BRADENTON, FL - MARCH 21: Paul Skenes (30) of the Pittsburgh Pirates delivers a pitch during a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays on March 21, 2026 at LECOM Park in Bradenton, Florida. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The Pittsburgh Pirates are on the road today against the New York Mets at Citi Field looking to grab a win on Opening Day.
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NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 07: General view of the new LED scoreboard prior to the game between the Miami Marlins and the New York Mets at Citi Field on Friday, April 7, 2023 in New York, New York. (Photo by Mary DeCicco/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Mets lineup
Francisco Lindor – SS
Juan Soto – LF
Bo Bichette – 3B
Jorge Polanco – 1B
Luis Robert – CF
Brett Baty – DH
Marcus Semien – 2B
Carson Benge – RF
Francisco Alvarez – C
SP: Freddy Peralta – RHP
Pirates lineup
Oneil Cruz – CF
Brandon Lowe – 2B
Bryan Reynolds – LF
Marcell Ozuna – DH
Ryan O’Hearn – RF
Jared Triolo – SS
Spencer Horwitz – 1B
Nick Gonzales – 3B
Henry Davis – C
SP: Paul Skenes – RHP
Broadcast info
First pitch: 1:15 PM EDT TV: NBC/Peacock Radio: Audacy Mets Radio 880 AM, 92.3 FM HD2
WEST PALM BEACH, FL - MARCH 20: Hunter Brown #58 of the Houston Astros pitches during the game between the Miami Marlins and the Houston Astros at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches on Friday, March 20, 2026 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Colten Strauss/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
This year marks the 65th season of Astros baseball and the 27th at Daikin Park.
The Houston Astros open the 2026 season at Daikin Park as they welcome in the Los Angeles Angels on Opening Day!
TODAY’S PITCHING MATCHUP: Today’s Opening Day matchup of RHP Hunter Brown vs. RHP José Soriano features a pair of starters both making their first career Opening Day starts.
Brown is coming off an All-Star season, in which he finished third in the AL Cy Young voting after going 12-9 with a 2.43 ERA (50ER/185.1IP) in a career high 31 starts.
ON THE HUNT: RHP Hunter Brown, a 2025 All-Star, finished third in the AL in Cy Young voting last season after turning in the best year of his career with a 12-9 record, a 2.43 ERA (50ER/185.1IP) and posting a 1.03 WHIP. He held opponents to a career-low .201 average and posted 206 strikeouts in 185.1 innings pitched. His 2.43 ERA ranked 10th all-time among Astros starters and was the second-lowest by an Astros starter in the last 20 seasons (since 2005).
ON OPENING DAY: The Astros are 34-30 all-time on Opening Day, including a 25-20 record in home games on Opening Day.
The Astros are recently removed from an incredible, modern-day record, Opening Day streak of 10 consecutive wins from 2013-22. Following the streak, they lost on Opening Day in 2023 and 2024 before bouncing back for a 3-1 win over the Mets on Opening Day last season.
VS. THE ANGELS: The Astros will open the season with a divisional series against the Angels, who the Astros went 8-5 against in 13 games last season. This marks the second time the Astros have played the Angels on Opening Day, which also happened in 2022, resulting in a 3-1 Astros win.
OPENING DAY CORNERSTONE:2B Jose Altuve, who’s under contract for the next four seasons (2026-29), will be making his 14th career Opening Day start today, which marks the third-most in franchise history. Only 2B Craig Biggio (19, 1989-2007) and 1B Jeff Bagwell (15, 1991-2005) have more in Astros history.
ABOUT THE ROSTER: The Astros Opening Day roster includes 13 pitchers and 13 position players. Nine players are making their first appearance on an active Opening Day roster: RHP Mike Burrows, RHP AJ Blubaugh, RHP Tatsuya Imai, OF Joey Loperfido, IF/OF Brice Matthews, RHP Roddery Muñoz, RHP Christian Roa, RHP Kai-Wei Teng and RHP Ryan Weiss.
NEW FACES: The Astros focused their offseason efforts on acquiring pitching, landing RHP Mike Burrows and RHP Kai-Wei Teng in trades and RHP Tatsuya Imai and RHP Ryan Weiss off the free agent market. They also added a Rule 5 pick in RHP Roddery Muñoz, the Astros first Rule 5 selection since the 2017 Rule 5 Draft.
AT THE HELM:Manager Joe Espada is entering his third season as the Astros skipper.
In 2025, for the second consecutive season, Espada and his staff were forced to deal with an extremely high number of injuries. Despite an ever-changing roster that often was missing key players, to his credit, Espada managed to navigate his club to an 87-75 record, finishing in a tie for the final AL Wild Card berth (lost tiebreaker to DET).
IN THE BOX: Today is the fourth Opening Day for the Astros under GM Dana Brown, who was named the club’s GM in January of 2023.
It’s the 15th Opening Day for Owner & Chairman Jim Crane since he purchased the club in November of 2011.
TODAY’S FESTIVITIES: Today is Opening Day, presented by Adobe, at Daikin Park.
