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Yankees feel Camilo Doval is ‘close to being dialed in’ despite allowing second straight late homer

Camilo Doval took home the win on Friday, but not before suffering his second blown save of the season. 

Trying to protect a slim one-run Yankees lead in the top of the eighth, Doval retired the first two Royals he faced on just seven pitches before allowing a game-tying solo shot to Vinnie Pasquantino.

Doval fell behind Pasquantino 2-0 and the lefty made him pay, crushing a 2-0 sinker low in the zone 339 feet to right. 

He retired the next batter to keep things evened, but this marks the second straight outing allowing a back-breaking blast, as Mike Trout jumped him for a go-ahead two-run shot in the eighth inning of Monday’s back-and-forth affair.

Just like Monday, the Yanks’ offense did well to pick him up, as they jumped back in front in the bottom half of the inning on Ryan McMahon’s go-ahead two-run homer and never looked back to secure the series-opening victory. 

Doval continues to be a bit of a concern, though, allowing seven runs over his last seven outings.

Despite that, Aaron Boone actually likes how he’s looked the last two times out.

“Really it’s back-to-back outings where I think he’s been really good, really sharp,” the skipper said. “The strike throwing is there, but Trout got him and then he did fall behind Pasquantino and just missed in his slug zone. 

“The three outs around that were really good -- so look, I know he’s gotten hurt with a couple of long balls in some outings here, but also I feel like he’s close to being really dialed in.”

Doval is now up to a 7.56 ERA through his first 10 appearances (8.1 IP), but he’ll continue to serve as one of the Yanks' go-to arms bridging the gap to closer David Bednar in the late-innings. 

“He’s gonna be in the fire,” Boone said. “The good thing he has all the things to get it done -- if he can add that layer of consistency, they stuff and the way he’s throwing is there.”

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Hawks vs Knicks Computer Picks: Our Best Player Prop Projections for Game 1

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Our NBA player prop projections are locked in for Saturday's highly anticipated first-round playoff opener between the Atlanta Hawks and the New York Knicks, with the model flagging some good opportunities to exploit.

These Hawks vs. Knicks NBA player prop projections aren't based on anything other than the numbers, and we've found the strongest edges and value.

Here are the model's top NBA picks for Saturday, April 18.

Hawks vs Knicks computer picks for Game 1

Hawks HawksKnicks Knicks
Alexander-Walker u20.5 points 
-105		Anunoby o15.5 points
-112
McCollum o3.5 assists
-105		Towns o11.5 rebounds
-105
Kuminga o9.5 points
-120		Anunoby o4.5 rebounds
-150

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Hawks Game 1 computer picks

Nickeil Alexander-Walker Under 20.5 points (-105)

Projection: 18.63 points

Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker is a volume-dependent scorer stepping into a brutal playoff environment at Madison Square Garden. 

The New York Knicks' defense ranks among the league's best, and while NAW might land a few triples, he hasn't shown the consistency to regularly crack 20 points. 

At 18.63 projected, the cushion here is real, and it's a good idea to play the Under.

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CJ McCollum Over 3.5 assists (-105)

Projection: 4.25 assists

CJ McCollum is a natural playmaker who thrives in pick-and-roll situations, consistently making plays to cutters and kick-outs to three-point snipers.

At 3.5 assists, this line underestimates his playmaking ceiling, which is projected at 4.25 with an 80% hit rate.

The value is clear for something McCollum has done in six of his previous seven games. 

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Jonathan Kuminga Over 9.5 points (-120)

Projection: 10.69 points

Jonathan Kuminga brings explosive athleticism and finishing ability that make scoring at least 10 points a modest ask.

Projected at 10.69 points, he's shown throughout his career a capability to attack the paint and generate easy buckets in transition.

With an 80% hit rate and -120 juice, this is one of the sharpest Overs on the board tonight for a player who's scored at least 10 points in five of his previous six games.

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Knicks Game 1 computer picks

OG Anunoby Over 15.5 points (-112)

Projection: 16.86 points

OG Anunoby is built for playoff basketball with his relentless off-ball movement, elite finishing at the rim, and a mid-range game that's quietly become reliable.

The Knicks need him to produce, and 15.5 points is a number he's more than capable of eclipsing.

He's cleared his prop number in three of his past five games, averaged 16.7 ppg during the regular season, and we're getting a good price for Anunoby's NBA player prop.

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Karl Anthony Towns Over 11.5 rebounds (-105)

Projection: 12.75 rebounds

Karl-Anthony Towns is one of the most gifted rebounding big men in the league, and the Knicks will need him crashing the glass hard in today's playoff opener.

At nearly plus-money, and projected at 12.75 rebounds, Towns' line of 11.5 is reachable.

With a ceiling of 22 rebounds and an 11.9-rebound floor, I'll back the Knicks center to snag at least a dozen boards tonight. 

