered a “tweener” at 6’9″, potentially undersized to be a full-time NBA center, requiring him to play the 4 or improve his perimeter skills.
Playmaking: He has shown a tendency for a negative assist-to-turnover ratio, indicating a need for better feel and decision-making in his offensive game.
Defensive Discipline: Despite his athleticism, he can be prone to biting on pump fakes and overcommitting.
Draft Range
JT Toppin projects in the 25-40 range, but most likely 25-35. He probably would go higher than that if he had not torn his ACL in February 2026.
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
The Suns don’t have a lot of great options at PF. They also don’t have much in the way of cap space. Nor do they have much in the way of draft assets. JT Toppin is a first round talent who’s likely to fall into the second round due to his ACL injury. If other teams are scared away by the length of his recovery, the Suns should take a long-term view and pick him up. I look at Toppin as one of the most likely people to fall in the draft through no fault of their own, making him one of the best potential “value picks” possible. On top of that, his stocks and hustle make him a good fit with the Suns’ overall philosophy of what sort of players they want.
NBA Comparisons
Larry Nance Jr. or Jarred Vanderbilt with better offensive touch.
Bruce Thornton (Ohio State, Senior, PG)
Bruce Thornton is a 6’2″, 215-pound point guard known as a “master of control” with high-level efficiency, elite ball security, and a strong, stocky frame. He is a consistent three-level scorer (50% FG, 42% 3PT in 2024-25) who excels in the pick-and-roll, plays physically, and acts as a safe, high-IQ floor general. While sometimes limited by his height and lack of elite burst, he is projected as a 2026 second-round pick.
Offensive Efficiency: A highly controlled and efficient scorer, often working with a 50/40/85+ shooting split.
Physicality & Strength: Known as a “running back” built guard who can absorb contact at the rim and hold his own against larger opponents on defense.
Elite Decision Making: Possesses a very high assist-to-turnover ratio (3.15 in 2025-26) and operates pick-and-roll at an NBA level.
Mid-range & Floater Game: Excellent at operating within the mid-range with a high-level floater and pull-up jump shot.
Defensive Intensity: A tenacious on-ball defender who plays with high intensity and uses his strength to disrupt ball handlers.
Weaknesses
Undersized for NBA: At 6’2″, he lacks the ideal height and length for a modern NBA guard, which may limit his defensive versatility.
Lack of Elite Burst: Relies more on strength and timing than quick acceleration, making it difficult to create separation against top-tier athletic defenders.
Fastbreak Scoring: Struggles to generate points in high-tempo, open-court situations.
Age: He is 22.5 years old as of early 2026, which limits his upside
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Nothing about Thornton immediately stands out as something elite. However, when you dive a little deeper into his statistics, you see that this isn’t true. For a point guard, Thornton is elite in a lot of areas, including two-point field goal percentage, true-shooting percentage, offensive rating, assist-to-turnover ratio, turnovers, rebounding, and three-point field goal percentage. He gets these numbers while shooting at a high volume from both inside and outside the arc. I’m not bothered by his middling assist rate: he makes smart passes, runs an offense extremely effectively, and was 30th in the nation in scoring while shooting a ridiculous 62.6% EFG and 66.5% TS.
While many writers have bemoaned his 6’2” stature, that’s an inch off the “ideal”. Unlike many other “smaller” point guards, his running back frame makes it impossible for other guards to simply push him out of the way.
There’s also his “almost intangibles” measured by his plus/minus metrics. Thornton was 8th in the nation in total Box Plus Minus (BPM), and 4th in Offensive BPM. This tells me that on offense, Thornton does all the “little things” that make his team better, along with things that show up in traditional stats. His defense is just ok, but his high motor, high basketball IQ, and strength to fight through screens will prevent him from being a complete minus the way Tyus Jones was. My opinion is that Thornton has the tools to be another Colin Gillespie-type player: borderline starter on a good team that will be available late in the second round.