The day starts with Opening Day Street Fest, presented by Budweiser, which will take place from 12-3 p.m.
The ceremonial first pitch will be a celebration of the WBC, which was won by Team Venezuela, who were managed by Astros bench coach Omar López. López will throw out the first pitch to Javier Bracamonte, the Astros longtime bullpen catcher who also served that same role for Team Venezuela.
All fans in attendance will receive a 2026 Astros Schedule Magnet, courtesy of United.
SUSTAINED SUCCESS: Dating back to the 2015 season, the Astros have made nine postseason appearances in 11 seasons, winning seven division titles, four AL pennants (2017, 2019, 2021, 2022) and two WS titles (2017, 2022).
In that span, the Astros became the only team in history to advance to seven consecutive ALCS (2017-23) and have posted the second-most wins in the Majors (976), trailing only the Dodgers (1,036).
This isn't the first time Billy Donovan's name has come up when a major college program went looking for a new head coach. He is the man who led Florida to back-to-back national titles in 2006 and 2007, and he's a logical person for those schools to reach out to, even if Donovan had another job as head coach of the Chicago Bulls. Every time his name came up, Donovan shot them down, and when NBC Sports had a conversation with him several years ago, he denied any desire to ever return to coaching in college.
"My main focus is on these guys and this new team. I understand that there's stuff out there, and I understand that there is going to be certain speculation. But, I have to concentrate on this group, and really, my focus is on what we're doing here in Chicago, having a game tonight, and traveling to go and play in a back-to-back."
Donovan was a high-level tactician while at Florida, but, more importantly, was a brilliant recruiter — those championship teams had Al Horford, Joakim Noah, Corey Brewer, and a few other future NBA players. That dynamic has changed in college ball, but Donovan is now very used to coaching players who are getting paid. With the Bulls apparently headed for an on-the-fly rebuild, does Chapel Hill look tempting to Donovan?
"Over the years, I've had a lot of college guys reach out to talk to me," Donovan said. "It's different in dealing with players who are being paid now. I also think the cycle of the NBA today is totally different than the cycle of college. I'm focused on what I have to do right now. Like anything else, things are always changing in the game of basketball."
Donovan will be the Bulls' head coach for a few more weeks while the season plays out, and that timing may not work for UNC. The school also is rumored to be targeting Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd, Michigan's Dusty May, Iowa State's TJ Otzelberger, all of whom would be available sooner.
But that is not a hard no from Donovan, so it's something to watch.
The Baltimore Orioles will try to put a disappointing 2025 behind them as they host the Minnesota Twins on Opening Day.
Baltimore has a rejuvenated lineup and a budding ace on the mound today, so I’m taking it to win outright in my Twins vs. Orioles predictions.
Read on to take a closer look at today’s matchup in my free MLB picks for Thursday, March 26.
Twins vs Orioles predictions
Twins vs Orioles best bet: Orioles moneyline (-138)
While both teams underperformed badly last season, their prospects are very different coming into 2026.
The Minnesota Twins face an uphill climb in the AL Central, but the Baltimore Orioles are a trendy dark horse World Series pick.
Those hopes hinge on a bounce-back season for Gunnar Henderson, and the addition of slugger Pete Alonso to the middle of the lineup.
Trevor Rogers is looking to repeat his outstanding 2025 for Baltimore, when he went 9-3 with a 1.81 ERA. I’m picking Rogers lead the Orioles to an Opening Day win over Joe Ryan and the Twins this afternoon.
COVERS INTEL: Joe Ryan went 3-5 with a 4.89 ERA and 1.309 WHIP over his last 10 starts to end the 2025 season.
Twins vs Orioles same-game parlay (SGP)
While I expect Baltimore’s offense to rebound a bit in 2026, it’s worth noting that they were a Bottom 10 offense in run-scoring last season, plating 4.18 runs per game – just behind Minnesota (4.19).
With both teams throwing their aces on Opening Day, I like the Under here.
One player I do see generating a bit of offense is Henderson, who hit .400 with a 1.267 OPS for the United States in the World Baseball Classic.
Even in a down year, Henderson scored 85 runs last season, and I like him to come across today.
Twins vs Orioles SGP
Orioles moneyline
Under 8.5
Gunnar Henderson to score a run
Twins vs Orioles home run pick: Pete Alonso (+290)
Alonso was one of the biggest free agent moves in the offseason, and he’ll undoubtedly add a lot of punch to the middle of the Baltimore lineup.
The former Mets star has hit at least 34 home runs in every full season of his career, and his .871 OPS last season was his highest since his rookie season.
Ryan gave up seven homers in his last four starts of 2025, and I like Alonso to get off to a fast start in his new home.
Twins vs Orioles odds
Moneyline: Minnesota +118 | Baltimore -138
Run line: Minnesota +1.5 | Baltimore -1.5
Over/Under: Over 8.5 | Under 8.5
Twins vs Orioles trend
The Twins were 1-6 in Ryan’s last seven starts in 2025. Find more MLB betting trends for Twins vs. Orioles.
