Episode 27 of Hockey, Actually is filled with milestone chatter as Izzy and Nicolleta talk about Evander Kane’s 1000th NHL game as well as Brock Boeser and Elias Pettersson both climbing their way up the franchise’s record lists. After discussing Canucks Head Coach Adam Foote’s approach to the season, the two talk about Vancouver’s young Canucks and their extracurricular fighting practice. The episode wraps with some early regular-season awards for both the Canucks and the Goldeneyes.
Continue reading for timestamps as well as a link to episode 27.
0:50 — Milestone Chatter: Kane’s 1000, Boeser and Pettersson
0:56 — Evander Kane plays in his 1000th NHL game
1:54 — Brock Boeser becomes ninth all-time in points by a Canuck
2:38 — Elias Pettersson hits 500 points, registers ninth-most power play points by a Canuck
Mar 28, 2026; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames right wing Adam Klapka (43) get into a scrum with Vancouver Canucks players during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
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DALLAS, TX - OCTOBER 11: Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks is guarded by Kon Knueppel #7 of the Charlotte Hornets during a pre-season game on October 11, 2025 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. 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 2025 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
While the Mavericks haven’t given much to dig into over the last several weeks through their play, the development of Cooper Flagg remains priority. Along with that priority is a focus from the organization on securing the Rookie of the Year award for Flagg. Head coach Jason Kidd spoke about it pregame recently:
“I think it’s a big priority that the organization pays attention to this. But it’s not just the organization. This is a partnership, and Cooper has to be able to do his part. And he’s doing his part. He’s having a historic year as a rookie. When you put his numbers up against past rookies who have won the award, it’s clear-cut that it’s not even close that he is the one that will win Rookie of the Year.”
DALLAS, TEXAS – JANUARY 29: Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks and Kon Knueppel #7 of the Charlotte Hornets talk after the game at American Airlines Center on January 29, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. 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 Sam Hodde/Getty Images) | Getty Images
There’s been a back and forth between media and fanbases about this year’s rookie race. Flagg is averaging 20.3 points (1st among rookies), 6.5 rebounds (3rd), and 4.6 assists (1st) in 63 games this season. Those numbers have improved over the season, especially after a slow start while playing full time at point guard for the first time in his career. Since the end of January Flagg has boosted his scoring average to 23.6 points over 20 games, increasing across the board including a steal and a block per game.
But Charlotte Hornets sharpshooter Kon Knueppel has many fans across the league. He’s impressive, no doubt, having a historically efficient season offensively on a team currently in the play-in picture. His win-share outpaces the rest of the rookies considerably. And he’s second, seventh, and eighth in the above categories.
Knueppel also has a very defined role. He does not carry the burden Flagg does to generate offense for others, who often plays out of position and without a true point guard. So it’s really a “both things can be true” debate. Both players are playing at historic levels. Both players project to have monster careers. Kidd said as much:
“Everybody has their opinion on the vote, of popularity, of what the trend is. And so nothing against Knueppel. He’s having a heck of a season, too. But when you look at the numbers, just the strict numbers, Cooper’s are as good as anybody’s.”
It remains to be seen how the voting shakes out. A close race will not be surprising, and could go either way. And the result will not define either player’s career. But it’s encouraging to hear Kidd’s stance on the organization’s accountability to support Flagg.
Feb 20, 2026; Surprise, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen (22) and right fielder Jac Caglianone (14) in the dugout prior to the game against the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The beginning of the season is often a time for signing young, pre-free agency-eligible players to long-term deals. Teams have increasingly become more aggressive signing players just as their careers are beginning, and in some cases, before they have even made their big league debuts.
This week, the Brewers signed infield prospect Cooper Pratt to an eight-year, $50.75 million deal, before he has even reached Triple-A. Pratt is ranked as the #62 prospect in baseball by MLB Pipeline, but hit just .238/.343/.348 with eight home runs and 31 steals in Double-A last year. Meanwhile, the Mariners signed shortstop prospect Colt Emerson to an eight-year, $95 million deal. He has a better pedigree as the #7 prospect in baseball, and hit .285/.383/.458 with 16 home runs across three levels in the minors.
The teams are taking some risk, as neither player has made their MLB debut or reached their 22nd birthday. But if they become superstars, the team could save a lot of money, plus keep the player beyond when they would have been eligible for free agency.
Should the Royals do the same with their young hitters, Carter Jensen and Jac Caglianone? Jensen is ranked as the #11 prospect in the game by Baseball America and had an impressive debut last September, hitting .300/.391/.550 with three home runs in 20 games. The 22-year-old has a patient eye, solid power, and is a good defender behind the plate. The floor is lower with Caglianone, but the ceiling is much higher. The former first-round pick struggled in the big leagues, but hit 20 home runs in just 66 minor league games last year, hitting .337/.408/.617. Even though he hit just .157 with seven home runs in 62 MLB games, there were some impressive underlying metrics that suggest that if he could elevate more, he could have great success.
Of course, it all depends on how much it would cost. A good comp for Jensen may be the recent extension signed by Samuel Basallo. The Orioles catcher signed an eight-year, $67 million deal just a week into his big league career, after being anointed one of the top prospects in baseball.