NBA Comparisons
Jalen Brunson, Jevon Carter
Rueben Chinyelu (Florida, Junior, PF/C)
Rueben Chinyelu (6’10”, 265 pounds) is a high-motor, physical Florida Gators center and 2026 NBA Draft prospect known as an elite rebounder and rim protector with a massive 7’8″ wingspan. He projects as a “Bismack Biyombo-type” energy big, offering immense strength, defensive versatility, and finishing ability, though he is currently limited offensively outside the paint.
Physicality & Motor: Chinyelu has an NBA-ready frame with elite strength and high-intensity energy, making him a dominant presence in the paint.
Defense & Rim Protection: He is an exceptional defender with great verticality, lateral agility to switch on the perimeter, and shot-blocking ability.
Rebounding: He is considered one of the best rebounders in college basketball, regularly posting double-doubles.
Weaknesses
Offense: Limited to playing around the basket. He excels at dunks and offensive putbacks but lacks a consistent perimeter shot.
Decision making: Needs to refine his offensive game, improve decision-making under pressure (0.7 A:TO ratio), and manage foul trouble.
Why the Suns Should Take a Look
Chinyelu projects as a Suns kind of role-player. He has an insane wingspan ratio and plays taller than he is, meaning that he can switch and recover like a 6’10” player, and block shots like a guy who’s closer to 7’2”. He has a standing reach of 9’4” inches, which is only 2 inches less than Khaman Maluach, who is also known for having a ridiculous vertical reach.
He’s also known as a “maximum effort” player who is aggressive almost to a fault, though this has improved in his Junior year. Chinyelu is like Momcilovic: he has a generational-level elite skill in one area. While Momcilovic may be the best three-point shooter to come out of college hoops in a decade, Rueben Chinyelu is the best per-36 rebounder in a decade as well. To put it in comparison, his RPM per minute is on par with Dennis Rodman at his peak.
The reason I include both players on this list is that rebounding and three-point shooting (along with free throw percentage) tend to be the skills that translate most readily to the NBA.
The other sneaky thing I like about him is the improvement he’s shown every year in college. This is guy who isn’t just getting better every year, it’s in every area and by leaps and bounds. This guy is not done improving. He’s from Nigeria and took up the game later than most, meaning that he has more “upside” than most players his age as he learns the game.
NBA Comparisons
A bigger Bismack Biyombo if he were an average free throw shooter. Or, Clint Capela with better mobility and free throw shooting.
Final Analysis
Given all of these factors, if I had a draft board that ranks who I would take if they’re available, this is how it would shake out:
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
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
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.
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
The NBA Draft is 89 days away, set for June 24, and although the league now stretches it into a two day event, it looks like the Suns will be waiting until day two before they are on the clock in the second round. That leaves plenty of time to do your own scouting, form your own opinions on these prospects, and change your mind five different times before draft night finally gets here.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are almost through their gauntlet of a March schedule.
They're coming off an emotional 4-3 shootout win over the Ottawa Senators on Thursday and will return home to face the Dallas Stars on Saturday. This will be the second of two meetings between the Penguins and Stars this season after the Stars won 3-2 in a shootout back on Dec. 7.
The Stars are one of two teams to have already clinched a playoff spot and are among the best in the league. However, they're on a four-game losing streak coming into this game.
The Stars are set to get star forward Mikko Rantanen back from injury on Saturday after missing the last month. He was injured during the Olympics while representing Team Finland and has been awesome this year, scoring 20 goals and 69 points in 54 games.
Jason Robertson leads the Stars in points with 85 in 72 games and also has 39 goals. He's set to get quite the pay increase for his next contract since he's slated to be a restricted free agent this summer.
Wyatt Johnston leads the team in goals with 40 and also has 78 points in 72 games. He's the Stars' top-line center and does it all for them.
The Stars are blessed to have two top defensemen on their backend in Miro Heiskanen and Thomas Harley. Heiskanen is one of the five best defensemen on the planet and is elite in all three zones. He's also a one-man breakout.
Harley is a great puck-mover and can score fairly well. Coming into this season, he finished the last two years with at least 15 goals.
The Penguins' lines are up in the air for this game, as it's unclear whether Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin will be available.
Puck drop is set for 5 p.m. ET on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Fans can also listen to the game on 105.9 'The X.'
SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 6: Jacob Latz #67 of the Texas Rangers participates in a fielding drill prior to a Spring Training game against the Seattle Mariners at Surprise Stadium on March 6, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Texas Rangers lineup for March 28, 2026 against the Philadelphia Phillies: starting pitchers are Jacob Latz for the Rangers and Aaron Nola for the Phillies.
The Rangers look to win their first game of the year and get to a .500 record on a chilly day in Philadelphia this afternoon. Jacob Latz is filling in for Jacob deGrom, who is dealing with neck stiffness.
The lineup:
Nimmo — RF
Langford — LF
Seager — SS
Burger — 1B
Pederson — DH
Smith — 2B
Jung — 3B
Carter — CF
Jansen — C
3:05 p.m. Central start time. Rangers are +125 underdogs.
There’s an “anything is possible” vibe to MLB’s Opening Weekend, and Saturday’s slate features several teams looking to derail the Los Angeles Dodgers’ bid for a three-peat.
That group includes the Toronto Blue Jays, and my MLB player props target a strong outing from Dylan Cease, as well as a wager on Fernando Tatis Jr. to kickstart his season.
Dylan Cease takes the ball for the Toronto Blue Jays this afternoon, and he’s facing an Athletics' offense that managed just three hits last night against Kevin Gausman and the Blue Jays bullpen.
I expect Cease to settle in quickly after pitching five scoreless innings to wrap up his Spring Training prep, and he has strong numbers against the A's top hitters. Shea Langeliers, Brent Rooker, and Tyler Soderstrom are a combined 3-for-20 against the right-hander.
Cease will get some leeway to pitch through jams, and John Schneider would surely like to get six innings out of his newest weapon.
Tatis Jr. has an eye-catching 7-for-13 career record against Flaherty, including four doubles and two homers, and the Tigers starter could be vulnerable after posting a 4.64 ERA in 2025.
The Padres need a spark from their talisman, and Tatis's speed on the basepaths is a recipe for extra-base hits. I’ll take the even odds for him to deliver.
Time: 8:40 p.m. ET
Where to watch: Detroit SportsNet, Padres TV
Matt Olson Over 1.5 Hits + Runs + RBI [-125]
The Atlanta Braves are off to a winning start after a thumping 6-0 victory last night, and Matt Olson wasted no time padding his stat line. The lefty slugger had two hits and a run in the opener, and he’s poised for a similar impact today.
Olson has a .600 batting average in five at-bats against Kansas City Royals righty Michael Wacha, and he’s in a favorable spot in the Atlanta lineup, with Ronald Acuna Jr. and Ozzie Albies hitting ahead of him and Austin Riley looming behind.
I like this price for Olson to help the Braves keep the scoreboard ticking tonight.
Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
Where to watch: FOX
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.
It’s a Pacific Division showdown tonight at the Scotiabank Saddledome as the Vancouver Canucks visit the Calgary Flames, with puck drop scheduled for 10 p.m. ET.
Matt Coronato is setting up goals left and right at the moment, and my Canucks vs. Flames predictions are eyeing him to keep it rolling.
Canucks vs Flames best bet: Matt Coronato Over 0.5 assists (+200)
Matt Coronato has been one of the Calgary Flames’ top producers, tallying 20 helpers. He’s cashed the Over in three straight appearances, and all of those games were at home. The 23-year-old has also hit the Over in assists in four of his previous six contests.
Against the Vancouver Canucks this season, Coronato has one helper in two meetings. He’s also been a mile better at Scotiabank Saddledome in 2025-26, registering 14 of his 20 helpers in 36 games.
The Canucks have allowed nine goals across their last two games. Coronato will play his part in setting up a goal.
Canucks vs Flames same-game parlay
Blake Coleman is averaging 2.51 SOG this season for the Flames, and he’s cashed the Over in back-to-back games. He had three shots on target against the Anaheim Ducks, and five against the Tampa Bay Lightning – two good teams.
The Canucks are 28th in the NHL in SOG allowed, and he’s notched five shots on net versus Vancouver across two meetings in ‘25-26.
The Flames have won four of their last five, beating the likes of St. Louis, Florida, and Tampa. They beat the Canucks 5-2 in their last meeting at Rogers Arena, and Vancouver is struggling, losing four in a row.