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OG Anunoby Over 4.5 rebounds (-150)

Projection: 5.93 points

Anunoby is an active and instinctive rebounder who consistently outworks opponents on the glass. In a physical playoff atmosphere, his effort level only rises. 

The Knicks forward has cleared his rebounding mark in five of his previous six games, and with him getting at least 30 minutes today, he should be good for five or more rebounds against Atlanta.  

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How to watch Hawks vs Knicks Game 1

LocationMadison Square Garden, New York, NY
DateSaturday, April 18, 2026
Tip-off6:00 p.m. ET
TVPrime Video

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Raptors vs Cavaliers predictions: Odds, recent stats, trends and best bets for April 18

The Toronto Raptors (46-36) take on the Cleveland Cavaliers (52-30) during the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Cleveland added James Harden this season and with him in the lineup, Cleveland went 18-6 and he averaged 20.6 points, 7.8 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game. The Cavaliers in the Donovan Mitchell era have yet to make it past the second round and neither has Harden dating back to 2017-18.

Toronto went 3-0 versus Cleveland this season with wins of 11, 13, and 11 points — all double digits. The Raptors have not been in the playoffs in 2022-23 and has not made it past the first round since 2019-20. The Raptors finished the regular season with the fifth-rated defense and 15th ranked offense.

Lets take a closer look at tonight’s matchup and take into consideration lineups, injuries, and other factors affecting the line and total.

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on how to catch tipoff, odds courtesy of DraftKings recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

After 24 years, the NBA is back on NBC and Peacock, combining the nostalgia of an iconic era with the innovative future of basketball coverage. The NBA on NBC YouTube channel delivers fans must-see highlights, analysis, and exclusive and unique content. 

Game Details and How to Watch Live: Raptors vs. Cavaliers

  • Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026
  • Time: 1:10 PM EST
  • Site: Rocket Arena
  • City: Cleveland, OH
  • Network/Streaming: Prime Video

Rotoworld has you covered with all the latest NBA Player News for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

Game Odds: Raptors vs. Cavaliers

The latest odds as of Saturday courtesy of DraftKings:

  • Moneyline: Toronto Raptors (+280), Cleveland Cavaliers (-345)
  • Spread: Cavaliers -8.5
  • Total: 220.5 points

This game opened Cavaliers -7.5 with the Total set at 217.5.

Be sure to check out DraftKings for all the latest game odds & player props for every matchup this week on the NBA schedule!

Expected Starting Lineups: Raptors vs. Cavaliers

Toronto Raptors

  • PG Immanuel Quickley
  • SG Brandon Ingram
  • SF RJ Barrett
  • PF Scottie Barnes
  • SF Jakob Poeltl

Cleveland Cavaliers

  • PG James Harden
  • SG Donovan Mitchell
  • SF Dean Wade
  • PF Evan Mobley
  • C Jarrett Allen

Injury Report: Raptors vs. Cavaliers

Toronto Raptors

  • Immanuel Quickley (hamstring) has been declared QUESTIONABLE of tonight’s game

Cleveland Cavaliers

  • None

Important stats, trends and insights: Raptors vs. Cavaliers

  • Cleveland is an NBA worst 33-49 ATS
  • Cleveland is an NBA-worst 16-25 ATS at home
  • Cleveland is 42-40 to the Under and 24-17 to the Under as the home team
  • Toronto is 50-32 to the Under, ranking tied for second-best
  • Toronto is 42-40 ATS
  • Toronto is 11-11 ATS as a road underdog
  • Toronto is 15-7 to the Under as a road underdog

Rotoworld Best Bet

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Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the NBA calendar based on data points like recent performance, head-to-head player matchups, trends information and projected game totals.

Once the model is finished running, we put its projections next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for tonight’s Raptors and Cavaliers’ game:

  • Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Cavaliers' Moneyline
  • Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Raptors +9.5 ATS
  • Total: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Game Total OVER 220.5

Want even more NBA best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert NBA Predictions page from NBC Sports for money line, spread and over/under picks for every game on today’s calendar!

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NBA Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

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Timberwolves vs Nuggets Win Probability for Game 1 at Prediction Markets

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Meeting for the third time in four seasons on the NBA Playoff stage, the rivalry between the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves is reignited as they clash in the first round of the Western Conference.

Nikola Jokic has consistently had the upper hand against Anthony Edwards and the T-Wolves, and with prediction markets like Kalshi providing a sharper, real-time pulse on betting sentiment, we’re diving into the latest Timberwolves vs. Nuggets predictions along with our top NBA picks for an electric Game 1.

Who will win Timberwolves vs Nuggets Game 1?

Timberwolves win probability:30% (+233)
Nuggets win probability:71% (-245)

The Denver Nuggets open as heavy favorites at 70%, backed by their proven ability to defend home court—especially in the NBA Playoffs—while the Minnesota Timberwolves trail at 30%, facing an uphill climb heading into Game 1.