Caglianone is a bit more difficult to comp, since he was amazing in the minors, but struggled in an extended look in the big leagues. In 2025, Lawrence Butler signed a seven-year, $65.5 million deal with a club option with the Athletics. He struggled in his initial stint in the big leagues, but came on to have a terrific 2024 season, justifying the deal. Caglianone’s ceiling may be higher, but the risk is also greater, since he hasn’t performed yet, which may make it difficult to come to an agreement.
What do you think? Should the Royals be signing their young hitters to long-term deals?
Alek Thomas. (Photo by Jessie Alcheh/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Playing the Dodgers was a challenge. Despite the challenge, some statistics provide insights to the remainder of the season.
The Positive Statistics.
The Diamondbacks were up to the challenge of playing the Dodgers. They lost the last two games by only 1 run. In each of those games, the game-deciding run was scored in the bottom of the eighth inning.
Batting.
Alek Thomas’ 3 RBIs leads the team. Perhaps this season will be a long awaited breakout season for him at the plate.
In the first two games, Perdomo continued his breakout from last season. He hit a homer! He continued to challenge opposing pitchers, with an average of 3.833 pitches per PA. More details:
Before the third game, when he put two balls in play on the first pitch, his average was 4.375 pitches per PA.
As a point of reference, last season his average was 4.176 pitches per PA.
His 19.0% O-Swings was about the same as last season’s 19.2% O-Swings.
His 14.3% Whiffs was equivalent to one whiff higher than last season.
Pitching.
In this series, the Diamondbacks held the Dodgers scoreless in the first two innings. Great first innings can set the tone for each game.
Eduardo Rodriguez pitched five innings without allowing an earned run. After this start, he has pitched two consecutive starts against the Dodgers with zero earned runs. Perhaps he is kryptonite to the Dodgers.
In this series, six bullpen pitchers made scoreless appearances. Loaisiga and Thompson each did it twice. The others were Hoffman, Morillo, Ross, and Sewald.
Mostly great defense with runners on base. In this series, the Dodgers stranded 15 runners on base (7 were in scoring position). The Diamondbacks made 2 errors. The first error led to an extra base, but that runner did not score a run. The second error allowed an extra baserunner, who unfortunately scored a run after a stolen base and a hit. In addition, Lawlar made a great catch despite his very limited experience in the outfield.
The Negative Statistics.
Batting.
In this series, Diamondbacks batters had 5.4 strikeouts per walk. That compares poorly to their last season, which had 2.4 strikeouts per walk.
After overcoming a sore elbow, Pavin Smith played in two games. His only hit was a single. At least it earned him an RBI. Now, he is on the injured list with elbow inflammation.
How many games until Corbin Carrol gets an extra-base hit? [Answer: In the first game of the Tigers series, he hit a triple and a homer!]
Pitching.
In the first two games, Diamondbacks starting pitchers allowed 4 runs per game. On the other hand, I’m confident they will pitch better when not facing the Dodgers.
Bullpen pitcher Taylor Clarke has an ERA of 108.00. That statistic can only get better.
Baserunning.
In the first game, Geraldo Perdomo got caught stealing (although successfully stole a base in the third game). Also, Jordan Lawlar got caught off second base on a line drive. These two outs were not necessarily due to bad baserunning. But game two was a different story.
In the second game, two Diamondbacks were called out on attempted extra bases. First was Alek Thomas attempting to score from first base on an Alex Thomas double. Second was Alek Thomas over-slid third base when he attempting to stretch a double into a triple. Although the Diamondbacks rank high on extra bases, knowing when to make the attempts is part of that strength.
“We’ve got to figure that out. We run the bases very aggressively. We made an inning-and-a-third of outs in two games. That’s not D-back baseball. We take advantage of the right situations and advance 90 feet.” — Torey Lovullo
Summary.
Three players with breakout performances:
Geraldo Perdomo continued his breakout from last season.
Alek Thomas with 3 RBIs.
Eugenio Rodriguez allowed zero earned runs in 5 innings.
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 26: Charlie Condon #66 of the Colorado Rockies rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the fourth inning of the spring training game against the San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Stadium on February 26, 2026 in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Photo by Mike Christy/Getty Images) | Original photo by Mike Christy/Getty Images) 2/26/2026
One of the spring training positional battles that Colorado Rockies fans watched took place at first base.
Would recent trade T.J. Rumfield get the nod or Rockies top prospect Charlie Condon (No. 1 PuRP)?
In the end, president of baseball operations Paul DePodesta went with Rumfield, sending Condon to Triple-A Albuquerque to continue his preparation. Before leaving camp, Condon was determined but philosophical about the assignment.
For Condon, his first spring training was a productive one as he focused on putting “intention” into his training. His spring training stats suggested that his approach worked, and it’s given him a foundation to build on going forward.
“I just think it’s about not trying to do more than I’ve already done,” Condon said, “just taking the same approach every day. I’m not going to try to go out in the season and try to be somebody that I know I’m not — just put my best foot forward every day and letting my work and actions speak for myself.”