With Calgary still in the Wild Card race, every game is important right now. They will deliver.
The Calgary Flames have hit the Moneyline in 5 of their last 6 games at home (+5.65 Units / 92% ROI). Find more NHL betting trends for Canucks vs. Flames.
How to watch Canucks vs Flames
Location
Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, AB
Date
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Puck drop
10:00 p.m. ET
TV
CBC
Canucks vs Flames 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.
LOSING ISN’T EVERYTHING: Last season, in games following a loss, the Cubs were 46-24, a winning percentage of .657. Following a win, they were 46-45, .505. (There was no game following their season-ending win.) As the home team last year, following a loss, the Cubs were 19-12, .613, with one of the losses coming in Tokyo. On the road, following a loss, they were 27-12, .692. (Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)
AGAINST THE NATS: The Cubs are 317-336 all-time vs. Washington (since 1969, including the franchise’s time in Montreal). That includes going 173-157 at Wrigley Field, including Thursday’s game. The Cubs are 11-5 vs. the Nationals since July 18, 2023, including a seven-game winning streak from July 18, 2023-Sept. 20, 2024.
ABS: There were two challenges in Thursday’s game, both by the Nats. They won one and lost one.
ALL-TIME CUBS: 2,281 men have played for the Cubs since 1876. That includes the four new Cubs who played for the first time in the uniform on Opening Day: Alex Bregman, Michael Conforto, Hoby Milner and Jacob Webb.
Cade Horton had a magnificent rookie season, especially his last 12 starts, in which he posted a 1.03 ERA and 0.783 WHIP. His only start vs. the Nats last year came before that 12-start run, June 3 in Washington. He still had a good outing, three runs (one earned) in 5.1 innings.
I daresay Horton is better than that now.
Hello, old friend Miles Mikolas!
I was almost certain Mikolas was going to retire after 2025, which would have meant his start Sept. 26 against the Cubs at Wrigley Field would have been it. Three Cubs (Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson, Michael Busch) homered off him that day.
But here he is, back for another go-around in MLB, this year with the Nats. Mikolas was also the guy who allowed six of the Cubs’ team-record eight home runs last July 4 at Wrigley, so of the 14 hits the Cubs got off him last year, nine were home runs. The 29 home runs he allowed last year were the fourth-most in the NL (two fewer than Shōta Imanaga).
Perhaps today is the day the Cubs can go deep at Wrigley Field. Plus, y’know… Mikolas makes such a good baseball villain.
The pitch selection charts below are from last year.
Please visit our SB Nation Nationals site Federal Baseball. If you do go there to interact with Nationals 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.
The Phoenix Suns host the Utah Jazz tonight at Mortgage Matchup Center as the home team looks to get back on track in the win column.
The Utah Jazz are actively trying to lose games, but my Jazz vs. Suns predictions expect the visiting squad to keep the game somewhat close and cover a huge spread.
Here are my best free NBA picks for this Western Conference matchup on Saturday, March 28.
Jazz vs Suns prediction
Jazz vs Suns best bet: Jazz +16.5 (-110)
Tanking has gotten so out of hand that spreads this large aren’t surprising anymore, and no team has refined the art of the tank better than the Utah Jazz. Utah’s young rotation players continue to play competitive basketball despite leading scorers, rebounders, and facilitators missing significant time.
Utah has either lost by less than 17 points or outright won eight of its last 10 games, including a close loss to the Nuggets on Friday. The Jazz are 18-17 ATS on the road and 16-16 as the road underdog. Utah is 3-1 ATS as an underdog of 10+ points on the road.
The Phoenix Suns haven’t played well enough as of late to be favored by 17 points. The Suns are 7-3 ATS across their last 10 games, but Phoenix is just 4-6 straight up and won only one game by 17 or more points.
Phoenix is just 10-11 ATS as the home favorite and 2-2 when favored by at least 10 points at home.
Phoenix has the rest advantage tonight, as the Jazz are playing the second leg of a back-to-back set. Bettors shouldn’t be concerned, as the Jazz are 8-6 ATS on no rest. I’ll take the shorthanded Jazz to keep this game within punching distance and cover a monstrously large spread.