Our prediction:Nuggets to win

Covers NBA expert Zak Hanshew states that: "The Denver Nuggets went 28-13 straight up at home this season and finished with the seventh-best Net Rating (5.6). Denver went 3-1 against Minnesota and gets the advantage of the fans at Ball Arena tonight. With the best player in the world in Nikola Jokic and a strong supporting cast, I'll take the Nuggets in a close one."

Read more in Hanshew's full Timberwolves vs. Nuggets predictions.

Start trading with Kalshi today!

Sign up now using our exclusive Kalshi promo code 'COVERS' and get a $10 trading bonus after you trade $10 on any other event contracts — including Timberwolves/Nuggets!

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More Timberwolves vs Nuggets prediction markets

You're certainly not limited to the main game outcome for Timberwolves vs. Nuggets at Kalshi; you also have options to trade on the spread, total, and more, among other NBA odds markets.

You can buy either side of a market — for example, "Yes" on the Nuggets -7.5 spread means the Nuggets will cover, while "No" means the Timberwolves will cover — with each side priced based on the implied probability (which can be converted to American, Decimal, or Fraction odds using the Covers odds converter).

Timberwolves vs Nuggets spread and total at prediction markets

OutcomeYesNo
Timberwolves +7.548¢ (-121)51¢ (+101)
Over 231.5 points49¢ (-103)52¢ (-116)

Our predictions: Timberwolves +7.5 — Yes and Over 231.5 points — Yes

The Nuggets enter on a 10-game winning streak, though they’ve covered the spread just five times during that stretch. Meanwhile, Minnesota has either won or stayed within this spread in two of the last three meetings with Denver, setting the stage for another tight, competitive matchup between familiar rivals.

Minnesota closed the season strong, hitting the Over in four of its last five games, while Denver did the same in eight of its last ten. With both sides nearing full strength, this sets up for a high-scoring battle in Mile High.

Other Timberwolves vs Nuggets prediction markets available

  • Nikola Jokic Triple-Double (Yes: 55¢)

What is Kalshi and how does it work?

Kalshi is a federally regulated U.S. exchange where you trade directly on the outcome of real-world future events. Instead of traditional bets, you trade "Event Contracts" which are simple Yes/No questions like "Will the Nuggets win tonight?" These events are priced between $0.01 and $0.99, and the prices reflect the market’s estimated probability of that event occurring. For instance, $0.55 equals a 55% chance. If your prediction is correct, the contract pays out exactly $1.00; if not, it settles at $0. Kalshi is essentially a stock market for reality.

How does Kalshi differ from sportsbooks?

In a sportsbook, you bet against the bookmaker, who sets fixed odds and takes a "vig," which is a kind of commission. On Kalshi, you trade against other users. This peer-to-peer model means prices are driven by supply and demand, often resulting in fairer odds. Additionally, because these are financial derivatives, you can exit your position early. If your team takes a 14-point lead, the contract price will rise, allowing you to sell your "Yes" shares for a profit before the final whistle even blows.

Why should I wager on Timberwolves vs Nuggets at Kalshi?

Kalshi offers four unique advantages over traditional sportsbooks:

  1. Flexibility: Unlike a "locked-in" bet, you can sell your contract at any time.

  2. Transparency: You trade against other users, which can allow you to find better value.

  3. Federal regulation: As a CFTC-regulated exchange, your funds are held in a secure, transparent environment.

  4. Availability: Kalshi is available in 49 states (excluding Nevada) and D.C., including many regions where traditional sportsbooks aren't yet legal.

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Timberwolves vs Nuggets Computer Picks: Our Best Player Prop Projections for April 18

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Our NBA player prop projections are locked in for tonight’s thrilling Game 1 between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Denver Nuggets, with the model flagging several high-value opportunities.

By breaking down the data and stacking it up against current market lines, we’ve identified where the strongest edges lie.

These Timberwolves vs. Nuggets predictions aren’t based on feel — they’re backed by the numbers.

If you’re building out your card, here are the model’s top NBA picks for Saturday, April 18.

Timberwolves vs Nuggets computer picks for April 18

Timberwolves TimberwolvesNuggets Nuggets
Edwards u26.5 points 
-115		Murray u24.5 points 
-105
Randle o6.5 rebounds 
+110		Jokic o13.5 rebounds
+105
DiVincenzo o2.5 3-pointers
-130		Gordon o2.5 assists
-120

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Timberwolves computer picks

Anthony Edwards Under 26.5 points (-115)

Projection: 25.4 points

As much as the Minnesota Timberwolves will rely on Anthony Edwards at his best, the Denver Nuggets have operated at the sixth-slowest pace in the league over their last five home games. That tempo should limit possessions for Minnesota and ultimately cut into scoring chances for their star.