How to watch Twins vs Orioles and game info
Location
Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore, MD
Date
Thursday, March 26, 2026
First pitch
3:05 p.m. ET
TV
Twins TV, MASN
Twins starting pitcher
Joe Ryan (2025: 13-10, 3.42 ERA)
Orioles starting pitcher
Trevor Rogers (2025: 9-3, 1.81 ERA)
Twins vs Orioles latest injuries
Twins vs Orioles 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.
SAN FRANCISCO — Without Moses Moody, who went down with a gruesome knee injury the last time they took the court, the Warriors lacked a spiritual leader beyond his years who had taken over a pregame locker room ritual from Kevon Looney.
“All of a sudden you don’t hear that today,” Draymond Green said after Golden State eked out a 109-106 win over the lowly Nets on Wednesday.
Moody’s absence, and the emotional toll of losing such a beloved teammate in such devastating fashion, was clearly still wearing on the Warriors in their first game since the fifth-year wing’s patellar tendon ruptured, knocking him out for at least the next 9-12 months.
Moses Moody injures his leg while trying to score in front of Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg during overtime at American Airlines Center. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
“What happened last game with Mo was a very sensitive moment for us,” said Gui Santos, who scored a career-high 31 points in the win. “A special guy like that, and we see exactly what happened to him that was really, really bad. It was not a good feeling for us.”
The Warriors played their seventh game in as many cities in 11 days, and coach Steve Kerr chalked up their fourth straight game with 21 or more turnovers to the team “running in mud,” while Gary Payton II described it more as “quicksand.”
It would be hard to blame them for feeling the same way about the season as a whole.
The loss of Moody, coming in the same game he returned after missing the past nine, was just the latest on a long list of injuries that has derailed what once looked to be one of their last chances to add a fifth championship to the dynasty built around Steph Curry.
Curry’s availability, or lack thereof, has been the most frustrating of all.
Moses Moody waves to fans while leaving the court on a stretcher during overtime against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
“Steph will play when he’s healthy,” Kerr reiterated after the game. “It’s as simple as that.”
Curry looked to be trending in the right direction as the Warriors’ last road trip came to an end. Runner’s knee has kept him out since Jan. 30, but he was set to participate in his first full-contact scrimmage this past Sunday. That still hasn’t happened.
The Warriors have nine regular-season games left and, still, no timetable for their superstar to return.
“I think where you get a little worried is you know he wants to come back and he hasn’t,” Green said. “That’s when you start looking at the clock ticking. Not from a standpoint of when he’s coming back, but I know he’s working to get back and if not now, what’s going on?”
The win over the Nets secured Golden State’s spot in the play-in tournament. The Warriors, currently in 10th, still have a chance to climb to the No. 8 or No. 9 seed.
Stephen Curry watches from the bench during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Brooklyn Nets in San Francisco, Wednesday, March 25, 2026. AP
“I think if there’s an inkling of a doubt with his knee, no, I don’t,” he said. “But if he’s healthy and can play, then absolutely. That’s what you put the work in for. You put the work in to give yourself a chance to have a great season, get into the postseason and flourish on that stage.
“You don’t know how many opportunities you get. You can always kick the can down the road and say we’ll get back at it. But that don’t always work like that.”
The Warriors have learned that lesson the hard way recently. They were primed to make a deep run last season after acquiring Jimmy Butler, then Curry went down in the playoffs. That pushed the window to this year, then Butler tore his ACL in January and Curry’s absence followed.
“You just can’t be the guy that quits when it gets tough,” Green said. “… To be a part of this organization on the way up was magnificent. When it goes down the tank, I’m not jumping off the train. I can’t throw the towel in on these guys. Who do they turn to? So I try to provide that when Steph is out, Al [Horford] is out, Jimmy’s out. I try to just be a steady force so they can turn and know someone’s in the foxhole with them that’s been there.”
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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 25: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers controls the ball against the Chicago Bulls at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 25, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Joel Embiid is a notorious slow starter. Whether it’s the beginning of the season or after a long layoff, the former MVP generally takes a few games to get going.
So much for that.
The star center was brilliant from the opening tip in a 157-137 demolition of the Chicago Bulls Wednesday at Xfinity Mobile Arena. After missing the last 13 games with an oblique strain, Embiid arguably looked better physically than he has at any point during the 2025-26 campaign.
Embiid couldn’t miss early on. He was cooking in his office at the elbows and burying midrange jumpers and triples to the tune of 15 points in the first six minutes. All the caveats of it being a tanking Bulls team with banged-up big men, but it was a mighty encouraging first outing for the big fella.
The seven-time All-Star recorded 35 points (on a hyper-efficient 12-of-17 from the field, 3-of-3 from three and 8-of-9 from the line), seven assists, six rebounds and a block in 28 minutes.
What led to his torrid start?
“I don’t know,” he said. “I just shot the ball and it went in. I guess it kept going in, so I was like, ‘Let’s keep shooting.‘”
Indeed, it does seem that easy for Embiid some nights.
