Aug 20, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher Lucas Erceg (60) enters the game during the seventh inning against the Texas Rangers at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images | William Purnell-Imagn Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year, we ask questions of the most plugged-in Kansas City Royals fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
Earlier this week, Carlos Estévez went on the Injured List with a foot contusion. Until he returns, the Royals will need someone else to close games. So we asked who Royals fans would choose if they could have their druthers. The results were overwhelming in selecting one guy.
73% of respondents said they preferred that Lucas Erceg do all the closing for KC until Estévez gets his mojo back, and it seems like Matt Quatraro agrees with them. In three save opportunities since Estévez’s injury, Erceg has gotten the call twice. The third game went to John Schreiber, but only because Erceg had already pitched two games in a row.
Interestingly, fans were not at all high on once-and-now-again reliever Matt Strahm; he received only 4% of the vote, barely ahead of potential rookie Luinder Avila’s 3% – Avila is set to make his first major league start tonight, in any case.
One in five thought that a closer by committee would be the best option since the Royals have so many relievers on their roster with late-game experience. Closers by committee always seem like shaky endeavors to me, so I’m perfectly happy to just let Erceg handle things with Matt Strahm seeming to take over quasi-fireman duties, pitching in whatever situations late in the game. For example, pitching the seventh in yesterday’s game because that was when the heart of the Twins order was due up, hoping that the lower part of the lineup would be easier for Steven Cruz to handle. Obviously, it didn’t work out that way, but it made a lot of sense in the moment.
Now, what I’m curious about is whether everyone thinks Lights Out Lucas should just continue saving even when – or if – Estévez has his foot and mechanics fixed. Depending on how long he’s out and how well Erecg does, it could end up being a controversial decision either way.
Apr 1, 2021; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Fans gather at the main entrance in a snow flurry before the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Cleveland Indians on Opening Day at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-Imagn Images
Detroit Tigers (2-4) vs. St. Louis Cardinals (4-2)
Time/Place: 1:10 p.m., Comerica Park SB Nation Site: Viva El Birdos Media: Detroit Sportsnet, MLB.TV, Tigers Radio Network Pitching Matchup: LHP Framber Valdez (0-0, 1.50 ERA) vs. RHP Michael McGreevy (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Mar 28, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Michael McGreevy (36) pitches against the Tampa Bay Rays during the sixth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images | Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
The St. Louis Cardinals begin their first road series of the season as they take on the Detroit Tigers for their home opener in Comerica Park. According to MLB.com, Michael McGreevy will make his second start for the Cardinals after his epic effort against the Tampa Bay Rays where he held them hitless through 6 innings. Framber Valdez is expected to the Friday’s starter for the Tigers. Game time is set for 12:10pm. Note that Masyn Winn is in the lineup today after the car accident after Wednesday’s walk-off victory.
DENVER, CO - JULY 4: A detail of the purple row of seats as the Colorado Rockies participate in Major League Baseball Summer Workouts at Coors Field on July 4, 2020 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Happy Home Opener, everyone!
The Rockies had a lot of turnover this offseason and we needed to get to know the new coaching staff. As it turns out, Purple Row also had some turnover with Mac Wilcox headed off to do other projects, but we’re also pleased to welcome Cory Cohen, Zeke Perez Jr., and James Riggenbach to the staff!
So in the spirit of introductions, we wanted to introduce ourselves to you — or reintroduce in some cases since we recognize (and appreciate!) that some of the Purple Row community have had a long-term commitment to the site.
And in addition, we’d like to invite you to introduce yourselves, too, by copying and pasting the questions below and answering them in the comments:
Name:
Location:
On Twitter or BlueSky, I am:
How I became a Rockies fan:
Favorite Current Rockies:
Favorite All-Time Rockie:
Favorite Non-Rockie:
Favorite Rockies Prospect:
Metaphysical Position on the Diamond:
Ballpark I’d Most Like to Visit:
Favorite Baseball Movie:
What was the best thing about your past year:
When Not Rowing, I:
Baseball Card Back Fun Fact:
Walkup Music:
Name: Sam Bradfield
Location: Phoenix, AZ
On Twitter or BlueSky, I am: @sammieb27.bsky.social
How I became a Rockies fan: Rocktober was during my freshman year of high school, so I became glued to every inning during that magical run! When I went off to college in Arizona a few years later, I took my love of the team with me (wearing Rockies gear is always a conversation starter). I took a few years off to watch other sports, and some life happened, but when I discovered the Arizona Fall League in 2016, it reignited my passion for baseball and the Rockies were the obvious choice to root for as my hometown team. And then I applied for Purple Row a year later and the rest, as they say, is history!
Favorite Current Rockie: I have a lot of guys I really like, but I think my favorite right now is Ryan Feltner. He’s been through a lot, and he and I always have good conversations about baseball and art.
Favorite All-Time Rockie: Troy Tulowitzki — he was my first favorite Rockie in the World Series run and I haven’t let go of that since. I’m so bummed that his career didn’t pan out the way folks thought it would.