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Julius Randle Over 6.5 rebounds (+110)

Projection: 6.9 rebounds

Grabbing rebounds against Nikola Jokic is no easy task, and Julius Randle will be leaned on to battle on the glass and limit second chances for Denver.

With the Timberwolves playing at the ninth-fastest pace in the NBA this season, he’ll look to capitalize on that tempo after going Over this 6.5 rebound line in four of his last ten outings.

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Donte DiVincenzo Over 2.5 3-pointers (-130)

Projection: 2.6 3-pointers

The Timberwolves rank as the sixth-most prolific three-point scoring team on the road this season, setting up Donte DiVincenzo for another strong showing from deep. He’s cleared this 2.5 made threes line in seven of his last 10 games and is well-positioned to do it again.

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Nuggets computer picks

Jamal Murray Under 24.5 points (-105)

Projection: 23.9 points

Opposing starting point guards have struggled mightily against Minnesota this season, shooting just 39.8% from the field — the lowest mark in the league — making this a tough spot for Jamal Murray.

Getting to the free-throw line won’t come easy either. Over the last 15 games, starting PGs facing the Timberwolves have averaged just 3.3 attempts per game, the fifth-fewest in the league, adding another layer of difficulty in generating offense.

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Nikola Jokic Over 13.5 rebounds (+105)

Projection: 14.08 rebounds

The Nuggets rank ninth in the NBA with 12.6 offensive rebounds per game over their last five outings, and Nikola Jokic continues to dominate the glass as their primary presence.

He’s gone Over this 13.5 rebound line in eight of his last 10 games and remains in a strong position to do so again.

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Aaron Gordon Over 2.5 assists (-120)

Projection: 2.9 assists

Aaron Gordon has quietly become a reliable secondary playmaker in Denver’s offense, clearing this 2.5 assists line in six of his last ten games by thriving within the flow of their half-court sets.

Against the Timberwolves, that role becomes even more important. Minnesota’s defense is built to pack the paint and crowd primary scorers, which should force the ball out of Jokic’s hands at times and into the hands of facilitators like Gordon operating in the short roll or along the baseline.

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How to watch Timberwolves vs Nuggets today

LocationBall Arena, Denver, CO
DateSaturday, April 18, 2026
Tip-off3:30 p.m. ET
TVPrime Video, TSN4

Not intended for use in MA.
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MLB Player Props & Best Bets for Today, April 18

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Bo Bichette took a lot of heat for how he started his New York Mets career, but he has quietly been one of their best hitters in April.

He has a nice matchup to build on his increased production and headlines my three MLB player props for Saturday, April 18.

Best MLB player props today

Player PickOdds
Mets Bo BichetteOver 1.5 Hits + Runs + RBI-165
Phillies Alec BohmOver 0.5 Singles-135
A's Tyler SoderstromOver 1.5 Hits + Runs + RBI-180

Bo Bichette Over 1.5 Hits + Runs + RBI

Bo Bichette struggled out of the gate but is starting to turn things around, even as the Mets continue to lose games.

Bichette has hit .274 since the beginning of April while leading the team with a 45.8% hard hit rate. He is finding more gaps and hitting the ball harder, which is a good sign.

His improved play should lead to healthy production on Saturday afternoon. Jameson Taillon (4.86 ERA, 6.27 FIP) has been very hittable this season, and Bichette has hit .375 over 24 at-bats against Taillon in his career.

  • Time: 2:20 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: SNY, MARQ

Alec Bohm Over 0.5 Singles

Alec Bohm has struggled to generate hits but he owns a .151 average on balls put in play, which is unsustainably low and lightyears away from where it should be.

For perspective, eight other Phillies have had at least 50 plate appearances. None of them have hit less than .250 on balls put in play.

Bohm is due for some regression, and this isn’t a bad spot for it to kick in. Bohm is 4-for-13 against Chris Sale in his career, and all four hits went for singles.

He also managed a .295 average against lefties last year. He’s clearly capable of hitting them.

  • Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: FOX

Tyler Soderstrom Over 1.5 Hits + Runs + RBI

Erick Fedde was crushed by left-handed hitters a season ago, allowing a .320 average, .397 wOBA, and 1.85 homers per nine innings.

He throws the sweeper, cutter, and changeup at almost identical rates against lefties, and Tyler Soderstrom owns fantastic numbers against that mix. He is hitting .333 with a .286 ISO and .423 wOBA.

Soderstrom should have the edge in this matchup and will get to face the 26th-ranked bullpen by ERA when Fedde departs.

Factor in Soderstrom also plays in one of the league’s most hitter-friendly ballparks — and weather approaching 80F is expected — and all signs point to a productive outing.

  • Time: 4:05 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: CHSN, NBCSCA

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.

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Where to watch Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Denver Nuggets NBA playoffs: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Saturday, April 18

The Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets meet in the playoffs for the third time in the past four years. Denver won three of the teams’ four regular-season meetings, including a 142-138 classic on Christmas in which Nikola Jokić scored 18 points in the final three minutes.