With how well Embiid was moving, it was fair to wonder if the time missed with the oblique strain he suffered nearly a month ago allowed the rest of his body to heal. While Embiid’s surgically-repaired left knee hasn’t been much of an issue, his right knee and a stress reaction in his right shin plagued him before and after the All-Star break.
The good news is Embiid said in the locker room postgame that his knees aren’t a problem at all right now.
“My knees haven’t been an issue for a long time. That’s past me,” he said.
The bad news is the oblique strain, which is on his right side, is still lingering.
“The oblique was very tricky — and it still is tricky,” he said. “There’s really nothing you can do about it. Just gotta let it ride and hope that it doesn’t get worse.”
And he also appeared to suffer a mysterious right wrist ailment — it was taped and he wore a sleeve over it during the game.
“Yeah. I don’t know. Something happened,” he said. “Just gotta watch it.”
If the wrist was bothering him, it sure didn’t show. Embiid was making everything and sailing passes around the gym with ease. He even threw down a poster dunk on Matas Buzelis and chased down old friend Guerschon Yabusele for a block. It was vintage Embiid.
It didn’t hurt that Embiid had a bit of help. Rookie VJ Edgecombe, who’s beared quite the load for the Sixers of late, did well to carry his recent uptick in aggressiveness over while also making sure Embiid and the also returning Paul George got to eat.
And speaking of George, the veteran forward also looked good in his return after a 25-game suspension. The nine-time All-Star started the game cold, but was an absolute flamethrower in the fourth quarter. He finished with 28 points, six rebounds, four assists, four steals and a block in 26 minutes.
Embiid knows if the Sixers want to do anything of substance this season, everyone needs to step up over these last nine games.
Even with all the weirdness surrounding the team this season (the last decade-plus?), they’re still very much in the mix. They sit at 40-33, just a half game behind the 40-32 Toronto Raptors for the sixth seed and final guaranteed playoff spot. Neither team has an easy schedule over the last nine (10 for the Raptors) games.
The Sixers, though, have Embiid and George back in the fold, with Tyrese Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr. seemingly not too far behind them. Everything is right there for the taking.
But Embiid’s mentality is probably the right one — playoffs or Play-In, the Sixers simply have to play their best basketball down the stretch.
“I’m good. I’m ready,” Embiid said. “I feel OK. It’s time to go and try to win some games. Wherever we end up, we end up. Whether it’s [the Play-In or the playoffs], let’s see what we got.”
Jefferson sustained an ankle injury in the opening minutes of the first round of March Madness, and has been sidelined since, including being ruled out in the second round against Kentucky.
Getting Jefferson back against the Volunteers would benefit the Cyclones in 1-on-1 battles around the basket against Tennessee's frontcourt, which has proven an issue given its size and length early in the tournament. He is second in scoring with 16.4 points per game and leads the Cyclones with 7.4 boards per game.
The Cyclones and the Volunteers are slated for a 10:10 p.m. ET tip-off on Friday at the United Center in Chicago. It is the third time Iowa State will play in the Sweet 16 under Otzelberger, who indirectly dismissed rumors that his name was being mentioned for the North Carolina head-coaching opening on Wednesday.
A win for Iowa State would send the Cyclones to the Elite Eight for the first time since the 2000 NCAA Tournament.
Here's the latest on Jefferson:
Will Joshua Jefferson play vs Tennessee? Iowa State guard status for March Madness Sweet 16 game
Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger told reporters on Wednesday in Chicago that Jefferson will be a game-time decision for Friday night's Sweet 16 game vs. Tennessee.
Being listed as a game-time decision is a positive sign for Jefferson, given that he was ruled out for the Cyclones' second-round game vs. Kentucky.
"He's working tirelessly every day. Countless sessions in the training room. Doing everything he can," Otzelberger said Wednesday. "His ankle is getting better every single day. It's going to take right up to game-time.
"We're going to give it every possible chance to do that and he's doing all that he can do. There's not any percentages, predictions, unlikely, likely. ... Each day, there is a pretty significant progress, but we'll see where we're at game time Friday night."
Joshua Jefferson injury update
Jefferson sustained an ankle injury less than three minutes into Iowa State's first-round game against Tennessee State.
The injury to the Cyclones guard came after he appeared to have twisted his ankle as he landed on the court after going up for a layup. He had to be helped off the court at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis by members of Iowa State's medical team as he was unable to put weight on his left foot.
Here's a look at Jefferson's injury:
Iowa State's Joshua Jefferson was helped off the floor after an apparent ankle injury pic.twitter.com/R4xaFzgsJU
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) March 20, 2026
Jefferson was seen on crutches for the remainder of the game. He was then ruled out for Iowa State's second-round win over Kentucky and was seen riding a scooter.
As noted by Eugene Rapay of the Des Moines Register, part of the USA TODAY Network, Jefferson underwent an MRI on Monday "for precautionary reasons," and the MRI "did not reveal anything new." The Cyclones' guard was also not a full participant when Iowa State practiced on Wednesday. Instead, he continued to receive treatment and work with the team's training staff on the side to help heal his ankle.