Jazz vs Suns same-game parlay
The Jazz play at a fast pace and play very little defense. Utah has hit the Over in eight of its last 10 games, and Phoenix has done so five times in that span. The point total is set a bit low tonight, so I lean the Over.
Kyle Filipowski has averaged 13.2 points in 35 games as a starter, scoring 13+ 20 times. Over his last 10, he's averaged 14.5 points and hit the Over five times. In that 10-game span, the big man has corralled 8.6 rebounds, going for 8+ six times, including three of his last four.
He’s the last man standing in Utah’s decimated frontcourt, and he’s made the most of his opportunities as the team’s starting center.
Jazz vs Suns SGP
Jazz +16.5
Over 230
Kyle Filipowski Over 12.5 points
Kyle Filipowski Over 7.5 rebounds
Our "from downtown" SGP: Youth Gone Wild!
Utah's young scorers have stepped up in a big way down the stretch, and they'll need to continue scoring at a high level to stay competitive with Phoenix.
Brice Sensabaugh finished with just 13 points in Friday's loss to the Nuggets, but he scored 21+ in six straight games before that dud while averaging a robust 28 points.
Ace Bailey has averaged 25 points across his last five games, scoring 18+ three times in that span.
Jazz vs Suns SGP
Kyle Filipowski Over 12.5 points
Kyle Filipowski Over 7.5 rebounds
Brice Sensabaugh Over 20.5 points
Ace Bailey Over 17.5 points
Jazz vs Suns odds
Spread: Jazz +16.5 | Suns -16.5
Moneyline: Jazz +800 | Suns -1300
Over/Under: Over 230 | Under 230
Jazz vs Suns betting trend to know
The Phoenix Suns have only covered the 4Q Spread in 14 of their last 40 games (-16.55 Units / -35% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Jazz vs. Suns.
How to watch Jazz vs Suns
Location
Mortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix, AZ
Date
Saturday, March 28, 2026
Tip-off
10:00 p.m. ET
TV
NBA TV
Jazz vs Suns 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.
PARIS (AP) — Senegal players paraded the Africa Cup of Nations trophy in front of thousands of fans on Saturday, despite the Confederation of African Football's decision to strip the country of the title and award it to Morocco.
Ahead of a friendly match against Peru at Stade de France, Senegal players led by captain Kalidou Koulibaly took to the pitch with the trophy as part of pre-game celebrations.
The Senegalese Football Association had announced it would present the Africa Cup trophy to its fans before the game in the Paris suburb of Saint-Denis. Paris has a significant Senegalese community.
Earlier this week in the French capital, Senegalese FA president Abdoulaye Fall said Senegal was the victim of “ the most grossly unfair administrative robbery” in the history of soccer and pledged that the country would defend its players’ “honor” at the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Senegal is challenging CAF's surprise ruling last week to strip the team of the title won in a chaotic final in January and give it to host nation Morocco.
Senegal’s legal team said the country still considers itself the champion of Africa. The CAF ’s appeals board ruled that Senegal is “declared to have forfeited the final” and its 1-0 win in extra time became a 3-0 default win for Morocco. The rationale was that Senegal players led by their coach had left the field in protest when Morocco was awarded a penalty, leading to a 15-minute stoppage.
Senegal’s appeal to be reinstated as champion was registered this week by CAS, which set no timetable for a likely long process toward a verdict. The appeal was promised by the Senegalese government, which also called for an international investigation “into suspected corruption” within CAF.
An appeal to CAS can typically take months to schedule a hearing then weeks or months more to announce a verdict. Senegal’s lawyers, however, will ask CAS to open an expedited procedure and hope the Moroccan federation and the CAF agree so that the case can be dealt with within two months.
SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 10: Starting pitcher Jacob Degrom #48 of the Texas Rangers pitches against the Chicago Cubs during the second inning of the spring training game at Surprise Stadium on March 10, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Jacob deGrom, scheduled to start in this afternoon’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies, has been scratched due to neck stiffness, it has been announced. Jacob Latz will start in his place.