Favorite Non-Rockie: Ryan McMahon — I know he’s a former Rockie, but he and I “debuted” right around the same time (him in Aug. 2017 and me in Dec. 2017) so he has a special place in my heart. He was the first Rockies prospect I started following after meeting him in the AFL, and was also my first Purple Row interview in 2018. If we’re talking about guys who never played on the team, I really like David Peralta. He always seemed like such a stand-up guy as well as a good baseball player, and I loved watching him play for the Diamondbacks.
Favorite Rockies Prospect: I’m really excited for Charlie Condon. I think he has a ton of potential to do some damage and be good in this league for a long time.
Metaphysical Position on the Diamond: Probably one of the corner outfield spots — I’m more of an introverted extrovert, so I’m happy to both be part of the action and also let others have their moments.
Ballpark I’d Most Like to Visit: I’ve heard excellent things about PNC Park, so I’m excited to check it out!
Favorite Baseball Movie:A League of Their Own, hands down
What was the best thing about your past year: Moving back to the Phoenix area from LA — sure, I grew up in Colorado and still love the state, but Phoenix is really where I call home (plus I’m happy to be out of Dodgers country!).
When Not Rowing, I: Work as an Academic Advisor for first-year students studying English and Communications, and previously advised for students studying Theatre. In my free time, I hang out with my cat Simon, play piano in my living room, and love watching TV shows (I’m currently watching Shrinking, the Scrubs revival, The Americans and The Pitt) and the Phoenix Suns.
Baseball Card Back Fun Fact: Usually writing for Purple Row is my “fun fact” but I guess in this case, I was a music major in college and never played a sport beyond eighth grade rec league volleyball. Most of my sports knowledge is self-taught because I was in marching band and wanted to know what was happening on the field/court.
Walkup Music: Ok, I’m going to be weird and say Test Drive from How to Train Your Dragon. I know it doesn’t have words or anything, but this score just pumps me up:
MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 28: Ezequiel Tovar #14 of the Colorado Rockies throws the ball to first base for an out against the Miami Marlins in the fifth inning of the game at loanDepot park on March 28, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Phillies’ ninth inning comeback and extra inning win on Wednesday afternoon shifted the narrative of the early season. While a 3-3 homestand is a disappointment, it feels so much better than 2-4.
The Phillies will now head on the road for the first time all season as they visit Coors Field, a stadium that has largely vexed them over the years. However, most of that vexing came when the Rockies were a quality – or even halfway competent – baseball team. The 2025 Rockies were about as far from quality as a team could get, and perhaps not coincidentally, the Phillies did much better when they visited Coors last year.
And from the looks of things, the Rockies of 2026 are not much better than the 2025 edition.
Colorado Rockies
Record: 2-4, Fourth place in National League West (2 games back)
The last time they met
As mentioned, the Phillies used to seem to save some of their worst games for Coors Field, but that didn’t matter when facing a team as uncompetitive as the 2025 Rockies were. The Phillies visited Colorado for four games in May 2025, and won all four, finishing off a 7-0 season sweep of the Rockies.
The finale was a 2-0 win, closed out in dominating fashion by Jordan Romano, during that split second when it looked like he might be getting his act together. (I’m serious, Romano really did have a good stretch last year.)
What’s the deal with the Rockies?
They’ll likely be better than they were last year, but aside from clearing that exceptionally low bar, the Rockies aren’t expected to be very good this season. They didn’t bring in a lot of free agents expected to make much of an impact and are hoping that some of their younger players can develop.
As far as the actual talent on hand, Hunter Goodman might be the best catcher in the National League, and WBC hero Ezequiel Tovar looked like a burgeoning star in 2024 before injuries cost him almost half the season last year.
Ezequiel Tovar’s first homer of the season is in the same park he took down USA for a WBC title! pic.twitter.com/0SVhAf1O2d
The pitching situation is dire, with Kyle Freeland and Michael Lorenzen being the team’s best starters. They added a reliable veteran in Joe Quintana in the offseason, but he was recently placed on the Injured List and will miss this series.
Featured Rockies player: Kyle Karros
Justin Crawford will face off against another young second-generation player this weekend. Second year third baseman Kyle Karros is the son of former Rookie of the Year Eric Karros.
After being drafted in 2023, Karros rose rapidly through the Rockies system, making his major league debut in 2025.
Kyle Karros, son of Eric Karros, hits his first career home run against his dad's former team 💙 pic.twitter.com/2E9WbAZxnq
Karros is regarded as a plus defender at third base but didn’t wow anybody with his bat in his rookie season, putting up a .585 OPS in 43 games. He’s fared even worse in 2026, going 4-19 with just one extra base hit. The Rockies first six games have been on the road, so it’s possible that playing in Coors Field could help his numbers. However, he had a higher OPS on the road in 2025.
The one good thing about a rebuilding team is that they can have plenty of patience with their young players. If Crawford were to struggle as the year progresses, the Phillies might start looking at trade candidates for the stretch run.