In that same media availability on Wednesday, Otzelberger told reporters that Jefferson has started to move away from being fully reliant on the scooter.
"He's starting to walk a little bit now," Otzelberger said. "It's not perfect, but it is progress."
Arkansas coach John Calipari is no stranger to leaning on freshman guards to NCAA Tournament success, having coached the likes of Derrick Rose, John Wall and De'Aaron Fox.
Darius Acuff Jr. will keep the Hogs close, but Arizona's depth will prove too much for an Arkansas team that used a six-man rotation during the opening weekend. Look for the Wildcats' bigs to control the interior and power Arizona into the Elite Eight.
The Wildcats did not play well against Utah State, but got past the Aggies with defense, rebounding and free throws, to win ugly. They will have to play better to beat the Razorbacks. They will. Jaden Bradley won't let this team lose.
Lloyd was asked about the opening in Chapel Hill at Wednesday's press availability ahead of Thursday's Sweet 16. Here's what he said:
"I already have one of the best jobs in the country. One thing we talk about in our program all the time, and I think I've gotten better at, and I think our team has been crushing it this year, is just the ability to have full focus and be present in the moment.
"So I think we have a great team. I think we have a chance to advance in this tournament game by game. But I'm not delusional. I know we could lose tomorrow.
"But this team deserves my full focus, so there's not one thing that is going to knock me off my path. I'm 100 percent focused on Arizona basketball and this program, and I can't wait until the ball gets thrown up tomorrow, and then can't wait to try to figure out a way to come out on top."
John Calipari March Madness record
Calipari has coached in 24 NCAA Tournaments and reached six Final Fours. He is 61-23 in March Madness games and won the 2012 national championship with Kentucky.
His 61 NCAA Tournament wins tie him with Jim Boeheim for fourth-most in history.
Darius Acuff Jr. 2026 NBA Draft mock draft prediction
No. 6 overall to Dallas Mavericks
Kalbrosky's Analysis:
Now led by Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks need to find players who can help Dallas stay competitive on offense and Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. can do exactly that. The SEC Player of the Year is excellently efficient at operating ball screens or in isolation. He leads freshmen for points created per 40 minutes (43.1) either by himself or through an assist, per CBB Analytics. He can score well from either side of the court and is among the freshmen leaders in both alley-oop assists (15) and field goals made in transition (62) this season. There is a reason rival coach Sean Miller thinks this generational guard should have his name in the mix at No. 1 overall.
The Miami Heat have drafted several prospects known for their athleticism, which means a player like Arizona forward Koa Peat will probably have some appeal to their organization. Peat is an ideal match for this franchise given his versatility as a playmaking forward. The All-Big 12 forward just needs a jumper to carve out regular minutes as a high-impact pro. Arizona plays at a significantly faster pace (4.6 extra possessions) when Peat is on the floor relative to when he is not, per CBB Analytics, which would fit very well with Miamis fastest-paced offense in the NBA.
Brayden Burries 2026 NBA Draft, mock draft prediction
No. 10 overall to Milwaukee Bucks.
Kalbrosky's Analysis:
Arizona freshman Brayden Burries had two breakout games in January, which helped solidify his draft stock. But the All-Big 12 guard has continued to display his tantalizing talent, scoring 31 points with seven rebounds and five steals against Colorado on March 7 and 20 points with 12 rebounds and five assists during a victory against No. 14 Kansas on Feb. 28. Burries has proven productivity and that he is able to defend, relocate, move the ball and make 3-pointers off the dribble.
SAN FRANCISCO — Draymond Green has never shied away from campaigning for his own award case, so the Warriors’ outspoken power forward “absolutely loved” when he saw Victor Wembanyama make his own MVP argument recently.
But then again, Green said, “I hated it.”
The mixed emotions came in response to a question Wednesday night about the headlines generated by the Spurs’ phenom last week when he bluntly assessed his case to be the NBA MVP.
Draymond Green both hates and loves Victor Wembanyama making his own MVP case. @anthonyVslater/X
Wembanyama laid out a three-pronged argument, including San Antonio’s success against the Thunder and offensive impact beyond scoring. But the part that Green said got him “hot” was Wembanyama’s first point: That defense is half of the game.
The fact that it had to be said was “an indictment on the game of basketball,” according to Green, the 2016-17 Defensive Player of the Year and a nine-time All-Defense selection.
“Until Wemby said defense is 50% of the game, it was like, ‘Oh, man, no one realized that?’ No one realized that 50% of the game that we play is on that end of the floor?” Green said, raising his voice as he began an answer that lasted almost five minutes. “So he comes out and makes this profound-ass statement and it’s like, ‘Oh, of course it is.’ Everybody’s like, ‘Oh, he has a great point.’ Hello?? You think? So I hated it because he had to do that for that to then be said.”
