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Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire: Top streaming targets for final weekend of 2025-26 NBA season

With only two days of action remaining, and with all 30 teams playing twice, streaming, while plentiful, could be hard to project. Both good and bad teams are shutting guys down for various reasons. While there are a handful of teams with something to play for, the majority of streaming candidates are likely taken. So, we shift our attention to the remaining teams trying to nail down who could play in both games.

As we move through what is commonly viewed as silly season, the waiver wire is the place to be, providing managers with bargain players who could be about to ascend in the NBA fantasy rankings. And remember, never assume a player is rostered. It always pays to double-check, just in case they have been overlooked.

Identifying players who are benefiting from expanded roles — whether it's an offensive threat delivering points and threes or a defensive-minded player boosting your blocks and steals — is vital as you navigate the season.

Let's dive into nine key NBA sleepers whose current stats suggest they are poised for significant value and are currently rostered in fewer than 40% of Yahoo leagues.

Although the Pelicans have no chance of making the playoffs, the fact is that the team is at least still trying to win basketball games. While that hasn't been the case recently, having lost eight of its past nine games, Fears has seen an uptick in his playing time and associated production. Over his past three games, Fears has averaged 53 fantasy points per game, logging at least 37 minutes in all three appearances. All signs point to him closing the season, and apparently, he has a green light on offense. Managers should feel relatively comfortable adding him, despite two high-volume nights to end the campaign.

It appears as though Reese will close the season as the starting center for Washington, a role that has yielded some encouraging performances. In his past three games, Reese has averaged a double-double, putting up 44.7 fantasy points per game. Perhaps more important is the fact that in each of the three games, he has seen at least 36 minutes. Every season, there are a couple of silly-season centers who rack up big numbers down the stretch. It seems as though Reese is one of those names.

With the Lakers very short on troops right now, Kennard has stepped into a sizeable role, flashing his upside on both ends of the floor. In his past three appearances, Kennard has averaged 44.3 fantasy points per game, including what was his first triple-double of the season. Despite the injuries, Los Angeles is still in the hunt for a top-four seed in the Western Conference, which would ensure home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. Look for Kennard to continue playing a key role as the team enters two must-win games against the Suns and Jazz.

Slawson is another player who has quietly put himself in the frame as a must-roster player. Despite his strong defensive production over the past month, contract limitations meant that he was no certainty to suit up on any given night. However, he is now free to play in both remaining games, continuing a strong three-game run over the past week. During that time, he has flirted with top-75 value, averaging 15.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 2.3 3-pointers. With scope for him to increase his production on the defensive end, Slawson should be picked up in most leagues, given his ability to impact low-volume categories such as steals and blocks.

Miller continues to be one of the few shining lights in Chicago, having finally carved out a meaningful role, albeit for a team with low expectations. While he has been firmly on the radar for quite some time, Thursday delivered arguably the best performance of his career, recording 26 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, one steal, one block and two 3-pointers. Chicago has seemingly shut down a number of key players, meaning Miller should see out the season as a key piece. At this point, he really is a no-brainer across all formats.

Harper has quietly put himself on the radar, having seen a slight uptick in his playing time, with San Antonio starting to ease off on some of its bigger names. Harper has now scored double digits in 10 straight games, playing at least 25 minutes in three of the past four games. He has been a top-85 player in 14 appearances over the past month, averaging 14.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.6 3-pointers, numbers that are likely sustainable given the fact his role should hold steady moving forward. 

Although he has yet to realize any sort of potential, Henderson has found some rhythm in recent times, amassing at least 33 fantasy points in three of his past five games. He has scored double digits in nine of the past 10 games, while also logging at least 24 minutes on a regular basis. Given he missed so much of the early part of the season, it makes sense for the Trail Blazers to get him out on the floor as much as possible, especially if the team can squeeze into the playoffs. As another player likely to close the season with two games played, Henderson makes for a viable starting option in both points and category formats.

Carrington has yet to miss a game this season, meaning there is definite incentive to get him out there for the remaining two games. Although his production hasn't been anything spectacular, Carrington is a good example of quantity over quality, which at this time of the year, can be key to success. If you are looking for a low-upside, but safe play, look no further than Carrington.

Despite all the disruption in Milwaukee, Dieng has managed to make the most of a bad situation. While his percentages have been a major issue, that matters not when it comes to his value in points formats. He continues to play a sizeable role for a team that has basically hit rock bottom, recording at least 29 fantasy points in five of the past six games, including a 66-point explosion during a loss to Houston. In terms of being available for both remaining games, Dieng is as close to a lock as you will find, making him a relatively risk-free addition, should he be available in your league.

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Celtics vs. Knicks player grades: Vucevic, Scheierman sharpen tools in loss

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 09: Baylor Scheierman #55 of the Boston Celtics reacts after scoring a three point basket during the third quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 09, 2026 in New York City. 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 Pamela Smith/Getty Images) | Getty Images

A lot has to happen to get a bucket in the NBA. The right screen creates just enough space to free up the ball. A pass has to be on the money for a player to get a shot off. And even if everything goes right, it’s still a make-or-miss league where a 50% success rate would be great.

So many things hurt the Celtics on Thursday night. Jayson Tatum would surely love to get those six turnovers back. Allowing the Knicks to hit 15-of-35 from behind the arc is tough to swallow. But in the end, it was two triples from Josh Hart on broken plays that did the Celtics in in the final two minutes.