Remembering a guy who used to play for the Rockies
David Nied was the Rockies’ first pick in the 1992 expansion draft. At the time, it wasn’t clear what effect the thin Denver air would have on pitchers, so the Rockies were trying to stockpile power arms. Taking a top 50 prospect from an elite Atlanta Braves farm system seemed like a decent proposition.
Nied joined the Rockies in 1993 and didn’t immediately excel with a 5.17 ERA in 16 starts. He showed some improvement the following season, but injuries soon took their toll. He pitched in just eight games over the next two seasons, and his career was essentially over.
David Nied is smiling here because he still had a perfect 3-0 record and a career 1.17 ERA when this photo was taken.
Little did he know, putting on the Rockies pinstripes would send his career ERA to 5.06 within just a few years. He would retire at age 27 with a losing record. https://t.co/QOlZANkSeK
It’s been a strange first six games for the Phillies. They’ve looked very bad for stretches and have gotten some bad luck (The Nationals certainly found grass on a lot of balls put in play). On the other hand, they’ve already had two ninth inning comebacks, and the rookies have been impressive.
What can we conclude from this?
Pretty much nothing. It’s been six games!
Pennant year song battle
Everybody Wants You by Billy Squier knocked off Here We Are Again.
The next challenger as suggested by CarterAndCo is:
My Sister, Julianna Hatfield, 1993
The song is supposedly partly about existential longing. And isn’t that what being a sports fan basically is?
Closing thought
You’d think a series in Colorado against an unimpressive Rockies team would be just the thing to get the Phillies’ offense going consistently. But just because they should hit doesn’t mean they will. Late game comebacks are fun and all but getting off to an early lead can also be fun, and the Phillies should try doing it more often.
Apr 2, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) drives the ball while under pressure from Los Angeles Clippers forward John Collins (20) during the second half at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images | William Liang-Imagn Images
Coming off a victory against the Golden State Warriors, the Spurs traveled to the Intuit Dome to take on the Los Angeles Clippers. Victor Wembanyama missed this game due to ankle injury management. Without Wemby, the Spurs went back and forth with the Clippers in the first quarter. After leading by eight, the Spurs outscored the Clippers in the second, 35-19, to give themselves a 24-point cushion heading into halftime. The Spurs’ cushion was provided by lockdown defense and hot shooting. In the third, the shooting went ice cold. The Spurs shot 1-9 from three, and were outscored by LA, 34-19. In the fourth quarter, the Clippers cut the deficit to seven. However, thanks to big shots from Stephon Castle, De’Aaron Fox, and Dylan Harper, the Spurs’ lead ballooned to as much as 23. The Spurs ultimately won 118-99.
De’Aaron Fox led the way with 22 points (9-13 FG), eight rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Fox was super efficient from the field and was active in the passing lanes. His steals were comprised of pickpockets, interceptions, and deflections. His points really painted the picture in the fourth quarter. Come playoff time, expect more of this stat line, where the team will need him the most.
BUZZER-BEATER! Fox finds an open Harrison Barnes at the last second for the buzzer-beating three to end the first quarter!
Stephon Castle dropped 20 points (8-15 FG, 3-5 3PT), five assists, and four rebounds. Steph created offense with a mix of tough and-one finishes, dunks, middies, and threes. Despite having five turnovers, he dropped clutch buckets with Fox in the fourth. He drained a corner three, converted an and-one, and had himself a dunk contest. He also had the assignment of guarding Kawhi Leonard, which was not an easy task. Look for Steph to draw the toughest defensive assignment come playoff time.
WHITE CASTLE! Steph finds Luke Kornet on the alley-oop connection early in the first!
Dylan Harper dropped 19 points (8-12 FG, 2-3 3PT), five assists, two rebounds, and a steal. Dyl’s dribble and finishing moves are so polished for a rookie. He made every spin and every finish look easy. He also drained a pair of threes. He earned extra playing time in the fourth due to his play, and it paid off in a big way. He slashed his way to the cup and found open shooters to clinch the game. While he’s earned an All-Rookie selection, there might be a chance he sneaks onto the first team.
Put him in a blender! Dyl goes to work on Nicolas Batum with a crossover spin move for the layup!
Without their best player, the Spurs made this a statement game. Wemby might be an MVP candidate, but this team has loads of talent. For example, the guard trio of Castle, Fox, and Harper showed up and showed out. Every time the ball was in either of their hands, points were going to be generated. The guard play combined with cutters and shooters is already deadly. Just add the 7’5” alien to destroy a team’s defense. The Spurs face a real test this Saturday against a contending Denver squad.
— Basketball University (@UofBasketball) April 3, 2026
Finally, here are the full game highlights.
The Spurs end their three-game road trip this Saturday when they travel to Ball Arena to take on the Denver Nuggets at 2:00 P.M. (CST) on Prime Video/FDSN-SW.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 30: Alex Freeland #76 of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on before the game against the Cleveland Guardians at Dodger Stadium on March 30, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Dodgers’ first road game of the season is the Washington Nationals’ home opener.