  • Minnesota Timberwolves: 49-33 (No. 6 West playoff seed)

  • Denver Nuggets: 54-28 (No. 3 West playoff seed)

  • Spread: Denver Nuggets -6.5

  • Moneyline: Denver Nuggets -275 (70.1%) / Minnesota Timberwolves +220 (29.9%)

  • Over/Under: 231.5

Game 1: Sat., April 18, at Denver (3:30 p.m., Prime Video)
Game 2: Mon., April 20, at Denver (10:30 p.m., NBC/Peacock)
Game 3: Thu., April 23, at Minnesota (9:30 p.m., Prime Video)
Game 4: Sat., April 25, at Minnesota (8:30 p.m., ABC)
*Game 5: Mon., April 27, at Denver (TBD)
*Game 6: Thu., April 30, at Minnesota (TBD)
*Game 7: Sat., May 2, at Denver (TBD)

*if necessary

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Where to watch Toronto Raptors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers NBA playoffs: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Saturday, April 18

The Toronto Raptors and Cleveland Cavaliers open their first-round series of the 2026 NBA playoffs. The Cavs enter as the Eastern Conference’s No. 4 playoff seed while the Raptors are fifth. Toronto won all three of the team’s regular-season meetings, all of which were played before the end of November.

  • Toronto Raptors: 46-36 (No. 5 Eastern playoff seed)

  • Cleveland Cavaliers: 52-30 (No. 4 Eastern playoff seed)

  • Spread: Cavaliers -8.5

  • Moneyline: Cavaliers -350 / Raptors +275

  • Over/Under: 219.5

Game 1: Sat., April 18 at Cleveland (1 p.m., Prime)
Game 2: Mon., April 20 at Cleveland (7 p.m., Peacock)
Game 3: Thu., April 23 at Toronto (8 p.m., Prime)
Game 4: Sun., April 26 at Toronto (1 p.m., ESPN)
Game 5: Wed., April 29 at Cleveland (TBD)
Game 6: Fri., May 1 at Toronto (TBD)
*Game 7: Sun., May 3 at Cleveland (TBD)

*if necessary

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Where to watch Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers NBA playoffs: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Saturday, April 18

The Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers open their first-round playoff series. The Lakers won two of the teams’ three regular-season meetings, but will be without Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves to start the postseason. Kevin Durant is making his playoff debut with the Rockets.

  • Houston Rockets: 52-30 (No. 5 West playoff seed)

  • Los Angeles Lakers: 53-29 (No. 4 West playoff seed)

  • Spread: Rockets -5.5

  • Moneyline: Rockets -220 / Lakers +180

  • Over/Under: 207.5

Game 1: Sat., April 18 at Los Angeles (8:30 p.m., ABC)
Game 2: Tue., April 21 at Los Angeles (10:30 p.m., NBC)
Game 3: Fri., April 24 at Houston (8 p.m., Prime)
Game 4: Sun., April 26 at Houston (9:30 p.m., NBC)
Game 5: Wed., April 29 at Los Angeles (TBD)
Game 6: Fri., May 1 at Houston (TBD)
*Game 7: Sun., May 3 at Los Angeles (TBD)

*if necessary

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What if the Braves picked up Taijuan Walker?

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 15: Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Taijuan Walker #99 looks on during the game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs on April 15th, 2026 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, PA. (Photo by Terence Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Phillies fans are pretty much over Taijian Walker. He’s yet to escape the first inning this year without allowing multiple runs. He’s on the final year of a four year, 72 million dollar contract. It’s been 3 plus seasons of 4.97/5.29/4.88 ball with 1.5 WAR (before last night’s shelling). Phillies fans want him gone, and the media doesn’t see interested in seeing him start again. So they could stuff him in their bullpen for now. Though the Philadelphia bullpen is not bad by FIP standards. Their 2.80 FIP is obscured by their 4.66 ERA (again, before last night’s shelling). But if he can’t escape the first inning, how is the bullpen going to work out?

So what would happen if they put him on the street and the Braves gave him a ride? The Braves have managed to get a song out of cheaply acquired free agent pitchers lately. Jose Suarez has a 2.37 FIP (through last night). Martin Perez has been decent, and was excellent while wind assisted last night. Joey Wentz (4.92/3.43/4.00 with the Braves last year) was prepared to make a run at the starting rotation before injuring his knee. Even Osvaldo Bido wasn’t entirely unhelpful before meeting the Guardians.

So would the Braves grab Walker if available? I mean, if no other organization wants him and he wants to play the DFA game like some others, maybe. NL East teams do like to pass around players. But mostly, hahahahahaha no. A lot would have to happen with the Braves and Taijuan for them to find each other. Here’s hoping they never do.

Yeah no, but let’s watch the dingers again anyway.