Victor Wembanyama celebrates during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 25, 2026 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NBAE via Getty Images
Green said he “tip(ped) my cap” to Wembanyama for not shying away from the argument. Even though the 21-year-old center leads the NBA with 3.1 blocks per game and guards all five positions with his listed 7-foot-4 frame, Green said award voters often overlook defense.
“I’m happy he’s smart enough to know they won’t figure it out,” Green said. “ … I don’t know how people don’t see this 7-6 whatever you’d like to describe him as chasing a guard around the 3-point line and somehow get back to the rim to block. I don’t know how that’s hard to see.
Draymond Green reacts after scoring a three-point basket against Josh Minott #00 of the Brooklyn Nets during the second half at Chase Center on March 25, 2026 in San Francisco, California. Getty Images
“Some cases on defense you say the stats aren’t there. Wemby blocks shots. So even if you can only see the stats, this guy blocks everything. There’s no excuse for this one. So maybe the conversation has to be had again, why do people not appreciate defense?”
According to the latest lines on DraftKings and FanDuel, Wembanyama has the third-best MVP odds, trailing the betting favorite and reigning winner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as well as Luka Doncic. Basketball-Reference, which looks at past voting patterns, gives Wembanyama a 1.8% chance of winning the award, also trailing Nikola Jokic.
Whereas Wembanyama is averaging 24.2 points per game, the lowest scoring average among the other three is Jokic at 27.8. SGA carries the lightest load of the other three but still plays 33.4 minutes per game, compared with Wembanyama at 29.2.
In a rule new to the NBA this season, any player must appear in at least 65 games to qualify. That means Wembanyama can’t miss any more than two of the Spurs’ final nine contests.
“Suddenly you turn on the TV and everybody’s like, ‘Actually, maybe Wemby is the MVP.’ And I can agree with that. Maybe he is,” Green said. “Everybody wants to crush Luka Doncic when Luka doesn’t live up to the standard of defense. But we’ve got this guy defending entire teams and no one took it into account until he said, ‘Well, No. 1, defense is 50% of the game.’
“I want to give him so much credit for such a profound statement, but honestly, was it really that profound?”
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The Montreal Canadiens host the Columbus Blue Jackets in a monumental matchup for Eastern Conference playoff positioning. Both teams hang onto their divisional seeds by a narrow margin.
My Blue Jackets vs. Canadiens predictions and NHL picks favor the Canadiens, who sport arguably the best line in hockey right now.
Blue Jackets vs Canadiens prediction
Blue Jackets vs Canadiens best bet: Juraj Slafkovsky anytime goal scorer (+165)
Juraj Slafkovsky has played at a 43-goal pace since December 20 (nearly half the season), ranking eighth in the NHL in goals during that time. He's also tied for fifth in power-play goals since then, and faces a 21st-ranked Columbus Blue Jackets penalty kill.
He's fifth in league scoring since returning to that line and has four goals across a current three-game streak.
Blue Jackets vs Canadiens same-game parlay
Speaking of hot streaks, Caufield is riding a four-game assist streak, totalling five apples. The 44-goal man has seven points in his last two games. This one has insane value at plus odds, especially given the uptick in his linemate's goal scoring.
Convincingly, the Montreal Canadiens have won seven of the last nine against Columbus, including seven straight wins from November 2022 to 2024. They've won two straight at home, totaling 12 goals.
Blue Jackets vs Canadiens SGP
Juraj Slafkovsky anytime goal scorer
Cole Caufield Over 0.5 assists
Canadiens moneyline
Blue Jackets vs Canadiens odds
Moneyline: Blue Jackets +100 | Canadiens -120
Puck Line: Blue Jackets +1.5 (-240) | Canadiens -1.5 (+195)
Over/Under: Over 6.5 (-110) | Under 6.5 (-110)
Blue Jackets vs Canadiens trend
The Over has hit in three straight meetings. Find more NHL betting trends for Blue Jackets vs. Canadiens.
How to watch Blue Jackets vs Canadiens
Location
Bell Centre, Montreal, QC
Date
Thursday, March 26, 2026
Puck drop
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
TSN2
Blue Jackets vs Canadiens latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
The Vancouver Canucks can directly sink the Los Angeles Kings’ sagging playoff hopes.
The two teams meet for the first of three final-month matchups, and the Kings are desperate for points, starting the day three points back of Nashville for the final Wild Card spot in the West.
My Kings vs. Canucks predictions and NHL picks will stick to the total, where the Under is looking mighty tasty for a pair of teams in the Bottom 4 in scoring.
Kings vs Canucks prediction
Kings vs Canucks best bet: Under 6.5 (-135)
Scoring continues to be a problem for the Los Angeles Kings, ranking 29th at 2.61 goals per game, and they've seen the Under cash in five of their last eight games.
The Vancouver Canucks are in a similar boat, ranking 31st in scoring, and these teams have a 6-3-1 Under record in the last 10 matchups, including each of the last two meetings.
Don't expect a track meet at Rogers Arena tonight.