Wrexham rally against West Brom to boost playoff push
Leicester earn precious point against Preston
Jack Rudoni came off the bench to score twice as Championship leaders Coventry moved 11 points clear of second-placed Millwall with a 3-2 victory against Derby.
The midfielder had been out of action since 28 February but returned to devastating effect as Coventry made it eight wins in nine league outings.
The New York Knicks will try to find some consistency ahead of the playoffs as they host the Chicago Bulls on Friday night.
New York is beating bad teams but failing to cover, and I’m taking Chicago with the points tonight in my Bulls vs. Knicks predictions.
Let’s break down this matchup and see all my free NBA picks for Friday, April 3.
Bulls vs Knicks prediction
Bulls vs Knicks best bet: Bulls +15.5 (-110)
The Chicago Bulls may have watched their season go down the drain in recent weeks, but there have been moments when they’ve been able to come through for bettors.
Specifically, they’ve done a good job when they’ve been given a boatload of points, covering in five straight games in which they’ve been underdogs by nine points or more.
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks are dealing with their own struggles as they look towards the playoffs.
New York has now lost three of its last four outright, and while it continues to score wins against bad teams – the Knicks have won 10 straight games against opponents with losing records – that’s only masking the team’s struggles.
Along with having issues getting wins against quality opposition, the Knicks have now failed to cover in any of their last five games and are 3-10 ATS in their last 13 overall. They’re just 2-6 ATS in their last eight games as a favorite.
While not as dramatic as some other patches of shaky defense, New York has allowed 114.0 ppg over its last six games, well up from the season average of 110.6 ppg.
And it’s still not clear exactly how Karl-Anthony Towns best fits into the offensive system alongside Jalen Brunson, with the Knicks putting up 103 points or less in four of their last seven games.
New York should win tonight – it’s what they do against weaker teams – but there’s no way to have any confidence in a blowout. I’m taking the Bulls to cover the massive spread on offer here.
Bulls vs Knicks same-game parlay
Along with taking the Bulls to cover, I’m also going to target the Over tonight. Chicago has hit the Over in five of its last six games and has played to a total of Over 237.5 points in each of their last six games.
In what should be a high-scoring affair, I also like Tre Jones to hit his points total. The Chicago guard has now scored 15+ points in seven straight games and should continue to get high usage for the Bulls for the rest of the regular season.
Bulls vs Knicks SGP
Bulls +14.5
Over 237.5
Tre Jones Over 14.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: Bulls ball out
For a longshot SGP, let’s roll with Josh Giddey to pick up a triple-double tonight. He’s coming off a March where he put up six triple-doubles and came within 0.6 rebounds per game of averaging one for the month.
I’ll also take Tre Jones to hit the Over on his PRA total, as he’s put up 24+ PRA in six of his last seven games. I’m also taking Matas Buzelis to hit Over 2.5 threes tonight, something he’s done in four of his last six games.
Bulls vs Knicks SGP
Josh Giddey triple-double
Tre Jones Over 22.5 points + rebounds + assists
Matas Buzelis Over 2.5 threes made
Bulls vs Knicks odds
Spread: Chicago +14 (-110) | New York -14 (-110)
Moneyline: Chicago +650 | New York -1000
Over/Under: Over 237.5 (-110) | Under 237.5 (-110)
Bulls vs Knicks betting trend to know
The Bulls are 3-0 ATS in their last three games as double-digit underdogs. Find more NBA betting trends for Bulls vs. Knicks.
How to watch Bulls vs Knicks
Location
Madison Sqaure Garden, New York, NY
Date
Friday, April 3, 2026
Tip-off
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
CHSN, MSG
Bulls vs Knicks latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
ELMONT, NEW YORK - MARCH 30: Anders Lee #27 of the New York Islanders checks Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins during the first period at UBS Arena on March 30, 2026 in Elmont, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Penguins lost to Tampa last night but still remain incredibly well-positioned to secure a playoff spot this season.
Here’s the relevant standings for them as of now.
While there could be other avenues with a Wild Card spot, for now we’ll keep it simple on the most straight-forward path available to Pittsburgh: finishing in the top-3 of the Metropolitan Division.
To ensure that, the Penguins simply must not be surpassed by two of: the New York Islanders, Columbus Blue Jackets, Philadelphia Flyers and Washington Capitals. Regulation wins is the first tiebreaker if a team ends up with the same number of points, and that’s good news for the Pens since their 31 RW is unlikely to be overtaken by anyone they’re in competition with (the Caps have a case, but being seven points back with six games to go it’s highly unlikely they will be able to pull into a tie with Pittsburgh).
Since Carolina is 10 points ahead of the Pens, the realistic best case scenario for Pittsburgh is the second spot in the Metro, which easily enough accomplished by keeping all the teams currently behind them that way at the end of the season.