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Yankees Rivalry Roundup: Red Sox walk off Tigers after pitchers’ duel

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 17: Masataka Yoshida #7 of the Boston Red Sox is mobbed by teammates after hitting a walk-off single during the 10th inning of a game against the Detroit Tigers on April 17, 2026 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It took some unexpected heroics from Ryan McMahon, but the Yankees picked up a much-needed victory in their series opener against the Royals. Having just played a very frustrating series against the Angels, the last thing they needed was a dumb loss to open the set against Kansas City.

While the Yankees wouldn’t lose any ground on Friday night, let’s see if they gained on anyone in today’s Rivalry Roundup.

Boston Red Sox (8-11) 1, Detroit Tigers (10-10) 0 (10 innings)

Ranger Suarez and Casey Mize put on a pitchers’ duel at Fenway, with the Red Sox scoring the game’s only run on Masataka Yoshida’s walk-off single in the 10th inning.

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Not only did the Red Sox get the better of Detroit in the end, Suarez won the duel as well. He ended up going eight innings, allowing just two hits and a walk. For the Tigers, Mize struck out more batters, K’ing seven, but he went 6.2 frames, having given up three hits and a walk.

However as those numbers indicate, it’s not as if either teams was just wastefully blowing chances. Sure, they had their runners, but neither team could breakthrough until the game went to extras.

In the 10th, a flyout allowed the Tigers to move their auto-runner to third, but they couldn’t bring them home the last 90 feet. Boston then took advantage in the bottom of the 10th, as after an out and a walk, Yoshida chopped through a single to walk it off against Will Vest.

St. Louis Cardinals (11-8) 9, Houston Astros (8-13) 4

Nolan Gorman’s three-run homer in the seventh off Bryan Abreu helped the Cardinals break open a game against the Astros, allowing them to pull away for the win.

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The game went back-and-forth early. While the Cardinals scored the game’s first three runs, the Astros pulled two runs back in the bottom of the third. St. Louis then added a run back to their lead, but Jose Altuve’s fifth-inning home run got Houston back within a run.

However Gorman’s homer gave the Cardinals a four-run advantage, and St. Louis went on to tack on a couple more runs, ensuring that the final couple innings weren’t super stressful. The Astros have now lost 11 of their last 14 games.

Texas Rangers (11-9) 5, Seattle Mariners (8-13) 0

Jacob deGrom and the Rangers’ bullpen combined to shut out the Mariners, as Seattle ended up leaving nine runners on base in another tedious loss for their home fans.

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The Mariners will probably end up shaking their heads about this one, as they went 1-for-5 with runners in scoring position, in addition to the nine left on base. Besides that, Texas scored three of their runs in the final three innings, meaning Seattle had plenty of time before that with the game still close.

deGrom was okay, but only lasted four innings, having allowed four hits and two walks. Texas’ bullpen picked things up the rest of the way, although every reliever put at least one Seattle runner on.

On the offensive side of things, the Rangers scored in the game’s very first at-bat, when Brandon Nimmo homered. In total, Texas recorded 15 hits, with Wyatt Langford going 3-for-5 and driving in one of the runs.

Arizona Diamondbacks (12-8) 6, Toronto Blue Jays (7-12) 3

The Diamondbacks roughed up Eric Lauer, while Michael Soroka was pretty good for them to take the opener of this interleague clash.

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Toronto busted out an opener for this one, sending Braydon Fisher to the mound to start this game. He got through the first inning fine, but when the Jays turned to Lauer as the bulk guy, Arizona started to get going. While Toronto actually took a 1-0 lead in the fourth, Arizona immediately answered with a Nolan Arenado homer in the bottom of the fourth, and then took the lead thanks to Corbin Carroll and Jose Fernandez in the fifth.

While a Myles Straw homer got Toronto back within a run, Soroka ended up giving Arizona seven good innings, with just those two runs allowed. Arizona eventually tacked on, with Toronto scoring more run, but not doing too much else over the final innings. The Jays remain in the AL East cellar.

Other Games

  • Baltimore Orioles (10-10) 6, Cleveland Guardians (11-10) 4: This game remained scoreless until the bottom of the seventh, when the Guardians broke through with four runs. Except, the Orioles then answered with six runs in the top of the eighth, swinging the game back in the other direction. Jeremiah Jackson’s three-run homer to give Baltimore the lead ended up being the game-decider as the O’s held on after that.
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Orioles news: Jeremiah Jackson with another clutch homer run

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 17: Baltimore Orioles second baseman Jeremiah Jackson (82) rounds the bases after hitting a 3-run home run during the eighth inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Baltimore Orioles and Cleveland Guardians on April 17, 2026, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Good morning Birdland,

The Orioles offense is having a weird weekend in Cleveland. The were no-hit through eight innings on Thursday, but rallied late and got the tying run on base before dropping the opener. On Friday, they would be shutout for seven innings before erupting for six runs in the eighth, which would prove enough to win the game 6-4 and even up the series.