The Celtics’ magic number to clinch the #2 seed remains at one with two games at TD Garden against the visiting Pelicans tomorrow and the Magic on Sunday. The Knicks host playoff hungry Toronto and Charlotte.

Boston’s championship odds have remained steady all month with our friends at FanDuel and are +550 to raise Banner 19 and the favorite to rep the Eastern Conference in the 2026 NBA Finals.

Jayson Tatum

40 minutes, 24 points (2-10 from 3, 8-10 from the free throw line, 7-22 from the field), 13 rebounds, 8 assists, 6 turnovers, one steal, one block -16

Against the Hornets on March 29th, Tatum put up arguably the highest scoring game of his comeback with 32 points, five rebounds, and eight assists with Brown sidelined. It was an often visceral reminder of his scoring prowess and just home much his size and speed is difficult to defend.

Even alongside Jaylen, Jayson has become more of an all-around contributor, nearly averaging a triple-double at 24-12-8 over the last four games. He was close again with 24-13-8, but six turnovers and an inefficient 2-or-10 from 3 contributed to his -16 plus/minus on the night.

Grade: B

Jordan Walsh

17 minutes, 5 points (1-2 from 3, 2-4 from the field), 2 rebounds, one assist, 5 turnovers, -9

After re-entering the rotation two weeks ago — including starting for the Jays like he did last night for Brown — Walsh has shown a knack for generating momentum-shifting plays with his rangy defense and ability to find offense in the nooks and crannies of opposing teams’ defenses.

Instead of Tommy Points and stocks, we need a new metric/nickname for plays that shouldn’t happen, but Walsh finds a way. Jordan Jolts? Celtics Sparks?

Grade: A-

Neemias Queta

24 minutes, 10 points (2-2 from the free throw line, 4-6 from the field), 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, -7

Queta is the living embodiment of “let the star player get his and shut down everybody else.” Over his last five games, he’s averaged 16.4 points on 75% shooting from the field.

With Tatum struggling a bit, Neemy didn’t get a lot of those easy buckets. Instead, he hit the offensive glass for two of his putback buckets and pulled down six total for the game.

Grade: B+

Sam Hauser

31 minutes, 6 points (2-6 from 3, 2-7 from the field), 2 rebounds, 3 assists, +1

With Scheierman dominating in the 4th quarter, Hauser didn’t get his usual run to close the game. When he was in the game, he used his shooting gravity to find teammates for three assists.

Grade: B

Derrick White

38 minutes, 8 points (0-6 from 3, 4-4 from the free throw line, 2-10 from the field), 3 rebounds, one assist, one steal, -3

So many unofficial end-of-season ballots have Derrick White as an All-Defense First Teamer — I’ve seen him on a few All-NBA lists, too.

Unfortunately, he’s having a Celtics career-worst shooting season and that’s really hurt his box scores. He’s still doing everything else on the floor, but the efficiency is way down in 2025-2026.

Grade: B-

Payton Pritchard

36 minutes, 23 points (3-8 from 3, 10-20 from the field), 3 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 turnovers, +4

We joked in our CelticsBlog Slack that if Pritchard incorporated Jalen Brunson’s grift game, he’d probably get 4-8 points more from the free throw line. No matter, he carried Boston in the first half with fifteen points with many of his buckets coming at the rim and played more the playmaker after halftime with five assists.

Grade: B+

Nikola Vucevic

24 minutes, 10 points (2-4 from 3, 4-7 from the field) 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 turnover, +1

Talk about a crash course. After missing fourteen games and virtually all of Tatum’s return, the prize of Boston’s trade deadline has had three games to generate chemistry and get his sea legs back before the playoffs start next week. His first two were duds relative to what we know Vooch can provide on a night-to-night basis. Against the Knicks, the learning curve is still on the upswing.

He hit some big threes in the third quarter and seemed to get into the flow of the read-and-react offense in the fourth. It’s starting to click for the big man.

Grade: B+

Baylor Scheierman

30 minutes, 20 points (6-7 from 3, 7-8 from the field), 4 rebounds, -1

The 38% three-point shooter caught fire at MSG, hitting 6-of-7 from 3. Along with some solid defense on Brunson, it was a clutch 20-point performance for the Celtics highest riser on the bench.

Grade: A+

DNP-CDs: Luka Garza, Hugo Gonzalez, Ron Harper Jr., Max Shulga, John Tonje, Amari Williams

Inactives: Jaylen Brown

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Australia on brink of BJK Cup exit after British teenager Mika Stojsavljevic stuns Gibson

  • 17-year-old defeats in-form Australian 7-6(4), 7-5 in qualifier

  • Harriet Dart beats Kimberly Birrell 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 in Melbourne

Australia’s quest to win a place in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals is off to the worst possible start, losing both opening-day singles matches, with spearhead Talia Gibson falling to British teen Mika Stojsavljevic.

Gibson was expected to get the tie at Melbourne’s John Cain Arena off to a flying start on Friday, but she was a shock loser 7-6 (7-4) 7-5 against the lowly ranked 17-year-old.

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After a season of such misery for the Warriors, any postseason exit is merciful

After a season of such misery for the Warriors, any postseason exit is merciful originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO – At the risk of being accused of suggesting public euthanasia, here goes.

As it trends, the Warriors and their skeletal roster will plunge into the offseason in a few days, perhaps as soon as Wednesday. Barring the miraculous, surely sometime in April.

Would a brief postseason be such a horrible conclusion?

Would that not be a merciful way to close a profoundly unsatisfying season punctuated by a merciless second half?