Here’s a breakdown for that:
First glance might look scary, but the maximum totals are not going to be anyone’s final outcome, and shifting down all the time. The Islanders and Flyers play each other tonight, if that games ends in regulation then someone’s max is being reduced by two points (if it ends in OT, it goes down by one for the losing side). A team like the Caps had a max of 99 yesterday before their loss to New Jersey, same story for Columbus who had their max reduced from 102 to 100 as a result of losing last night to Carolina.
Cut and dry, as of now, a good base-line magic number for the Pens’ is 8. Any combination of eight points earned by PIT or lost by Columbus and Philadelphia is going to lock up a Pittsburgh playoff spot. To secure second place, the magic number is 9 and focus shifts to the Islanders. In that regard, and in a hard-and-fast outlook, if the Pens win four of their last six games then they don’t even need any outside help and will sew things up all by themselves.
What could that mean? Let’s look at the remaining schedules for the remaining teams in the hunt and even forecast their paths in a somewhat conservative way.
(Green represents projected, hypothetical wins, yellow for an OT/SO loss and white for a regulation loss)
Games have been impossible to predict ahead of time, a team like NYI lost to Chicago and defeated Dallas last week, most would have figured those results being reversed. We’ll split the middle and more or less project 3-2-1 records for everyone, a little above average but nothing extreme. This could be generous considering teams like NYI (3-5-0 in last eight) and CBJ (1-5-1 in their last seven) aren’t exactly setting the world on fire. Could a team like Philadelphia out-perform their projection? Absolutely. Even so, tack a couple more points on and — barring a team going on a ridiculous run — the projected totals seem pretty realistic and viable as a base that likely could have a tolerance of 1 or 2 points in either direction.
This kind of outlook shows how strongly the Pens’ position is. They would need two wins in their last six games to get to 96 points and likely clinch second place if the teams behind them have a semi-realistic finish. If something zany happens – like NYI wins Game 82 vs Carolina because the Hurricanes bench their star players — then that simply becomes Pittsburgh needing three wins to secure second place and home ice advantage.
Who should Penguin fans root for, aside from the obvious for NYI, CBJ and PHI to lose as much as possible in regulation? Game-by-game you can go above for that. Hold your nose, but if the main focus is on second place you’d want the Flyers to win tonight in regulation against the Islanders and then definitely lose their next game against Boston. If the results are reversed and NYI beats the Flyers tonight, the good news for the Pens is that helps the cause for Pittsburgh’s overall playoff number. There’s some bittersweetness and dual feelings on either end of the result, more than anything the preference would be for NYI/PHI to simply not end up going to overtime.
Generally speaking, you’d also like for Atlantic Division teams like Buffalo, Montreal, Detroit and Boston to do well in their multiple games remaining against the Metropolitan Division. Toronto could also play spoiler, though count on that at your own risk. Carolina could also do Pittsburgh a solid by taking care of business in their three games against NYI and PHI. The Winnipeg Jets are out there too with games against CBJ and PHI, the Jets could perform a service with some wins there to bring further momentum out of those two would-be contenders.
The good news is the math is very much in the Penguins’ favor. If they get even 4, 5 or 6 points in the remaining six games to play then they will be in very good shape to make the playoffs. If they play above .500% down the stretch and gain 7+ points, which isn’t a huge ask, the likelihood of securing the Metro2 playoff spot becomes all but elementary.
Unexpected outcomes can happen — that’s why they play the games to find out who actually wins them — but the current positioning of being up 3-4 points on their opponents (while holding the first tiebreaker) with only six games to go represents a huge edge for Pittsburgh right now. More than anything at this point, for the Pens it’s not about the desperation of going on a big run at the end of the year so much as playing well and being prepared to hit the postseason in good form and with momentum.
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - APRIL 01: Nickeil Alexander-Walker #7 of the Atlanta Hawks goes to the basket against Jamal Cain #8 of the Orlando Magic during the second quarter at Kia Center on April 01, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. 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 Rich Storry/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Six games left. That is the total amount of dates before we can set our eyes on a brighter future.
A few days ago, Brooklyn was belittled by a red hot Charlotte Hornets team that have been enjoying the fruits of its labor. Including their victory against the Nets and their 20 point win against the Phoenix Suns yesterday, the Hornets have won seven of their last nine contests and are one game ahead of the Orlando Magic for the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference. They are a few steps away from making their first playoff appearance exactly 10 seasons ago.
Tonight, the Nets will be taking on a similar opponent who have been red hot in their own right. The Atlanta Hawks, currently fifth in the Eastern Conference, have become one of the league’s most exciting teams after they parted ways with their former star guard in Trae Young. As the Nets look for more advantages to increase their draft odds, this game may be in their favor.
And if you’re wondering — of course you are — the Nets are currently in what is essentially a three-way tie for best odds in the May 10 Lottery. At this point, they are second, a game behind the Wizards, tied with the Pacers for second. They are also a game and a half ahead of the Kings and two and a half ahead of the Jazz.