Whoever used a monkey paw wish on Latz being in the rotation needs to have their ass beat right now.
deGrom, who turns 38 in June, has had injury issues in the past, but this would at first glance to be the sort of one-off thing that happens occasionally. The beats are saying that this is not thought to be anything serious, and he could potentially start at some point in the six game road trip the team is currently on.
The good news is that Jacob Latz was stretched out this spring as part of his competing for a spot in the starting rotation, and with only three relievers pitching on Thursday and an off day yesterday, the bullpen should be fully rested with everyone available.
LOS ANGELES — The two biggest offseason acquisitions by the two-time defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers are paying dividends already.
Edwin Diaz earned his first save in his debut and Kyle Tucker singled in the go-ahead run in the eighth inning of a 5-4 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday night.
Diaz trotted out in the ninth to the sounds of trumpeter Tatiana Tate, who tooted from the stands next to the left field bullpen. Wearing Diaz’s No. 3 jersey, she played Timmy Trumpet’s “Narcos,” the closer’s entrance song that electrified New York Mets fans before the Dodgers lured the fan favorite away on a three-year, $69 million deal.
“It’s really cool because it’s another way to keep the fans involved in the game until the ninth inning because they’re all going to be waiting for that,” infielder Miguel Rojas said. “Having Sugar in the ninth is always going to be special.”
However, fans may be hearing a recorded version of Diaz’s music next time. Tate, who has played with Stevie Wonder and Doechii, isn’t expected to be a regular presence during the season.
Díaz struck out two and walked one. He converted 28 of 31 save chances for the Mets last season.
“I always get a little bit nervous when I come into the game, but at the end of the day I was excited, too,” Diaz said. “I come in a one-run game was really big for me. I want to set it down the second day of the season, help this team to win, get the save and keep going.”
The Dodgers won back-to-back World Series championships without a true closer, although at times it was a rocky road. The last pitcher to fill that role was Kenley Jansen, who twice led the National League in saves during his spell in Los Angeles.
Now, Diaz provides dependability, a track record and a level of trust at the back of the bullpen.
“It’s going to be a lot on Sugar because he’s going to have to be under a lot of pressure,” Rojas said, “but he’s done it before. He’s the right guy for the task.”
Manager Dave Roberts initially didn’t think the Dodgers had a chance to land Diaz in free agency after the right-hander opted out of the final two years and $38 million of his contract with the Mets.
Roberts got off a 45-minute video call with Diaz and front office executives, and told his wife, “We’re going to get him.”
“It was selling ourselves and talking about how much we valued him and the culture of the team and the ownership and how we’ll do anything to win,” Roberts recalled. “He talked to his wife and convinced her moving West was a good decision.”
Another factor that played in the Dodgers’ favor, Roberts believes, is that Diaz’s younger brother, Alexis, had joined the Dodgers last May as a reliever. He is currently in the Texas Rangers organization.
“Calling him up from the minors and us treating him like a superstar, I think that kind of helped make that decision and comfort going forward,” Roberts said.
The attraction for Diaz was simple: “A lot of good players here. Everyone stays healthy, this team has a chance to win a three-peat,” he said.
Tucker went 1-for-3 with the game-winning single and a stolen base. In his debut on Thursday, the right fielder notched his first hit and first RBI in an 8-2 comeback victory. He signed a four-year, $240 million deal to leave the Chicago Cubs.
“I’m excited for them to have the opportunity to play in this environment and feel part of the family,” Rojas said. “I’m pretty sure they’re looking closely at how fun it’s been.”
PORTLAND, OR - MARCH 27: Marvin Bagley III #35 of the Dallas Mavericks dunks the ball during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on March 27, 2026 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. 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 Jaden Coleman/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Dallas Mavericks travelled to the northwest to take on the Portland Trailblazers Friday night. The Mavs have officially been eliminated from Playoff contention, while the Blazers have clinched a spot in at least the Play In tournament. Despite having nothing to play for, Dallas got the 100-93 win.
Let’s get to the grades!
Cooper Flagg: B+
24 PTS / 3 REB / 2 AST / 4 STL / 0 BLK – 38 MIN
Flagg nailed 9-of-17 overall and had sticky hands to net himself a whopping four steals. His rebounding and assist totals were lower than we normally see, but this was still a very solid game if not for a few turnovers (three).