For Condon, that meant taking advantage of setting his own schedule.
“Coming up playing baseball from the youth age all the way through college, you’re kind of always told what to do and where to be at all times,” he said. “So just being able to call your own shots a little bit has been an adjustment for me, but has been nice to be able to kind of dictate my routine and do what I need to do.”
Part of that time was spent refreshing his outfield skills given that he spent much of 2025 exclusively at first base.
“You know, it’s been a minute since I’ve played out there,” Condon said.
“That was kind of a hope and goal of mine this offseason to get out in spaces other than just first base, and not be pigeon-holed there,” he addded. “And then the more you play out there, the more balls you get, the more innings you spend out there, the more comfortable you’re going to be. And I felt like that was the case this spring.”
His focus was also on getting stronger.
“I’m young compared to a lot of the guys in that clubhouse. My body can handle a little bit more,” Condon said.
“I need to push myself a little bit more to continue to get stronger. I mean, a lot of those guys got grown-man strength and dad strength and all that stuff, which, at 22, I’m still working on, but just continue to push myself to be stronger.”
He also had a supportive clubhouse where he felt welcome despite being a non-roster invite.
“There’s a handful of guys I can give praise to,” Condon said. “Brett Sullivan, Nicky Lopez, Troy Johnston, Brenton Doyle . . . I mean, just countless guys that were really good and reached out and were making me feel comfortable on a day-to-day basis.”
Plus, Condon appreciates the value of competition.
“I was there to get the best out of myself, and then also get the best out of everybody in the clubhouse,” Condon said. “So I think that first base competition and everything we had going on there was really productive for a lot of guys.
It helps that his time in The Show coming.
“You know, we’ve got a really good squad up top so far this year, and I’m excited to watch some of those guys play and hopefully be a part of it later this year.”
He added, “Obviously I want to play in the big leagues, and I want to do everything I can to make that happen. But at the same time, I understand how baseball works. I understand the timelines and things like that. And I understand that I’m also not a finished product. I may have had a good spring — I may have hit well, I may have turned some heads — but I’m not done developing as a player, and I plan on being an even better player whenever I do make it up.”
If Saturday night’s Albuquerque Isotopes game is any question, Condon will be forcing his way into a Coors Field lineup sooner rather than later.
The Isotopes kicked off the season against the Oklahoma City Comets, the Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Rockies were concentrated on improving the quality of depth at their highest farm team, stocking up the roster with 18 new faces, and featuring 15 players who have seen time in the Major Leagues.
After winning the season opener behind a fantastic pitching performance from Tanner Gordon, the pitching struggled in the next two games as the Isotopes were outscored 26-10 in those games. The worst of the pitching happened on Saturday after the Isotopes went up 6-1 at one point, but then surrendered 12 unanswered runs.
As for the offense, the Isotopes showcased an ability to make contact, a major benefactor in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League, and draw walks. However, much like the big league club over the weekend, strikeouts were bothersome, and most of the lineup hasn’t settled into finding those extra-base hits quite yet.
⬆️ Stock Up:Charlie Muscle
After a strong spring training campaign, Charlie Condon (No. 1 PuRP) carried the momentum into his weekend debut in Triple-A. He got his first hit on Friday before turning around a fantastic performance in the second game of the season. On Saturday, Condon went 2-for-3 with a pair of home runs and five RBI, along with a pair of walks. He added another pair of hits on Sunday to close out the series, and while the season is young, he leads the Isotopes with a .500/.643/1.100 slashline. Condon also got to showcase his defensive versatility, starting two games at first base and one in right field.
⬇️ Stock Down:
Collin Baumgartner has slowly moved his way up through the Rockies system since signing with the team in 2023 as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He finished the 2025 season as a member of the Isotopes and had a good run, posting a 2.47 ERA over 22 1/3 innings. Unfortunately, his first outing of the year was a bit of a rough one as he allowed four runs on four hits, including a home run, in his lone inning of work on Sunday. It was the three walks that hurt him in the end, a bit uncharacteristic of the abilities he has shown through his minor league career. Still, it’s just his first outing; there is plenty of time to right the ship.
Upcoming
The Isotopes kick off their first homestand of the year this evening, welcoming the Reno Aces (Arizona Diamondbacks). Gabriel Hughes (No. 12 PuRP) will take the mound in the home opener.
SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 16, 2026: Angel Genao #16 of the Cleveland Guardians in the field during a minor league spring training game against the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium on March 16, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by David Durochik/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images
The 2026 season for the Double-A Akron RubberDucks begins Thursday.
The RubberDucks released a preliminary roster today. Before we get started, some names are missing primarily due to injuries. They include pitchers Rodney Boone, Zach Jacobs, Davis Sharpe and Carter Spivey and position player Jonah Advincula. Here are the active players we have so far:
Pitchers:
Alaska Abney RHP, Dylan DeLucia RHP, Caden Favors RHP, Josh Hartle LHP, Matt Jachec RHP, Jack Jasiak RHP, Reid Johnston RHP, Zane Morehouse RHP, Carter Rustad RHP, Hunter Stanley RHP, Khal Stephen RHP, Adam Tulloch LHP, Matt Wilkinson LHP.