Yes, I know athletes train to do their best, give their all, and never abandon the goal. Winning is good for any soul, and for some, nothing matters more.

This is not about surrender. This is about an aggressive futility that sank its teeth into the Warriors and shows no sign of letting go.

With Jimmy Butler III sidelined for the season and Stephen Curry out for nine weeks, the Warriors steadily spoke of building good habits and playing as a team, being “on a string” defensively on one end while making defenses work on the other. They knew they were hampered, yet they had difficulty giving themselves a chance.

The most recent example came Thursday night at Chase Center, where Golden State ended its home schedule with a 119-103 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Such a score was rationally predictable with Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford and Curry in street clothes.

The Warriors’ principles were a mess. They bobbled and flung their way to 19 turnovers, gifting the Lakers 28 points. Through three quarters, Golden State had more turnovers (16) than assists (15), literally helping LA more than each other. The Warriors are 80 games into the season, without Curry for 28 of the last 30, and still have too many possessions dying on the dribble, sprinkled with maybe one late-clock pass. Zero-pass possessions are a sin in coach Steve Kerr’s system, yet there are times when the ball never leaves the original dribbler.

The Warriors have endured such unrelenting misery over the last 37 games that they surely are bracing for what lies ahead Friday night when they face the Kings in Sacramento, or Sunday when they close the regular season against the Clippers in Los Angeles or next Wednesday when they land in the NBA play-in tournament.

“We’ve been through the wringer here over the last six, eight weeks,” Kerr said Thursday night. “But we’re in a position where we have a chance to get into the playoffs. Got some guys who are getting healthy. Have a chance to hopefully put together a game tomorrow where we have what our roster would look like for the play-in games. 

“So tomorrow and Sunday to develop a little rhythm and get a swing at it. We got some hope.”

That hope must be tempered by uncertainty. That’s the way of the Warriors for the last 80 days. The Warriors do not know who will be available for any of those games because each day begins with multiple availability mysteries. Golden State’s injury reports since Jan. 19 have been depressing on sight and epic in length.

Yet Kerr continues to insist there can be internal growth.

“For the next two games, just intensity and connection defensively,” Kerr said of his desires for the team. “Talking, communicating and really being loud and being aggressive. Draymond (Green) will take care of that. And then, on offense, we’ve got to be a little cleaner; we had 19 turnovers tonight. We put a lot of guys in some tough spots.

“But getting some guys back, we should be able to do a better job of taking care of the ball and executing.”

Getting some guys back has been the rallying hope of Kerr and the healthy guys on the roster for two months. Losing Butler for the season punched a gaping hole through the Warriors’ lofty ambitions. When Curry went down 11 days later and during the nine weeks he missed, that hole expanded and hope began fading. The entire operation went from sagging slowly to sinking like a stone.

Moses Moody, a key reserve and occasional starter, sustained a season-ending injury last month. Though Kerr hopes Horford can return Friday night or Sunday, his season will end with him missing more games than he plays.

The paper-logical trade on Feb. 5, an attempt to rescue this season and perhaps bolster those to come, brought them the zigs and zags that innately come with teams buying a ticket to The Porzingis Experience.

The Warriors spent weeks yearning for Curry’s return, largely to witness his court collaboration with Porzingis. As they waited, they dropped from eighth place in the Western Conference to ninth and, finally, to 10th, which reserves the last seat on the last bus to playoff possibilities.

“We’re back in the fight with Steph,” Kerr said after Curry’s encouraging return last Sunday.

“We got Steph,” Brandin Podziemski said Thursday night, citing the source of his optimism. “That solves a lot of it. But we got a lot of winners. KP’s won a championship. Al’s won a championship. Steph and Dray. We got vets that have won championships, Gary (Payton II).

“So, I like our chances when it comes to a one-game situation.”

Despite a season during which so many elements the Warriors could least afford to go wrong went catastrophically wrong, there remain at least three games. Coaches and players already are prepping to face either the Clippers or the Trail Blazers next Wednesday.

Golden State would like a fourth game, in which a victory would mean a trip to Oklahoma City to open a first-round series against the defending champion Thunder. The Warriors would like to go out, if they must, on their feet. It’s the noblest kind of exit.

Deep down, however, they could not be blamed, after all they’ve been through, for feeling that if ever a season deserved to be put out of its misery, it is this one.

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Fantasy Hockey Waiver Wire Pickups: Ryan Leonard, Devon Toews lead top options this weekend

It's the final five days of the regular season. Make them count. While most head-to-head fantasy hockey leagues will soon be ending or are already over, roto/daily formats last until Thursday. Due to the brief window, it's a good idea to grab players on teams that'll be appearing more times and/or fighting for playoff positioning. Here's a breakdown of the remaining games:

Two games: BUF
Three games: The entire Eastern Conference (except for BUF), DAL, MIN, NSH, CHI, EDM, ANA, VGK
Four games: COL, UTA, STL, WPG, LA, SJ, SEA, CGY, VAN

While you shouldn't exclusively focus on players from the nine clubs with four games, the extra potential output could help. At the same time, more prominent performers only getting two or three outings can't be ignored.

That closes out another season of the waiver wire column. Enjoy the summer and see you again in 2026-27!