Max Christie: C-
5 PTS / 3 REB / 2 AST / 1 STL / 2 BLK – 25 MIN
If it wasn’t for everything but scoring, Christie likely would have been a “D” Friday night. His 1-for-8 shooting was somewhat mind-boggling, especially after having found his rhythm over the past few games. Nice job doing some other things, including blocking shots.
Naji Marshall: A-
19 PTS / 3 REB / 3 AST / 5 STL / 0 BLK – 33 MIN
Marshall connected on 7-of-14 from the floor and had an insane number of steals, somehow outdoing Flagg’s exceptional performance in that category. This was a very nice, well-rounded game in which Marshall contributed to a long-awaited win.
P.J. Washington: C+
5 PTS / 5 REB / 0 AST / 0 STL / 0 BLK – 27 MIN
Washington no-showed this one to a large degree, which was more disappointing that it otherwise would have been, given how well he played last game. There just simply isn’t much to say about this one.
Dwight Powell: C+
4 PTS / 5 REB / 3 AST / 1 STL / 0 BLK – 21 MIN
Powell was Powell, giving the team a solid effort in limited minutes, but he also had some slightly inordinate negatives on the ledger. His total assists stand out, and he was 2-for-3 from the floor, but he bricked his only two free throw attempts and had three turnovers and three fouls.
Marvin Bagley: A+
26 PTS / 9 REB / 3 AST / 1 STL / 1 BLK – 27 MIN
Bagley had his highest scoring quarter of the season in the first, with 11 points, en route to his season high point total. He led the team in points, rebounds and assists (the latter of which he tied for the lead) and drilled 11-for-14 from the floor, including 3-for-5 from deep. Bagley was the best player on the floor and there is no chance the Mavs win without his efforts Friday night.
Final Thoughts
The Mavs don’t need to win, but they sure did need a win. It’s been a while since they’ve been on the positive side of an outcome and while it doesn’t help their draft position to win, it’s nice to see guys who work so hard every night get a taste of victory. Kudos to Flagg for a nice game, and to Bagley for serving as a one man gang.
I invite you to follow me @_80MPH on X, and check back often at Mavs Moneyball for all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MARCH 26: Ronald Holland II #5 high fives Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons during the second quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Little Caesars Arena on March 26, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. 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 Nic Antaya/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Detroit Pistons and Minnesota Timberwolves will be without their go-to options in tonight’s matchup. Detroit travels to Minnesota after torching the New Orleans Pelicans.
Jalen Duren (questionable) has done his part as the first option. He is averaging 26.5 points and 10.7 rebounds while shooting 86 percent from the charity stripe since Cade Cunningham’s absence. Duren has also picked up the slack in ways Cade flourishes.
Minnesota may be without Anthony Edwards, but this is a squad that just became the first team to overcome a 10-point deficit in overtime in the play-by-play era. Edwards didn’t suit up for that one. The Timberwolves don’t draw dead without their star.
Game Vitals
Where: Target Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
When: 5:30 PM
Watch: ABC/ Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons (-1.5)
Analysis
Duren has not just dominated in the paint. He showed off skill work against the Pelicans.
For starters, this modern-day step tap tap back is not in a lot of centers’ arsenal. Duren pulled this off against a past-his-prime defender, but this can be a good counter when teams pack the paint.
That is exactly what teams have done to combat Duren’s dominance. His playmaking for others has seen an uptick during this stretch as he has seen more bodies. Duren almost had a triple-double, notching a season-high seven assists in the last outing.
Kevin Huerter was one of the main beneficiaries of Duren’s passing. Huerter had his best offensive game as a Piston, knocking down four 3s. Huerter contributes doing the little things, but flame on shooting will keep him on the floor. It is hard to deny him when he is scrapping on defense, knocking down range shots, and making closeouts look silly.
Newly acquired Timberwolves combo guard Ayo Dosunmu would usually take a matchup like Huerter, but he is out with a calf injury. He has been a godsend for Minny. They have needed more ball handling around Edwards, and Dosunmu is more than solid.