Analysis:
From the looks of things, the starting rotation will be a major strength of the team early on as it will feature one of Cleveland’s top pitching prospects in Khal Stephen, who was acquired from Toronto in the Shane Bieber trade. Also in the rotation will be Dylan DeLucia, Josh Hartle, Matt Wilkinson and Caden Favors. If Reid Johnston is ready to go, it will be his first appearance since 2023.
Catchers:
Jacob Cozart LHH, Cameron Barstad LHH.
Analysis:
Cozart was a defense-first catcher who had some pop, but he surprisingly put up above-average offensive seasons for himself at both High-A and Double-A while possibly being one of the best defensive catchers in minor league baseball. Barstad is a serviceable backup, but Cozart will be the feature and his prospect status will continue to rise if he can improve his offense.
Infielders:
Angel Genao SH SS, Ralphy Velazquez LHH 1B, Alex Mooney RHH 3B/SS, Christian Knapczyk LHH 3B, Tyresse Turner SH 3B, Juan Benjamin SH 2B/3B.
Analysis:
Two of the team’s top offensive prospects are featured here in Genao and Velazquez. Genao is hoping to bounce back after a shoulder injury caused an average offensive season in 2025 while Velazquez’s star erupted with one of the strongest second halves in recent memory that saw him break out, even after being promoted to Akron. Neither should stay in Double-A long if they get off to strong starts.
Outfielders:
Wuilfredo Antunez LHH RF, Jake Fox LHH CF, Guy Lipscomb LHH RF, Alfonsin Rosario RHH RF/CF, Joe Lampe LHH LF, Nick Mitchell LHH CF.
Analysis:
Most eyes will be on Alfonsin Rosario as one of the lone top right-handed hitting prospects in the entire organization who had a breakout year in 2025, but don’t forget about Wuilfredo Antunez, who had a major power spike in the past year and Nick Mitchell, one of the returns from Toronto in the Andres Gimenez trade who flashed some elite bat speed and exit velocities this spring after an impressive offensive season in 2025.
Akron is loaded with top 10 organizational prospects at nearly every position from its starting rotation to the infielders and the outfield. It should be destination viewing on both sides of the field.
Which players are catching your eye as the Double-A season starts? Tell us in the comments below:
The Houston Astros and the Boston Red Sox continue their series at Daikin Park tonight.
Houston is sending ace Hunter Brown to the hill, and my Red Sox vs. Astros predictions expect him to mow down Boston's lineup.
Here are my best free MLB picks for this American League clash on Tuesday, March 31.
Red Sox vs Astros predictions
Red Sox vs Astros best bet: Astros -0.5 F5 (-114)
The Houston Astros clobbered the Boston Red Sox 8-1 yesterday, and they hold a significant pitching advantage tonight.
Boston is starting right-hander Brayan Bello, who ranked in the bottom 25th percentile last year in xERA (4.48) and xBA (.258) last year.
Meanwhile, Houston’s Hunter Brownfinished third in AL Cy Young voting in 2025, posting a 2.43 ERA with a .201 OBA.
Brown made his season debut last Thursday, striking out nine over 4 2/3 scoreless innings while walking four batters. Control wasn’t an issue for Brown last year, so expect him to settle in and mow down the Red Sox order.
COVERS INTEL: Although the Astros placed 15th in the majors in OPS (.714) last year, three-time All-Stars Yordan Alvarez and Carlos Correa missed a combined 225 games due to injuries. Houston's lineup is currently at full strength.
Red Sox vs Astros same-game parlay (SGP)
Despite having an injury-plagued 2025, Yordan Alvarez slugged .587 over 396 games in his previous three seasons. He’ll have the platoon advantage against Bello and is 3-for-5 with a homer and a double against the Boston righty in his career.
Brown ranked eighth in the majors in strikeouts last year (204), and his velocity looks even better this time around. He averaged 95.7 mph on his devastating sinker last season but touched 98.4 mph on the pitch in Spring Training.
The Astros ace racked up nine strikeouts in just 4 2/3 innings in his season debut, and Boston struck out 12 times last night.
Red Sox vs Astros SGP
Astros -0.5 F5
Yordan Alvarez Over 1.5 total bases
Hunter Brown Over 6.5 strikeouts
Red Sox vs Astros home run pick: Marcelo Mayer (+800)
There is fantastic value in backing Boston's Marcelo Mayer to hit a home run. The 23-year-old flashed power in his brief MLB stint last year, and his peripherals are outstanding to start 2026.
While Mayer hasn’t hit a homer so far, the Red Sox infielder has two doubles, and his hard-hit rate (57.1%) and barrel rate (28.6%) are elite.
Brown is a stud, but the hard-throwing righty allowed 10 homers in 14 home starts last year, and Houston’s bullpen is vulnerable to the long ball.