Kings vs Canucks same-game parlay
L.A. might have trouble scoring, but Quinton Byfield hasn’t of late. He had two goals last game in a 3-2 shootout loss to Calgary, giving him four in the last four games. He should be able to match his lone career goal vs. Vancouver in 12 games.
Elias Petterson probably wants this season over, but at least he’s producing, with two goals and five points in his last four games. He can break a four-game pointless drought against the Kings tonight.
Each of L.A.'s last six road games coming off overtime have gone Under the total. Find more NHL betting trends for Kings vs. Canucks.
How to watch Kings vs Canucks
Location
Rogers Arena, Vancouver, BC
Date
Thursday, March 26, 2026
Puck drop
10:00 p.m. ET
TV
Sportsnet Pacific
Kings vs Canucks latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
Two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference face off at Spectrum Center tonight as the Charlotte Hornets host the New York Knicks.
Charlotte has been white-hot from beyond the arc, and my Knicks vs. Hornets predictions expect the home team to hit treys and rack up points with ease.
Here are my best free NBA picks for Thursday, March 26.
Knicks vs Hornets prediction
Knicks vs Hornets best bet: Hornets team total Over 111.5 (-115)
The Charlotte Hornets offense has been electric for months, especially over its last 10 games. In that span, Charlotte sports the fifth-best offensive rating at 122, and the 12th-highest scoring average at 118.3.
The buzz around Charlotte has been even louder in front of the faithful at Spectrum Center. The Hornets have scored 112+ points in six straighthome games.
No team has averaged more points than Charlotte’s healthy 126.8 across their last six at home. That number climbs to 131 across their last four during the current home stand.
Charlotte’s 3-point shooting has been lights-out all season long, but it’s been even more prolific as of late. Over the last 10 games, Charlotte ranks first in 3-point attempts (46.4), first in 3-pointers made (18.7) and first in 3-point percentage (40.3%).
In that span, the New York Knicks have surrendered the 10th-most 3-point attempts (39.2), 10th-best 3-point percentage (37.5) and sixth-most 3-pointers made (14.7).
The Hornets’ plethora of shooters should have a field day against a struggling Knicks perimeter defense, and I expect the home team to build on the record-setting 26 triples it hit on Tuesday while clearing this modest team point total.
Knicks vs Hornets same-game parlay
Charlotte is playing some great basketball, and the Hornets have a 3-point mismatch and home court advantage. I'm rocking with the home team to win a close one.
LaMelo Ball has knocked down 4.5 triples per game on 39.5% shooting across his last 10 appearances, hitting 5+ four times and 4+ eight times. He's canned 13 treys over his last two games, and he should have no problem knocking down five more in tonight's favorable matchup.
Knicks vs Hornets SGP
Hornets team total Over 111.5
Hornets -1
LaMelo Ball Over 4.5 3-pointers
Our "from downtown" SGP: Buzz city blitz
Kon Knueppel leads the Association in total 3-pointers at 247, and he’s shattered the rookie record in that category. The Duke product has splashed 4+ 3-pointers in six of his last 10 games while shooting 43.8% from long range.
Brandon Miller is averaging 3.1 triples per game this season, but he’s knocked down 4.3 per game across his last four while hitting 4+ three times in that span.
Coby White has nailed 3+ triples in three of his last four games, while averaging 3.8 makes from beyond the arc.
Knicks vs Hornets SGP
LaMelo Ball Over 4.5 3-pointers
Kon Knueppel Over 3.5 3-pointers
Brandon Miller Over 3.5 3-pointers
Coby White Over 2.5 3-pointers
Knicks vs Hornets odds
Spread: New York +1 (-115) | Charlotte -1 (-105)
Moneyline: New York -105 | Charlotte -115
Over/Under: Over 223.5 (-110) | Under 223.5 (-110)
Knicks vs Hornets betting trend to know
The Hornets have covered the spread in 35 of their last 50 games (+19.60 Units / 36% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. Hornets.
How to watch Knicks vs Hornets
Location
Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC
Date
Thursday, March 26, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
MSG SN, FDSN Southeast
Knicks vs Hornets 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.
DALLAS, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 17: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Louisville Cardinals looks to drive in the first half during NCAA basketball game between University of Louisville and Southern Methodist University at Moody Coliseum on February 17, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Aric Becker/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images
Most fans would be devastated to not land one of the top four guys in this draft class, and for good reason. While the top of the draft is loaded, the overall depth of the class is often overlooked. Several prospects in this draft have All-Star potential, one being Mikel Brown Jr. If Utah lands outside the top four—a 57.9% probability with the Jazz currently holding the fifth-best odds—Mikel Brown Jr. could quickly become a top target. Labeling him as simply a consolation prize wouldn’t be giving his talent and skillset enough credit.
Brown’s freshman season has been far from perfect, but he has shown elite potential and a high ceiling. He has dealt with recurring lower back issues and production inconsistency but still has shown the tools to become an elite NBA guard. His positional size, playmaking, and shot-making versatility have drawn comparisons to Immanuel Quickley, Darius Garland, and even flashes of Damian Lillard.