(Rostered rates as of April 10)

Ryan Hartman, MIN (Yahoo: 30%): The Wild are at full strength and aiming to advance deep in the playoffs. That may not eventually happen, though they've been scoring a lot of late. Hartman has helped the cause by contributing an eight-game run during which he's gone off for seven goals, five assists, 20 shots and 65 faceoff wins centering the first line between Kirill Kaprizov and Mats Zuccarello. Even though he's only on Minnesota's second power play, the latest offensive surge and elite linemates make him a must-add target.

Elias Lindholm, BOS (Yahoo: 28%): After being separated for a while, the trio of Lindholm, David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie were reunited during five-on-five and combined for six points on Tuesday. Lindholm hasn't been offensively consistent and missed time earlier on, yet has collected his best haul in three years. The Bruins look to be a safe bet for one of the Wild Cards, but they'll still want to carry momentum going in. That means Lindholm and others should be motivated to produce, which can only benefit your fantasy rosters.

Logan Stankoven, CAR (Yahoo: 23%): Stankoven has potted seven goals over his last six outings — three of those PPGs — on 14 shots to go with two assists, five hits and 38 faceoff wins while averaging 16:43 of ice time. He operates as Carolina's No. 2 pivot next to Jackson Blake and Taylor Hall while joining the pair on the lead man-advantage. As someone who can produce in a few areas within a potent attack, Stankoven shouldn't be available in roughly three of every four Yahoo leagues.

Ryan Leonard, WAS (Yahoo: 15%): It's been a pretty solid rookie campaign for Leonard as he's notched 42 points, 146 shots and 119 hits. He's also accumulated 14 PPPs while usually in the middle-six. Leonard's ice time fluctuates, but he's been reliable on offense and doesn't seem to mind laying out opponents. His talent may come in handy during the stretch drive as the Caps try to navigate their way out of a congested playoff battle. Add Leonard before others catch on.

Jake DeBrusk, VAN (Yahoo: 13%): DeBrusk's coverage numbers would probably be much higher if he were on a contender that regularly found the back of the net. He still boasts enough skills to get the job done, which has happened since March 24 via five goals, an assist and 26 shots while working on the top trio and power play. Getting to team up with Elias Pettersson and the likes of Brock Boeser and Marco Rossi while up a man should help anyone's stat line.

Christian Dvorak, PHI (Yahoo: 12%): Philly's been on a heater the last month, going 11-4-1 and currently sitting third in the Metro Division. That's been accomplished thanks to the entire lineup, including the efforts of a couple of under-the-radar players. Dvorak has played in the NHL for a decade, mainly as a secondary scoring source but has already significantly surpassed his career high in points that ultimately led to a five-year extension. As the Flyers' second-line center — and frequent PP participant — he's gone off for 16 points, three PPPs, 39 shots and 197 faceoff wins across the last 21 appearances while skating 19:37 a night.

Jack Roslovic, EDM (Yahoo: 5%): With Zach Hyman hurt, another vacancy opened on the Oilers' lead man-advantage that's been filled by Roslovic. And since that switch four games ago, Roslovic has registered a PPG, three assists, seven shots, eight hits and four blocks. It's possible Hyman will be rested until the first round, leaving Roslovic with a prime opportunity to pad his numbers on a league-leading unit.

Easton Cowan, TOR (Yahoo: 3%): The disappointment for Leafs' fans started earlier than usual this season as they struggled and sold at the Trade Deadline. Losing Auston Matthews to injury also didn't help, though that's only created more chances for others. Cowan had been mired in the bottom half of the depth chart until Bobby McMann was traded to Seattle. In the first four matchups, he netted a goal and two assists, though the next nine only saw him find the scoresheet once. Teaming up with John Tavares and William Nylander finally caught up to Cowan, as he's grabbed five points — three of those PPPs — seven shots, and five hits from the last five while logging 19-plus minutes.

Devon Toews, COL (Yahoo: 45%): Sam Malinski was discussed last week as someone who'd be able to do more with Cale Makar sidelined. And Toews is in a similar situation paired with Malinski at even-strength and recently installed on the Avs' top power play. Even though nothing has been produced while up a man since the promotion, he's been busy the last 10 games, recording six assists, 10 shots, 11 blocks and a plus-12. We're probably not seeing Makar again until the playoffs, so Toews should be able to maintain this run.

Philip Broberg, STL (Yahoo: 32%): It's a third time for Broberg in this column as he leads the way on the Blues' back end, holding prominent placement while the club still gets to face another four opponents. He had a seven-game scoring streak stopped on Sunday during which he tallied two goals and six assists on just under 23 minutes a night — 2:35 of that quarterbacking the Blues’ first PP. Broberg is set to be one of the organization's cornerstones for the foreseeable future and will be provided as much responsibility as he can handle.

Gustav Forsling, FLA (Yahoo: 28%): Florida continues to be decimated by injuries throughout the lineup and sits near the bottom of the Eastern Conference. While the two-time defending champs won't 3-peat, there will be enough fantasy opportunities the rest of the way. Forsling represents the Panthers' only experienced blueliner, so he's been averaging 23:44 the last nine outings and notching five assists, 20 shots and 14 blocks. He's also been covering on the second man-advantage after Aaron Ekblad broke a finger. Give Forsling a chance based on his latest output with upcoming matchups against three defenses (Leafs, Rangers, Red Wings) that have looked shaky of late.

Adam Larsson, SEA (Yahoo: 10%): The Kraken are also out of the postseason picture and carry a bottom-10 attack. While Larsson sometimes supplies scoring, he's more known for his secondary stats. Going back to March 24, he's managed five points to go with 25 shots, 16 hits and 16 blocks. If you're looking for help in the non-offensive categories, Larsson gets four more games to boost those totals.