2026 Transparency record
Best bets: 2-1, +0.56 units
SGPs: 1-2, +1.72 units
HR picks: 2-1, +4.6 units
Red Sox vs Astros odds
Moneyline: Boston +130 | Houston -154
Run line: Boston +1.5 (-170) | Houston -1.5 (+140)
Over/Under: Over 7.5 (-114) | Under 7.5 (-106)
Red Sox vs Astros trend
Houston has covered the F5 run line in their last four games (+4.15 units / 91% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Red Sox vs. Astros.
How to watch Red Sox vs Astros and game info
Location
Daikin Park, Houston, TX
Date
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
First pitch
8:10 p.m. ET
TV
NESN, SCHN
Red Sox starting pitcher
Brayan Bello (2025: 11-9, 3.35 ERA)
Astros starting pitcher
Hunter Brown (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Red Sox vs Astros latest injuries
Red Sox vs Astros weather
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.
The Chicago Blackhawks are set to host the Winnipeg Jets for the second time this season. The first time, on January 19th, was also the first time that Jonathan Toews ever returned to the United Center as a visiting player.
At that point, the Jets were lost and had no real thoughts about making the playoffs. It was heading down the trail of missing the postseason after being one of the best teams in the NHL one year prior.
This game is a different story. Since the Olympics, the Jets have been one of the hottest teams in the NHL. As a result, they enter Tuesday’s action just three points out of the second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. Although Toews will get another incredible reception from the crowd, the Jets are going to be all business.
Scouting Winnipeg
The Winnipeg Jets have a solid veteran group up front and in net. Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor are their two top stars up front, while Josh Morrissey is the top guy on the back end.
In net, they have one of the greatest goalies of all time in Connor Hellebuyck. Hellebuyck, who just played a key role in Team USA winning a Gold Medal at the Olympics, is the reigning Hart Trophy winner and a three-time Vezina Trophy winner. With him in the net, the Blackhawks have a heavy challenge ahead of them.
Connor-Scheifele-Iafallo
Perfetti-Lowry-Vilardi
Koepke-Toews-Lambert
Rosén-Zhilkin-Ford
Morrissey-DeMelo
Samberg-Pionk
Bryson-Salomonsson
Fleury-Heinola
Hellebuyck
Toews will be the third line center in this one with Brad Lambert and Cole Koepke. Winnipeg’s lineup is in the blender due to a handful of injuries, including forwards Vladislav Namestnikov and Nino Niederreiter. Those two have resumed skating in non-contact sweaters, but won’t play in this game.
Projected Lines, Defense Pairs, & Goalie For Chicago
The Blackhawks announced after the morning skate that Artyom Levshunov and Matt Grzelcyk will miss the remainder of the season. This gives Kevin Korchinski and Ethan Del Mastro a little bit of runway to earn looks in the future.
Greene-Bedard-Lardis
Bertuzzi-Frondell-Mikheyev
Donato-Nazar-Burakovsky
Teravainen-Lafferty-Slaggert
Vlasic-Crevier
Kaiser-Rinzel
Korchinski-Del Mastro
Knight
Connor Bedard, Anton Frondell, and Frank Nazar are going to be a 1-2-3 punch down the middle again. This looked good in terms of an attack on Sunday against the New Jersey Devils, and now Jeff Blashill will get a look at it with his matchup advantage at home.
Spencer Knight will start for the Blackhawks in goal. He has given his team a chance to win in every start, but sometimes the defense in front of him lets him down.
Sacha Boisvert is going to be a healthy scratch in this one. Jeff Blashill confirmed he'll play most games down the stretch, but not all of them. It's a development process for him. Sam Lafferty will draw in his spot as the fourth line center. The wingers remain intact from the last game.
How To Watch
The game can be heard locally on AM 720 WGN in the Chicagoland area. To view this game, it is available on CHSN locally. Nationally, it is available to stream on ESPN+. The puck will drop shortly after 7:30 PM CT.
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PHOENIX, AZ - DECEMBER 23: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket as Oso Ighodaro #11 and Jordan Goodwin #23 of the Phoenix Suns plays defense during the game on December 23, 2025 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 2025 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
With the Western Conference a tight-knit race yet again this season, this series will look at the standings and games to watch across the league as the Lakers look to secure home court and move up the standings.
As we enter the final days of the NBA regular season, plenty remains to be decided, even as the picture is getting clearer.
The Suns are all but out of the playoff race. They need just one more loss to be cemented as a play-in team. Considering that there are seven games left and the Suns have gone 4-6 over their last ten games, they are no longer a team the Lakers, Wolves, Nuggets, or Rockets have to worry about.
Here’s a look at the current playoff standings in the middle of the conference: 3. Lakers — 49-26, 10.5 GB 4. Nuggets — 48-28, 12 GB 5. Wolves — 46-29, 13.5 GB 6. Rockets — 45-29, 14 GB
The Nuggets have been in top form, winning six straight games. With the Rockets also going undefeated this past weekend, the pressure on the Lakers to keep winning has only increased.
Let’s take a look at the big games to watch around the league for the next couple of days and who Lakers fans should be rooting for.