Jeremiah Jackson came through with yet another clutch home run, a three-run shot. He now leads the team with 17 RBI on the season. Who had that on their 2026 Orioles bingo card? Probably a few more people than those that expected *checks notes*…Weston Wilson and Jonathan Rodríguez (?) to contribute to any wins at all.

At 10-10, these Orioles aren’t going to be confused for some sort of juggernaut. And if they are going to turn into a true contender, there are plenty of improvements to be made. But considering the context of their current performance, I’m actually encouraged.

The offense is currently surviving on the backs of Jackson and Leody Taveras. At some point, Gunnar Henderson and Pete Alonso are going to find some consistency. Taylor Ward will eventually homer, probably a bunch. Samuel Basallo is too talented to keep hitting .148. Adley Rutschman is going to get healthy. Maybe those things don’t all happen at once, but they will happen, and when they do the offense is going to be tougher to handle.

So what does success look like for the Orioles right now? Having a .500 record feels fine to me. Keep their head above water and buy time for those positive regressions to come. This was never a 100-win roster anyway. It’s an 85-ish win roster with upside, especially if they add at the trade deadline. Staying close to that pacing while you are missing several key pieces is a win.

The vibes are good for this squad. Wins like last night only add to that and inch them ever closer to healthier and better days for the roster.

Links

Holliday set to begin new rehab assignment, Adley making progress toward return | MLB.com
It sounds like Rutschman will be back within the week, although he may need a brief minor league rehab. Jackson Holliday is back on his rehab this weekend. The future is less clear for Tyler O’Neill, who is still dealing with concussion symptoms.

Each glove tells a story: Vignettes from the Orioles clubhouse | The Baltimore Banner
This is a fun one! Blaze Alexander rocks a glove with the initials of someone else’s wife and kids on it because it’s literally not his glove. Amazing. Also, this article should have been called “A Glove Story.”

More questions attached to Orioles | Roch Kubatko
Lots of roster questions. They are valid! But also, they feel like questions for another day. How do the Orioles make space for X player when they return? That answer is going to change depending on who is healthy at the time. Holliday could be fit right when another infielder picks up a nick. The Oriole would probably prefer to just get everyone healthy. That is probably an unrealistic hope.

Orioles birthdays

Is it your birthday? Happy birthday!

  • Pete Stanicek turns 63 today. A player so nice, the Orioles drafted him twice; in the 13th round in 1984 and then (after he didn’t sign the first time) in the ninth round in ‘85. He would end up spending little time at second base, third base, and left field with the big league squad between 1987 and ‘88.
  • Rich Bordi is 67 years old. A reliever for nearly a decade in the bigs, Bordi played for five different teams. That included the 1986 season in Baltimore, where he had a 4.46 ERA over 107 innings.

This day in O’s history

2013 – The Orioles win their first extra-inning game of the year, beating the Rays 10-6 on a walk-off grand slam from Matt Wieters. Dating back to the previous season, the O’s have now won 17 consecutive extra-inning games.

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The NBA Playoffs Are Set, And The Brotherhood Is Well Represented

Apr 17, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel (7) passes in front of Orlando Magic forward Tristan da Silva (23) during the second quarter during the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images | Mike Watters-Imagn Images

Charlotte’s loss to Orlando ended one of the most fun NBA seasons for the franchise since the days of Alonzo Mourning, Larry Johnson, and Muggsy Bogues.

Kon Knueppel was responsible for a lot of the cultural change that the Hornets saw this year, and he smashed the rookie record for three-point shots with 273, which also led the entire NBA. No rookie had ever done this before.

It would have been fun to see Knueppel and his Duke teammate Sion James continue the lovefest, but Orlando knocked them out of the NBA’s play-in tournament, 121-90.

However, while Knueppel and James and the Hornets are out, Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter will move on to play Trajan Langdon’s Detroit Pistons.

And in the other play-in game, the Phoenix Suns, featuring Grayson Allen, Mark Williams, and Khaman Maluach, knocked out Mike Dunleavy’s Golden State Warriors, 111-96.

So now the playoffs begin, and the Brotherhood is well represented. How well represented?

In the East, five teams have former Blue Devils, and in the West, there are five as well, so with 16 teams in, the odds are reasonably good that a member (or members) of the Brotherhood will get a ring this June.