Jesper Wallstedt, MIN (Yahoo: 48%): After a midseason lull, Wallstedt is playing superb hockey, with a 1.96 GAA and .929 save percentage in his last eight appearances. Filip Gustavsson has posted a 3.15/.877 line during that same stretch, yet won five of nine and picked up a shutout. The duo is alternating starts of late, with Gustavsson presumably still Minnesota's No. 1. As the playoffs approach, expect Wallstedt to keep receiving work behind a solid defense and hot offense.

Carter Hart, VGK (Yahoo: 19%): The Golden Knights haven't lost in regulation since the coaching change on March 29. Adin Hill kicked off that run by beating Vancouver and then fell in a shootout on Thursday while dropping his previous three. Hart stepped in between and won three straight, where he only allowed a combined five goals. He's seemingly taken over the lead role from Hill, though both netminders should both be involved as Vegas tries to catch the Oilers for the Pacific Division lead. Give Hart the slight edge for now and monitor the situation.

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Philadelphia faces Indiana, looks to break 3-game skid

Philadelphia 76ers (43-37, eighth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Indiana Pacers (19-61, 14th in the Eastern Conference)

Indianapolis; Friday, 7:30 p.m. EDT

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: 76ers -15; over/under is 234.5

BOTTOM LINE: Philadelphia heads into the matchup with Indiana as losers of three straight games.

The Pacers are 15-35 in conference matchups. Indiana is 9-41 against opponents with a winning record.

The 76ers have gone 25-25 against Eastern Conference opponents. Philadelphia ranks eighth in the league scoring 17.0 fast break points per game. Tyrese Maxey leads the 76ers averaging 5.5.

The Pacers' 13.3 made 3-pointers per game this season are only 0.1 fewer made shots on average than the 13.4 per game the 76ers give up. The 76ers' 46.2% shooting percentage from the field this season is 2.7 percentage points lower than the Pacers have given up to their opponents (48.9%).

The teams play for the fourth time this season. In the last meeting on Feb. 25 the 76ers won 135-114 led by 32 points from Maxey, while Andrew Nembhard scored 23 points for the Pacers.

TOP PERFORMERS: Nembhard is averaging 16.9 points and 7.7 assists for the Pacers. Micah Potter is averaging 1.6 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Maxey is scoring 28.3 points per game and averaging 4.1 rebounds for the 76ers. Paul George is averaging 3.0 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Pacers: 4-6, averaging 121.3 points, 41.1 rebounds, 34.8 assists, 6.7 steals and 3.0 blocks per game while shooting 51.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 121.9 points per game.

76ers: 5-5, averaging 117.8 points, 45.0 rebounds, 25.4 assists, 7.4 steals and 5.8 blocks per game while shooting 48.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 118.7 points.

INJURIES: Pacers: T.J. McConnell: out (hamstring), Kobe Brown: out (back), Johnny Furphy: out for season (knee), Andrew Nembhard: day to day (back), Ben Sheppard: out (hip), Ivica Zubac: out for season (rib), Pascal Siakam: out (back), Aaron Nesmith: day to day (neck), Tyrese Haliburton: out for season (achilles).

76ers: Johni Broome: out (knee), Joel Embiid: out (illness), Cameron Payne: out (hamstring).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

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New Orleans visits Boston following Fears' 40-point game

New Orleans Pelicans (26-54, 11th in the Western Conference) vs. Boston Celtics (54-26, second in the Eastern Conference)

Boston; Friday, 7:30 p.m. EDT

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Celtics -16.5; over/under is 224.5

BOTTOM LINE: New Orleans visits the Boston Celtics after Jeremiah Fears scored 40 points in the Pelicans' 156-137 win over the Utah Jazz.

The Celtics have gone 28-11 in home games. Boston ranks seventh in the league with 12.6 offensive rebounds per game led by Neemias Queta averaging 3.0 offensive boards.

The Pelicans are 9-30 on the road. New Orleans has an 8-41 record against teams over .500.

The Celtics score 114.5 points per game, 5.1 fewer points than the 119.6 the Pelicans give up. The Pelicans average 11.3 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.8 fewer made shots on average than the 14.1 per game the Celtics allow.

The teams play for the second time this season. In the last matchup on Oct. 28 the Celtics won 122-90 led by 18 points from Payton Pritchard, while Jordan Poole scored 22 points for the Pelicans.

TOP PERFORMERS: Derrick White is averaging 16.6 points and 5.4 assists for the Celtics. Jayson Tatum is averaging 21.1 points, 10 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.5 steals over the last 10 games.

Saddiq Bey is averaging 17.7 points and 5.6 rebounds for the Pelicans. Fears is averaging 17.9 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Celtics: 7-3, averaging 115.0 points, 46.2 rebounds, 24.6 assists, 5.8 steals and 3.8 blocks per game while shooting 48.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 106.9 points per game.

Pelicans: 2-8, averaging 112.6 points, 41.0 rebounds, 24.9 assists, 9.2 steals and 5.7 blocks per game while shooting 46.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.7 points.

INJURIES: Celtics: Jaylen Brown: out (achilles).