Tuesday
Knicks at Rockets — Cheering for a New York win isn’t a bad place for Lakers fans to be in. The Knicks are a top team in the East and the Rockets have been up and down this season. If Jalen Brunson goes off and Karl-Anthony Towns plays well, they can walk out of Houston with a win.
Wednesday
Nuggets at Jazz — Utah isn’t going to win this game. This is why NBA commissioner Adam Silver is focused on discouraging tanking. This season, though the incentive is there for the Jazz to lose, so that’s what they’ll do.
Bucks at Rockets — Milwaukee is a disaster zone, with Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors dominating their coverage and the on-court product mustering up just 29 wins. So, don’t expect them to beat Houston, even though they are playing on the second night of a back-to-back.
Thursday
Wolves at Pistons — Detroit has been the best team in the East all season long. They always play hard, which the Lakers recently witnessed first-hand. This time, the Pistons’ quality can help the Lakers create some distance from the Wolves.
CLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 8: Derrick White #9 and Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics warms up before the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 8, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Jayson Tatum and Derrick White have each been nominated for an end-of-season award. Tatum was one of 12 finalists for the Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year award, while Derrick White was one of 6 finalists for the NBA’s Sportsmanship Award. The league announced both nominations on Tuesday afternoon.
The finalists for the 2025-26 Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year Award.
The annual honor recognizes the player deemed the best teammate based on selfless play, on and off court leadership as a mentor and role model to other NBA players, and commitment and dedication to team.… pic.twitter.com/C8S3uEiObG
The Teammate of the Year honor recognizes the player deemed the best teammate based on selfless play, on and off-court leadership as a mentor and role model to other NBA players, and commitment and dedication to the team.
In addition to Tatum, three former Celtics were also nominated: Houston Rockets forward Jeff Green, Portland Trail Blazers guard Jrue Holiday, and Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart. Holiday won the award last year in Boston.
Tatum was sidelined for most of this season, but returned from a torn Achilles on March 6th. But he was around the time during the entirety of his recovery, attending nearly every shootaround, practice, game, and film session.
Derrick White nominated for the NBA’s Sportsmanship Award
White was nominated for the league’s annual sportsmanship award, which recognizes the player who best represents the ideals of sportsmanship on the court. In addition to White, former Celtic center Al Horford was one of six finalists.
The finalists for the 2025-26 NBA Sportsmanship Award.
The annual honor recognizes the player who best represents the ideals of sportsmanship on the court. Current NBA players will select the winner from these six finalists (one finalist from each NBA division). pic.twitter.com/POopjlj9m5
Current NBA players will vote on their final selections from both categories. A Celtics player has never won the Sportsmanship Award, while Jrue Holiday became the first Celtic to win Teammate of the Year last season in Boston.
Speaking of awards: Tatum was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week on Monday. Tatum averaged 25.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game while leading the Celtics to a 3-0 week. The team posted wins over the Oklahoma City Thunder, Charlotte Hornets, and Atlanta Hawks.
“It’s a good, small affirmation that he’s continuing to chip away at just getting better and better,” Joe Mazzulla said. “So, it’s a credit to the work that he’s put in, his team, that everybody that’s helped him get back to where he is now and what he’s doing. And so, a good, small affirmation and we can keep getting better.”
The Orlando Magic have quietly plummeted while no one was paying attention.
They may seem like a competitive peer to the Phoenix Suns, but only one of these teams is playing quality basketball these days — and it’s not tonight’s home team.
My Suns vs. Magic predictions and NBA picks have absolutely no faith in Orlando on Tuesday, March 31.
Suns vs Magic prediction
Suns vs Magic best bet: Suns moneyline (+105)
The Orlando Magic sat in the No. 5 spot in the Eastern Conference on Jan. 20. Going 16-16 since then has knocked them within half a game of the final Play-In spot, possibly needing to win two road games to reach the playoffs proper.
Even on March 1, Orlando sat No. 7 in the East, three games clear of the Hornets in the 10 spot in the loss column. However, the Magic cannot find any version of sustained winning, largely due to a -0.4 net rating in March.
By the end of the evening, expect Orlando to be tied with Charlotte, as the Phoenix Sunshave been six points better per 100 possessions than Orlando has been in March, enjoying the No. 11 net rating in the NBA at +5.7.Both offensively and defensively, the Suns have been better than the Magic.
Orlando is favored because Phoenix is on the second night of a back-to-back, but only one Suns player saw more than 32 minutes last night.
Phoenix will be in better shape than most teams are on the second night of a back-to-back.
Suns vs Magic same-game parlay
When recognizing Phoenix’s relatively under-the-radar success, it comes as no surprise that Devin Booker has keyed most of it. He has cleared this prop in nine of 15 games this month, scoring 36 points last night.
Surrounding Booker with stars in years past was a mistake; his scoring can occur so organically that the Suns have few other offensive worries.
Booker should feast against Orlando, which has gone Over its total in four straight contests.
Suns vs Magic SGP
Suns moneyline
Over 224.5
Devin Booker Over 26.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Booker in the Paint
Although Booker is one of the best shooters in the NBA, he has not been reliant on his deep shot lately.