Where to Watch
Catch the action at 7:30 p.m. ET on the YES Network and NBA League Pass as well as streaming on the Gotham Sports App.
Injury Report
MPJ (left hamstring strain), Egor Demin (left plantar fascia injury management), Danny Wolf (left ankle sprain), and Day’Ron Sharpe (left thumb surgery) will be out of action. The Nets three two-ways and two 10-days including new hire, Trevon Scott, should be available. This will be their third game in four days, a G League playoff game sandwiched between two NBA contests.
For the Hawks, Jock Landale (ankle) will miss tonight’s game.
The Game
If I’m the Atlanta Hawks, I couldn’t ask for a better situation.
First, they have not one, but two stars that have taken the rise to become what looks like an epic duo. Jalen Johnson is a matchup nightmare due to the fact that he is a 6’8 point forward who can do everything and fly through the air at the same time. Johnson is currently averaging a near triple double in 22.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists. A couple of months ago, he became the eighth player in league history to record four straight triple doubles.
In the backcourt, Nikeil Alexander-Walker has come to his own in Quinn Snyder’s offense. Averaging 20.6 points, he has taken the point guard duties of this team and made the most of it. Because he is not as ball dominant as Trae Young and he could move without the ball, Alexander-Walker has been able to flourish in this offense, especially with that Alexander-smoothness that he and Shai Gilgeous Alexander both possess. The two are cousins.
Both are great tributes to the Hawks development model. Johnson was drafted at No. 20 by Atlanta. Slowed by injury, he averaged 2.4 points and 5.6 points in his first two years before taking off. Alexander-Walker is more of a mid-career success story. He’s a bit older at 27 and taken a little earlier, at No. 17 (by the Nets who traded his rights to preserve cap space for the Clean Sweep in 2019.)
Secondly, the Hawks match up very well with the powerhouses of the Eastern Conference. With key victories against the Boston Celtics and the Detroit Pistons, they have proven they could make some damage in the playoffs. Besides Alexander-Walker and Johnson, the Hawks have a complete team, especially with other newcomers like C.J. McCollum and Jonathan Kuminga. With so many bigger bodies, playing against guards like Jalen Brunson or James Harden could possibly work in their favor as we head into the Spring.
But before we get to that point, let’s see how the Nets can approach this game. The Kings defeated the Raptors a couple of days ago, which makes this race for draft odds that much more closer.
Player to Watch
Alexander-Walker may not be the success story that Jalen Johnson is, but he may be a better story. NAW, as noted up top, is SGA’s cousin, and now after four teams in seven years, he has found a home. (Jordi Fernandez is familiar with both because they were part of Team Canada when he was head coach.)
That’s what’s confirmed this year to be no fluke. His full-season emergence as a two-way star, with career-high averages in every major statistical category, has transformed the outlook of this Hawks team in both the immediate and long-term future.
Alexander-Walker entered March averaging 19.8 points on .431/.373/.888 shooting. Those are more than respectable numbers, but his efficiency has gone through the roof since Mar. 1 and given the Hawks a new outlook on what the postseason may hold.
Since May 1, Alexander-Walker is averaging 22.7 points on .528/.468/.942 shooting—on 7.4 three-point field goal attempts per game, no less.
Among players who appeared in at least 10 games in March, only three converted with more efficiency from beyond the arc than Alexander-Walker. Darius Garland was the only player who shot better than Alexander-Walker while attempting at least 7.0 treys per game.
He’s also under contract for another three years at a reasonable $15 million per season. If he keeps this up, he’ll be one of the league’s bargains.
From the Vault
This one is a little late for a obituary and a little early for retrospect but we figure it’s always a good time to honor a Brooklyn legend and singer/songwriter Neil Sedaka qualifies. Sedaka died in February at age 87. Much of the honors we read and listened to was about some of the great songs of the 50’s and 60’s — “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” “Bad Blood,” “Laughter in the Rain” and “Calendar Girl” — there wasn’t a lot about growing up in Brooklyn’s Brighton Beach. After all, he lived across the street from Neil Diamond and dated Carole King. (Look them up if you have to.)
“We all lived in Brooklyn,” he said. “It was a wonderful time. It must have been something in the egg cream. We used to hang out in the sweet shop and have egg creams and potato knishes.”
Obviously, a different time, but Brooklyn’s musical legacy extends back a long, long time. Here’s Sedaka singing about his hometown 50 years ago.
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 03: Brady House #12, James Wood #29 and Daylen Lile #4 of the Washington Nationals warm up prior to the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on Friday, April 3, 2026 in Washington, District of Columbia. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
The Nationals have a tough assignment for their home opener. They have to do battle with the back to back World Series champion Dodgers. The Nats have actually had surprising success against the Dodgers, especially at home. However, it is always a tough task when you face a team with this much star power.