Pelicans: Trey Murphy III: out (ankle), Zion Williamson: out (knee), Yves Missi: out (hand), Karlo Matkovic: day to day (back), Herbert Jones: day to day (rest), Saddiq Bey: day to day (rest), Dejounte Murray: out (hand), Bryce McGowens: out (toe).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

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New York takes home win streak into matchup with Toronto

Toronto Raptors (45-35, fifth in the Eastern Conference) vs. New York Knicks (52-28, third in the Eastern Conference)

New York; Friday, 7:30 p.m. EDT

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Knicks -6.5; over/under is 219.5

BOTTOM LINE: New York hosts Toronto aiming to prolong its six-game home winning streak.

The Knicks are 34-16 in Eastern Conference games. New York is 22-22 against opponents with a winning record.

The Raptors are 4-11 against opponents in the Atlantic Division. Toronto has a 21-26 record against opponents over .500.

The Knicks score 116.8 points per game, 4.9 more points than the 111.9 the Raptors give up. The Raptors average 114.6 points per game, 4.3 more than the 110.3 the Knicks allow.

The teams meet for the fifth time this season. The Knicks won 111-95 in the last matchup on March 4.

TOP PERFORMERS: Jalen Brunson is averaging 26 points and 6.9 assists for the Knicks. Karl-Anthony Towns is averaging 18 points, 10.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists over the past 10 games.

Scottie Barnes is scoring 18.1 points per game with 7.5 rebounds and 5.9 assists for the Raptors. RJ Barrett is averaging 20.3 points and 5.0 rebounds while shooting 46.2% over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Knicks: 7-3, averaging 114.2 points, 42.7 rebounds, 27.4 assists, 7.8 steals and 3.6 blocks per game while shooting 50.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 108.3 points per game.

Raptors: 6-4, averaging 120.4 points, 41.6 rebounds, 34.0 assists, 10.4 steals and 5.0 blocks per game while shooting 51.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 110.9 points.

INJURIES: Knicks: Tyler Kolek: out (oblique).

Raptors: Chucky Hepburn: out (knee), Trayce Jackson-Davis: out (illness).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

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Golden Knights Earn First Loss Under John Tortorella, Fall 4-3 to the Kraken in a Shootout

The Vegas Golden Knights needed two points on Thursday to keep pace with the Edmonton Oilers in the quest to capture the Pacific Division title. They had the win in their sights after taking a multi-goal lead early in the third period, but allowed two goals in 3:05 and fell 4-3 to the Seattle Kraken in the shootout.

The Golden Knights broke the ice at 10:04 in the first period. Rasmus Anderson threaded a centering pass from below the right circle to a completely unmarked Mark Stone. Stone stepped into the slot and beat Joey Daccord glove-side.

The Golden Knights doubled their lead just 55 seconds into the second period. Jack Eichel got a pass through to Mark Stone, who banged it home from the right side of the goal.

Both teams had just one power play opportunity apiece; the Kraken converted on theirs at 17:54 in the second. Jared McCann rocketed home a one-timer from the right circle.

The Golden Knights restored their two-goal lead just 1:11 into the third period. As the trailer in a 4-on-2, Brayden McNabb sent a no-look pass to Mitch Marner in the right circle. Marner corralled McNabb’s pass and found Brett Howden back-door.

Five minutes later, the tides turned, and the abyss awakened.At 6:11 in the third, Adin Hill left the net to play the puck on a seemingly harmless dump-in. Instead, it took a weird bounce off the boards and ended up right on the stick of Berkly Catton, who had an empty net to shoot at.

“They get a bounce, and it gives them some life,” said head coach John Tortorella postgame. “It just set you back a little bit, because we had some momentum [after] scoring early in the period.”

The Kraken went on to score the equalizer three minutes later.

Bobby McMann sprawled out to play a loose puck into the corners, and Jordan Eberle beat Noah Hanifin in the ensuing foot race. After winning the battle, Eberle found McMann all alone at the right dot; McMann beat Adin Hill far-side with a wicked wrister.

In overtime, the Golden Knights played with urgency but failed to capitalize on the four scoring chances they generated.

“We had good opportunities,” said Mitch Marner postgame. “We just didn’t capitalize.”Marner scored in the shootout for the Golden Knights. Matty Beniers and Berkly Catton scored for Seattle, and the Kraken claimed the 4-3 win.

Three Takeaways of the Knight

1. Mark Stone went through a cold spell after returning from injury in March, but it’s safe to say that he’s put that behind him. He has five goals and seven points in his last seven games.Because of his defensive prowess, Stone is an effective player even when he isn’t scoring. However, with Jack Eichel and Tomáš Hertl in droughts, the Golden Knights need to get their goalscoring from somewhere. And speaking of which…

2. Jack Eichel has one goal in his last 13 games. Pavel Dorofeyev has one in his last 12. And Tomáš Hertl hasn’t scored since March 4th.

The Golden Knights will comfortably make the playoffs. They will not go very far in them unless that changes.

3. With the team needing goalscoring from somewhere, Brett Howden is answering the call. He’s played with both Jack Eichel and Mitch Marner in the John Tortorella era, and Howden has taken full advantage of this opportunity. He has three goals in his last four games, including the game-winner against the Calgary Flames last week.

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Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs vs Dallas Mavericks

DALLAS, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 5: Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks shoots the ball against Victor Wembanyama #1 and Devin Vassell #24 of the San Antonio Spurs during the first half at American Airlines Center on February 5, 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 Ron Jenkins/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Aside from Victor Wembanyama’s NBA Awards eligibility and Cooper Flagg’s ROY case, the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks both come into their 4th and final match-up this season with little to play for. The Spurs, locked into the #2 seed, are just waiting for the playoffs to get here, while Dallas has both eyes set on the NBA Draft Lottery after struggling mightily in the franchise’s first full season without Luka Doncic. Regardless of the reason, these two Texas franchises are both looking forward to the end of the 2025-2026 NBA regular season, but that doesn’t mean there can’t be some fun left to be had.