In fact, in March’s 15 games, Booker has both cleared this points prop while falling short of three 3-pointers in five of them.
Suns vs Magic SGP
Suns moneyline
Devin Booker Over 26.5 points
Devin Booker Under 2.5 threes
Suns vs Magic odds
Spread: Suns +2 (-110) | Magic -2 (-110)
Moneyline: Suns +105 | Magic -125
Over/Under: Over 224.5 (-110) | Under 224.5 (-110)
Suns vs Magic betting trend to know
Orlando is 1-7 outright in its last eight games, despite being favored or an underdog of less than one bucket in three of those losses. Find more NBA betting trends for Suns vs. Magic.
How to watch Suns vs Magic
Location
Kia Center, Orlando, FL
Date
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
KTVK, FDSN-FL
Suns vs Magic latest injuries
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CLEVELAND (AP) — The home of the Cleveland Cavaliers is part of what could be the largest-ever listing on a real estate site.
Rocket Arena was put up Tuesday on Redfin as a home listing. The 823,000-square-foot facility in downtown Cleveland has a capacity for 19,432 spectators, includes 118 bathrooms and “an open-concept design built to bring people together.”
The arena opened in 1994 and is also the home of an American Hockey League franchise and a WNBA team beginning in 2028.
Redfin and the Cavaliers are using the listing to promote an open house and garage sale scheduled at the arena on Thursday, but the arena is not for sale. A 46-foot-tall yard sign announcing the open house stands outside the arena.
Redfin became part of Rocket Companies last July. Cavaliers owner and chairman Dan Gilbert is the founder and chairman of the board of Rocket.
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 11: Dillon Brooks #3 of the Phoenix Suns goes to the basket against Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center on February 11, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Suns fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
The Phoenix Suns’ fate in the regular-season standings is looking set. Three games ahead of the Los Angeles Clippers in 8th and 3.5 back from the Houston Rockets in 6th with seven games to play, it’s looking like the Suns will be finishing in the seventh spot to end the regular season. Whether the Clippers stay in 8th or the Golden State Warriors or Portland Trail Blazers catch them, Phoenix looks like they’ll be hosting the 7/8 Western Conference play-in game.
If they win the Play-In game, they’ll face the two seed in the first round of the playoffs; if they lose it, they’ll host the winner of the 9/10 game, with the winner playing the one seed in the first round of the playoffs and the loser going home.
Out in the West, we know who the top two seeds will be—we just don’t know the order. The San Antonio Spurs sit 2.5 games behind the Oklahoma City Thunder for first place. Against both the Thunder and Spurs, Phoenix has had some of its best and worst performances of the season.
In arguably the Suns’ best win of the year, the team came back from down 18 to beat Oklahoma City, with Devin Booker hitting a game-winning three over two defenders.
DEVIN BOOKER HITS THE TRIPLE AND WINS IT FOR THE SUNS 🚨
Against the Spurs back in November, Phoenix held Wembanyama to a season-low nine points on 4-of-14 shooting and snapped San Antonio’s undefeated start to the season.
Conversely, in a knockout round of the In-Season Tournament, Oklahoma City gave the team its worst loss in franchise history, beating them by 49 points.
Back in February, the Spurs beat the Suns by 27 points, and less than two weeks ago ripped the hearts out of Phoenix fans when Victor Wembanyama hit a game-winning jumper with a second left after Phoenix had been leading for the majority of the game.
The Suns are 1–3 against Oklahoma City this season, with one more game against them, and they split the season series with the Spurs.
While Phoenix looks to have Mark Williams and Dillon Brooks back by the time the regular season ends, both San Antonio and Oklahoma City would be tough first-round matchups. The two teams have the best records in the NBA, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Wembanyama are the favorites to win MVP.
Who would you rather the Suns play in the First Round, and why?
Mar 30, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) shoots over Chicago Bulls forward Guerschon Yabusele (28) in the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images | Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
Coming off a blowout win against the Milwaukee Bucks, the Spurs returned home for one home game against the Chicago Bulls. After getting off to a slow start, the Spurs managed to take a one-point lead into the second quarter. They dominated the Bulls in the second quarter, outscoring them 35-19 for a 17-point halftime lead. In the third, both offenses were clicking, but the Spurs extended their lead to 20 heading into the fourth. Every time the Bulls kept chipping away at the lead, the Spurs always had a counter. The Spurs ultimately won 129-114.
Victor Wembanyama dropped his best performance of the season: A season-high 41 points (17-27 FG, 3-6 3PT), 16 rebounds, four assists, three blocks, and a steal. Wemby recorded the fastest double-double in NBA history by dropping one in eight minutes. He was truly unstoppable in the paint. Whenever there was a missed shot, Wemby always stayed active for the offensive rebound. Of his 16 rebounds, six were offensive. He always got open for a lob opportunity or for a three-pointer. His 41 points are the highest he’s scored in a game since Christmas Day 2024 against New York, in which he scored 42. There has been chatter on how Wemby does not average similar scoring numbers to Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Nikola Jokic in terms of the MVP. Once again, he puts the critics on notice with this performance.