The Nats are actually sitting their hottest hitter for this game. Joey Wiemer entered the season as a guy who would only play against lefties. However, he was so hot, the Nats have been playing him every day. He will not be in there today though. Instead, the outfield will be James Wood, Jacob Young and Daylen Lile. Brady House will actually be the DH today, with Jorbit Vivas playing third base. Miles Mikolas will be on the mound against a stacked Dodgers lineup.
This Dodgers lineup looks like an All-Star team. Future Hall of Famers like Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts litter the lineup. The Dodgers most recent pricey addition, Kyle Tucker, will be hitting second. While the Dodgers are 4-2, some of their biggest names have been cold to start the year. The Nats will need that to continue to have a shot in this one. Emmet Sheehan is on the mound and the former sixth rounder is an example of the Dodgers excellent player development.
After a solid road trip to start the season, the Nats are finally back in DC. They will have to play with the same intensity we have seen early this year to beat the mighty Dodgers though. It will be exciting to see the young Nats square off with all of these LA super stars. Follow along in the comments down below and let’s go Nats!
The Colorado Avalanche are as close to a ‘cup or bust’ team as you’ll see.
They got their guy in Nazem Kadri, look like Presidents Trophy and Central Division winners, and have a litany of players who have or will set career highs, including some unexpected achievements— looking at you, Parker Kelly.
Captain Gabe Landeskog is back, Nathan MacKinnon somehow keeps getting better, Martin Necas has proved plenty capable, and Cale Makar (although banged up) is still the top dog defender.
The goalkeeping-by-committee approach has obviously worked during the regular season.
Still, after some shaky starts from Blackwood and unfortunate outcomes, some pundits and fans are calling for head coach Jared Bednar to pick a guy heading into the playoffs.
The winningest Boston Bruins team ever is the best and among the most clearly comparable case studies to look to now that these questions have begun in the press room at Ball Arena.
Both positioned themselves firmly as the clear cup favorite as the calendar turned to April.
Unexpected Outcome
So how did the winningest (regular-season) team ever finish?
A Bruins team that lost only 12 games in regulation over 7 months and all 82 regular-season games lost four games in 13 days to the Florida Panthers in round one of the playoffs, and didn’t even play in May.
Did they stick with the goalie by committee come playoff time?
Nope, they started Ullmark in 6 of 7 games, with game 7 going to Swayman.
Beasts of Burden
I think it’s relatively common knowledge that humans are creatures of habit.
Now, enter a human who’s decided to play goalie in the NHL, and you have some of the most routine-oriented, borderline obsessive creatures of habit ever to have walked this planet.
Why?
Because, as my dad told me growing up, half of what it means to be a great goalie happens in the six inches between their ears.
The mentality and confidence of a goaltender are qualities to be fostered and nurtured, and the approach we are seeing right now has brought out the best in Wedgewood and allowed Blackwood to get back to form at a slower, more comfortable pace.
Imagine if the Avalanche didn’t have an option like Wedgewood.
Not having your starter for training camp and the first three weeks of the regular season usually isn’t the start of a story about a historically successful regular-season team.
I’d argue that’s why we’ve seen these two goalies grow close in their short stay so far in Colorado. The two netminders have each other’s back and don’t seem to have any issue with the current approach.
We know it typically takes two goalies to win a cup, and Colorado right now has the league’s best goalie by SV% in Scott Wedgewood and a fail-safe that proved (to end last season) to be a bona fide starter in MacKenzie Blackwood.
Does losing to the league’s worst team, the Vancouver Canucks, by a score of 8-6, pain the eyes?
Absolutely.
Is it reason to pull the plug on what’s gotten you to the top of the NHL and positioned you for a deep cup run?
Toronto Blue Jays newcomer Dylan Cease is a strikeout maestro, and I’m expecting him to be crossing up Chicago White Sox batters all day long.
Find out why with my Blue Jays vs. Chicago White Sox predictions and free MLB picks for Friday, April 3.
Blue Jays vs White Sox predictions
Blue Jays vs White Sox best bet: Dylan Cease Over 7.5 strikeouts (-105)
TOR@CHW
Match starts: 1 hrs
Strikeouts
Dylan Cease o7.5 strikeouts (-105)
Bet now at img src="https://img.covers.com/betting/sportsbooks/82/bet99_bg.svg" alt="BET99" style="display: block; height: 44px; width: auto; max-width: 160px; object-fit: contain; border-radius: 4px;"
No pitcher in baseball has had more strikeouts over the last five seasons than Dylan Cease, which continued into his first Toronto Blue Jays start, where he struck out 12 A’s batters in 5 1/3 innings.
This is an extremely favorable matchup for Cease, who faces a strikeout-prone Chicago White Sox squad.
Chicago ranks 29th in strikeout rate, averaging 12 K’s per game through its first six contests in 2026,
Additionally, the White Sox own a league-worst 35% whiff rate, while Cease had a league-best 52.2% in his season-opening start.
COVERS INTEL: Chicago’s lineup is only hitting .188 against Cease, with 15 strikeouts in 48 at-bats.