DALLAS, TEXAS – FEBRUARY 17: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Louisville Cardinals looks to drive in the first half during NCAA basketball game between University of Louisville and Southern Methodist University at Moody Coliseum on February 17, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Aric Becker/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images
Team: University of Louisville, Cardinals
Position: Point guard/Shooting guard
Bio: 6’5”, 190 lbs | Age: 19 | Wingspan: 6’7.5″
Stats: 18.2 PPG | 3.3 RPG | 4.7 APG | 1.2 SPG
Splits: 41% FG | 34.4% 3PT | 84.4% FT
Accolades: All-ACC Third Team, All-Rookie Team | 45-point ACC freshman record
Strengths
Mikel Brown Jr. has many translatable skills to the NBA, most notably his shooting. Brown has every 3-point shot in his repertoire, comfortable off the catch, pull-ups, and step-backs. He already operates well beyond NBA range, making him especially dangerous against drop coverage. His tight handle allows him to create space in isolation and out of pick-and-roll.
When he’s hot, he’s virtually unstoppable, as shown in his 45-point performance against NC State.
He plays with a level of comfort and control that is unusual for a freshman point guard. He consistently dictates the pace of a game, and is rarely rushed or sped up, showing he can run an offense and command its flow. Brown projects as a primary on-ball creator, operating with a usage rate of 30.6%, comparable to Anthony Edwards’ 30.4% usage rate with Georgia, highlighting his ability to handle a star-level offensive burden.
Additionally, his playmaking is another NBA-ready skill. His 31.9% assist rate reflects high-level processing and decision-making in pick-and-roll. He has 360-degree vision with the ability to make complex reads and passes. He regularly threads tight passing windows and consistently creates open looks for his teammates.
Finally, Brown has good defensive instincts. His active hands and understanding of passing lanes help him generate steals. His height and length suggest defensive upside as he grows into his body and becomes more disciplined. He probably isn’t going to be a lead point of attack defender, but his instincts and length give him disruptive off-ball potential.
Concerns
So far, the way I’ve described him, he probably sounds like a lock for the top three. However, there are some limitations that make draft scouts a little skeptical.
One concern is a lower-back injury, which has been recurring throughout his freshman season. He has missed 10 regular season games, the entire ACC tournament, and the two March Madness games that Louisville played in, all because of this back injury. While there isn’t any structural damage to his back, there have been multiple flare-ups and re-aggravations, making draft scouts wonder if this problem can go away, or if this injury will haunt him throughout his career.
Additionally, Brown’s shooting consistency has varied throughout the season, only shooting 41% from the field and 34% from distance. He has a healthy appetite for difficult, contested jump shots early in possessions, which hurts his efficiency. He likes to show off his impressive range, which looks dynamic when his shot is falling, and questionable when it’s not.
Critics are also quick to point out Brown’s athleticism. While he’s still a good athlete with a solid first step, his explosiveness doesn’t quite reach the elite level when comparing him to Darryn Peterson or Kingston Flemings. His limited verticality forces him to rely more on finesse rather than force when finishing at the rim. It also makes it harder to create advantages against physical defenders without the help of ball screens, limiting his ability to pressure the rim.
Brown’s frame also remains a concern. While he stands at 6’5”, he has a thin frame and only weighs 190 lbs. This gives him defensive limitations when guarding stronger players, and trouble finishing through contact at the rim.
To be fair, he is finishing 65% of his shots at the rim, which is very strong for a guard, suggesting his touch and craft can compensate for his lack of elite explosiveness. However, he only takes
Verdict
If the Jazz miss out on one of the top four picks this summer, Mikel Brown Jr. should be near the top of their list. While he lacks the guaranteed floor of Cameron Boozer or AJ Dybantsa, his upside as a 6’5” lead ball handler may be the highest of any guard in this draft not named Darryn Peterson.
Critics bring up his 41% field goal percentage and 34.4% from distance, but don’t forget that Keyonte George shot 37.6% FG / 33.8% 3PT at Baylor. Utah’s player development system with Will Hardy knows how to work with high-skill but low-efficiency guards. If Keyonte George has taught us anything, it’s that these issues can be addressed with the right work ethic.
Brown would be a valuable addition to this Jazz team. He provides spacing, playmaking, and more on-ball shot creation. His shooting, pick-and-roll processing, and positional size would give the Jazz even more offensive fire power.
In the immediate future, Brown likely projects as a high-level combo guard off the bench, capable of torching second units. However, if his lateral quickness allows him to defend NBA-level 2-guards, he could eventually form a lethal, dual-playmaker backcourt alongside Keyonte George.
Five years from now, we may look back and realize that despite the back injuries and concerns with his frame, Mikel Brown Jr. was the backcourt prize of 2026. He is a swing for the fences that fits Utah’s timeline perfectly.
COVERS INTEL: Joe Ryan went 3-5 with a 4.89 ERA and 1.309 WHIP over his last 10 starts to end the 2025 season.