The Timberwolves will be without Jaden McDaniels. He is their version of Ausar Thompson, who is questionable. Both are lanky, versatile, cream of the crop defenders who opponents hate to see coming. Ausar is more susceptible to blowing up plays off the ball, which takes his defensive value to another level. On the ball, Ausar is a different animal, too.
There is not a stickier on-ball defender than No. 9 in Detroit. The way he recovers to remain unscreenable is one of one stuff. Once you are in Ausar’s sight, you are his.
Julius Randle could see a lot of Ausar as Ausar just battled with a similar beast in Zion Williamson. Ausar takes on all archetypes.
The Pistons will need to crack the Rudy Gobert code. He is quietly having another dominant defensive year. Kevin Durant thought Gobert was easy work in isolation, but he got put in a box in the clutch. Duren has the strength and skill to handle Gobert. That is a good test for the Pistons All-Star.
You can not discuss Detroit without acknowledging the work Daniss Jenkins is putting in. The fearless point guard from Dallas is averaging 20 points and eight assists while sporting a 61 true shooting percentage over the last five games. He buried five 3s as Detroit was scorching against the Pelicans (15-28 from 3).
I expect to see a lot of full-court pressure from Jenkins (and Marcus Sasser if he plays) on Timberwolves guards like Bones Hyland.
The Hyland resurgence has been cool to see. He’s rangy with certified handles. Accountability and defensive buy-in keep him on the floor, but he’s dealing with different types of defenders tonight.
Detroit does more than get stops; they’re trying to take your basketball soul and make you double-think if you belong in this league with their defensive tenacity. Detroit looks to keep that intensity up against the Timberwolves, who are 4-1 over the last five without Edwards.
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 27, 2026: Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Díaz (3) leaves the bullpen to pitch the ninth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium on March 27, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES — Edwin Díaz has been one of the best closers in baseball for several years, and he has perhaps the most distinctive entrance in the sport.
When ‘Narco,’ the song long used by Díaz when he comes into games, played on Friday night at Dodger Stadium, in his first appearance with the Dodgers, the All-Star right-hander was accompanied by a live trumpet player playing along with the song.
“I heard a trumpet sound before I was coming out and said, ‘No way, they got a live trumpet,’” Díaz said after the game, after he worked around a one-out walk with a two-strikeout scoreless ninth inning to preserve the Dodgers’ 5-4 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks.
“That was great,” manager Dave Roberts said of the trumpet-infused entrance for Díaz. “I was hoping to get him in there, and it worked out, and he performed.”
The trumpet player on Friday night at Dodger Stadium was Tatiana Tate, a musician based in Los Angeles. It’s unclear how often the Dodgers will have a live trumpet player accompanying Díaz’s entrances, but most likely it will be only occasional.
Four seasons ago, the Dodgers saw firsthand how electric the live music could be for one of Díaz’s entrances. Timmy Trumpet, co-writer and performer of ‘Narco,’ played live trumpet at Citi Field in 2022 in a New York Mets win over the Dodgers.
“It was fun, I enjoyed it, and I know the fans enjoyed it too,” Díaz said Friday night after his Dodgers debut.
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - MARCH 25: Julian Reese #15 of the Washington Wizards handles the ball during the game against the Utah Jazz on March 25, 2026 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Thank you for your responses to this week’s SB Nation NBA Reacts survey. Here are the results.
In our Washington Wizards survey, we asked you whether you believed the team would ultimately clinch an NBA record 29 game losing streak. If that were happen, that streak would have stretched into next season where Washington would have an 0-2 start. Only 22 percent of our respondents believed that the Wizards would sink that low.
Now, thankfully, the question is moot now. That’s because the Wizards won last Wednesday against the Utah Jazz.
In our national survey, respondents were asked which NBA team should move to the Eastern Conference if the NBA expands. Thirty seven percent each selected the Memphis Grizzlies and the Minnesota Timberwolves as the teams most likely to go to the Eastern Conference. The NBA is likely going to expand to Seattle and Las Vegas which would both be Western Conference teams. In a 32 team NBA, that would require one Western team to be placed in the Eastern Conference.
Dylan Cease
Fernando Tatis Jr.
Matt Olson