The White Sox have been terrible to start the season, going 1-5 on the run line with an average loss margin of 5.16 runs per game. This should be the game where Toronto turns its offense around.
This is also why I’ll be taking Over 4.5 runs for the Jays today. Chicago has allowed five or more runs in all but one game, averaging 8.67 runs allowed per contest.
Blue Jays vs White Sox SGP
Dylan Cease Over 7.5 strikeouts
Blue Jays -1.5
Blue Jays team total Over 4.5
img loading="lazy" width="100%" height="null" src="https://img.covers.com/editorial/2026/jaysmlcbp.jpg" alt="Canada’s best price for Jays"
Get the best Jays ML odds at BET99 — every game.
Blue Jays vs White Sox home run pick: Addison Barger
TOR@CHW
Match starts: 1 hrs
Total home runs
Addison Barger o0.5 Home Runs (+440)
Bet now at img src="https://img.covers.com/betting/sportsbooks/82/bet99_bg.svg" alt="BET99" style="display: block; height: 44px; width: auto; max-width: 160px; object-fit: contain; border-radius: 4px;"
Sean Burke will get the ball after an opener starts the game for Chicago. Burke gave up three bombs in his lone meeting against Toronto last season.
One of the Jays batters who tagged Burke for a homer last year was Addison Barger, and I’ll back him to go yard again tonight. The pitch that was most costly for Burke last season was the slider, which was taken deep 10 times. Barger owned a 56.8% hard-hit rate against the slider last season.
2026 Transparency record
Best bets: 2-3, -0.65 units
SGPs: 1-4, -0.5 units
HR picks: 1-4, +0.45 units
Blue Jays vs White Sox odds
Moneyline: Toronto -210 | Chicago +170
Run line: Toronto -1.5 (-115) | Chicago +1.5 (-105)
Over/Under: Over 7.5 (+100) | Under 7.5 (-120)
Blue Jays vs White Sox trend
The Toronto Blue Jays have covered the 1st Five Innings (F5) Run Line in 16 of their last 21 games (+11.05 Units / 46% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Blue Jays vs. White Sox.
How to watch Blue Jays vs White Sox and game info
Location
Rate Field, Chicago, IL
Date
Friday, April 3, 2026
First pitch
2:10 p.m. ET
TV
Sportsnet
Blue Jays starting pitcher
Dylan Cease (0-0, 1.69 ERA)
White Sox starting pitcher
Grant Taylor (0-0, 4.50 ERA)
Blue Jays vs White Sox latest injuries
Blue Jays vs White Sox 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 Los Angeles Lakers, at the worst possible time, caught a bad break with their biggest star.
All-Star guard and Most Valuable Player candidate Luka Dončić, suffered what appeared to be a hamstring injury in a blowout loss against the Thunder on Thursday, April 2, potentially putting his award eligibility – and the Lakers' dreams of a deep postseason run – in jeopardy.
Dončić is set to an undergo an MRI to evaluate the severity of the injury.
Thursday night’s game against Oklahoma City was his 64th of the season, putting him one shy of the minimum required for consideration for MVP, All-NBA selection and other individual honors. This means Dončić needs to play in at least one of Los Angeles’ remaining five games to become eligible. Meanwhile, the Lakers are still battling for seeding in the Western Conference in the final games of the season.
Dončić finished the game with 12 points on 3-of-10 shooting, including a sluggish 1-of-7 from 3-point range. He added 7 assists and 4 rebounds. The injury comes just days after he scored 600 points in March, marking just the 10th time in NBA history that a player has reached that level of production in any month.
What does Luka Dončić’s injury mean for the Lakers?
This comes as a blow for Los Angeles, which had gone 15-2 in March and had climbed to the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference. With Thursday’s loss against the Thunder, however, L.A.’s hold of the third-seed over the Nuggets shrunk to just 1 game. Denver, meanwhile, is on a seven-game winning streak.
The Lakers have gone 7-6 this season in games Dončić has been sidelined and he has become the team’s premier and most reliable offensive force. In his absence, Austin Reaves and LeBron James will have to step up considerably.
Los Angeles Lakers remaining schedule
Sunday, April 5: at Dallas Mavericks
Tuesday, April 7: vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Thursday, April 9: at Golden State Warriors
Friday, April 10: vs. Phoenix Suns
Sunday, April 12: vs. Utah Jazz
The NBA playoffs are set to tip off April 18.
NBA playoff standings: Western Conference
Thunder 61-16
Spurs 59-18 (2 games back)
Lakers 50-27 (11 GB)
Nuggets 49-28 (12 GB)
Rockets 47-29 (13.5 GB)
Timberwolves 46-30 (14.5 GB)
Luka Dončić stats
In 64 games this season, Dončić is averaging an NBA-high 33.5 points, with 8.3 assists and 7.7 rebounds per game.
TOR
CHW
COVERS INTEL: Chicago’s lineup is only hitting .188 against Cease, with 15 strikeouts in 48 at-bats.