San Antonio Spurs (61-19) vs Dallas Mavericks (25-55)
April 10 2026 | 7:00 PM CT
Watch: KENS | Listen: WOAI (1200 AM)

Spurs Injuries: Victor Wembanyama, ribs (questionable), Stephon Castle, foot (questionable)

Mavericks Injuries: Caleb Martin, heel (OUT), Daniel Gafford, shoulder (OUT), Kyrie Irving, knee (OUT), Dereck Lively II, foot (OUT, Naji Marshall, hip (day to day), Klay Thompson (day to day), PJ Washington, elbow (day to day), Brandon Williams (day to day)

What to watch for

  • Coming into the season, the consensus was that Cooper Flagg would be the 2026 Rookie of the Year. The 6’9 forward has flashed real two-way dominance in his first season in the league, setting a few NBA records along the way, but there’s been plenty of chatter recently about Flagg’s former Duke teammate guard Kon Knueppel, who’s made a huge difference his first season with the Charlotte Hornets. Flagg became the first teenager in the history of the NBA to score at least 50 points when he dropped 51 points on 19/30 from the field one week ago today in a loss to the Orlando Magic. Flagg won’t be 20 years old until December 21, 2027.
  • Head coach Mitch Johnson’s key focus these last couple games is almost certainly on being completely healthy heading into Game 1 of San Antonio’s first round match-up, whoever they may be. It’s a pretty safe bet then that Johnson is going to play Victor Wembanyama no more than the 20 minutes that Wembanyama needs to meet the hotly debated 65-game award minimum in either game Wemby makes his return. Don’t be surprised if the rest of the starters as well as Keldon Johnson are kept on a short leash minutes-wise as well with the Spurs locked into the 2-seed.
  • Dylan Haprper could be the exception to that rule. Harper, who has had a great rookie season in his own right, has been shooting the ball incredibly well since the beginning of March. He’s proven himself all year long and will be a big part of any postseason success San Antonio has, but that doesn’t mean that he can’t still soak up valuable minutes in the final couple of games of his rookie season.

If you’d like to, you may follow along with the game on our Twitter profile (@poundingtherock) or visit our Game Thread!

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Bronny James sets up father LeBron in Lakers win

LeBron James and son Bronny on court for LA Lakers against Golden State Warriors
LeBron James has played alongside son Bronny for two seasons at the Los Angeles Lakers [Getty Images]

Bronny James passed to parent LeBron for the first son-to-father assist in NBA history as the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Golden State Warriors 119-103.

Bronny, 19, stole possession and passed to LeBron, who ran the length of the court for an uncontested dunk that was part of a 26-point contribution from the 41-year-old.

The pair recorded the first father-to-son assist in a match against the Brooklyn Nets last month.

LeBron also added 11 assists while Bronny scored 10 points with three assists as the Lakers saw off their state rivals.

The Lakers sit fourth in the Western Conference while the Warriors are in 10th, with both having already qualified for the post-season play-offs that begin on 18 April.

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers walks past his son, Bronny James #9, before their game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Cente
Bronny James (left) was picked by the Los Angeles Lakers during the second round of the NBA draft in 2024 [Getty Images]

Elsewhere, the New York Knicks won 112-106 against the Boston Celtics, with Josh Hart scoring 26 points, to put pressure on their opponents in the Eastern Conference.

The sides are third and second respectively in the standings, with two matches left to play in the regular season.

The Toronto Raptors triumphed 128-114 against the Miami Heat while the Houston Rockets won 113-102 against Philadelphia 76ers to solidify their chances of a play-off place.

In matches between sides already out of post-season contention, the Chicago Bulls won 119-108 against the Washington Wizards while the Indiana Pacers beat the Brooklyn Nets 123-94.

WNBA approves three-team expansion

The WNBA has approved expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia and will become an 18-team league by 2030.

The Cleveland franchise will be the first to make their debut in the competition - they will appear in 2028 - while Detroit and Philadelphia will follow in 2029 and 2030 respectively.

The WNBA has gone through a period of expansion in recent years with the Golden State Valkyries joining in 2025 while the Toronto Tempo and the Portland Fire are set to follow this year.

The new season starts on 8 May and its regular season will run to 24 September.

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Gillespie and the Suns visit conference foe Los Angeles

Phoenix Suns (44-36, seventh in the Western Conference) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (51-29, fourth in the Western Conference)

Los Angeles; Friday, 10:30 p.m. EDT

BOTTOM LINE: Collin Gillespie and the Phoenix Suns take on LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers in Western Conference play.

The Lakers have gone 9-7 against division opponents. Los Angeles scores 116.4 points and has outscored opponents by 1.2 points per game.

The Suns are 10-6 against the rest of their division. Phoenix scores 112.8 points while outscoring opponents by 1.4 points per game.

The Lakers' 11.8 made 3-pointers per game this season are just 0.4 fewer made shots on average than the 12.2 per game the Suns allow. The Suns' 45.5% shooting percentage from the field this season is 3.0 percentage points lower than the Lakers have given up to their opponents (48.5%).

The teams meet for the fifth time this season. The Suns won 113-110 in the last matchup on Feb. 27.