LOB COUNTER: ONE. Julian Champagnie finds a skyscraping Wemby for the alley-oop connection!
Stephon Castle dropped a near second straight triple-double: 21 points (6-12 FG, 3-6 3PT), 10 assists, and eight rebounds to go along with a steal. Steph was two rebounds away from another triple-double, but still made an impact on both ends of the floor. He shot 50% from the field and 50% from three. He also fought his way to the free throw line, but missed four of his 10 free throws. Nonetheless, Steph’s passing ability, especially on lobs, has been exceptional and reminiscent of Chris Paul.
AREA 51 ALERT! On the fastbreak, Wemby dishes a sweet dime to a cutting Castle, who slams it down with force!
Keldon Johnson dropped 15 points, two rebounds, one assist, and a steal in 26 minutes off the bench. KJ brought the spark that the offense needed when the threes weren’t falling. In his usual cowboy play-style, KJ barreled his way to the cup and bodied defenders who dared to stop him. In recent weeks, KJ has emerged as a favorite for Sixth Man of the Year. In two weeks, the voters will decide to reward him for his excellent and efficient season off the bench.
CYCLONE FINISH! KJ spins off of Miller on the fastbreak and finishes at the rim with ease!
This game was close early, but as soon as the Spurs put up a sizeable lead, the Bulls could not stop the MVP candidate’s offensive explosion. It is clear that after Wemby grabbed the fastest double-double ever, his teammates made it a mission to feed him the ball by any means necessary. Even when Wemby was doubled, he found the open shooter or cutter and put the Bulls’ defense in a blender. The Spurs have an upcoming West Coast road trip with two play-in teams and one contender. With the Spurs’ offense clicking on all cylinders, they are sure to put up NBA2K numbers this week.
Finally, here are the full game highlights.
The Spurs travel to San Francisco to take on the Golden State Warriors this Wednesday at 9:00 P.M. on ESPN.
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 30: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket during the game against the Washington Wizards on March 30, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
LOS ANGELES – Deandre Ayton wins the opening tip against Washington on Monday, sending the ball to Austin Reaves. The fifth-year guard, without backcourt mate Luka Dončić, who’s suspended after his 16th technical, dribbles into LA’s first possession.
LeBron James initiates the action by setting a ball screen for Reaves in the middle of the floor with the rest of the starters spaced out. The Wizards, the 29th-ranked defense in the league, open a canyon-sized pocket for Reaves as he finds the rolling LeBron in stride.
Reaves was nowhere near done, as he collected eight more assists before the end of the second quarter. The purple and gold used a 21-point halftime lead to cruise to victory, taking care of business against one of the bottom dwellers of the Eastern Conference.
The win exhibited another playmaking clinic from Reaves, who’s grown into one of the best pick-and-roll ball handlers in basketball. He achieves this in large part by making teams pick their poison against a bevy of screeners he’s grown comfortable partnering with.
“Anytime in a ball screen, if you run it the right way, you are going to have some sort of advantage,” Reaves said after a recent practice. “Just trying to make the right play every single time.”
Watch him execute that advantage as the ball handler for Ayton in the clip below from Monday’s game. Reaves comes around to use the screen and sees the opposite big man defender, who’s in a traditional drop coverage, overextend toward him, allowing a roller behind.
Ayton catches in the short roll, his preferred operating area, and barrels to the basket for the floating finish. His 1.22 points per possession as a screener puts him in the 74th percentile league-wide, per NBA’s tracking data.
“We got great playmakers,” Ayton said after practice while standing next to Reaves. “Our job is not that hard. Get the opponent off their body and they got it.”
LA not only utilizes their bigs to get guys off their bodies, but they also consistently run guard-to-guard actions in their sets to create misdirection. Watch below as sharpshooter Luke Kennard comes to set the on-ball pick for Reaves. The Wizards opt to switch the coverage, and that one second of separation gives him the step he needs to go downhill.
He draws the contact and heads to the foul line, where he would go 9-10 in the half. He’d head to the break with 11 points and nine assists while being a plus-17 on the court.
Beyond his pocket passes to the screener and scoring punch, another major step in Reaves’s playmaking evolution is his ability to read the correct skip pass. In the clip below, Reaves receives a screen from Bronny James at the top of the key.
LA is set up in their double screen formation, and Ayton follows up by diving to the rim while the Wizards tag his roll. This leaves Rui Hachimura, a 43% spot-up 3-point shooter, wide open on the weak side.
Numbers and impressive games can get overshadowed at times when performed next to Luka’s historic offensive season. Still, this team needs a peaking Reaves to go anywhere this year.
It bears out in the wins as the Lakers are 35-14 (58-win pace) with Reaves and 14-12 (44-win pace) without him. With LeBron fully embracing his adjustment in role and overall play style, Reaves is now firmly established as the No. 2 ball handler on the team after Luka.
It’s a role he’s excelled at so far this season, and one the Lakers hope will push them much farther in the playoffs than it did a year ago.
COVERS INTEL: Although the Astros placed 15th in the majors in OPS (.714) last year, three-time All-Stars 