The odds get a bit better when you see that San Antonio, Oklahoma City, and Boston are included in the list below:

  • Orlando: Paolo Banchero/Wendell Carter
  • Phoenix: Grayson Allen/Mark Williams/Khaman Maluach
  • Oklahoma City: Jared McCain
  • Los Angeles Lakers: Luke Kennard/Coach JJ Redick
  • Denver: Tyus Jones
  • San Antonio: Mason Plumlee
  • Detroit – GM Trajan Langdon
  • Cleveland – Tyrese Proctor
  • Toronto- RJ Barrett/Brendan Ingram
  • Atlanta – Jalen Johnson
  • Boston – Jayson Tatum
  • Philadelphia: GM Elton Brand

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Inside Aussie supermodel and NBA star’s $11m chateau – realestate.com.au
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Where to watch Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks NBA playoffs: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Saturday, April 18

The Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks begin their first-round NBA playoff series. The Hawks’ surge during the second half of the season vaulted them to the Eastern Conference’s No. 6 playoff seed while the Knicks are No. 3. New York won two of the team’s three regular-season meetings, including a tough 108-105 victory during the final week of the season.

  • Atlanta Hawks: 46-36 (No. 6 East playoff seed)

  • New York Knicks: 53-29 (No. 3 East playoff seed)

  • Spread: New York Knicks -5.5

  • Moneyline: New York Knicks -225 (66.4%) / Atlanta Hawks +185 (33.6%)

  • Over/Under: 216.5

Game 1: Sat., April 18, at New York (6 p.m., Prime Video)
Game 2: Mon., April 20, at New York (8 p.m., NBC)
Game 3: Thu., April 23, at Atlanta (7 p.m., Prime)
Game 4: Sat., April 25, at Atlanta (6 p.m., NBC)
*Game 5: Tue., April 28,at New York (TBD)
*Game 6: Thu., April 30, at Atlanta (TBD)
*Game 7: Sat., May 2, at New York (TBD)

*if necessary

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Shaq avoids texting NBA players ‘because they’re a–holes’

Shaquille O'Neal at tm:rw event in Times Square, Basketball players Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers walking on court

He’s no longer a team player.

Shaquille O’Neal has put himself in a timeout from his fellow ballplayers — and doesn’t text any NBA star past or present.

“None. I don’t like athletes or superstars because they’re a–holes,” he told The Post.

Shaquille O’Neal told The Post he no longer associates with NBA players. REUTERS

“I denounced myself from being a celebrity about 10 years ago because those people are weird. I’m not weird.”

Even when Shaq comes to Times Square to visit the tech superstore tm:rw, which he joined as an investor and partner, he keeps it low key.

“Whenever I come, it’s me and two guys. No entourage. There’s nothing but homeboys coming in,” he said.

“We come in here, we take care of business … We sign autographs. We treat people with honor and respect … I want to be a regular guy.”

O’Neal, 54, also stays grounded and has never stopped hitting the books, and currently has three degrees — a bachelor’s of arts, an MBA, and a PhD in education.

Many people think he didn’t actually earn the Dr. before his name.

“The funniest thing I get is, ‘Oh it’s honorary.’ I say, ‘No, it’s not. I had to go to school and write papers and do all that stuff,” he said.

“When I was playing against the Knicks, they were not nice, but that’s just part of the business. I don’t take anything personal,” Shaq said about his fans in New York. tm:rw

The four-time NBA champ, who has a net worth of $500 million, earned his PhD from Barry University in Miami in 2012 to set an example for his six children and his young fans.

“I’m very super successful without that, but I wanted to stress to my children and children around that education is very important,” he said.

The Louisiana State University alum — who left college after his junior year for the NBA, but went back to complete his bachelor’s — stressed the value of athletes getting schooled in business.

“We talk about the NIL [student-athlete using their name, image or likeness to earn money] what’s going on now. People always go to the money first, but you have to have the education on how to manage the money,” he said.

“So I want my children and those that follow me to say, ‘OK, he’s educated. Maybe I should do it.'”

The multimillionaire just invested in the tech superstore tm:rw. “When it comes to investing, I don’t invest for monetary purposes. I try to invest in things that I believe in and things that are going to change people’s lives,” he said. tm:rw

Dr. O’Neal is currently working on a fourth degree: a master’s in liberal arts.

“I thought about sports psychology, but it was a little too much for me, the psychology field,” he said.

In addition to his multiple degrees, O’Neal can also add real estate investor to his resume.

A native of Newark, he made sure to stop by his former neighborhood during his most recent NYC trip.

He said the area has changed for the better, partly because of his investments — two residential high-rises valued together at more than $230 million.

“It was part of my vision because one day, me and my mom came back and it was kind of beat up, and she kind of had a tear in her eye, and was like, ‘I remember when this city was beautiful. Somebody needs to do something.'”

The four-time NBA champ said his favorite memorabilia comes from his days playing with Kobe Bryant. REUTERS

Although he played in the NBA for 19 seasons, the Hall of Famer’s favorite pieces of memorabilia come from his days playing with the late Kobe Bryant on the Los Angeles Lakers.

“I have a lot of Shaq and Kobe stuff in the house. It just brings back memories of the greatest one-two punch ever.”

When asked about the cons to being 7′ 1″ — the powerhouse smiled and said,

“None. When you’re this tall and this beautiful, it’s awesome.”