TOP PERFORMERS: Deandre Ayton is averaging 12.4 points and eight rebounds for the Lakers. James is averaging 16.5 points over the last 10 games.

Royce O'Neale is scoring 9.8 points per game and averaging 4.7 rebounds for the Suns. Gillespie is averaging 2.1 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Lakers: 6-4, averaging 114.5 points, 41.2 rebounds, 26.8 assists, 9.2 steals and 4.8 blocks per game while shooting 51.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 115.9 points per game.

Suns: 5-5, averaging 116.8 points, 42.2 rebounds, 24.6 assists, 8.4 steals and 5.6 blocks per game while shooting 46.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 112.3 points.

INJURIES: Lakers: Austin Reaves: out (rib), Marcus Smart: out (ankle), Jaxson Hayes: out (foot), Luka Doncic: out (hamstring).

Suns: Devin Booker: out (ankle), Haywood Highsmith: out (knee), Jalen Green: day to day (knee), Jordan Goodwin: out (ankle).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

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Orlando faces Chicago on 4-game win streak

Orlando Magic (44-36, seventh in the Eastern Conference) vs. Chicago Bulls (31-49, 12th in the Eastern Conference)

Chicago; Friday, 8 p.m. EDT

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Magic -14.5; over/under is 242.5

BOTTOM LINE: Orlando will try to continue its four-game win streak with a victory against Chicago.

The Bulls have gone 19-31 against Eastern Conference opponents. Chicago ranks fifth in the Eastern Conference with 17.4 fast break points per game led by Tre Jones averaging 2.8.

The Magic have gone 25-25 against Eastern Conference opponents. Orlando is eighth in the Eastern Conference with 32.4 defensive rebounds per game led by Paolo Banchero averaging 7.2.

The Bulls are shooting 46.9% from the field this season, 0.8 percentage points lower than the 47.7% the Magic allow to opponents. The Magic are shooting 46.4% from the field, 1.3% lower than the 47.7% the Bulls' opponents have shot this season.

The teams play for the fourth time this season. The Bulls won the last matchup 121-114 on Jan. 3. Matas Buzelis scored 21 points to help lead the Bulls to the win.

TOP PERFORMERS: Collin Sexton is shooting 48.5% and averaging 15.4 points for the Bulls. Jones is averaging 20.1 points over the last 10 games.

Desmond Bane is averaging 20.5 points and 4.2 assists for the Magic. Banchero is averaging 22.8 points and 7.7 rebounds while shooting 47.4% over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Bulls: 3-7, averaging 120.0 points, 45.9 rebounds, 27.0 assists, 7.6 steals and 4.9 blocks per game while shooting 46.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 127.3 points per game.

Magic: 6-4, averaging 118.6 points, 41.3 rebounds, 27.4 assists, 7.4 steals and 3.2 blocks per game while shooting 47.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 122.3 points.

INJURIES: Bulls: Anfernee Simons: out (wrist), Isaac Okoro: out (quad), Jalen Smith: out for season (calf), Matas Buzelis: out (illness), Noa Essengue: out for season (shoulder), Josh Giddey: out (hamstring), Guerschon Yabusele: day to day (shoulder), Nick Richards: day to day (elbow), Zach Collins: out for season (toe).

Magic: Jett Howard: out (ankle), Jonathan Isaac: out (knee).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

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Washington faces Miami, seeks to break 8-game slide

Miami Heat (41-39, 10th in the Eastern Conference) vs. Washington Wizards (17-63, 15th in the Eastern Conference)

Washington; Friday, 7 p.m. EDT

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Heat -18.5; over/under is 249.5

BOTTOM LINE: Washington aims to break its eight-game skid when the Wizards play Miami.

The Wizards are 2-13 in division play. Washington is 8-49 in games decided by at least 10 points.

The Heat are 25-25 against Eastern Conference opponents. Miami is 6-4 in games decided by 3 points or fewer.

The Wizards' 13.0 made 3-pointers per game this season are just 0.9 fewer made shots on average than the 13.9 per game the Heat give up. The Heat average 120.4 points per game, 4.2 fewer than the 124.6 the Wizards allow to opponents.

The teams square off for the fourth time this season. The Heat won 152-136 in the last meeting on April 4. Jaime Jaquez Jr. led the Heat with 32 points, and Will Riley led the Wizards with 31 points.

TOP PERFORMERS: Bub Carrington is shooting 41.8% and averaging 10.4 points for the Wizards. Riley is averaging 1.5 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Bam Adebayo is scoring 20.0 points per game with 10.0 rebounds and 3.1 assists for the Heat. Tyler Herro is averaging 18.0 points and 3.5 rebounds while shooting 47.8% over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Wizards: 1-9, averaging 114.9 points, 40.9 rebounds, 24.8 assists, 9.2 steals and 4.1 blocks per game while shooting 47.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 130.3 points per game.

Heat: 3-7, averaging 120.8 points, 42.7 rebounds, 29.9 assists, 5.9 steals and 4.5 blocks per game while shooting 47.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 128.7 points.

INJURIES: Wizards: Anthony Davis: out for season (finger), Tristan Vukcevic: out (knee), Jaden Hardy: out (back), Bilal Coulibaly: out (heel), Cam Whitmore: out for season (shoulder), Tre Johnson: out (foot), Alex Sarr: out (toe), Kyshawn George: out for season (elbow), D'Angelo Russell: out (not injury related), Trae Young: out for season (quad).

Heat: Nikola Jovic: out (ankle), Dru Smith: out (foot).

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.